User blog comment:ClariS/Why Xerath's Passive is Bad/@comment-199.84.62.149-20130319160727

Impressively well-made argument, poster. I have to admit you have a point, from a purely gameplay-based perspective Xerath's passive doesn't really add anything to him.

In terms of Lore, I believe that while you're right about Xerath's prison originally being used to weaken him, doesn't it also mention that he since subverted it to his own use? Still makes little sense/holds little interest thematically, however.

In terms of Metagame, the passive really only helps in late-game teamfight, except maybe to help him be a counter to the new AD mids like Talon? Even that I'm not so sure about.

Either way, while this definitely doesn't require an immediate redesign, it's something RIot should probably take a look at. +1 to you.