Mastering the art of Midlane Shen requires a deep understanding of both his kit and the unique dynamics of the mid-lane position. Shen excels in providing utility and map presence with his ultimate, Stand United. This ability is key to turning the tide in team fights and assisting your teammates. To get started, focus on last hitting minions and utilizing your Twilight Assault to poke your opponent while also shielding yourself. Make sure to stack your Spirit Blade for extra damage and poke, as it can significantly improve your trading potential in the lane.

Additionally, positioning is crucial for Midlane Shen. Always maintain vision control around the mid-lane, using control wards and your Challenging Smite strategically to grant you the safety and information needed to outplay your opponents. Always prioritize your cooldowns; for instance, when engaging or trading, ensure your Vorpal Blade is available to aid in early skirmishes. Finally, don't forget about roaming—use your lead to help secure objectives or assist in other lanes. Mastering these tips will set you on the path to success with Midlane Shen.

When it comes to unexpected midlane Shen strategies, adaptability can turn the tide of battle in your favor. Shen, typically known for his tanky build and split-pushing capabilities, can surprise opponents with a more aggressive playstyle. For instance, starting with Ancient Coin can help you generate more gold and mana regeneration, allowing for frequent poke with Q - Twilight Assault. This unexpected approach not only scales your gold but also positions you as a surprising threat in mid-lane, often catching enemies off guard and setting up for advantageous trades.

Another tactic involves utilizing Shen's ultimate, Transcendent Blades, to create opportunities in side lanes. By monitoring your allies’ positions and timing your R to provide aid, you can shift from a defensive to an offensive role, helping secure kills or key objectives. Pair this with strong vision control and frequent roams, and you'll establish yourself as a mid-laner who not only sustains in lane but also impacts the entire map. This duality of focus can outplay many opponents who expect traditional Shens, securing your lane dominance.

When discussing whether Shen is the ultimate midlane champion, it’s essential to unravel the myths surrounding his gameplay. Traditionally known as a top lane tank, Shen's utility and map presence make him a unique candidate for the midlane role. His Shadow Dash (E) allows for quick disengagement and initiation, while his ultimate, Guardian Angel, can turn the tide of battle by teleporting to allies in trouble. This unique blend of crowd control and mobility gives him the potential to dominate the midlane against more conventional assassins and mages.

However, many players argue that Shen lacks the burst damage typically expected from midlane champions. This perception is often reinforced by champions like Zed or LeBlanc, who can secure kills swiftly through their damage output. It’s important to consider that Shen's strength lies in his ability to create opportunities for his team rather than securing solo kills. By leveraging his global presence and exceptional survivability, Shen can become an invaluable asset to his team, making him a formidable choice in the right hands even if he isn't the traditional pick.