Talk:VPBE/@comment-9477978-20140719134753/@comment-3974211-20140720235113

I liked Xerath because he obliterated the front line and countered most high mobility champions (I picked him into Ahri) due to his E+R combo. Yeah he was obnoxious and his passive was unappreciated — I understand why his was nerfed — but I did not like the change to his play style (he feels like Karthus now, which isn't a bad thing but I already have Karthus). Vel'Koz isn't quite as good against high mobility champions, but he obliterates the front line and that's why I love him.

I think the reason both champions will remain sub-par in popularity is their self-lockdown. Malzahar is also unpopular. Players do not like being immobile to deal damage - even if that damage is relatively superior as a trade-off.