Support Items

Itemization is crucial element of this game. Not only what you build, but when you build it. I main support and part of the fun and challenge is trying to maximize your buys on a shoe-string budget (which is better this season, thanks riot). There are some champs and mains that traditionally for-go damage/power for utility/auras/activates. This play style has it's merits notably on strict supports. But a season or two back, there was the tinkering with AP to boost supports which made going "mage" support that much more viable.

However another overlooked handicap is inventory space. SS and gp 10 item is pretty much mandatory. But if a support wants the nifty activate on his GP item, he has to sacrifice 2 item slots. Typically cdr is the power stat of supports, which inherently nerfs your AP. If you face a comp where a response item is near mandatory, your dreams of stardom fall to the wayside to take care of household, so to speak. And I know what you're thinking, that's the life of support, but sometimes papa wants a glass of scotch.

I understand the need for balance and the fear of a support item being too appealing to solo lanes, but I like to think the modest amount of AP on these items dissuade or at least make you evaluate whether the activate is really worth the sacrifice. Even junglers can get their core item, with stats, sightstone, and nifty ability all in one.

My suggestion is to eliminate being forced to choose, and allow a further build path that combines the SS and the gp10 item with the activate ability. Increasing the price and/or adding constituent items (thus forcing you to rush completion or take up valuable inventory space) could balance out any foreseeable abuse. I don't think this is asking much, yet is an quality of life improvement for your team's mule.