TFT Set 4.5 balance changes shake up Elder Sol meta with targeted nerfs and buffs
Elder Sol Composition Nerfs
Riot Games has implemented crucial balance changes targeting the dominant Elderwood-Aurelion Sol composition in TFT Set 4.5’s first hotfix. These adjustments aim to address the overwhelming power of what had become the undisputed meta king.
The January 26 balance update delivers targeted nerfs to three key components of the Elder Sol comp: Rakan’s sustain, Xayah’s casting frequency, and Aurelion Sol’s damage output. These changes collectively reduce the composition’s early game stability and late-game dominance.
The Elderwood-Mage synergy had reached problematic levels, with its 6 Elderwood/5 Mage variant boasting a staggering 58% top-4 rate in high-level play according to community tracking sites. This dominance mirrored the infamous “Warweek” from Set 4, prompting swift developer intervention.
Rakan’s adjustments are particularly significant. His mana cost increase (from 40/80 to 50/100) combined with shield value reductions (300/550/950 ⇒ 200/400/800) dramatically impacts his early-game tanking potential. The fix to his mana generation bug further reduces his effectiveness as a frontline disruptor.
Xayah’s mana lock duration increase from 1 to 1.5 seconds after casting significantly reduces her ability to chain abilities, while Aurelion Sol’s damage reduction at 1-star (350 ⇒ 325) and 2-star (550 ⇒ 500) makes him less oppressive in the mid-game. These changes create windows of vulnerability that skilled opponents can exploit.
Additional Champion Adjustments
Beyond the Elder Sol adjustments, several other champions received targeted changes to improve game balance. Diana’s 3-star power has been slightly reduced (Pale Cascade Orbs: 4/5/7 ⇒ 4/5/6), affecting the viability of hyper-roll Spirit/Assassin strategies.
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Zed’s AD steal reduction (20/30/40% ⇒ 20/25/30%) makes him less oppressive against physical damage carries, while Yone receives substantial buffs (Seal Fate shred: 40/40/40% ⇒ 60/60/80%) that may revive his viability against tank-heavy compositions.
These changes reflect Riot’s ongoing efforts to maintain meta diversity. The Yone buffs specifically target the rising popularity of Vanguard-Mystic comps, creating new counterplay options for players facing tank-heavy boards.
Gameplay Strategies Post-Patch
With the Elder Sol composition’s dominance reduced, players should consider these strategic adjustments:
1. Early-game transitions: The nerfed Rakan makes Elderwood openers less stable. Consider pivoting to Fortune or Warlord starts when possible.
2. Item prioritization: With Aurelion Sol’s damage reduced, items like Jeweled Gauntlet become less mandatory. Morello and Blue Buff gain value for alternative carries.
3. Positioning counters: Against remaining Elder Sol players, spread formations can mitigate Aurelion Sol’s AoE damage while assassins can exploit backline vulnerabilities.
4. Yone opportunities: The buffed 5-cost now shreds 60% resistances at 1-star, making him a potent answer to Vanguard frontlines when paired with damage dealers.
The patch creates space for previously overshadowed compositions like Dragonsoul Mages and Executioner Sharpshooters to flourish. Players who adapt quickly to the new balance landscape will gain a significant competitive edge.
You can find the full TFT patch 11.2b notes below.
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » TFT patch 11.2b notes: Rakan and ‘Elder Sol’ nerfs, Yone buffs, more TFT Set 4.5 balance changes shake up Elder Sol meta with targeted nerfs and buffs