Talk:Xerath/@comment-4929259-20120816155834/@comment-5068327-20120816161819

He is very strong early and mid game due to his range, but by late it is kind of tricky because you have to rely a lot on you team.

In early laning phase, try to be as aggresive as possible. Q has a short CD, and low mana cost, find a good opportunity to use W>>Q, it's a very good harrassing/farming tool thanks to its superior range. He is however, get countered a lot by mages with high mobility (pretty much the reason why you don't see him much in tournaments game).

As for build, it is pretty typical to most mages. Start off with Boots and 3 pots, no need to explain why. On first trip back, double Dorans (or maybe Needless if you prefer, or fed enough), tier 2 boots if possible. Rush for Rabadon and Rylai first, then zhonya/abyssal, Void Staff and finally, your choice of situational item.

Just one thing in mind, NEVER RUSH AA, Xerath has considerable amounts of mana, buying this will drawback a lot of your dmg.