
Illaoi Counter Guide: Top Lane Matchups and Counters
Illaoi reaches peak performance when fighting near tentacles and landing her Test of Spirit (E). Understanding her weaknesses and adapting your playstyle accordingly is crucial for success.
Effective Laning Strategy
- Stand behind minions to avoid Test of Spirit (E)
- Dodge her abilities to reduce trading power
- When hit by E, stay near one tentacle to prevent others from spawning
- Freeze wave near your tower to limit her farming potential
- Avoid standing in minion waves to prevent Q poke

Illaoi, Kraken Priestess
Counter Strategy
- Disengage when she uses ultimate
- Avoid fighting in tight spaces where tentacles are more effective
- Build Grievous Wounds (Thornmail, Morellonomicon, or Ignite)
- Be aware that her E's spirit counts for Dark Harvest stacks
Key Power Spikes
- Early Black Cleaver (around 11 minutes)
- Level 9 (E max) - Significant damage increase
- Level 13 (Q and E max) - Strong dueling potential
Best Counters
- Aurora
- Yorick
- Ryze
- Teemo
- Ornn
Challenging Matchups
- Vladimir
- Garen
- Tryndamere
- Quinn
- Sett
Remember to coordinate with your team when fighting Illaoi, as she excels in 1v2 situations but struggles against organized teamplay. Focus on dodging her abilities and avoiding fights near her tentacles for the best chance of success.
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