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League of Legends: Fiddlesticks Skins’ Review – StrategyZero
May 172012
 
Fiddlesticks, the Harbinger of Doom
Fiddlesticks, the Harbinger of Doom

Fiddlesticks, the Harbinger of Doom has a broad spectrum of clothes for a simple scarecrow. Maybe he isn’t, actually, that simple considering the multiple disguises he adopts for his natural profession as well as other less obvious choices. Read further on this review to find out more about Fiddlesticks’ attires.

Spectral Fiddlesticks
Spectral Fiddlesticks Splash Art Spectral Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Regular
Price: 520 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks as a translucent glowing ghost.
Model: New textures and glow effect for Fiddlesticks plus new textures for his sickle.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: With regards to a setting we have a simple yet evocative moonlit night with some graves to a side and crows in flight. The background feels certainly bare and the mist which intends to add the mystic touch to the surroundings is too subtle and too much like cotton for that effect.
Fiddlesticks’ portrayal has a perceivably sketchy style. The imprecise lines generate an inexact outline that doesn’t fully capture the rustic scarecrow idea. The pose is dynamic and demanding for a Fiddlesticks that is to be seen awkwardly walking in three dimensions; or precariously swaying when standing. The colours are also quite dull with little difference between solid wood or cloth and glowing magic; like the eyes or hands. This results in a homogeneous perception where everything looks the same regardless of their substance. The transparency used on the lower body aims at adding that necessary spectral finish. It works, but the transition from transparent to solid is abrupt so that there’s a huge contrast between the abdomen, chest and dull lamp by his waist. His sickle looks too much like a scythe and while the blade is quite convincing it stands out too much over the dull wood and cloth.
Admittedly, this chaotic, perhaps even untidy, depiction has the peculiar advantage of making Fiddlesticks look terrifying. The supernatural lends itself well to the deformation of expectations and in this case there’s a fleeting feeling of unease.
Overall, the sketchy nature of the splash art is undeniable. Still, it manages to be an unusual presentation of a skin that knows how to be more than the sum of its parts. That, to an extent, does apply to this splash art despite its obvious failings.
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Conclusion: Spectral Fiddlesticks is an extremely simple re-texture of Classic Fiddlesticks. While at first glance it seems that the only change is a new colour employed on the whole model, there’s a new glow effect surrounding Fiddlesticks that pushes the look beyond simplicity. Spectral Fiddlesticks is a very minimal change to Fiddlesticks; from a technical point of view. However, the whole is much more than the sum of its parts and the final product is a very well done ghost-like appearance that doesn’t disappoint.

Union Jack Fiddlesticks
Union Jack Fiddlesticks Splash Art Union Jack Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 520 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks wearing a sack with the United Kingdom flag printed on the front and back.
Model: New textures for Fiddlesticks.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: While initially it seems like another re-colour of Classic Fiddlesticks’ old Western splash art it is actually a new piece. Regardless, the piece is heavily and unnecessarily based on the mentioned splash art. Fiddlesticks looks a little weird, even though the look is faithful to the in-game model. The background is unclear and seems to be there just to fill the space. Overall, a very disappointing splash art that barely does its job.
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Conclusion: Union Jack Fiddlesticks is as plain a re-texture as it can be: only a few parts of Fiddlesticks model receive new textures: the hands, rags and ropes. This skin is heavily reliant on its concept more than the quality of its execution. Therefore, it’s a skin practically for those with a specific interest in the British flag. While it’s a unique collector’s item, aside from that and its concept there’s nothing else on offer.

Bandito Fiddlesticks
Bandito Fiddlesticks Splash Art Bandito Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Regular
Price: 520 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks dressed as a far west outlaw.
Model: Moderate model changes for Fiddlesticks.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: If Fiddlesticks were ever to grace the wild west he probably would look similar to this. The background is very well done with great amount of detail to the setting: the desert has rocks and cacti along the ruins of a saloon. For the amount of detail displayed it’s strange that the background, in all its complexity, simply fades to black to the left. Fiddlesticks is very well painted, his rags are ripped in complex patterns, his hands have a tendril-like appearance and the sticks have a whimsical shape that suits his look. However, the sickle is a bit out of place for an outlaw. The revolver seems a bit small and his right hand looks like it’s falling from his arm. Moreover, there are a few problems with his joints: the right knee joint doesn’t look firm enough to hold his weight and the left elbow joint is missing the protruding part of the sticks as the hat couldn’t possibly completely occlude them from this perspective. Regardless, these are minor details in comparison with the whole piece. Bandito Fiddlesticks is a nice splash art, with some problems, but it manages to overcome them.
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Conclusion: Bandito Fiddlesticks is a skin that strives for a unique look but falters in its approach; and orthography. Fiddlesticks as a Far West outlaw or bandido, is quite an interesting idea: the poncho over the black rags with a revolver hanging, a sombrero on his back and his face covered with a handkerchief do bring the idea to life. Unfortunately, the sickle is completely out of place and should’ve been changed for a more fitting weapon; maybe a firearm. Additionally, while the hat on Fiddlesticks head could’ve occluded vision of his head, the hat isn’t that big to hide it all. Further new textures for his rags and hands help to differentiate this skin from Classic Fiddlesticks but the base classic model is clearly visible. In the end, Bandito Fiddlesticks tries but fails at providing a whole new look for Fiddlesticks. It’s not a bad skin but it’s missing much to stand out though at its price it’s worth considering.

Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks
Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks Splash Art Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 520 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks dressed as a scarecrow with a pumpkin head.
Model: Minor model changes for Fiddlesticks.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: This piece shows Fiddlesticks in the most natural of places for a scarecrow and does it incredibly well. Fiddlesticks looks great: the rag has intricate folds and the pumpkin head both reflects the moonlight and is shadowed by the crow over it. The corn plantation is a fitting frame but it’s depiction as background seems lacking; especially considering how abundant crop plantations are. The crows perched on Fiddlesticks are a nice addition as well as the multiple reflections of moonlight over them, the wood frame and the sickle’s blade. Unfortunately, there’s a huge patch of black that can’t be mistaken for night sky to the left. Besides, the sickle is disproportionally small and as a scarecrow, Fiddlesticks seems to be quite ineffective. All in all, a nice splash art with a few obvious problems.
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Conclusion: Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks is a skin that does much with little: just a new head and new textures for his rags and sickle blade. Truth be told, there really isn’t any need for additional changes; as in this case Fiddlesticks stays as a scarecrow. With so little the skin manages to provide a different but still menacing look that it’s as appropriate as it’s well executed. This is a skin that proves that a great concept doesn’t need high technicalities to be great. Those fortunate enough to have acquired Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks surely enjoy a very nice alternative portrayal of the Harbinger of Doom.

Fiddle Me Timbers
Fiddle Me Timbers Splash Art Fiddle Me Timbers Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 750 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks dressed as a bearded corsair.
Model: Major model changes for Fiddlesticks and new model for his sickle.
Particles: No new particles.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: No new sounds.
Splash Art: No pirate is complete without a bottle of rum and Fiddlesticks couldn’t be the exception. In spite of the general simple style of the piece the colours, reflections and style appropriately depict a corsair’s look. The background, though simple in style, has a good amount of scenery. Fiddlesticks is well portrayed with good attention lent to his braided beard and dented sword but missing the eye patch. While the piece doesn’t glow with sophisticated quality it effectively displays Fiddlesticks and his surroundings. Fiddle Me Timbers is a good piece that rises above its humble technique.
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Conclusion: Fiddle Me Timbers is practically a full re-model of Fiddlesticks and it succeeds because of its attention to detail. While the base model can still be seen behind the corsair garments, the changes are able to evoke a pirate look without erasing his scarecrow nature. Moreover, the base model parts don’t seem lazy or inappropriate. Fiddle Me Timbers makes use of almost every possible traditional pirate feature applicable to a scarecrow and it’s all these modifications that eventually make for a funny style that, while a little silly, stays interesting. In conclusion, Fiddle Me Timbers is a skin that takes advantage of a good concept and applies it to an unorthodox character to provide something different and attractive.

Surprise Party Fiddlesticks
Surprise Party Fiddlesticks Splash Art Surprise Party Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Legendary
Price: 975 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks dressed in party supplies resembling a piñata.
Model: New model for Fiddlesticks and his sickle.
Particles: New particles for his abilities and auto-attack.
Animations: No new animations.
Sounds: New sounds for his abilities.
Splash Art: Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is a piece that seems to jump to the viewer through its quality; a crow wearing a party hat is just one of the many details available. Fiddlesticks’ portrayal is dynamic with accurate perspective and shading. The reflections are appropriate and the textures of the rags and wood sticks contrast the clean look of the streamers, gloves and the ribbon-like bow tie. Strangely, the cake doesn’t stain any part of Fiddlesticks or the nicely drawn gloves. Furthermore, the background is inexplicably simple for a piece that boasts great quality at a glance. In the end, it’s a nice piece but with a few disappointing inconsistencies.
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Conclusion: Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is a skin that stands on its own not only because of its funny concept but also through raw technical power. The technical resources available even allowed for new ability icons, for Dark Wind and Crowstorm, so the skin is definitely not lacking in its execution. Consequently, it’s the concept that has to carry the skin towards excellence and, thanks to the ingenuity applied, this objective is reached. Fiddlesticks’ new model is well done though it displays some obvious differences to the splash art’s portrayal; the lack of streamers around limbs being one of them. In spite of the model’s creepy and simplified aspect it does look good. Coupled with the well designed new particles and sounds for Fiddlesticks’ abilities the final product is as much a technical excess as a feast for the eyes. In conclusion, Surprise Party Fiddlesticks’ achieves excellence much more for its new particles and sounds than for its model’s quality. In the end, it’s a wonderful skin despite some minor and forgivable yet present inconsistencies.

Dark Candy Fiddlesticks
Dark Candy Fiddlesticks Splash Art Dark Candy Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Legacy
Price: 975 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks as an evil candy man.
Model: New model for Fiddlesticks and his sickle.
Particles: New ice particles for his abilities and auto-attack.
Animations: New animations for walking during Crowstorm, recall and critical hits.
Sounds: New sounds for Drain, Dark Wind, Crowstorm, auto-attack, recall and dance.
Splash Art: The background is a rather complete outdoor view made of ample amounts of snow that cover ground and trees; to the point that the clouds look like snow too. The trees look a bit sketchy, the sky a tad blurry and the scenery, while vast, is rather empty. Only Fiddlesticks breaks the monotony of the snow and he does so with good looks. The candy body is shiny and echoes the lustrous aspect of his clothes; though the fur looks waxy. The sickle is well designed and shaded, with uncountable facets and dents, but seems plane. On the whole, a nice depiction of Fiddlesticks backed by a sketchy and empty background.
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Conclusion: Dark Candy Fiddlesticks is a skin with an irregular quality as it can be both greatly satisfying and disappointing at the same time. On the one hand, the model is superb, not only does it capture the aesthetic shown by the splash art but it also perfectly fits Fiddlesticks’ character; the long coat is a great choice. On the other hand, the ice magic seem unconnected to the concept and weak; even the recall, though nice, shares the theme. Specifically, the ice doesn’t feel connected to his persona: he’s a candy man wielding ice magic and an ice sickle; which isn’t a convincing link. On top of that, the particles are too tame and, in the case of Drain and Crowstorm, transparent so that they look rather insipid; only the auto-attack feels right. In conclusion, Dark Candy Fiddlesticks is a very nice skin that suffers from problems with its concept and its execution but provides so much that it manages to compensate for its flaws.

Risen Fiddlesticks
Risen Fiddlesticks Splash Art Risen Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Regular
Price: 1350 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks as an armoured mummy.
Model: New model for Fiddlesticks and his scythe plus new textures for Crowstorm.
Particles: New particles for his abilities and auto-attack.
Animations: New recall animation.
Sounds: New sounds for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Splash Art: Although there’s some questionable blurriness at the borders of this piece the background is clear. The tomb, especially on the left area, is vibrant with detail as well as showing a good contrast between light and shade. Other parts, like the sarcophagus, are just hinted so some context appears to be missing.
Fiddlesticks is quite a spectacle to behold. The layers of bandages set against the glittering metal provide an attractive dichotomy. His decrepit face, framed by cracked stone is fittingly fearsome; though why stone is used instead of gold is puzzling. Besides, it’s not clear where his face ends and the frame begins: is his maw open or is there metal under his face? At the sides of his traditional mummy pose magical scarabs hover connected by arcs of pure magic. It’s quite strange to see that the right hand seems to emit magic while its counterpart is the left shoulder. Nevertheless, it’s a small but eloquent demonstration of his power.
On the whole, this is an impactful piece that lacks some consistency in certain areas but that makes a powerful and attractive statement about what has been disturbed in his eternal slumber.
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Conclusion: The idea behind Risen Fiddlesticks is actually quite interesting: turning him into a sinister mummy powered by dark magic. A mere look at him is eloquent enough: his legs, right eye and jaw are missing and his arms actually float around his body while metallic appendages take their place; though the magic connections of the splash art are, sadly, absent. It’s a disturbing dose of supernatural horror that sets a good start for the skin. Then, comes the rest.
The problem isn’t that the other additions are bad but that they don’t hold up to such an engrossing premise. For instance the particles and sounds for his abilities are good. However, except for Drain’s runic ring and the recall nothing really stands out. Both particles and sounds incorporate the expected sands and insects but they are just adaptations of the classic forms. Nothing is redesigned to provide a different feel; something that at this price is necessary.
The recall reveals part of the horror but, at displaying it bare, reduces the mystery of the model. So, it’s not necessary to risk a close look into the monster because the recall explains it all. Nevertheless, it’s a dreadful revelation and so it suits the concept quite well; even if it wears down its novelty. The main problem is that there’s not more of it, it’s the only new animation. While Fiddlesticks’ movements suit a mummy and the idea is clear further additions could’ve better developed the theme and would’ve better justified the price.
In the end, Risen Fiddlesticks is an attractive skin on paper but the execution stops short of exploiting the great potential it has. The model and recall make for an interesting setup but the particles and sounds only do enough to settle the argument and no further addition adds the required icing. Therefore, it’s a skin with appeal but expensive so it’s better bought on sale or skipped in favour of cheaper but better realized alternatives.

Praetorian Fiddlesticks
Praetorian Fiddlesticks Splash Art Praetorian Fiddlesticks Model
Category: Regular
Price: 1350 RP
Concept: Fiddlesticks turned in to a flawless killing machine.
Model: New model for Fiddlesticks and his scythe.
Particles: New particles for his abilities, auto-attack and recall.
Animations: New animations for Drain, Crowstorm and recall.
Sounds: New sounds for his abilities, auto-attack and recall plus new electronic voice-over.
Splash Art: Night, rain, tall buildings and ships that unload an invasion of killing machines. Everything is diffuse, it’s not easy to see what’s going on, but they are here and they won’t stop. While the blurriness in the background doesn’t add any mystery to the event the context is eloquent and evocative.
Closer to the viewer we see one of these machines. In other circumstances one could stop for a moment to appreciate the complex and effective design of its many parts. Again, things are somewhat diffuse but one can get an idea of how deadly this machine is. Everything is designed with lean, practical lines, plate-armoured and without any excesses. It’s not clear how these machines kill but they surely have an efficient way of doing it. Their design speaks for itself. The axe-like weapon it wields seems a rather primitive choice, though. However, it does look like a tool so there could be more to it than a simple weapon.
When we add it all together it’s clear that we are doomed. There’s no stopping this invasion. Still, it’s not clear why things are so diffuse. It can seem as if someone is directing us to a specific area but it’s obvious where we should pay attention. The machine’s apparition says all that needs to be told. But, why does it seem to be angled? Is it us?
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Conclusion: With a single look it’s clear that Praetorian Fiddlesticks is a machine built to kill. Practical, lean designs mean that this machinery is mass produced. The mechanical, industrial style clearly displays the distinction of a robot with humanoid resemblance but certainly not trying to be an android. It’s simply an effective design for it to fulfil its purpose in the most efficient way. It’s for that matter that the scythe really gets in the way. It’s a classic remnant that should’ve been adapted into something less bulky and more practical. After all, Fiddlesticks is still holding a scythe with which it shoots at the enemy.
Particles reinterpret auto-attack as shots of a metal cone that doesn’t resemble a rocket well enough. In fact, the auto-attack doesn’t seem to fit in well. The same can be said about Terrify. It seems like a horn being sounded to scare the enemy; rather Viking-like. Dread’s trail of figures does look technological. Drain’s cables are interesting but simple and don’t make much sense or feel powerful. Finally, the buzzsaws used in Dark Wind and Crowstorm seem somewhat weak: light and brittle. Crowstorm, especially, seems to have lost power with only sparse buzzsaws and a timid grid.
Sounds are also responsible in how weak auto-attacks and abilities feel. In spite of the industrial feel of the model everything seems light and too hit-tech. Crowstorm is a good example by its use of digital distortions instead of buzzsaws screaming death. The sound is, in fact, very similar to the one used for Drain. Dark Wind is too subtle with a shy hiss and Terrify is a honk. Where the hi-tech sounds make sense is in the new animations that Drain and Crowstorm show at the beginning.
Speaking of which, the new animations for Drain and Crowstorm make the abilities feel special as they further display the killing machine identity. They display how Fiddlesticks’ design serves a specific purpose and that it is an artificial but efficient one. The new recall makes an example of it which is a good choice. The amphibian tongue doesn’t seem like such a good choice given how function over form is emphasised. There’s also a new voice-over which consists of several electronic and mechanical sounds typical of a machine with sentience; robot-like in other words. In practice the sounds are rather sparse and even get perceived as part of abilities’ sounds. It’s a good idea to further develop the artificial identity but the result isn’t really successful. With more development of the aural landscape it could support the visuals better. As it is, it helps, but only a bit.
All added together, Praetorian Fiddlesticks seems to be at odds between being hi-tech and industrial. The design is lean looking but also clearly mechanical with efficiency at the forefront. Thus, when certain elements like the scythe and the hi-tech feel of abilities or unsuitable auto-attack appear they disrupt the fantasy. The main reason they do so is that abilities feel weak instead of displaying raw mechanical power applied to flimsy tissue. The result is rather appealing still and the new animations are a great touch yet the skin doesn’t fully capture the industrial feel it conveys. It does succeed in transforming Fiddlesticks into a robot, just more hi-tech than expected.

Conclusion

Fiddlesticks surely ups the ante when it comes to scarecrows brought to life. At least, that’s the case when it comes to his wardrobe. Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is without doubt the recommended purchase. While silly, it boasts so much that few skins can compare; even legendary ones. The only one that stands beside it is Dark Candy Fiddlesticks. The downside is that it’s a legacy skin yet it offers a pleasing package that isn’t as inoffensive as one could think.

The most expensive option is Risen Fiddlesticks. In spite of its price it’s not a skin that does all it can to develop its theme in the most satisfactory way. Actually, the model and recall make an interesting statement that is simply asserted by the particles and sounds; without any further words. It’s still an appealing skin but also expensive so better caught on sale; if at all.

As far as regular skins go, Fiddle Me Timbers is another funny take on the scarecrow that stands quite well on its wooden legs. A cheaper option is Spectral Fiddlesticks, which provides a very nice ghost look for Fiddlesticks. It’s the only skin that furthers the dreaded scarecrow theme from Classic Fiddelsticks; so for a serious creepy look there’s nothing else to choose from. Finally, Bandito Fiddlesticks manages an appealing Wild West style. It certainly a simplistic way of adapting the scarecrow but the result is good enough. If you can accept its shortcomings you’ll find a skin that has a certain charm.

Praetorian Fiddlesticks fully transforms him into a killing machine. The model and new animations are clear about it. However, particles and sounds fail at communicating the mechanical power that the skin suggests. They have a more hi-tech feel that can feel weak. Regardless, the skin is appealing and does transform Fiddlesticks into a deadly robot.

Among legacy skins, Pumpkinhead Fiddlesticks is a simple but appealing skin. It’s essentially the same scarecrow but with a different, more iconic head. There’s nothing surprising and yet the skin manages to be interesting in the references a pumpkin for a head offers. Being cheap and fine, it’s certainly a worthwhile option.

Union Jack is another simple, legacy skin. The new textues for his body are too straightforward so there’s little of interest if the British flag isn’t appealing. It’s probably more of a collector’s item given its limitations.

  51 Responses to “League of Legends: Fiddlesticks Skins’ Review”

  1. fiddles has 2 very very very nice skins now including the new one he has for the snowdown! i give it 5 on the spot!

  2. So the thing ”legendary skins dont go on sale” is true for surp party fiddle even though its price is 2x less than the other legendary skins?

    • Surprise Party Fiddlesticks was announced as legendary but offered at half price for commemorating League of Legends anniversary. It doesn’t appear under the legendary filter at the store due to its lower price; to avoid confusion. Regardless, it seems the skin is definitely legendary.

  3. Surprise Party’s ult icon has the crow wearing a party hat. And I think his E icon is different too.

  4. This small detail might not be so important but I just want to point out something about Surprise Party Fiddlesticks. When he use his Q to fear the opponent, the “Feared” icon above their head is different than a normal “Feared” icon.

    • We included that under ‘new particles for all his abilities’ but maybe we could be more specific in the conclusion. We’ll think about it, thanks for the notice.

  5. Any idea if the 2011 and the 2012 snowdown showdown will come back with the vintage skins?

    • They will return but as legacy skins because that’s what they were at the time of their release. That means that they will be available on every Snowdown but purchasers won’t receive anything special because they never were limited in the first place.

  6. The reviews are nice, but there is this slight grammar mistake I noticed in Dark Candy Fiddlesticks’ concept text. I believe it should be “an” instead of “a”. Also, I noticed how it is mentioned that Fiddlesticks’ sickle has gotten a new model in the Dark Candy skin, but nothing is mentioned in the Fiddle Me TImbers and Surprise Party skins despite the obvious new models for his weapon in both skins.

  7. Between Dark Candy and Surprise Party, which skin would you consider more worth it? I got gifted the Dark Candy one during its current sale and I honestly feel like it is the better skin, as it provides a fantastic model and some new animations, while I feel like the model for Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is not so well made.

    • Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is starting to show its age as a good but old legendary skin. Dark Candy offers almost as much at the same price and goes an extra step to provide as much as possible at a reasonable price.

      We think that both skins are great and worthwhile for Fiddlesticks fans. They have different concepts, nice executions and a reasonable price. Dark Candy has the technical edge over Surprise Party but the latter is still a satisfying option.

      Hope you enjoy the Dark Candy.

  8. With the current line of legendary skins, I think the last part of the first paragraph of the Conclusion section is not right. Most modern day legendary skins such as Final Boss Veigar and Forecast Janna far outclass Surprise Party Fiddlesticks, even regular skins such as Blade Queen Lissandra and Atlantean Syndra do due to being newer.

    • We’ve always considered the skin a unusual and excellent 975 RP skin more than an actual legendary. We agree that technically Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is no longer as impressive as it once was. However, it still is a skin that puts a lot of technical power to good work; unlike many other examples. In that regard we don’t find the paragraph inexact. It might need some fiddling with details but for the most part it’s alright.

      Of course, if we actually compare it to current legendary skins you are absolutely right. Nonetheless. we prefer to assign more weight to the skins’ price than to the category. At any rate, Surprise Party is a 975 RP skin that can’t go on sale. Within those parameters it’s quite good. We think that the party particles and sounds have stood the test of time well and remain distinct even in comparison with newer 975 RP skins.

      Perhaps we should give it another look to better compare it with newer skins. As far as we know, Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is still a great skin.

  9. Hi.

    As it is the Snowdown sale, I would like your opinion on which of the two 975 RP skins to get. Thanks in advance!

    • Sorry to bother you, the above question has already been answered.

    • No problem. Depends what you are looking for because both Surprise Party and Dark Candy are quite good. Their main difference is the theme because in technical terms they both are similar: Dark Candy has some extra animations but lacks a new sound for Terrify unlike Surprise Party; though Dark Candy also has a new auto-attack sound.

      At any rate, you could get Dark Candy now, while it’s available, and get Surprise Party later as it will always be in the store with the same price. If you only want one then you should decide based on whether you prefer a fun, merry skin like Surprise Party or a sweetly terrifying one like Dark Candy.

  10. Dark Candy Fiddlesticks has new chilling wind sounds for his recall as well, it is really fitting for the theme.

  11. You didnt mention that Surprise Party also changed his auto-attacks, a small change but really caught me by a surprise by how stunning it looked!

  12. Hey Zero! Are you going to be reviewing the new chroma skins? Are they worth it for recolors? What do you think about this new feature? Would really like to have your feedback on them !

    • We have a review or overview in mind to cover the chroma packs. They are essentially flexible cost bundles so if you don’t own neither champion nor skin the price goes up accordingly. In comparison with skins that are re-colours they offer more value. However, from what we’ve seen, the re-colours aren’t particularly inspired: they keep the base and simply change the main hues.

      We’d say that unless you are a big fan of the champion or skin, where applicable, they aren’t something to worry about.

  13. Will you be covering chroma skins too?

  14. Im split between Surprise party and risen fiddlesticks, which one would you reccomend?

    • Risen is newer and so has a few extra additions with respect to Surprise Party. The latter has the advantage of a lower price and some unique extras, like modified icons for his abilities, that aren’t that wonderful but help it stand out a bit.

      In terms of what they offer for their price we prefer Surprise Party but as a joke skin it may not suit your taste if you prefer something darker. In that case Risen would be the skin to get but we’d advise to wait for a sale to reduce the expense; though a lot of patience is necessary.

      As the concepts behind the skins are so different we thing that should take precedence over what they offer. Technically both skins offer a similar amount of changes so the theme is the most important factor to decide. The price also matters but a sale on Rise can help a lot. Suprise Party won’t change its price so there’s no rush in that case.

  15. Fiddle me timbers is no longer a legacy skin- Just sayin, Also I looooooooovvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee This website :3

  16. About Risen Fiddlestick’s splash art: what if the unclear head frame is actually a creative way of displaying the skin’s horror? Yes, he’s probably lifting his head, but the way it’s presented fits its concept: an ancient, dark being has risen, seeking to devoid Shurima of all life, to satisfy its devoid body of spiritual energy. Probably what the Guardian of the Sands are, well, guarding.

    Even the ripped mummy cloth resembles saliva. In fact, he kinda looks like a king cobra, if you include the headpiece.

    • We don’t necessarily see the ambiguity of the depiction as a negative aspect of the splash art. We simply note it as a characteristic of the piece. As most things it has its advantages and disadvantages. In this case, it allows for a more varied interpretation of the depiction but also doesn’t present the champion’s image as clearly as it could.

  17. If I were to spend money on a Fid skin which one gives you the most for the price? Also I like the ult particles on Risen Fid but like the Drain particles on Surprise party. Which one do you think is better?

    • Surprise Party is, undoubtedly, a humorous skin that is rather charming but not serious at all. If you want something that can inspire some dread then Risen is more effective. However, it’s rather expensive for what it offers and isn’t as well executed as it should’ve.

      If you can wait we recommend getting Dark Candy Fiddlesticks. In spite of being a funny skin with a confenctionery theme it passes for a frosty scarecrow with an eerie feel. It’s a skin that doesn’t go on sale but offers an ample amount of features with changes in all areas.

      The other recommendation is Surprise Party Fiddlesticks which is also very well realised. It lacks new animations but the new particles and even sounds are quite attractive. It also doesn’t go on sale but communicates its message effectively.

      All in all, there’s no rush to decide. We think that Surprise Party and Dark Candy are the best skins that Fiddlestick has in his wardrobe. Risen should’ve been able to compete but offers roughly the same in features yet costs more. On top of that, it only has Drain’s new particles and the recall as highlights. The other skins are more rounded and seem more attractive.

      Of course, if you do like Risen Fiddlesticks it does have something unique to offer so don’t worry about anyone else’s opinion. The skin you buy is a skin that you should enjoy so it’s your choice alone. Regardless, we would suggest getting Risen on sale given what it offers. The others are something to consider, give them a look and check if you like them better or not. It’s a matter of personal preference in the end.

  18. I can’t wait for League to replace all those splashes with black patches on their left. Those are old splashes that needed accomodation to the different resolutions the client had at the beginning so they just filled the empty space with “darkness”. True, no one should blame them, as working on evolving the game must have been a huge task. Still, nowadays, they are kind of embarrassing. I also think the reason that they would give for the omnipresent blurriness would be that they want the champions (especially the faces) to be the center of attention and not have the background detracting from it with details, as it’s more or less in every splash art so far; it’s also convenient, yes.

    From what I gather, it’s his left hand emitting magic in the Risen splash art, though, not the right one. 🙁 Also, there are some small typos there or a little problem with making the sentence understandable: “The problem isn’t that the other additions aren’t bad but don’t hold up to such an engrossing premise either.”

    Please don’t forget to include Pumpkinhead and Union Jack in the conclusion when you have the time. Another beautiful review! Thank you so much!

    • We understand that back in the time splashes might’ve been more difficult to execute due to lack of resources. Nowadays, they really have no excuse. Old splash arts with empty patches or re-colours of another splash are well over late for a change.

      With regards to the depth of field effect we think it’s overused to give the impression that a camera has been used or to skim on background details. It’s usually evident what we are supposed to stare at so it’s patronising to lead people by the hand. When well used it can enhance a piece but it’s more often than not an obstacle in the way of what is depicted.

      We seem to be missing a couple words in that phrase. We’ll fix it, thanks.

      We’ll remember to add the legacy skins to the conclusion; thanks again.

  19. What do you think about the new skin?

    • We like the idea behind Praetorian Fiddlesticks and it should work well with his classic persona; after all he’s artificial to an extent. From what little we saw we noticed that particles aren’t as impressive as we expected. In particular, the ultimate, Crowstorm, seems somewhat simple as it reuses assets from Dark Wind. Besides, we expected a clearer hi-tech style. As it is it seems a mix of futuristic and industrial as if halfway between Project and Mecha skins. We’ll see once we give the skin a proper look.

      • Thanks for your thoughts. I think sounds are superb and that the skin changes a lot more compared to risen.

      • Thank you. I think that the sounds are amazing and the skin changes a lot more than risen looks better and is actually creepy. Btw your reviews are awesome! Cheers!

        • Glad that you like the reviews. We’ll have to give the skin a good look but let’s hope that it ends up having more depth than Risen.

  20. Praetorian Fiddlesticks also has a different ‘voice’.

    Instead of his normal lines with a robot filter, in that skin it’s actually just a bunch of robot whirring, beeping, etc. as can be heard in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4MCi1gotnw

    • It’s true, there’s a new voice-over, so to speak. We found it rather sparse and usually difficult to tell apart from ability sounds. The idea is quite good but we don’t think it worked that well. Perhaps with more development.

      We’ll mention it in the review, nonetheless. It’s a relevant change we forgot to mention. Thanks for the headsup.

  21. I love your recent review on Praetorian Fiddlestick. It’s describe a lot of stuff that standout the entire wardrobe of Fiddlestick and give an amazing and creepy personality.

    But I wonder that if this is nearly perfect as Surprise Party Fiddlestick would end up like solid 5 stars. Sure, the price prevent it from getting that but I feel like Praetorian has an particle effect better than Surprise Party and creepy as near as Dark Candy. Something like a case of Jade Dragon Wukong (in your reviews) has a fusion feeling of 2 skins older before it.

    So I would like to see your opinion about comparison of the 2 five stars skin of Fiddlestick and the Praetorian.

    Thanks.

    • Glad that you like the review.

      Surprise Party Fiddlesticks is a nice skin for the price but, especially nowadays, it really can’t be considered a legendary skin. It has no new animations and while the particles and sounds are fun there isn’t much depth to the skin.

      Praetorian, despite its issues, tries to add depth to the adaptation. The result may not be always successful but it can’t be denied that the skin does some things quite well. The price does matter but if we consider Praetorian on sale then the scales tip in its favour, provided you prefer Praetorian.

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