League of Legends Patch 25.18 introduces a refined set of jungle adjustments that subtly shift the solo queue meta without displacing its dominant champions. While balance updates in this patch provide a slight lift for tank-oriented junglers and push Qiyana down the tier list, top-performing picks like Volibear, Warwick, and Briar retain control of the meta across all ranks. Strategic champion selection and optimal jungle bans are more important than ever as the patch rewards consistency, clear speed, and early-game impact.
TL;DR – Key Takeaways from Patch 25.18 Jungle Tier List
- Volibear remains the top-tier jungler, offering excellent survivability, early pressure, and reliable objective control across all elos.
- Warwick, Volibear, and Briar dominate lower-rank matches due to their accessible kits and ability to capitalize on early mistakes.
- Recommended jungle bans: Volibear, Warwick, and Briar to eliminate major snowball threats from enemy comps.
- S-tier highlights include Morgana, Trundle, Jax, Bel’Veth, Diana, and Jarvan IV for their strategic flexibility and mid-game power spikes.
- Qiyana falls to B tier after nerfs reduce her damage output and early pressure reliability.
- Tank junglers like Zac and Rammus see increased viability thanks to buffs to Sunfire Aegis and Bami’s Cinder.
Jungle Tier List – League of Legends Patch 25.18
| Tier | Champions |
|---|---|
| OP | Volibear |
| Low Elo OP | Warwick, Volibear, Briar |
| Best Bans | Volibear, Warwick, Briar |
| S | Morgana, Trundle, Warwick, Briar, Fiddlesticks, Jax, Ekko, Bel’Veth, Rammus, Wukong, Kha’Zix, Diana, Jarvan IV |
| A | Master Yi, Nocturne, Xin Zhao, Dr. Mundo, Graves, Udyr, Nunu, Kindred, Talon, Amumu, Hecarim, Elise, Viego, Kayn (Darkin), Evelynn, Ivern, Poppy, Gragas, Lee Sin, Rengar, Rek’Sai, Zyra, Zac, Naafiri |
| B | Qiyana, Sylas, Shaco, Nidalee, Taliyah, Olaf, Gwen, Zed, Kayn (Shadow Assassin), Vi, Teemo, Shyvana, Karthus, Pantheon, Lillia |
| C | Sett, Skarner, Maokai, Ambessa, Sejuani, Brand, Nautilus |
Meta Analysis: What Patch 25.18 Means for Junglers
Volibear’s Dominance Continues
Despite a minor adjustment—an AP ratio reduction on his passive attack speed—Volibear remains the top jungle pick of the patch. The nerf has negligible impact on his most common bruiser builds, allowing him to maintain exemplary performance in objective control and early dueling. For both low and high-ranked games, Volibear is a stable, first-pick-worthy jungler.
Warwick and Briar: Solo Queue Giants
Warwick and Briar excel in low elo due to their forgiving mechanics and strong early-game dueling potential. These champions are particularly punishing in chaotic early skirmishes where mistakes are more frequent. Their ability to create early leads makes them ideal for climbing ranked ladders efficiently.
Qiyana Falls from Grace
Qiyana takes a significant hit in Patch 25.18, as nerfs to her base attack damage and passive scaling reduce her early burst damage and jungle clear speed. Once a top-tier mechanical pick, she now struggles to impact the early game without flawless execution, explaining her drop to B tier. While still viable in the hands of experts, she is significantly riskier than more consistent alternatives.
Tanks Gain Momentum with Item Buffs
Zac and Rammus quietly benefit from buffs to Sunfire Aegis and Bami’s Cinder. These improvements aid tank junglers in clearing faster and fighting more effectively through mid-game transitions. In particular, Zac’s synergy with immolate effects makes him a dark horse in the changing jungle landscape.
S-Tier Picks Offer Consistent Mid-Game Impact
Champions like Morgana and Trundle lead the S tier due to their mix of strong utility, reliable clears, and objective power. Assassins and bruisers—such as Diana, Jarvan IV, Jax, and Bel’Veth—offer flexible build paths and dominate mid-game teamfights. Fiddlesticks continues to be a viable pick in vision-controlled games, where his ultimate can change the course of a fight with proper timing.
B and C Tier Picks Require Precision or Niche Conditions
B tier features mechanically demanding champions like Shaco, Nidalee, and Taliyah. Although capable of carrying games, their high skill floors and situational success make them less reliable for most ranked environments. C tier remains populated by outdated or underpowered picks like Skarner and Sejuani, who often fail to match today’s clear-speed or gank tempo expectations.
Notable Jungle and Item Updates
- Bami’s Cinder received damage buffs that significantly enhance jungle clear speeds for tanks.
- Sunfire Aegis improvements align with tank jungler kits that rely on efficient AoE clears.
- Jungle timers and map quality-of-life improvements make strategic pathing smoother overall. Refer to the official patch notes for full details.
For players looking for a brief overview of these changes, check out the
3 Minute League of Legends Patch 25.18 guide.
Video Guide – Breakdown by Skill Capped
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the best jungler in Patch 25.18?
Volibear remains the strongest all-around pick due to his reliable ganks, objective control, and resilient 1v1 potential.
What are the best junglers in low elo?
Warwick, Volibear, and Briar stand out in low elo for their simplicity, self-sustain, and ability to quickly convert small advantages into game-winning pressure.
Why is Qiyana no longer top-tier?
Patch 25.18 targeted Qiyana’s early-game might with reductions to her base AD and passive damage scaling. While still lethal with precision, she is harder to win with consistently.
Are tank junglers more viable now?
Yes. Item buffs to Sunfire Aegis and Bami’s Cinder enhance overall jungle clear and brawling ability, improving the standing of tanks like Zac and Rammus in the current meta.
Who should I ban in jungle this patch?
Volibear, Warwick, and Briar are the top ban priorities, especially in ranked solo queue. They define the early meta with unmatched snowball potential.
How to Climb in Jungle this Patch
Patch 25.18 cements a predictable but punishing jungle environment. Sticking with highly effective champions in the OP and S tiers remains the best path to ranked success. Volibear is unparalleled for general performance, while Briar and Warwick are perfect for low elo dominance. Meanwhile, players looking to experiment with undervalued picks should consider revisiting Zac and Rammus, who may climb the tier list as build exploration continues.
For ongoing meta updates, champion guides, and ranked strategies, visit LoLNOW.gg.
