Nocturne vs Skarner JUNGLE Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

Back to matchup selector

Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Nocturne

VS

Jungle

Skarner

Nocturne vs Skarner

Updated Jun 4, 2026

Overview

Prioritize full clears to hit level 6 on schedule and unlock your ultimate for cross-map picks.
Manage river control carefully to contest Scuttle only when nearby lanes can assist or have priority.
This is a mid-game tempo matchup where Nocturne must leverage darkness picks to snowball objectives before Skarner's late-game tank utility peaks.

Jungle Plan

Use your full clear and track Skarner's position to set up cross-map (R) ganks on overextended lanes.
Contest first Scuttle only if your lanes hold priority and you can avoid Skarner's terrain traps.
Focus on counter-jungling after level 6 by punishing Skarner's predictable gank angles and forcing him off key objectives like dragon and Rift Herald.

Danger windows

Avoid isolated river fights early when Skarner can use walls and (E) to pin you.
Be cautious contesting objectives without lane priority since Skarner's tankiness and suppression can force smite fights.
Watch for multi-lane collapses where Skarner's high invade resistance and frontline presence can overwhelm you.

Early game

Start with a full clear to reach level 6 quickly and maintain objective access.
Avoid early river fights unless your lanes have priority to reduce risk against Skarner's terrain control.
Delay invading until you can track Skarner's path and punish his first gank attempt or overcommitment.

Power spikes

At level 6, your (R) significantly increases gank threat and objective control; look for picks before Skarner can group.
Your (W) spell shield enables you to win duels by blocking Skarner's key crowd control, so use it to outlast his engages.
Respect Skarner's power spike when he controls terrain and his (R) suppression is available, as he can force unfavorable fights.

Win conditions

Convert level 6 (R) picks into dragon and Rift Herald control to snowball map pressure.
Use your superior clear speed and dueling to deny Skarner farm and force him into reactive pathing.
Leverage your spell shield and fear to win 1v1 duels, then extend leads by counter-jungling and forcing Skarner into unfavorable fights.