Guide Sections (16)
Champion Stats
| Role | Tank / Support |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate (7/10) |
| Blue Essence | 675 BE |
The Level 1 Cheese
First Blood Strategy
Start Q (Pulverize) for a potential early knock-up in an invade or level 1 bush cheese. If you can land a Flash-Q on a squishy target, you can often secure a First Blood. Level 2 with W (Headbutt) is your 'go time'—the classic W-Q combo is one of the most reliable engages in the game.
The 'Pay-to-Win' Skin Advantage
'Moo Cow Alistar' is the undisputed best smurf skin—the 'cowbell' emote is the highest form of mental warfare in League. 'Black Frost Alistar' offers amazing modern visual effects. 'Hextech Alistar' is the prestigious choice. Avoid 'Golden Alistar' unless you want the absolute basic look to hide your skill.
When They Ban Alistar
Rune Setup
Skill Priority
Order:
Q → E → WMax Q first for the lower cooldown on your primary knock-up. Max E second for the increased damage and stun potential. Max W last as the primary use is the displacement, and the damage scale isn't as important.
Mastering Alistar's Kit
Matchup Tips
The Ego Check
When to Queue Dodge
Dodge if facing heavy 'disengage' comps with Janna, Lulu, or Morgana if your team doesn't have other engage. They can block or cancel your W-Q easily. Also dodge into Vayne who can condemn your engage mid-air.
Teamfight Role
In teamfights, you are the initiator. Look for a W-Q on as many priority targets as possible. Once you're in, activate E (Trample) to get a stun on a follow-up target. Use your R (Unbreakable Will) to survive the initial burst. If your carry is in danger, use your W to peel the enemy away from them.
The 'Disrespect' Build
Full AP 'Nuclear' Alistar. Everfrost (if available, else Luden's) -> Lich Bane -> Rabadon's Deathcap. With this build, your W-Q combo will literally one-shot squishies. It's high-risk but incredibly funny to see a cow delete a health bar. It's the ultimate 'AP Alistar' flex.
Power Windows
Level 2 is your first massive kill window with the combo. Level 6 is your diving spike—Unbreakable Will makes you unkillable. Your biggest item spike is reaching Zeke's Convergence or Knight's Vow, which enhances your carry's damage during your engage.
Tilt Factor
Spam the 'cowbell' emote as Moo Cow Alistar after every successful engage. Type 'You can't milk those!' in all-chat. The sound of the cowbell while the enemy is knocked up and about to die is a massive tilt factor.
Recent Patch History
Safety Tips
