Janus Build SMITE: Uncover the Secrets of the Two-Faced God

Introduction

Janus, the Roman god of transitions and beginnings, is a formidable mage in SMITE known for his unique Portal ability. This ability allows him to create two portals that allow him and his allies to quickly traverse the battlefield, making him a master of mobility and initiation. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of Janus's build, exploring the optimal itemization and skill progression to unleash his full potential.

Key Concepts

Portal Pair

Janus's signature ability, Portal, is a game-changer in SMITE. It allows him to create two portals that connect two points on the map. Janus and his allies can use these portals to instantly travel between the two locations, bypassing enemy wards and obstacles. This ability grants Janus unparalleled mobility, enabling him to engage or disengage from fights with ease.

Passage into the Void

Passage into the Void is Janus's ultimate ability, which channels a rift in space-time that damages and slows nearby enemies. Janus can then use Portal to teleport to the other side of the rift, allowing him to reposition or escape from perilous situations. This ultimate is particularly effective for catching enemies by surprise or initiating team fights.

Optimal Itemization

Starting Items

• Book of Thoth: Provides mana, magical power, and a passive that stacks up to 150 magical power over time.
• Shoes of the Magi: Enhances magical power and movement speed.
• Charged Ring: Offers magical power and mana regeneration.

Core Items

• Chronos' Pendant: Reduces cooldowns on abilities, allowing Janus to use Portal more frequently.
• Spear of the Magus: Grants magical power, penetration, and a passive that reduces enemy protections when they are hit by an ability.
• Obsidian Shard: Increases magical power and penetration, making it easier to burst down enemies.

Situational Items

• Gem of Isolation: Slows enemies hit by abilities, making it easier to land Portal and Passage into the Void.
• Rod of Tahuti: Significantly increases magical power and enhances basic attack damage.
• Soul Reaver: Restores mana upon damaging enemy gods, allowing Janus to sustain himself in extended fights.
• Divine Ruin: Reduces healing received by enemies, making it effective against gods with strong healing abilities.

Skill Progression

• Max Threshold: This ability provides Janus with damage mitigation and increased movement speed, making it a crucial skill for survival and mobility.
• Prioritize Backtrack: This ability allows Janus to quickly reposition during fights and makes it easier to land Portal and Passage into the Void effectively.
• Level Portal: This ability is Janus's signature tool for mobility and initiation, so it should be leveled whenever possible.
• Delay maxing Passage into the Void: While this ultimate is powerful, it is more situational and should be leveled last.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overextending with Portal: While Portal provides great mobility, it is crucial to use it wisely. Avoid overextending into enemy territory without proper vision or backup, as you may find yourself trapped and vulnerable.
• Mistiming Passage into the Void: Passage into the Void has a long cast time, so it is essential to time it carefully to maximize its impact. Avoid casting it prematurely, as enemies may be able to dodge or interrupt it.
• Neglecting Core Items: While situational items can be useful, it is important to focus on building the core items listed above to maximize Janus's potential.
• Rushing Spear of the Magus: While Spear of the Magus is a strong item, it should not be rushed as the passive effect requires stacks to reach its full potential. Instead, prioritize items that provide immediate benefits, such as Chronos' Pendant or Obsidian Shard.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the optimal combo for Janus? - Threshold -> Backtrack -> Portal -> Passage into the Void.
2. How should I position myself as Janus? - Stay behind your team and use Portal to reposition and engage or disengage as needed.
3. When should I use Portal to initiate? - Use Portal to initiate when you have a clear advantage over the enemy team or when you can surprise them.
4. How do I deal with crowd control as Janus? - Build items like Magi's Blessing or Purification Beads to reduce the effects of crowd control.
5. What role does Janus play in a team composition? - Janus excels as a mage with high mobility and initiation potential, often playing the role of a burst damage dealer or engage support.
6. What gods does Janus counter? - Janus counters gods with limited mobility or escape mechanisms, such as Scylla or Anhur.
7. What gods counter Janus? - Gods with strong crowd control abilities, such as Poseidon or Ares, can make it difficult for Janus to use Portal effectively.
8. What are some tips for playing Janus effectively? - Practice using Portal to maneuver around the battlefield, communicate with your team to coordinate Portal usage, and be patient when waiting for the right时机 to engage or disengage with Passage into the Void.

Conclusion

Janus is a versatile and dynamic mage in SMITE whose Portal ability grants unparalleled mobility and initiation potential. By understanding the optimal itemization, skill progression, and strategic nuances of this god, you can unleash his full power on the battlefield. Remember, the key to mastering Janus lies in effective positioning, well-timed portals, and a patient approach to combat.