How the last patches changed the balance and meta in Dota 2: Analysis of heroes and objects

The game balance is one of the most controversial and significant DOTA 2. Valve elements regularly releases patches to maintain interest in the game and ensure justice in competitions, but with each update the balance of characters, objects and common mechanics undergoes changes that are far from always unambiguous. The last patches affected the key aspects of the game, starting with changes in the characteristics of the heroes and ending with the processing of some objects and the mechanic. In this article, we will examine in detail how the latest changes have influenced Dota 2 balance, what heroes have strengthened their positions, and who, on the contrary, ended up in the shadows.
New trends in meta-Him: who has become stronger and who is weaker?
With each update, the so -called meta changes – a set of heroes, strategies and objects that are most effective in the current conditions of the game. In the new patch, there were changes that affected several heroes and classes of characters, which led to the displacement of the balance in favor of some and the weakening of others. In the last patches, they significantly strengthened the magic heroes and those who are able to control the course of battle with the help of mass effects. Characters with powerful control skills, such as Invoker, Shadow Shaman and Lion, received minor changes in the mechanics of skills, which allowed them to become more competitive. These heroes can control opponents for a long time, allowing the allies to inflict damage without significant resistance.
Changes in the mechanics of mana also influenced the balance of magicians. Now, heroes such as Crystal Maiden and Witch Doctor receive bonuses to restore mana, which allows them to remain active on the line longer and not often return to the base. With the introduction of improvements for mana restoration, magic heroes have become much more stable, especially at the initial stages of the game. This led to the fact that the teams began to give priority assembly of artifacts to mana so that magicians could play more aggressively in the early stage. Unlike magicians, Kerri heroes, such as Phantom Assassin, Juggernaut and Monkey King, were faced with serious restrictions in the new patch. Valve markedly reduced the damage of some of their abilities, and also slightly reduced mobility. This was done in order to slow down the pace of the game and prevent the situation when Kerri heroes become too powerful in the middle of the match.
A decrease in damage indicators for heroes with high growth of damage from strength and dexterity was especially noticeable. For example, Phantom Assassin lost a small bonus to critical damage, which significantly reduced its potential at the early stage of the game. As a result, the meter now requires a more cautious approach and a longer farm session from a more cautious approach before joining battle. The decline in mobility also affected heroes such as Slark and Weaver. These heroes lost part of their flexibility due to a change in the mechanics of invisibility and ability to quickly get away from opponents. Now enemies have more chances to catch them in a trap and destroy, which makes these heroes less reliable in protracted battles.
Enhanced artifacts: Magic attack and protective items at the peak of popularity
Among the reinforced objects, Aether Lens and Glimmer Cape are clearly distinguished. Aether Lens, which increases the range of skills, has become more effective and received a slight improvement in terms of value and efficiency. Now it is often collected even by heroes who did not previously consider it as a priority artifact. This allows you to increase the amount of magical damage at a distance, which is beneficial for magicians and long -range characters. Glimmer Cape has become popular not only among support, but also among other heroes due to the improved ratio of cost and protection. Now this is an item that allows not only to save the allies, but also unexpectedly move into invisibility, which allows you to initiate attacks and run away from enemies more effectively. In addition, Eul’s Scepter of Divinity has again gained popularity due to updating the immobilization effect, which makes it a strong tool against heroes with high mobility. The ability to interrupt the hazardous skills of the enemy also makes this subject extremely useful for controlling opponents in battle.
Some objects popular among heroes with a physical attack, such as Assault Cuirass and Satanic, have undergone changes that reduced their popularity. Assault Cuirass, which ensured a significant increase in the speed of attack and physical protection, now provides a smaller bonus to armor, which makes it less effective for Kerry heroes. This forces the players to choose other items to compensate for the lack of protection. Satanic now does not give such a powerful restoration of health, which makes it less attractive to heroes with a high physical attack. This update has significantly reduced its effectiveness for those who used it to survive in difficult situations and recovery after applying great damage. In addition, the Diffusal Blade, which was previously popular to turn off the enemy mana, is now less effective due to reducing the speed of attack and the weak slowing effect. This change was especially reflected in heroes such as Phantom Lancer and Anti-Mage, who used to use this item to dominate the line and destroy the opponents.
Changes in the latest Dota 2 patches caused a significant displacement of balance and new approaches to the choice of heroes and strategies are required. Here are a few recommendations for players who will help adapt to updated conditions: Use magicians and controllers – heroes with powerful spells and control capabilities have become more in demand in the current meta. Try to use their potential to restrain aggressive Kerry. Give preference to magical and protective artifacts – objects that increase the range of skills and provide invisibility have become more popular and effective. Their use can significantly increase the chances of victory in team battles. Avoid expensive objects to physical attack – some artifacts focused on physical protection and damage have lost their effectiveness. Think about more flexible assemblies that will allow you to stay in the game until the late stages, when Kerri-heroes will be able to realize their advantage. As a result, each patch in Dota 2 changes the strategic approach and requires flexibility players and the ability to quickly adapt to new conditions. The game becomes more complicated and requires a deeper understanding of how each element affects the overall picture. Those who can understand changes and effectively use new opportunities will be able to achieve success while others will adapt. Let each new patch be not a test for you, but the opportunity to develop your skills and achieve new heights in Dota 2!