Vision control is one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of
League of Legends (LoL). Managing vision efficiently can turn the tide of the game, allowing you to gain critical information, secure objectives, and make game-winning plays. In this guide, we will explore the intricacies of vision control and how you can leverage it to dominate your opponents.
Introduction to Vision Control
Vision control in
LoL revolves around the placement and removal of wards, granting information on the enemy's position and objectives. Many players tend to overlook the importance of this aspect of gameplay, which can lead to poor decision-making and losing objectives or skirmishes. Understanding how to control vision effectively can elevate your gameplay and turn you into a more strategic player.
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Vision control in LoL revolves around the placement and removal of wards, granting information on the enemy's position and objectives[/caption]
The Importance of Vision in Early Game
The early game in
LoL is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the rest of the match. Securing vision during this phase helps in preventing early ganks and gaining lane dominance.
Warding Key Jungle Entrances
At the start of the game, placing wards in key jungle entrances can prevent early ganks. If you’re in the top or bot lane, aim to ward near the river bush or jungle entrance to gain insight into the enemy jungler’s pathing.
River Vision for Objective Control
Having vision around the river is essential to securing early dragons or preventing enemy invades. Place wards near Dragon or Rift Herald to prepare for an early contest.
Understanding Vision Timers and Cooldowns
In
LoL, each ward placed has a specific duration. Managing these timers efficiently can help you maintain continuous control of important areas on the map.
Ward Expiration Timing
Wards last 90 to 120 seconds depending on the type, so it's crucial to time your ward placement to ensure consistent vision. Keep an eye on the minimap and replace wards before they expire.
Trinket Cooldowns
Using the right trinket at the right time is key. At the start, players have access to either the Warding Totem or Oracle Lens. Warding Totem is useful for placing wards, while Oracle Lens can be used to clear enemy wards. Knowing when to swap trinkets can significantly improve your vision control.
Vision Control in the Mid Game
As the game progresses into the mid-game, securing vision around objectives becomes a priority. Dragon, Rift Herald, and Baron Nashor are critical objectives that can dictate the pace of the game.
Dragon and Baron Vision
Place Control Wards and trinkets near Dragon and Baron pits to secure control over these objectives. Denying vision from the enemy team can give you an advantage, either by setting up a trap or by safely securing the objective.
Clearing Enemy Wards
While placing wards is essential, clearing enemy wards is equally important. Using Oracle Lens or purchasing a Control Ward can help deny the enemy team information, making it easier to catch them out of position.
How to Use Control Wards Effectively
Control Wards play a significant role in vision denial and zone control. Placing them in strategic locations can give your team a considerable advantage.
Strategic Control Ward Placements
Control Wards should be placed in areas where enemies are likely to walk through. For example, placing a Control Ward in the river bushes near objectives can help you establish control over the area.
Defending Control Wards
Once a Control Ward is placed, defending it becomes vital. Losing your Control Ward too quickly not only wastes gold but also gives the enemy team valuable information. Position yourself in a way that allows you to defend the ward while avoiding unnecessary risk.
Vision and Roaming
Vision control is not only for objectives but also aids roaming, allowing your team to make more informed decisions when it comes to map movement.
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Vision control is not only for objectives but also aids roaming, allowing your team to make more informed decisions when it comes to map movement[/caption]
Warding Enemy Jungle
When your team has map control, warding the enemy jungle can restrict the enemy’s options and give you valuable information about their jungler’s movements. This makes it easier to initiate roams or invades.
Roaming with Vision Advantages
When your mid or support roams, having vision of key areas can lead to successful ganks. Use Oracle Lens to sweep for enemy wards, denying vision and setting up an ambush.
Vision in the Late Game
As the game enters the late stage, vision around objectives becomes even more critical. Teams will look for ways to secure Baron or Elder Dragon, which can make or break the game.
Baron and Elder Dragon Vision
During the late game, placing wards around Baron and Elder Dragon pits is non-negotiable. Always have a Control Ward in your inventory to deny enemy vision around these areas.
Setting Up Ambushes
In the late game, teams often rely on vision denial to set up ambushes. Using Control Wards and sweeping with Oracle Lens can help you catch the enemy off guard, leading to crucial picks and opening up opportunities for your team.
The Role of Support in Vision Control
While every player has a role in vision control, supports are primarily responsible for maintaining vision throughout the game.
Roaming and Warding
As a support, you should roam the map to place wards in high-priority areas. Ensure that your team has vision of objectives and potential gank routes, especially during crucial moments.
Coordinate with Your Team
Vision control is a team effort. Communicate with your team to ensure that vision is maintained in key areas. If you’re the only one warding, it will be difficult to maintain full map control.
Tips for Top Laners and Junglers
Top laners and junglers can contribute significantly to vision control, especially when they have lane priority or map dominance.
Top Lane Vision Strategies
As a top laner, if you have pushed your lane, place a deep ward in the enemy jungle. This allows you to track the enemy jungler and potentially prevent ganks on other lanes.
Jungler's Role in Vision Control
Junglers should frequently clear enemy wards and place deep vision in the enemy jungle. This will not only help your team with map awareness but also give you control over jungle camps and objectives.
Common Vision Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned players can make vision-related mistakes that cost their team the game. Learning from these common errors can help improve your vision control.
Over-Warding the Same Spot
Warding the same spot repeatedly without clearing enemy vision can be wasteful. Diversify your ward placements to cover more ground and gain a better understanding of the enemy’s movements.
Not Using Control Wards
Many players forget to buy Control Wards, especially in lower elo games. Make it a habit to purchase a Control Ward every time you recall, as it provides significant vision and can deny the enemy’s vision.
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Many players forget to buy Control Wards, especially in lower elo games[/caption]
Conclusion
Vision control is a critical component of
League of Legends that can make a significant difference in every phase of the game. By mastering ward placement, using Control Wards effectively, and coordinating with your team, you can gain a significant advantage over your opponents. Whether you’re playing support or another role, improving your vision control skills will help you secure more wins and dominate the Rift.