Earthrune Skarner

Returning to League after a two year break, I wasn't expecting much from the newer Skarner skins but Earthrune completely changed my perspective on this champion. After about 55 games with it, I can confidently say this is the skin that made me actually enjoy playing the crystal scorpion again.

The Q crystals feel way more responsive compared to base skin, especially when you're trying to chain them during ganks. His E projectile has this satisfying earth effect that makes it easier to track in teamfights, and the ult actually feels faster even though it's probably just the animation. During a baron fight yesterday, I managed to snag their fed ADC purely because the ult windup was so much clearer to time than on Guardian of the Sands. That skin might look cooler but Earthrune just plays better. The W shield has this rocky texture that makes it super obvious when it's about to expire, which saved me from inting under tower more times than I'd like to admit.

Is Earthrune Skarner worth it? Absolutely, especially at 520 RP. It's not pay to win but the visual clarity is insane compared to other Skarner skins. My experience with Earthrune Skarner convinced me to actually main the champion again. The recall animation where he burrows underground is clean too, though nothing groundbreaking. But for a budget skin, you're getting animations that feel premium without the premium price tag. If you're on the fence about should you buy Earthrune Skarner, just grab it. Best value skin in his collection and it'll probably make you enjoy the champion more.