Split pushers in League of Legends can be dealt with by keeping an eye on the map, communicating with your team, and responding accordingly. Focus on wave clear, coordinating with teammates, and creating pressure elsewhere on the map to force the split pusher to make the decision to group or continue pushing.
Recognizing Split Pushers
In League of Legends, split pushers are champions who opt to play away from the main team and focus on pushing side lanes to apply pressure on the map. They aim to create a dilemma for the enemy team by forcing them to either send multiple members to deal with the split pusher or risk losing objectives. Recognizing split pushers is crucial, as failing to respond appropriately can result in losing map control and falling behind in the game.
Communication and Vision Control
When dealing with split pushers, communication is key. Inform your team about the split pusher's location and strategize on how to respond. Maintain vision control in key areas such as your jungle and river to spot the split pusher's rotations. Warding deep in the enemy jungle can also help track the split pusher's movements and potentially catch them off-guard. Vision denial tools like Control Wards can be effective in denying the split pusher information.
Wave Management and Timing
Understanding wave management is vital when dealing with split pushers. By keeping track of minion waves and maintaining proper wave clear, you can prevent the split pusher from sieging towers uncontested. Utilize slow pushes to create pressure in other lanes, forcing the split pusher to make difficult decisions on where to apply their pressure. Timing is crucial when engaging with the split pusher. Look for opportunities when they are overextended or when their team is out of position to make a play.
Coordination and Objective Control
Coordinate with your team to either match the split pusher with a strong duelist or send multiple members to deal with them. Communication is key to ensure that your team is on the same page regarding how to respond to the split pusher's pressure. While dealing with the split pusher, do not neglect important objectives such as Dragon, Baron, or turrets. Managing the split pusher while securing objectives can help you maintain control of the game and potentially force favorable team fights.
Itemization and Champion Picks
Consider itemizing against split pushers by building items that enhance your dueling or wave clear capabilities. Items like Randuin's Omen, Thornmail, or Executioner's Calling can help you handle split pushers who rely on sustained damage or healing. Additionally, picking champions with strong wave clear and dueling potential can help you match the split pusher's split push and potentially out-rotate them. Prioritize champions with teleport or global ultimates to quickly respond to the split pusher's pressure across the map.
Adaptation and Patience
Adapting to the split pusher's playstyle and adjusting your strategy accordingly is crucial in dealing with split pushers. If your team is struggling to contain the split pusher, consider changing your game plan by either forcing team fights to create numbers advantages or by committing to a full split push strategy of your own. Patience is key when dealing with split pushers, as impulsive reactions can lead to mistakes that the split pusher can capitalize on. Maintain a calm and collected approach when facing split push pressure.
Conclusion
Dealing with split pushers in League of Legends requires a combination of strategic decision-making, communication, and teamwork. By recognizing split pushers, maintaining vision control, managing waves, coordinating with your team, adapting your itemization and champion picks, and displaying patience in your approach, you can effectively handle split pushers and turn the tide of the game in your favor. Remember that each game and split pusher is unique, so be prepared to adjust your tactics based on the evolving situations in the game. Good luck on the Summoner's Rift!