Buzz
The Sion - Malzahar Mutant Combo remains effective in the current TFT meta after the latest update 11.24
In Teamfight Tactics Season 6, with the introduction of numerous Tech Cores, each core serving a different purpose, Riot aims to encourage players to be even more creative in crafting compositions and strategies. The goal is to avoid the 'spamming' of strategies or the prevalence of a single build, which has been an ongoing issue in many TFT seasons.
One of the well-rounded compositions currently dominating is the Mutant build, and among them, the Mutation centered around Malzahar paired with the Colossal Sion proves to be particularly effective.
Overview of the composition and how it operates
The Mutant Tribe has a strength that can be seen as a synthesis of many powerful Tribes from previous TFT seasons. Additionally, with up to 6 Mutant champions while only needing 5 to maximize Tribe buffs, players can easily synergize with other compositions. Mutants also possess a well-rounded offense and defense with primary damage dealers like Kog'Maw, Malzahar, and Kai'Sa. Meanwhile, Cho'Gath acts as a sturdy tank with substantial damage, especially when combined with other Colossal champions like Sion, Galio, or Fighter champions like Dr. Mundo and Zac.
In the early game, securing Kassadin and Kog'Maw is quite achievable, and even more advantageous is having the initial primary damage dealer - Malzahar. Since Malzahar is the source of magic damage, equip him with items that boost Ability Power to smoothly navigate through the early game.
During the mid-game, it's crucial to have Cho'Gath to strengthen the defensive line. Cho'Gath serves as the primary tank of this composition, so prioritize giving him defensive items. Ideal items for Cho'Gath include Warmog's Armor, Dragon's Claw, Force of Nature, or Thornmail... Remember, as long as Cho'Gath stands on the board, players can turn the tide even if the team has suffered significant damage.
In the late game, players must finalize the composition with the combination of Zac and Dr. Mundo as the front-line. Additionally, two essential names to supplement damage are Sion and Lux. Lux provides the Mystic synergy for Malzahar and the champion itself, while Sion adds quality AoE magic damage.
Completed team composition at level 8 (or 9): Lux - Sion - Cho'Gath - Dr. Mundo - Malzahar - Kog'Maw - Kassadin. It's most favorable to have a 3-star Malzahar, but if not possible, focus on rolling and upgrading Sion, Dr. Mundo, and Lux.
Technology Core Choices
For the Malzahar - Sion composition, also known as Mutant - Colossal, players can choose cores that provide Ability Power, deal AoE damage, or enhance defensive capabilities such as Emberknife, Innovator's Ballistic Matrix. Additionally, adding Hextech Augment is crucial for Malzahar to maximize his damage and transform magic damage into standard damage. If both Augment and Mutant cores are available, prioritize giving all to Sion for optimal performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The strength of this composition lies in its diverse damage types, encompassing physical, magic, and standard damage. Additionally, the team exhibits excellent offense and defense with colossal figures both figuratively and literally, such as Cho'Gath, Sion, Dr. Mundo, and Zac.
However, its primary weakness is the heavy reliance on items, requiring a minimum of 6 items for Malzahar and Sion, along with 2-3 defensive items for Cho'Gath, and the need for optimal Technology Cores. These limitations can sometimes hinder players from reaching high ranks, despite the team's overall strength.
Overall, it's a potent composition that demands meticulous preparation in terms of items and thoughtful selection of Cores. Considered a build revolving around items and Technology Cores, players should weigh the pros and cons. Notably, this composition counters prevalent metas such as Duelists or Assassins currently dominating the TFT landscape.
