On the night of 8 November, Valve released an update for Dota 2, introducing a new hero named Kez, revealed on the final day of The International 2024. Kez is now available in matchmaking but is not yet included in Captains Mode.
Kez wields two distinct combat styles with different weapons, granting him two unique sets of abilities. One set is accessible when using the Kazurai katana, while the other unlocks when equipped with Shodo Order's sai blades.
Kez is an anthropomorphic warrior bird from the Kazurai race, whose story unfolds in the Fallen Crown event. This new melee hero's primary attribute is agility.
"A bounty has been on my head since birth. It grew with my skill for causing chaos. Each time the Empress raised it, I knew I was on the right track. The biggest downside of a long stay in Icewrack is now having to work hard to make my bounty worth what it once was."
Kez’s strategy often relies on spontaneity—swiftly switching between his katana and sai to charge into combat, strike, parry, and retreat based on the situation. When taking matters seriously, he prepares for any outcome, choosing the right tools to attack, evade, or outwit opponents with ease.
Kez was introduced alongside the fourth act of the Fallen Crown event, whose final chapter features a showdown between heroes and the Empress. Players can now access new quests, rewards, and mini-games.