Kayn has two forms – Darkin and Shadow Assassin – that you can choose from. Since this is a unique mechanic, many newer players might not be familiar with how the champion works. That is why we will talk about Kayn’s forms and show you how they work.
We will discuss both forms and list down a brief build as well which will help you out depending on the form you choose. With that said, let’s dive right in and get started.
Kayn’s Red Form
If you decide to choose the Red form, Rhaast (Kayn’s scythe), will take over Kayn and he will become a bruiser. To get this form, you need to attack melee champions and get the Red orbs. Once the meter is full, you can choose the Darkin form and transform.
Now, you will have abilities that will heal you and make you tanky. Plus, your W will knock up enemies instead of slowing them. This form is ideal when the enemy has a lot of tanks or bruisers since you’ll have to partake in long fights.
Darkin Build
If you go for the Darkin form, you need to choose the following Runes:
- Conquerer
- Triumph
- Legend: Tenacity
- Last Stand
- Magical Footwear (Secondary)
- Cosmic Insight (Secondary)
When it comes to items, going for bruiser items will suit you well.
- Gore Drinker
- Boots (Depending on the enemy comp)
- Black Cleaver
- Death’s Dance
- Spear of Shojin
- Guardian Angel or Spirit Visage
Your abilities also change in the Red form. In this form, you will have:
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| The Darkin Scythe (Passive) | Darkin heals for 25% of the post-mitigation damage that he deals with spells against enemy champions. |
| Reaping Slash | Deal 65% Attack Damage (+5% + 3.5% per 100 bonus attack damage) of the target’s maximum health instead. |
| Blade’s Reach | Gain a knock up for 1 second. |
| Shadow Step | Same as default Kayn. |
| Umbral Trespass | Deals 15% (+10% per 100 bonus attack damage) of target’s maximum health damage and heals for 9.75% (+8.45% per 100 bonus attack damage) of target maximum health. |
Kayn’s Blue Form
The Blue form is more agile and transforms Kayn into an assassin. If the enemy has a lot of squishy champions, using the Blue form is recommended as you’ll instantly destroy them while running around the map.
To get the Blue form, you have to attack ranged champions and get Blue orbs. Once the meter is filled, you can transform into the Shadow Assassin. This form allows you to move through walls faster and use your W while running around instead of standing still.
Shadow Assassin Build
If you go for this form, you’ll want to use the following Runes:
- Dark Harvest or First Strike
- Sudden Impact
- Eyeball Collection
- Treasure Hunter
- Magical Footwear (Secondary)
- Cosmic Insight (Secondary)
In terms of items, going for assassin items is the way to go.
- Duskblade
- Ionian Boots
- Axiom Arc
- Manamune
- Serylda’s Grudge
- Edge of Night or Prowler’s Claw
Your abilities also change in the Blue form. In this form, you will have:
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| The Darkin Scythe (Passive) | Whenever Kayn deals damage against enemy champions he also deals 15% – 45% (based on level) of post-mitigation damage as bonus magic damage, lasting for 3 seconds upon entering in combat with an enemy champion, refreshing after 8 seconds out of combat with them or by using Umbral Trespass Umbral Trespass. |
| Reaping Slash | Same as default Kayn. |
| Blade’s Reach | Gain extra range and the ability to move during Blade’s Reach. |
| Shadow Step | Cooldown is set to 10 seconds, gain 70% movement speed and slow immunity. |
| Umbral Trespass | Gains 200 extra range and refresh The Darkin Scythe on exit. |
How to Gain Essence?
As aforementioned, you can gain essence (orbs) by attacking enemy champions. If you attack melee champions, you’ll gain Darkin stacks, if you attack ranged champions, you’ll gain Shadow Assassin stacks.
If you accidentally get the wrong form, you can always wait a few minutes before the other form unlocks. However, depending on the form you want, it is ideal if you path your champion that way.
Conclusion
And there you have it; that’s everything you need to know about Kayn’s forms. Depending on the enemy composition, you will have to either choose the Red or Blue form. Both of them are strong and quite fun to play.
Which form do you like better in the game? Do you want more champions to have similar mechanics to Kayn in the future? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
