Kiting: What is Kiting in LoL?

Kiting, also known as orb walking, is the practice of attacking and moving simultaneously to maximize damage output while minimizing the risk of retaliation. This technique primarily revolves around exploiting the attack animation of your champion ^[1] to optimize positioning during engagements. 

By attacking, then repositioning, and repeating this cycle, players can effectively control spacing and dictate the flow of combat.

How to Execute Kiting Effectively?

Executing kiting effectively requires precise timing, awareness of cooldowns, and understanding champion mechanics. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

• Auto-Attack Animation Canceling: To minimize downtime between attacks, players can cancel the latter part of their champion's attack animation by issuing a move command immediately after the projectile is launched.
• Maintain Safe Distance: Continuously assess the threat level posed by opponents and adjust your positioning accordingly. Keep a safe distance to avoid being caught out while still being within range to deal damage.
• Utilize Ability Combinations: Incorporate abilities into your kiting pattern to maximize damage and crowd control effects. Coordinate your abilities with auto-attacks for a seamless assault.
• Kiting with Attack-Move: Attack-move commands enable players to automatically target and attack the nearest enemy within range while moving. Mastering attack-move mechanics enhances kiting efficiency, especially in chaotic teamfights.

Why is Kiting Essential in LoL?

Kiting is more than just a flashy maneuver; it's a fundamental skill that can tip the scales in favor of skilled players. Here's why it's essential:

• Survivability: Kiting allows squishy carries to survive encounters with bruisers and assassins by keeping them at arm's length.
• Maximizing DPS: By constantly dealing damage while evading enemy abilities, kiting enables champions to output maximum damage over extended engagements.
• Objective Control: Whether it's securing objectives like Dragon or Baron or defending turrets, kiting enables players to efficiently control the battlefield and influence map objectives.

Which Champions Benefit Most from Kiting?

Champions with ranged attacks, mobility, or crowd control benefit most from kiting. Examples include Vayne, Caitlyn, Ashe for marksmen, and Cassiopeia, Orianna for mages. Melee champions like Fiora, Yasuo with quick dashes also utilize kiting for dueling prowess.

In conclusion, mastering kiting elevates a player's proficiency in LoL ^[2], unlocking new avenues for outplaying opponents and securing victories. By integrating kiting into your gameplay repertoire and continually refining your technique, you'll gain a competitive edge on the Summoner's Rift.

References

1. [1] "LoL Champions page". www.leagueoflegends.com. Retrieved September 06, 2024
2. [2] "Official League of Legends page". www.leagueoflegends.com. Retrieved September 06, 2024