Teamfight Tactics  is a strategic auto-battler from Riot Games, where eight players compete to build the best team of champions and be the last one standing.

If you’re just starting either on PC or mobile, TFT can seem complex, but with a solid foundation, you’ll quickly find your footing and start enjoying the depth and excitement the game offers.

What Is Teamfight Tactics?

TFT is often described as a “chess-like” game, but with League of Legends  champions as your pieces. That being said, you don’t need any prior experience with League of Legends or even chess to play!

Each match is a free-for-all where you build a team, equip them with items, and watch them automatically battle other players’ teams. The end goal is pretty simple: outlast your opponents’ health and finish in the top four, with first place as the ultimate prize.

Getting Started

Setting Up and Starting a Match

• Download the League of Legends client, create a Riot Games account, and select TFT from the main menu. Or, if you’re wanting to play on mobile, just download the Teamfight Tactics mobile app through the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.

Early Game Basics

After jumping into Teamfight Tactics, you’ll play against AI-controlled opponents. These rounds are safe and reward you with gold, items, and champions. Use this phase to become comfortable with dragging units onto the board and learning about your champions’ abilities.

You’ll also notice each game begins with a “Portal” vote, which sets unique rule modifiers for the match. Portals can affect loot, economy, or other mechanics, adding variety to every game.

Core Gameplay Concepts

Champions and Synergies

• Champions are drawn from a shared pool and have traits  (like “Sniper,” “Mythic,” or “Behemoth”) that grant bonuses when combined.
• Building a team with strong synergies is key. For example, pairing multiple “Snipers” increases their damage, while “Behemoths” provide a sturdy frontline.

Gold and the Economy

• Gold is earned each round and can be spent to buy champions or level up, allowing you to place more units on the board.
• Managing your gold savings versus spending is crucial. Beginners often benefit from a simple “reroll” strategy, where you spend gold early to upgrade cheap champions to three-star versions for a strong early game.

Items

• Items  drop from monsters and can be equipped to champions for powerful effects.
• Combining the right items with the right champions can win games!

Beginner Strategies

Start Simple: Learn a Few Compositions

• Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to master every strategy. Pick a couple of team compositions  (comps) that look fun or interesting and stick with them as you learn the basics.
• For example, a beginner-friendly comp might use “Sniper + Behemoth” with champions like Caitlyn, Kog’Maw, Cho’Gath, and Malphite. This setup is easy to understand and teaches the importance of positioning and synergy.

Practice Positioning

• Where you place your champions matters. Snipers, for example, do more damage from the backline, while tanks should be up front.
• Experiment with different setups to determine which one works best against your opponents.

Learn When to Reroll and Level Up

• Rerolling means spending gold to refresh the shop and find specific champions.
• Leveling up allows you to field more units. Finding the right balance between rerolling for upgrades and leveling up is a skill that improves with experience.

Expanding Your Knowledge

Branch Out Gradually

• Once you’re comfortable with a couple of comps, start learning substitutes for your favorite units. TFT involves a lot of luck, and you won’t always find the champions you want.
• Over time, experiment with new combinations of components and items to expand your strategic options.

Use Resources and Watch Others

• There are many Teamfight Tactics coaches, guides, videos, and streamers who explain their thought process and strategies, and watching experienced players can accelerate your learning.

Tips for New Players

• Don’t stress about winning every game, just aim to finish in the top four as you learn.
• Use casual modes or practice tools to experiment without pressure.
• Enjoy the process! TFT is designed to be fun and rewarding, even as you’re learning.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Trying to learn every comp at once. Focus on a couple and master them before branching out.
• Ignoring the economy. Saving gold and spending wisely is as important as building a strong team.
• Neglecting positioning. Always consider the placement of your units on the board.

Final Thoughts

TFT is a deep and rewarding game that offers endless strategic possibilities. Start simple, focus on learning the basics, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With each match, you’ll gain new insights and improve. Most importantly, have fun as you embark on your TFT journey!