Gnar should control lane pressure by using mini form poke and kiting to deny Gangplank safe barrel setups and scaling.
This is a control vs scaling matchup where Gnar must manage Rage and wave state to prevent Gangplank from farming safely and reaching his late power spikes.
Trading pattern
Trade short-range poke in mini form using (Q) and (W) procs, then kite back with (E) before Gangplank can chain barrels.
Punish Gangplank after he uses (W) or when barrels are destroyed by stepping forward for more aggressive trades.
Avoid engaging when your (E) is down or when Gangplank has a full barrel chain set up for zoning.
Danger windows
Gnar is vulnerable when mini form (E) is down, as he loses mobility and can be caught by barrel chains.
Respect Gangplank's barrel chains and (W) cleanse window, which can negate your crowd control and punish attempts.
Avoid extended trades or all-ins when (R) is active, as his global slow aids enemy follow-up.
Early game
Use mini form (Q) to chip and maintain spacing early, avoiding extended trades without (E) available.
Time your (E) to dodge barrel chains and punish Gangplank when barrels are cleared or (W) is down.
Avoid fighting Gangplank when he has barrels primed and (W) ready to cleanse your crowd control.
Power spikes
Level 6 mega form with (R) gives Gnar hard CC and durable engage; manage Rage to transform at key fights near terrain.
Gangplank's level 6 (R) global slow can turn skirmishes; respect its timing to avoid unfavorable all-ins.
Gangplank's critical barrel item spike increases his damage threat; punish him before this scaling is reached.
Win conditions
Use mini form range and (Q) poke to control wave and deny Gangplank safe barrel setups and scaling.
Manage Rage to enter mega form with durable crowd control near terrain for decisive engages or dives.
Force fights or objectives before Gangplank hits critical barrel damage and item spikes to capitalize on his weaker early presence.
Tip: For Gnar vs Gangplank, read overview, trading pattern, and danger windows first for a fast Top lane check.
