Rating: 9/10
This week, I played Teamfight Tactics (TFT) with a group of friends. TFT is the only game that I have played prior to this class, but it was nice to take a step back and analyze the game rather than simply playing like I always do. I started playing like 4 years ago, but only on-and-off, when I have time and want to unwind. I find it a nice game to play when I am multi-tasking, as you don’t have to pay attention all of the time.
I usually play on my iPad, with the normal version, but I also like double up and hyper roll. I used to play freely, following basic rules like trying to get a good comp and leveling up my champions, but since meeting people who are more into TFT, I am slowly being taught more of the strategy and positioning. Sometimes, TFT does feel like it’s largely based on luck though with the items and champions you happen to get… but maybe I’m just not skilled enough. If you want to test your game knowledge, metatft just released a game where they pit two boards from real games, and you have to predict which of the two win. It’s called Boardle: https://metatft.com/boardle, and is pretty fun.
One thing I don’t like about TFT is that I feel that I have to play certain comps to win. I don’t really like going on metatft and forcing a popular comp, and would rather choose as I go. But then it’s hard to win when everyone is playing a well-crafted comp đ The frequent patches that update / nerfs champions definitely keeps players on their toes though. As I get more accustomed to the best strategies to play by, I have found success playing along with the augments and items that I get.
I also love the art and the silly little legends in TFT. You get them gacha-style in legend eggs, although it is tragic that the free battle pass only gives you enough for one roll. The best pull that I’ve gotten is my Kingpin Shork! I heard that it was pretty rare, so I’m happy that I got it without spending any money. My next goal: the chibi champions with the kill animation :<
[kingpin shork little legend]
I also just learned what the auto chess category is, and I can say I enjoy strategy auto chess games more than say, League. I will definitely look into other types of auto chess games to play. Thinking back to when I first started, TFT is definitely a bit overwhelming at first. I kinda gave up when I learned I had to memorize all of the traits and champions in order to build a good comp. I’m not sure how I came back to it, but it’s one of my favorite games to play now. It has been fun watching how the designs and game mechanics have changed with each set. The encounter aspect that is in this current set is definitely one of the biggest changes I have seen so far, and a couple of years ago, augments were also introduced. I can’t imagine learning to play now that are so many more features than before. Overall, TFT has been my comfort game that also challenges me to improve. It definitely fires up my competitive side đ
Hi Tracy,
Great review! I can relate to your experience with TFT, especially the balance between enjoying the game casually and diving into its strategic depths. It’s interesting how the game evolves with frequent patches, keeping us on our toes. I also appreciate the art and the quirky little legendsâKingpin Shork sounds like a fantastic pull!
I agree that the game can feel luck-based at times, but understanding the deeper strategies definitely helps. Thanks for sharing the tip about Boardle; it sounds like a fun way to test game knowledge.
As for the comps, I share your sentiment about not wanting to force popular ones. It can be more rewarding to adapt and play with what you get. And the introduction of augments and encounter mechanics has certainly added new layers of complexity to the game.
Good luck with your goal of getting the chibi champions with kill animations! And if anyone has tips on getting the Kingpin Shork, please shareâI’m curious too!
Overall, your review captures the essence of why TFT is such a compelling game. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Hi Tracy,
It was nice to read more about TFT from the perspective of someone who has played it for quite some time. I agree with you that the meta forces you to play similar comps to your opponents and kind of restricts exploration at the cost of winning. I feel like TFT dabbles in both skill and luck based elements, but wonder how balanced this dynamic is to the game.