Is Retainer worth building in 2026?

Retainer is a niche C-Tier champion best for specific situations. As a Rare Defense, Retainer may be outperformed by higher-tier options but can fill gaps in early or mid-game rosters.

Best gear sets for Retainer?

Recommended gear for Retainer: Immortal or Resilience sets. As a Defense champion, prioritize sets that complement Retainer's kit. Check the gear section below for stat targets.

Best masteries for Retainer?

Retainer runs Defense + Support mastery trees. Key mastery picks include Bulwark or Fearsome Presence (T6), Retribution, Lasting Gifts. The full recommended mastery page is available below with interactive selection.

Where is Retainer best used?

Retainer excels in Faction Wars (B-Tier), Arena Offense (C-Tier). Also strong in Arena Defense (C-Tier). Role varies by content — check the effectiveness breakdown below for full tier ratings.

RAID: Shadow Legends

Retainer Guide

Rare
Void
Defense
Dark Elves

Retainer earns a 2.7/5.0 rating because while his single-target control is impressive for a Rare, he lacks the versatility required for high-end play. His strengths lie in his self-sustain via a 40% heal and his significant 50% Turn Meter reduction, which can be clutch in early Faction Wars. However, his score is heavily suppressed by his lack of AOE abilities and his F-Tier performance in Hydra and D-Tier performance in Clan Boss, the two most important areas for progression. Compared to top-tier Rares like Coldheart or Apothecary, his utility is far too narrow. He is a capable specialist but

Skills

Weakening Blow — Attacks 1 enemy. Has a 40% chance of placing a 30% [Decrease DEF] debuff for 2 turns.
Rejuvenating Guard · CD 4 — Heals this Champion by 40% of their MAX HP and places a [Counterattack] buff on this Champion for 2 turns.
Heavy Impact · CD 5 — Attacks 1 enemy. Decreases the target’s Turn Meter by 50%. If the target’s Turn Meter is fully depleted, places a [Sleep] debuff on them for 1 turn.
Aura — Increases Ally DEF in Faction Crypts by 19%.

Recommended build

Gear sets: Perception, Accuracy

Synergies

Kael
Athel
Tayrel
Coldheart