Teamfight Tactics: The Meta for TFT 14.8 REVEALED

The second major balance update for Teamfight Tactics Set 11 has arrived in patch 14.8, and it’s bringing some significant meta-shifts. Riot’s goal with these changes was to address the dominance of reroll comps and open up more viability for 4-cost carry champions. And based on the new data, that objective seems to be accomplished – at least for now.

4-Cost Units Rocket Up the Tier List 

Our comprehensive TFT tier list for 14.8, reviewed by top players like Frodan, reflects the major boosts given to 4-cost champions in this patch. Multiple 4-cost carriers like Kayn, Kai’Sa, Ashe, and Irelia have rocketed up into the S and A tiers for both the mid and late-game phases.

This renaissance for 4-costs is a direct result of adjustments like Kayn’s spell ratio increases, Ashe’s empowered basic attacks, and Irelia gaining an additional spell cast. With these types of offensive buffs, elite-level carries that were previously underperforming can now truly take over matches.

Reroll Comps Take a Step Back

However, the adjustments have come at the cost of some previous reroll powerhouses falling off a tier or two. Qiyana, Senna, and especially Draven have all seen noticeable drops in performance in high ELO games compared to the last patch.

So does this mean the 14.8 meta has completely shifted away from reroll strategies and towards capping outboards with costly 4 and 5-cost units? Not necessarily…

Flexibility is Key in Patch 14.8

While the data reflects 4-costs being stronger, some top reroll options like Janna, Riven, and Kog’Maw comps are still holding strong as S and A-tier options themselves. Their consistency and capped power level seem to be keeping them relevant even with 4-cost carries getting a boost.  

The developers’ adjustments open up a lot more flexibility though. More team comps are now viable to chase after and pivot between based on what units you’re naturally hitting in the opener and mid-game stages.

Vertical Comps Making a Comeback

One prime example is the Force of Nature Ashe Porcelain comp making a big return, utilizing both the buffed 4-cost Ashe and 5-drop Lillia as carriers. With stat averages like a 35% pick rate and 4.25 average placement at high levels, this uncontested vertical option is looking extremely strong.

Similarly, Spirit Walker Irelia comps that layer in Bard and Sett utility are posting a respectable 24% popularity pick rate and over 4.3 average finish. The adjustments have made Irelia scary to face at 3-star in the late game.

Keys to Climbing in Patch 14.8

If you’re aiming to climb in ranked, it’s advised to always keep an eye on the detailed comp statistics and meta guide for the current patch on Game Life’s TFT section. But in general, the keys for 14.8 are:

1) Being open-minded to trying new 4-cost carry options like Kayn, Kai’Sa, and Ashe when you hit or can level and roll for them. 

2) Not completely abandoning reroll powerhouses like Janna and Riven if that’s the direction your opener is leaning you.

3) Not being overly committed to any one game plan. With many viable capping paths, staying flexible and open to smart pivots in the mid-game is essential.

Future Meta

Only time will tell if 4-cost carries remain dominant in 14.8 or if clever players find ways to optimize reroll strategies versus them. But there’s no doubt this meta has been shaken up in an exciting new direction that breathes new life into Set 11’s champion pool.

Be sure to check back regularly as the meta develops further. With behemoths like Riot constantly monitoring balance, you’ll want to stay ahead of any new adjustments. And don’t forget to brush up on all the new units, traits, and mechanics coming in Set 11.5 with our full set reveal guide coming soon!