Matchup
Build vs Shen
Build adapted to this matchup
Starting items
Core build
Standard
Summoner spells
81%
10%Anti AD
Anti Heal
Anti CC
Anti Tank
DPS
Precision
Press the Attack
Presence of Mind
Legend: Alacrity
Coup de Grace
Resolve
Overgrowth
Bone Plating
Power Spikes
Strength by game phase
Akshan
ShenShen's abilities
Passive, spells and ultimate
After casting a spell, Shen gets a shield. Affecting other champions reduces the cooldown of this effect.
Cooldowns
Cooldowns by spell rank
| Level | Q | W | E | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 8s | 16s | 18s | – |
| 6 | 6.5s | 16s | 18s | 3m20 |
| 9 | 5s | 14.5s | 18s | 3m20 |
| 11 | 5s | 13s | 18s | 3m |
| 16 | 5s | 10s | 14s | 2m40 |
| 18 | 5s | 10s | 10s | 2m40 |
Playing against Shen
How to counter and exploit weaknesses
Stay on the same side as his Spirit Blade: if he can't pass through it, his Q deals much less damage.
Punish him when his E (taunt) is on cooldown (18-14s) — it's his only trading and engaging tool.
Watch your allies' HP bars: when a teammate is low, Shen will likely R. Engage him at that moment to cancel it or force a choice.
His W zone (Spirit's Refuge) blocks auto-attacks but not abilities — AP champions or ability-based damage dealers have an advantage.
Warn your teammates as soon as Shen hits level 6, and especially when he disappears from lane — he's probably teleporting to an ally.
Source: op.gg + LTL Engine · Patch 16.9.1 · May 9, 2026