TFT Patch 13.16b: Buffs and Nerfs

In a bid to fine-tune the competitive landscape of Teamfight Tactics (TFT), Riot Games unleashed Patch 13.16B on August 22nd.

The update takes a scalpel to specific traits and Augments within Set 9 Runeterra Reforged, with the overarching goal of shaping the upcoming TFT tournaments, including the much-anticipated North America (NA) Runeterra Reforged Mid-Set Finale. Stephen “Mortdog” Mortimer, the Game Design Director and TFT Lead Designer, provided a sneak peek into the adjustments awaiting players in Patch 13.16B, most of which involve noticeable nerfs to various traits and Augments.

Mortdog conveyed, “In the pursuit of delivering optimal conditions for final competitions, we’re rolling out a B-patch. We’re aiming for a delicate touch, yet aiming to provide ample heads-up.”

TFT PATCH 13.16B: What to Expect

Fine-Tuning in Patch 13.16B for TFT Runeterra Reforged The most pronounced nerf in Patch 13.16B targets Shen, who stands out as the sole unit receiving a power reduction within TFT Runeterra Reforged. Mortdog justified the nerf by stating, “Shen’s dominance within Aphelios/Bastion comp, thanks to his combined shielding prowess with Targon, has led to excessive survivability. This nerf should address that.”

Consequently, the developers have dialed down Shen’s ally shielding abilities, thereby curbing his survivability:

Shen’s Ki Barrier Ally Shield: Revised from 275/350/2000 to 225/275/1500.

Two pivotal traits underwent modifications in Patch 13.16B – Demacia and Piltover:

Demacia: Magic Resistance adjusted from 5/30/50/100 to 5/30/40/100.

Piltover: Tweaked the value for 8-9 loss cashout. Slightly reduced the value for 7 loss cashout.

Mortdog elaborated, “We’ve concentrated on the 3-5 and 3-6 cashouts for Piltover, as they tend to be the most accessible. However, the strength remains if you can endure losses beyond round 10.”

Turning the spotlight to Augment adjustments, a total of four Augments received nerfs with no corresponding buffs. The Augment changes are detailed below:

Know Your Enemy: Base Damage Amplification: 15% >>> 12%

Petricite Shackles: Empowered Damage Amplification: 30% >>> 22%

Social Distancing: Attack Damage & Ability Power: 12/20/30 >>> 12/18/25

Transfusion: Base Health: 20/80/100 >>> 20/40/50

Riot Games made an additional observation that the nerfs to the 7 Demacia and Petricite Shackles Augments have significantly impacted Garen’s core composition. To maintain equilibrium, the developers are treading cautiously to prevent an excessive nerf to Garen himself.

Addressing the singular buff in Patch 13.16B, Riot Games explained, “Given the adjustments to Piltover and Zeri in 13.16, we’re enhancing Gunner 4 and 6, which previously saw minimal utilization even during Zeri’s heyday.”

Gunner Attack Damage Per Stack: 6/12/22% ⇒ 6/14/25%

Furthermore, Patch 13.16B introduced a couple of bug fixes, notably stating, “Two Healthy and Three’s a Crowd now grant their Health bonuses on distant boards.”

With these meticulous adjustments, Riot Games seeks to reconfigure the competitive landscape of TFT Runeterra Reforged, offering players and spectators an engaging and balanced competitive environment.