In League of Legends, most people are focused on winning, which is why many currently popular champions tend to have a solid win rate. However, on the top lane, the situation looks a bit different at the moment. There are 3 champions that are very popular, but actually lose the majority of their games.
Which champions are they? The 3 champions are classic top laners: Aatrox, Darius, and Renekton. All three have a win rate of under 50% when looking at the statistics of all ranks, according to U.GG. (As of: 29.08.2023)
This means they have a negative win rate and lose most of their matches. The ban rate of Darius and Aatrox is also particularly notable. Although they are not strong, it seems that no one wants to play against them.
If a champion is in a balanced state, he would have a win rate of around 50%. If a champion wins many of his matches, the win rate goes over 50%. However, it must also be noted that the pick rate is relevant in determining how strong a champion is.
If a champion is hardly played but wins most matches, he is not necessarily strong; the players who play these champions are just really good.
Despite their negative win rate, they are played
Why are the 3 currently not so good? Many factors are relevant in this context, but a few assumptions can be made. Looking at U.GG at the counters of the 3 champions, there are champions like Malphite, Illaoi, Garen, and the newest champion Naafiri. These champions are currently strong, are often picked, and counter Renekton, Darius, and Aatrox.
At the same time, the items of the champions are currently not that strong. Especially Goredrinker, Bruiser items, and lethality builds that focus on healing. Goredrinker is expected to be buffed in the next patch, as the released patch notes for 13.17 from RiotPhroxzon show on Twitter.
For Aatrox, the passive and W ability will change in the next patch, allowing him to deal magical damage. This could also change his build and preferred items. Naafiri, who is currently a major threat on the top lane, will receive a few nerfs.
Why are these champions still played? All 3 champions are simply very popular champions that are fun to play due to their mechanics. Renekton and Darius are also generally very popular champions that usually have a loyal player base.
From Thursday, we will be able to see whether the patch notes for 13.17 and especially the buffs to Goredrinker can change the win rate or even the pick rate of Renekton, Aatrox, and Darius.
What do you think about the three champs? Do you want to see them more often, or like many players, have you no desire to play against them? Unlike the 3 top laners, there are also some champs that many players may have never seen:
