In the fast-paced, strategic world of League of Legends, few skills separate good players from great ones as clearly as kiting. This essential mechanic—sometimes called “attack moving” or “orb walking”—is the rhythmic dance of dealing damage while staying just out of reach, a hallmark of every top-tier ADC (Attack Damage Carry) and a valuable tool for any role.
What Is Kiting?
Kiting is the practice of attacking an enemy and immediately moving away or repositioning, repeating this process to maintain a safe distance while maximizing damage output. The analogy comes from flying a kite: you (the player) keep the enemy (the kite) at arm’s length, controlling the distance and dictating the pace of the encounter.
This technique is especially vital for ranged champions, who rely on keeping melee threats at bay, but it’s also useful for any champion looking to optimize their attacks while dodging skill shots or escaping danger.
The Mechanics Behind Kiting
At its core, kiting involves two actions:
- Attack: Issue an auto-attack command to your target.
- Move: As soon as your attack lands or your projectile is released, issue a movement command to cancel the remainder of the attack animation (the “wind-down” phase), then repeat.
This animation canceling is crucial. By moving immediately after the attack connects, you squeeze in more attacks over time and make yourself a harder target to hit.
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Kiting Techniques: From Basic to Advanced
There are several methods to kite, each with its own pros and cons:
| Method | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right-Click Kiting | Alternate right-clicking the enemy to attack, then the ground to move | Simple for beginners | High risk of misclicks, less precise |
| Attack Move (“A” Key) | Press “A” (default), then left-click near the enemy to attack-move | Shows attack range, more consistent | Requires practice to master |
| Attack Move Click | Bind “Player Attack Move Click” to a key/mouse button for faster execution | Keeps mouse steady, reduces errors | Needs custom keybind setup |
Most professional and high-Elo players prefer the attack-move command (“A” key by default) or “attack move click” because these methods are less prone to errors and allow for smoother, more accurate kiting. Using these, you can attack the closest target to your cursor without needing pinpoint clicks, which is especially useful in chaotic team fights.
Practical Tips for Effective Kiting
- Know Your Attack Animation: Every champion’s attack has a unique timing. Learn when your attack lands so you can move immediately after.
- Adjust Your Keybinds: Set up “Player Attack Move Click” on a comfortable key or mouse button for faster, more reliable kiting.
- Maximize Your Range: Always attack from the edge of your range to minimize risk, especially against melee threats.
- Use Abilities Wisely: Combine slows, dashes, or crowd control with kiting to keep enemies at bay or escape dangerous situations.
- Practice: Use the practice tool to build muscle memory, starting with a single champion before expanding to others.
- Watch the Pros: Observing high-level players can offer insights into advanced kiting patterns and positioning.
Why Kiting Matters
Mastering kiting not only boosts your damage but also enhances survivability. It allows you to dodge skill shots, reposition during fights, and outplay opponents who rely on catching you off guard. In the hands of a skilled player, kiting can turn the tide of a battle, making the difference between a clean ace and a team wipe.
Conclusion
Kiting is more than just a mechanical trick—it’s a mindset of maximizing every moment in combat. By mastering attack-move commands, understanding your champion’s timing, and practicing consistently, you’ll elevate your gameplay and stand out on the Rift. Whether you’re an aspiring ADC or a seasoned veteran, the art of kiting is a skill worth perfecting.
Written by:
Christian