Valve has launched the latest Dota 2 update, version 7.38, titled Wandering Waters. This update brings substantial changes to the game’s map and mechanics, aiming to refresh the player experience. New water elements have been incorporated, altering the traditional gameplay dynamics and introducing fresh strategies for players to explore. Additionally, the update includes various enhancements to existing features, ensuring that both new and veteran players find engaging content.
Dota 2 has seen numerous updates over the years, each bringing unique modifications to the game. Previous updates have focused on balancing heroes and introducing new items, but Wandering Waters takes a different approach by significantly altering the map’s physical structure. This shift not only changes the aesthetic of the game but also impacts the strategic elements fundamental to Dota 2’s competitive play.
How Do the New Waterways Affect Gameplay?
The introduction of two new waterways through Dota 2’s jungles provides players with a speed boost when moving with the current towards the “safe” lanes. This modification allows for quicker escapes from the middle of the map or the ability to ambush opponents more effectively. Conversely, moving against the current does not impede movement speed, maintaining fluidity in gameplay.
What Are the New Creatures in the Wetlands?
The updated wetlands at the map’s north and south now host new frog-fish bog creatures. These creatures undergo a transformation from tadpoles to scaly croakers throughout the match, adding a dynamic element to the jungle areas. Their presence can influence player strategies, as engaging with these new entities can impact movement and control within the game.
How Have Runes and Roshan Been Modified?
Wisdom runes have been redefined as shrines that players must stand inside without contest to receive an XP boost. Similarly, Lotus Pools now require players to be undisturbed while plucking flowers. Additionally, Roshan’s pits have been reinstated in the river, with Roshan now patrolling between them manually and actively engaging any players he encounters.
“Much like the galactic water miners in the movie and possibly the book Dune Part 2, Dota has always been the only game in any genre that believes water is the most valuable resource in both the Dune-iverse and our universe, the universe. It’s kind of crazy, then, that it’s taken more than a decade for us to finally prove that bold claim by saying it out loud in print,” the developers stated.
The update also introduces a new currency, Madstone, which players can earn by fully clearing neutral creep camps. Madstone allows for the crafting of personalized neutral items, combining both physical artifacts and magical enchantments. This addition provides players with more customization options and strategic depth in their item builds.
This update represents a significant shift from Valve’s previous approaches, focusing more on environmental changes rather than purely on character or item balance. By altering the map’s waterways and introducing new mechanics, Valve is encouraging players to adapt their strategies and explore new ways of interacting with the game environment.
The latest changes in Dota 2’s Wandering Waters update offer players new tactical options and challenges. The expansion of the map with additional waterways and the introduction of new creatures and mechanics enhance the strategic complexity of the game. Players will need to adapt to these changes to maintain their competitive edge and fully utilize the new features introduced in this update.
