Automaton Mana Build

Core Mechanic

Use Mechanist's class-item slot to take Automaton, fire it rapidly via Mana, and accelerate it further with charges — the strongest Engineer build. Perpetual Engine returns 40% of Mana and Stamina, building a self-circulating resource engine.

Simultaneously deploys Blind, Stun, and Shield for overwhelming performance, nullifying opponent attacks while one-sidedly chipping HP.

Recommended Subclass: Mechanist

Mechanist is mandatory at Round 8. Automaton is the centerpiece.

Core Items and Placement

Item	Role
Automaton	Class core; auto-attacks on Mana
Mana Orb / Mana Crystal	Mana supply
Perpetual Engine	Returns 40% Mana / Stamina
Battery (multiple)	Charge supply
Sapphire	Boosts Mana generation
Armor / Shield	Defensive layer

Center Automaton and place Mana supply around it. Place Batteries up top so charges flow downward.

Build Order

Early game (Rounds 1-6)

Prioritize Mana Orb and Battery. Chip with Wooden Sword.

Mid game (Rounds 7-12)

Take Mechanist at Round 8. Center Automaton and set up Mana supply. Supply charges with Batteries.

Late game (Round 13+)

Complete the self-circulation loop with Perpetual Engine. With Mana/Stamina never running dry, Automaton's auto-attacks never stop.

Tactics and Positioning

The core is the infinite resource loop. Never let Mana or Stamina lapse — stay aware of Perpetual Engine and supply item placement during the round.

Difficult Matchups and Counters

• Mana drought: Perpetual Engine might not catch up. Consider running 2-3 Mana Orbs.
• Buff-strip: removing Automaton buffs hurts. Counter with Amethyst.
• Opening-rush: assembly can take time. Layer shield + helm early.

Variations

Combining with Stormcaller (Thunder Drake) creates a charge-acceleration hybrid. Pairing with Splitter (Distributor) for charge distribution also works.