As December began, Dota 2 players were busy analyzing the latest addition to the patch 7.20 family. The fourth iteration of the patch addressed various issues that had been bothering the player base since its initial release. Unlike previous updates, this one focused on a broader range of improvements rather than targeting specific errors.
Here are a few notable updates from the patch notes:
Items
Power Treads
– Attribute bonus increased from 12 to 14.
While they may not increase attack speed, the enhanced attribute bonus of Power Treads still makes this item viable.
Phase Boots
– Now has the active ability instead of the passive.
This simple change is likely to please fans and bring minimal impact. However, quality of life improvements can make a difference in gameplay.
The costs of Wraith Band, Bracer, and Recipe have all been increased from 220 to 240 gold. Despite this slight cost increase, these items will still be popularly used as openers. Only a significant price jump or a nerf can deter players from picking them up.
Biggest Hero Reworks
Grimstroke
– Ink Swell max damage reduced from 160/240/320/400 to 100/200/300/400.
– Ink Swell max stun duration reduced from 2/2.6/3.2/3.8 to 1.7/2.4/3.1/3.8.
– Soul Bind cooldown increased from 80/65/50 to 90/70/50.
The top hero, Grimstroke, will now be more balanced following his peak usage rate. This nerf will likely lead to a more varied hero selection in upcoming events.
Magnus
– Empower cleave damage reduced from 30/45/60/75 percent to 20/38/56/74 percent.
– Level 15 Talent reduced from +15 Strength to +12.
– Level 20 Talent reduced from +12 Armor to +10.
Magnus, another popular character, has also undergone significant changes. This nerf provides better balance in the early game and allows opponents to counter late farming strategies involving his abilities.
Melee Heroes
– Melee heroes below 300 base movement speed increased by five.
Slow-moving heroes receive a slight boost with this change. When combined with other adjustments they may have received in this patch, it could lead to increased effectiveness for these heroes.
These are just a few noteworthy changes from the patch notes. For a full list of updates, you can read Valve’s official Dota 2 blog.
Article Keywords: Dota 2, patch 7.20, updates, Power Treads, Phase Boots, Wraith Band, Bracer, Recipe, hero reworks, Grimstroke, Magnus, melee heroes.
