The absolute core fundamental skill that separates the elite from the casuals is the ability to perfectly track the opponent’s elixir.
This article will break down exactly why counting elixir is mandatory and how you can train your brain to do it automatically.
The Elixir Advantage
However, if you launch that exact same 8-elixir push when you know the opponent has only 2 elixir, it is mathematically impossible for them to stop it.
You create an advantage by making positive defensive trades (e.g., using a 3-elixir Arrows to kill a 5-elixir Minion Horde).
- If they have 4 elixir, your tower is safe from a 6-elixir Rocket for at least 6 seconds.
- Counting elixir tells you if it’s safe to place your pump.
- If you know they have zero elixir, you don’t need to spend 4 elixir to defend a dying 1-elixir skeleton.
How to Train the Skill
Start by simply categorizing the opponent into three states: ‘High Elixir’ (7-10), ‘Medium Elixir’ (4-6), and ‘Low Elixir’ (0-3).
As you get comfortable with this broad tracking, start actually doing the math: “They started at 10, played a Golem (8), so they are at 2, plus two seconds of generation, they are at 3.”
| Game Phase | Generation Rate | Mental Load |
|---|---|---|
| Single Elixir (First 2 Minutes) | 1 Elixir every 2.8 seconds | Easy to Moderate; plenty of time to calculate trades and track generation in your head |
| Double Elixir (Final Minute) | 1 Elixir every 1. If you are you looking for more information in regards to tower rush take a look at our own page. 4 seconds | Extremely Difficult; the math changes so fast you must rely on instinct and ‘feel’ rather than raw numbers |
The Invisible Scoreboard
The elixir bar is the true, invisible scoreboard that dictates who is actually in control of the match.
When you perfectly predict an opponent’s inability to defend your push based purely on your mental calculation, you will feel invincible.
