Syndra Woodland: Mastering the New TFT Meta Contender

Tired of the Ashe meta suffocating Teamfight Tactics (TFT) Set 11? Do you crave a fresh strategy that packs a punch? Look no further than Syndra Woodland, a comp taking the Chinese server by storm. This innovative build throws a curveball at the traditional Syndra compositions, opting for the power of Woodland synergy over the usual Mage focus. This guide will delve into the intricacies of Syndra Woodland, exploring its strengths, core mechanics, and optimal playstyle to propel you towards Challenger rank.

Why Syndra Woodland? Ditching the Familiar for Domination

Syndra, a powerhouse mage, typically finds her home in two main compositions: Destiny and Mages. However, both present limitations. Destiny relies heavily on acquiring a 3-star champion early for a strong start, while Mage builds excel in damage but lack the frontline tankiness crucial for late-game survival.

Syndra Woodland tackles these issues head-on. High-level players have devised a strategy that pairs Syndra with 4 Woodland units, requiring only 3 or 5 Destiny champions. This shift offers several advantages:

• Reduced Emblem Dependence: Standard Syndra comps often require specific emblems to function optimally. Syndra Woodland, however, prioritizes Woodland synergy, freeing you from the emblem chase and allowing for greater flexibility in unit selection.
• Faster Level 9: The focus on Woodland grants access to a strong frontline early, enabling you to reach level 9 swiftly. This is crucial for unlocking powerful 5-cost champions like Sett and Azir.
• Optimized Champion Pool: By utilizing Woodland units, you can activate synergies with 1-cost units, opening up possibilities for better unit optimization throughout the game.

These factors combine to make Syndra Woodland a compelling alternative, offering a smoother transition to the late game and a well-rounded composition built for success.

Equipping Syndra for Woodland Warfare

Syndra, the lynchpin of this comp, needs the right tools to unleash her arcane fury. Here’s a breakdown of her ideal itemization:

• Current Meta Choice: Opt for the classic Blue Buff, Rabadon’s Deathcap, and an additional AP item for maximum damage output. Blue Buff provides crucial mana regeneration for consistent spellcasting, while Rabadon’s Deathcap amplifies her already potent magic damage.
• Alternative Build: If you find yourself with two Rabadon’s Deathcaps early on, consider replacing Blue Buff with the extra Deathcap for even more damage potential. Remember, Woodland comps typically fight at a slower pace, making Blue Buff less critical in some situations.

Beyond Syndra’s arsenal, consider these additional items for the team’s overall success:

• Magic Resist Reduction: A Jeweled Gauntlet or Quicksilver Sash is vital for penetrating the enemy frontline’s magic resistance. Jeweled Gauntlet is generally preferred as Syndra already benefits from the Tear of the Goddess used to craft it.
• Healing Reduction: Counter enemy healing compositions with either Bramble Vest or Morello’s Mortal Reminder. These items can significantly cripple healing-reliant comps.

Set 14.9 Update: Don’t underestimate the power of the new Hextech trait, Darkin. If you manage to acquire a Darkin emblem, it can effectively function as your third AP item for Syndra, further boosting her damage output.

Mastering the Art of Syndra Woodland: A Stage-by-Stage Guide

Early Game (Stages 1-3):

• Embrace the Woodland Synergy: Since Woodland is the core of this comp, prioritize starting with two Woodland units to activate the buff early. This empowers your frontline and provides a solid foundation for the coming stages.
• Adapting to the Flow: Don’t be afraid to improvise during the early game. If Kindred, a key Woodland unit, isn’t readily available, consider a Bruiser comp with Kobuko and a backline carry like Caitlyn alongside Aatrox to activate the Wraith trait. This offers a temporary solution while you search for your core units.
• The Ideal Early Composition: By level 4, strive for a balance of 3 Destiny champions and 2 Woodland units. This provides damage output from Destiny while laying the groundwork for the powerful Woodland synergy. At level 5, consider adding a Duelist like Darius or any Mage to further enhance Ahri’s damage potential.

Mid Game (Stages 4-5):

• Flexibility Over Rigidity: While itemization isn’t the sole focus of Syndra Woodland, acquiring a Tear of the Goddess early is crucial for crafting Blue Buff or Rabadon’s Deathcap for Syndra. If the item drops are unfavorable at the beginning, consider losing the first three rounds to secure a better selection in the carousel. This can be a calculated risk, as a strong early game isn’t entirely necessary for this comp to succeed.
• Don’t Fear the Fights: While losing a few rounds might seem counterintuitive, remember that Woodland grants benefits based on the number of fights you win. So, prioritize fielding the strongest units available to hold your ground and maintain a healthy life pool. Aim to reach level 6 by 3-2 for a significant power spike.

Pro Tip: Rolling for Emblems with Precision

High-level players have a clever trick to maximize their chances of acquiring relevant emblems during the emblem selection rounds (3-2 and 4-2). Here’s how it works:

1. Sell Unnecessary Units: Before the emblem selection round, sell all your units except for those belonging to Destiny and Woodland traits. This increases the pool of potential champions that can be offered as emblem components, specifically Golden Spatulas.
2. Focus the Pool: Since both Destiny and Woodland emblems can be crafted from Golden Spatulas, this trick concentrates the pool and increases the likelihood of rolling an emblem that benefits your composition.

Item Management and Unit Prioritization:

• Early Carry: In the early and mid-game, prioritize giving Syndra’s AP items to Ahri. This temporary measure empowers Ahri to carry the team until you acquire a 2-star Kindred. Once Kindred reaches 2 stars, swap the items to him to accelerate his Woodland buff stacking.
• Synergy Through Links: During the mid-game, focus on linking Ahri and Kindred with Destiny traits. If you have access to 5 Destiny champions, linking Ahri and Yasuo is a viable option. Unlike traditional Destiny compositions, Syndra Woodland doesn’t rely on a 2-star Aphelios. If you find a Recurve Bow, prioritize crafting Quicksilver Sash, Nashor’s Tooth, or Red Buff instead, as these items offer greater utility for your team.

Late Game (Stages 6+):

• Branching Paths: The late game development hinges on the emblems you acquire. If you have a Destiny emblem, consider leveling up to 8 and rolling for 2-star Syndra and Ornn. This allows you to maintain a strong 4 Woodland and 5 Destiny composition. Later, as you acquire 5-cost champions, swap Sett for Yasuo and Azir for Rek’Sai to further bolster your team.
• Woodland Advantage: Conversely, if you possess a Woodland emblem, the path becomes even smoother. Syndra Woodland’s beauty lies in its ability to utilize 1-cost units to activate traits. This allows you to focus on leveling to 8 and rolling for 2-star Syndra and Ornn, who can carry you through the transition. Once you stabilize, you can incorporate Sett and Azir for a well-rounded late-game composition.

Late Game Domination:

• Equipping the Frontline: Once you have a 2-star Syndra, equip Ornn with Jeweled Gauntlet and position him strategically next to Syndra. This combination shreds enemy magic resist while providing Ornn with additional tankiness.
• Synergy Through Positioning: When linking Destiny champions, prioritize maximizing damage output. Link Ahri and Syndra to unleash a devastating magical barrage upon your opponents. If your frontline needs reinforcement, consider linking Sett with Thresh for enhanced crowd control and survivability.
• Woodland Over Destiny: As a general rule, prioritize maintaining 6 Woodland units over exceeding 5 Destiny champions. The Woodland buff offers superior defensive capabilities and empowers your entire team, making it the cornerstone of this composition. If you have emblems, prioritize giving the Woodland emblem to Sett and the Destiny emblem to Ornn to further amplify their respective strengths.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Syndra Woodland

With its innovative approach and emphasis on Woodland synergy, Syndra Woodland stands as a potent force in the current TFT meta. Its flexibility, adaptability, and powerful late-game potential make it an attractive option for players seeking to climb the ranked ladder. So, ditch the monotony of Ashe and embrace the arcane might of Syndra Woodland. With this guide as your compass, you’ll be well on your way to dominating the battlefield and claiming victory in Teamfight Tactics!

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