The best EXP Lane heroes heading into MSC 2025 have become more apparent following the conclusion of regional playoffs. From MPL ID and MPL PH to MPL MY, a clear trend has emerged: top-tier teams no longer rely solely on classic sustain picks like Fredrinn or Lapu-Lapu. Instead, they have favored EXP Laners who could offer fast initiation, disruptive teamfight control, and superior rotation potential.

Expectations surrounding the EXP Lane role have evolved. In the past, EXP Laners were tasked primarily with holding lane, clearing waves, and occasionally flanking. But now, they have transformed into tempo-setters and teamfight initiators. It would not be an exaggeration to say that MSC 2025 has been shaping up to become the grand stage for aggressive EXP Laners.

Among the numerous heroes in the current meta, three names have stood out as the best EXP Lane heroes: Arlott, Phoveus, and Gatot Kaca. Each of them has possessed a distinct playstyle, but all shared one core trait—instant impact in teamfights.

Here’s a closer look at why these three heroes have been considered the backbone of high-level EXP Lane strategy.

1. Arlott – The Agile Initiator with Chain CC

Arlott has represented the prototype of a modern EXP Laner—fast, flexible, and adaptable to various game situations. His skill set has allowed him to clear waves efficiently, zone enemies with crowd control, and deal meaningful damage even when built with semi-tank items.

What has made Arlott worthy of being labeled one of the best EXP Lane heroes is his ability to chain crowd control through his passive, Vengeance. In the hands of experienced players, Arlott has become a nightmare initiator who could disrupt formations and survive long enough to cause chaos among enemy backlines.

During the MPL PH and MPL ID playoffs, Arlott had been reprioritized thanks to his flexibility and solo pick capabilities. He had also synergized well with aggressive junglers that needed quick initiations.

2. Phoveus – Anti-Dash Specialist with Scaling Threat

Phoveus has risen once again due to the resurgence of dash-reliant heroes—whether from jungle, mid, or gold lane roles. Thanks to his passive that allowed him to blink whenever enemies dashed, Phoveus has served as a natural counter to teams with fast-paced, mobility-heavy compositions.

His main strength has stemmed from his high durability and outplay potential. Once in a fight, he has been able to survive long engagements while constantly casting his ultimate against careless enemies. This has positioned him as one of the best EXP Lane heroes against teams like ONIC PH or Team Liquid PH with flashy junglers.

Phoveus has also remained relatively easy to use but difficult to counter unless the enemy team has access to burst damage. This has made him a safe pick across multiple draft scenarios and a top priority for teams aiming for sustained, objective-based fights.

3. Gatot Kaca – Wide AoE Control and Disruptive Frontline

Gatot Kaca has been an underrated choice that resurfaced late in MPL ID S15 and during several international scrims. While not a top-tier priority for every team, he has been recognized as one of the best EXP Lane heroes for squads seeking early-game aggression.

His ultimate—with massive AoE range and airborne effect—has made him a powerful initiator. Combined with a passive that enhanced his tankiness when under pressure, Gatot Kaca has posed a serious threat when opponents attempted to force engagements.

He has also been effective against squishy gold laners or immobile midlaners. In some lineups—featuring tank junglers and burst mages like Valentina—Gatot Kaca has solidified his role as a space-creator, often seen in teams like EVOS or RRQ.

In a meta defined by tempo and early-game pressure, these three best EXP Lane heroes have proven capable of keeping up—or even dictating—the pace. They haven’t just survived in lane; they’ve led initiations and created opportunities from the frontlines.

The emergence of Arlott, Phoveus, and Gatot Kaca has marked a new era for the EXP role—no longer passive tanks but true playmakers. They’ve embodied the shift from endurance to influence, setting the stage for dynamic team compositions.

As MSC 2025 prepares to bring together the world’s best, these impact-heavy EXP heroes could become the x-factors in key matchups. Whether you’re a pro or an aspiring competitive player, mastering these three might just be your ticket to success.

And without a doubt, Arlott, Phoveus, and Gatot Kaca have earned their place among the best EXP Lane heroes for the international meta heading into MSC 2025.