Matchup of the Day

The most straightforward and reliable path to victory against Garen is achieving the power spike granted by Rylai's Crystal Scepter (Riy). Once this item is completed, the matchup is described as "completely over," establishing a state where Garen will genuinely never be able to escape you. If Garen has not opted for the Phase Rush keystone, it becomes nearly impossible for him to effectively continue playing the game after you have secured Rylai's. Therefore, Mordekaiser's primary strategy can be simplified to farming safely until Rylai's is acquired, and then aggressively looking to fight him.

Garen's success hinges on his ability to pressure Mordekaiser with consistent short trades. His goal is to reduce your health bar to approximately half or maybe 70% before committing to a decisive all-in engagement. Crucially, Garen seeks to successfully bait out yourW (Indestructible) shield/heal before applying the finishing damage with his ultimate.

Should Garen choose the Conqueror keystone, his all-in potential is increased. If Mordekaiser manages to obtain the critical Rylai's item, Garen may shift his win condition by attempting to perma proxy the wave, thereby forcing Mordekaiser to divert attention to catch him.