Gnar vs Riven TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Gnar

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Riven

Gnar vs Riven

Updated Jun 3, 2026

Overview

Use mini form to control spacing and chip damage while managing Rage for mega form engages.
Focus on controlling the lane to deny Riven cooldown advantages and avoid giving her free all-in windows.
This is a control vs snowball matchup where Gnar must time mega form to counter Riven's burst and mobility.

Trading pattern

Trade primarily in mini form using (Q) poke and kite with (E), committing only when Rage is near mega form.
Punish Riven after she uses (Q) and (E) cooldowns by stepping forward for short trades.
Avoid fighting when (W) stun or third (Q) knockup is available to prevent getting locked down.

Danger windows

Respect Riven's full combo when all cooldowns are available, especially with (W) stun and third (Q) knockup.
Avoid fighting when Riven has (E) shield up as it mitigates your poke and burst.
Be cautious transforming into mega form without terrain angles or when (E) is down, as you lose mobility and ranged pressure.

Early game

Harass with (Q) and (W) in mini form to poke Riven before she commits.
Preserve (E) to escape Riven's combo and avoid fighting when it's down.
Avoid extended trades before level 6 when Riven's burst and mobility are highest.

Power spikes

Level 6 mega form (R) adds durable crowd control and engage; enter fights with Rage nearly full and use terrain for (R) wall stuns.
Riven's level 6 (R) increases burst and execute threat; respect her all-in after she baits cooldowns.
Riven's first damage/haste item improves her combo frequency; punish her immediately after failed trades before cooldowns return.

Win conditions

Use mini form to poke and kite, forcing Riven to waste cooldowns or take unfavorable trades.
Time mega form engages around Rage and terrain to lock down Riven with hard crowd control.
Deny Riven cooldown windows and avoid fighting without mega form to control lane and reach mid-game teamfights where Gnar excels.