Zoning is the tactical act of controlling space so that enemy champions cannot safely approach, farm, or take advantageous positions. By constantly threatening damage or CC, you pressure opponents into staying farther back than they want to, which naturally reduces their ability to last hit minions, contest vision, or set up for Trades. Effective zoning often comes from champions with strong range, reliable damage patterns, or abilities that punish even small missteps, allowing a player to dictate how close an enemy can play during the lane phase or early skirmishes.
Many champions also possess abilities that function as deliberate zoning tools, creating areas the enemy must avoid or risk being hit by a decisive engage or burst follow up. These tools become even more important during Siege scenarios, where controlling space around a turret can determine whether a team successfully pressures or gets forced away. The term is sometimes used humorously when a poorly aimed spell keeps enemies at a distance by accident, but in proper strategy, zoning is a core concept that shapes how both teams position, rotate, and fight throughout the game.
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