Gnar vs Illaoi TOP Matchup Guide

Champion

Opponent

Start here

Read Overview → Trading Pattern → Danger Windows first for the fastest Top lane plan.

Gnar into Illaoimedium

Overview

Harass Illaoi in mini form using and procs, then kite back with .
Step forward to punish Illaoi when she misses and force her off tentacles.
Commit to trades only when Rage is near full to transform and follow up with mega form CC.

Avoid walking into Illaoi's zone when lands near tentacles.
Do not extend trades after mega form expires as you lose hard CC and durability.
Do not fight in mini form without available to escape Illaoi's all-in.

Use mini to safely poke before level 6 while preserving for escapes.
Avoid fighting Illaoi without mega form and available to prevent her punishing all-ins.
Thin or slow push wave to prevent Illaoi from establishing tentacles near minions.

Level 6: Enter mega form with near terrain for wall stun and teamfight engage.
Objective fights: Time mega form with controlled Rage for durable engage and layered CC.
Respect Illaoi's level 6 spike when tentacles are set and enemies commit.

Use mini form range and poke to deny Illaoi tentacle control and chip her health.
Time mega form with full Rage near terrain to land wall stun and follow with stun.
Keep Illaoi from establishing tentacles by controlling wave and punishing missed to prevent forced fights.

Tactical tip

For Gnar vs Illaoi, read overview, trading pattern, and danger windows first for a fast Top lane check.

Updated Jul 4, 2026