So I started using Malphite and I got to say hes a fun character. The problem is the guides I have read have item builds that are way different then those I see in tournies and other players using. So I was wondering what some viable builds are for Malphite and justification.

So far I have been starting with getting a Heart of gold, Ninja Tabi, Banshee or Rod of ages depending if the enemy is caster heavy or not, Sunfire Cape, Warmongers or Frozen Heart, again depending on if they are caster heavy or attack dps, and finally a Frozen Mallet.

Item line up again:

Heart of Gold
Ninja Tabi
Rod of Ages or Banshee Veil
Sunfire Cape
Warmongers or Frozen Heart
Frozen Mallet

Carry Malphite
Avarice blade
Serk Greaves
last Whisperer
Inf Edge
Veil Maybe, otherwise Phantom Dancer

Tank Maplhite
Aegis
Ninja Tabi or Mercury Treads
Frozen Heart
Veil for Caster Team
Phantom Dancer for Melee team

Most Malphites I see start with their E and Q and dont really spec into their W skill until post level 6. I have been doing the same thing and I just havent been seeing my W skill doing much damage regardless if its on or off.

Aegis of Legion
Mercury Treads
Banshee's Veil
Guardian Angel/Frozen Heart

You are a tank. Your purpose is to initiate team fights and take damage for your teammates. Brutal Spikes is useless, you should focus on the other 3 abilities. Mostly the shard. The shard will save you and let you kill. You can use it to run away or you can use it to slow and chase.