Ever faced that moment in the Summoner’s Rift where your tanky champion is about to bite the dust, and you wish there was a way to turn the tide? Enter Gargoyle Stoneplate. This item isn’t just any piece of in-game equipment; it’s a game-changer.
TL;DR:
- Gargoyle Stoneplate is one of the top 10 most-used items in League of Legends.
- It’s a defensive powerhouse, providing health, resistances, and a unique size-boosting ability.
- Pro players, like Bjergsen, laud it for the unmatched advantage it offers in team fights.
Breaking Down the Gargoyle Stoneplate 🛡️
When it comes to items that provide both drama and function, the Gargoyle Stoneplate stands out. But why is it so popular?
1. Stats Speak Volumes
According to op.gg, Gargoyle Stoneplate consistently ranks among the top 10 most commonly used items in League of Legends. Given the game’s vast array of items, that’s quite an accolade.
2. What’s in the Package?
For 3200 gold, you’re getting:
- 15 Ability Haste
- 60 Armor
- 60 Magic Resistance
- An active ability that offers a decaying shield and an increased character size
- A passive trait that enhances your armor and magic resistance when taking damage from champions.
3. Pro’s Verdict
Bjergsen, a prominent figure in the LoL community, once remarked, “Gargoyle Stoneplate is a game-changer. It gives you the extra edge in team fights, making you an unstoppable force.” And when a pro says that, you know it’s legit.
Gargoyle Stoneplate’s Strategic Significance
The Gargoyle Stoneplate is more than just another item to buy in the League of Legends. It represents a strategic shift in your gameplay approach, allowing you to position yourself as a frontline tank while simultaneously being a disruptive force during team fights.
Why You Should Consider It
- Diverse Synergies: Its synergies with various champions are well established. As you mentioned, champions like Shen, with his taunt, can utilize Gargoyle Stoneplate to draw attention, take damage, and give their team a tactical advantage. Similarly, champions who naturally dive into the thick of fights, like Malphite or Alistar, can benefit immensely from this item.
- Gameplay Flexibility: It offers an incredible amount of flexibility in terms of gameplay. You can opt to jump into a fight, activating the Stoneplate to absorb the initial wave of damage. Alternatively, you can wait and use it to survive longer, allowing your team to capitalize on the enemy’s diminishing resources.
When to Use It
- Initiation: If you’re playing a champion with a strong initiation tool, like Malphite’s Unstoppable Force, you can lead with that, followed by the Stoneplate activation. This way, you absorb the immediate retaliation from the enemy team, ensuring your team can follow up without you getting instantly burst down.
- Distraction: The Stoneplate is perfect when you want to be a distraction in the midst of the enemy team. This is especially useful if your team has a lot of poke or long-range damage. By drawing attention to yourself, you’re allowing your teammates to freely damage opponents.
- Last Stand: If you’re the last line of defense preventing an enemy push, the Stoneplate can buy crucial seconds. Those seconds might allow your teammates to respawn or reposition, potentially turning the tide of battle.
Combining with Other Items
While Gargoyle Stoneplate is formidable on its own, combining it with other tank or utility items can further enhance its efficacy.
- Sterak’s Gage: If you find yourself getting burst down too quickly, even with the Stoneplate, Sterak’s can offer a lifeline, granting a shield when taking large amounts of damage.
- Zhonya’s Hourglass: If you’re playing an AP champion that can benefit from the Stoneplate, consider picking up Zhonya’s. The stasis effect, combined with the Stoneplate, can make you incredibly hard to kill.
FAQs
Is the Gargoyle Stoneplate worth its price?
Absolutely! At 3200 gold, you’re investing in an item that not only bolsters your defenses but can significantly turn the tides in team fights.
Can I use multiple Gargoyle Stoneplates in my inventory?
No, you’re limited to one Gargoyle Stoneplate.
What champions benefit most from this item?
Tanks and fighters, especially those frequently in the frontline during team clashes, can maximize the Stoneplate’s potential.
How does it compare to other similar items like Locket of the Iron Solari?
While both items are defensive, the Locket provides a shield to allies. In contrast, the Stoneplate focuses on self-preservation and intimidation.
Why was the item inspired by Galio?
Given Galio’s stone-themed design and his colossal presence in battles, the Gargoyle Stoneplate mirrors that essence of being an unyielding force on the battlefield.
Conclusion
While items like Zhonya’s Hourglass and Sterak’s Gage have their place, there’s something uniquely satisfying about activating a Gargoyle Stoneplate and watching your character transform into a behemoth on the battlefield. In a game as dynamic as League of Legends, items like Gargoyle Stoneplate exemplify the importance of strategic depth and adaptability.
While its base stats might not be as impressive, the strategic value it brings to a team is immense. Whether you’re using it to dive headfirst into battle, protect your teammates, or simply buy time, the Gargoyle Stoneplate is an item that shouldn’t be underestimated.
So, next time you find yourself in the shop, pondering which item to buy next, give the Stoneplate a spin. And remember, timing is everything.
