Jarvan IV Emerges as the Top Jungler in League of Legends
The upcoming update for League of Legends has players eagerly anticipating which champions will rise to the top in their respective roles. In the jungle, one classic pick has taken over as the go-to choice for high Elo players, boasting impressive stats and playmaking abilities.
Jarvan IV has always been a popular pick among casual and top-tier players due to his ability to make plays, strong ganks, and engage potential. However, in Patch 13.17, the Exemplar of Demacia has solidified his position as the best jungler for players ranked Platinum and higher. According to U.GG, he currently holds the third-highest win rate of any champion in the game.
With a win rate of 53.28 percent, a pick rate of 18.1 percent, and a ban rate of 17 percent, Jarvan IV has quickly become one of the best champions in the solo queue climb. This is a significant improvement from his previous patch stats, where he was considered a mediocre choice in the same ranked distribution.
Interestingly, Jarvan IV hasn’t received any direct buffs in recent patches. However, two of his core items saw adjustments in Patch 13.17. Goredrinker received a build change and a 100 health increase, while Spear of Shojin underwent substantial changes, including a build path adjustment, a 150 health increase, and additional damage on its Dragonforce passive.
Even without direct buffs, Jarvan IV has remained a dominant force in higher Elo play, with even higher pick and ban rates among Master rank and above players, according to U.GG. His ability to effortlessly dive into the backline and isolate enemy squishies with his ultimate ability, Cataclysm, makes him an invaluable asset for coordinated teams or solo queue enthusiasts.
When paired with other engage champions and carry picks, Jarvan IV excels in unlocking the full potential of hyper carries by absorbing damage and initiating team fights.
Related: Riot gives first glimpse at Briar, LoL’s newest—and hungriest—champion
He also synergizes well with League’s newest champion, Briar, as both champions excel at diving into the backline. While Jarvan IV isolates an enemy mid laner or AD carry, Briar can unleash her Blood Frenzy and tear apart the helpless squishy caught within Jarvan’s ult.