@Meddler: Brainstorming session on Aatrox
I would like to create a bit of a brainstorming session to find out some ideas to put Aatrox in a better spot (he is too much badass to be unplayed) I will divide this in 3 sections for clarity:
**SECTION 1: Core theme identity ** Does Aatrox deliver on his fantasy of being almost a God of War? Turning the tides of battle at his will. Does Aatrox deliver on his fantasy of having a Living Sword?
I think these 2 things are what makes Aatrox unique, but they really don't shine in the game at all.
So How could we deliver on those things? I suggest to give a much more important role to his sword then just the effect on his W. I am thinking about a stacking mechanic based on kills and assists. Since the Sword drain the life out of his enemies it would just makes sense if you could feel more powerful after you slay an opponent. I'd say you get a X lifesteal bonus for each kill or assist.
Currently Aatrox has to dive (Kamikaze) into the enemy team to be played , but he doesn't have enough tools to stay alive unless you are very fed. Even if you die and revive it doesn't feel right, and you will most likely die few seconds after anyway.
An avatar of war is supposed yes to dive into the battle, but not hoping to stay alive for the next few seconds. he should have something that allows him to get there and do his thing. I'd say you get a blood shield if you knock up someone with your Q for X seconds.
SECTION 2: Strenghts and Weaknesses What strenghts should aatrox have? Well he should be a diver, able to do consistent damage trough lifestealing, and then you have to be a good aatrox player to manage your health in the fight. He should be less about 1v1 and more about teamfights He shouldn't be a snowbally champion He should get his peak at mid-game He should not have heavy cc He should be easy to kite, or to lock down He should be a reliable engage tool He shouldn't have escape mechanics after he dived in He should not feel punished for diving.
SECTION 3: What feels satisfying and what doesn't I may be drastic but at the moment he feels just bad to play. The fact that he is so much based on Autoattacks just doesn't work. His Q is clunky and not much reliable, His W is okay but lack some depth, His E is.... horrible honestly. His R is just a big steroid and could be something more interesting.