The Dragon Mage Build in Auto Chess makes use of powerful AoE burst and sustained magic damage to wipe out its opponents in one swoop.
The addition of Winter Chiropteran has made it easier and cheaper to get the (3) Dragon synergy active. This is essential as it provides Dragon Knight, a key piece of this build with an instant transformation.
The Lineup
Dragon Knight
Flamming Wizard
God of Thunder
Pirate Captain
The Source
Thunder Spirit
Tortola Elder
Venom
Werewolf
Winter Chiropteran0( 1 / 6 )6( 6 / 9 )0( 2 / 9 )0( 1 / 6 )3( 3 / 6 )6( 6 / 6 )1( 1 / 2 )0( 1 / 4 )0( 1 / 6 )0( 1 / 4 )You’ve probably seen many variations of this build. Even without Winter Chiropteran, this build was still a go to choice for many competitors in the NA GLL and EU GLL finals.
The variation above shows the possibility of (6) Human and (6) Mage. This variant greatly reduces your opponents magic resist whilst mixing in a good dose of silence.
One reason for this builds popularity (and effectiveness) is due to its flexibility. Another being its dominance in the late game. The only key piece you will need is Dragon Knight (and two other dragons but that shouldn’t be hard).
God of Thunder being a Legendary piece can be quite hard to pull. Should you not find it you could easily play a 3 mage variant instead. This piece along with the other Mage pieces have many possible substitution options.
Pushing to level 9 will help you roll high tier pieces including God of Thunder, Dragon Knight and Tortola Elder.
Substitutions
Dark Spirit
Doom ArbiterDragon KnightFlamming Wizard
HelicopterPirate Captain
Shining Dragon
SwordmanThunder SpiritVenom0( 1 / 6 )3( 3 / 9 )0( 1 / 6 )3( 3 / 9 )0( 1 / 6 )0( 1 / 6 )2( 2 / 4 )1( 1 / 1 )3( 3 / 6 )2( 3 / 6 )1( 1 / 1 )0( 1 / 9 )0( 1 / 4 )If we look at Chuck’s build in GLL NA Day 1 we can see the use of Doom and Swordsman which adds the Warrior synergy to the composition. Other strong single piece options that can also fit include Helicopter, Devastator and Storm Shaman. Two Dragon Knights is also an option!
Positioning
A boxed turtle position is good for this build. It allows you to make the most of the source’s magic regen before engaging the enemy.
You will want your pirate captain in the most vulnerable position (top right) so that he can cast his huge AoE crowd control asap. Getting your skills off before your opponent is especially vital for any Mage composition.
Place Tortola Elder in the bottom corner. Hugging the wall will help direct his linear skill attack. Dragon Knight has a great range, let him occupy a back seat too.
Don’t forget to reposition for Round 15 Wolves. Mage builds like this one isn’t particularly great against neutrals.
Items
Offensive
Physical damage items can go on your Dragon Knight. As for magic damage, it’ll be your choice between God of Thunder and Tortola Elder.
Defensive
Pirate Captain will take priority here. He is your most durable piece. Additionally you do not want him to die before getting his stun off.
Mana Regen
The Source will provide your team the mana regen it needs. If you get Magicka Crystals, consider saving them for a Refresher Orb. As for who holds that orb will be between Pirate Captain and God of Thunder.
When to Build
Dragon Mages is particularly strong late game. End game wise, there aren’t many builds that can face this team comfortably.
Knights are often identified as the direct counter to Mages. Whilst this may be true it can at times come down to the RNG of their shield.
Assassins can also be quite bothersome. Their beginning maneuvers can throw off the target of your Tortola Elder and Pirate Captain. Additionally they have the ability to leap past your front line, gaining direct access to your back line.
However unlike with traditional mages, the presence of Dragon Knight adds a bit of durability to your back line. If anything, they will likely give you the most trouble in the mid game.
Looking for more? Check out this Dragon Mage Build (With Spirits)
