Approaching the potential conclusion of Dota 2 patch 7.35, we're examining the standout support heroes in recent public matches.
Image: biggreenpepper on DeviantArt
With Dota 2 patch 7.35 possibly winding down in the coming weeks, there's still a window to capitalize on the current meta before the Crownfall update takes center stage.
In a recent analysis, we delved into the top-performing core heroes in the current meta. Now, let's spotlight the five support heroes excelling in the pub scene over the past month. Interestingly, many of these support picks have undergone minimal alterations in subsequent balance patches following Dota 2 patch 7.35.
These selections represent the cream of the crop from the Divine and Immortal brackets, based on data sourced from Dotabuff. The criteria for inclusion factor in both high pick rates and impressive win rates. Additionally, each hero's preferred position, whether as position 4 or 5, is noted alongside their win and pick rates.
1. Vengeful Spirit (Pick rate: 5.74%, Win rate: 52.07%) – Position 4
Vengeful Spirit has risen from obscurity to prominence since Dota 2 patch 7.35, thanks to the rework of Nether Swap into a potent nuke and a reliable ally save mechanism through the barrier. Furthermore, she stands out as one of the most effective carriers of Solar Crest. Notably, even after receiving nerfs in Dota 2 patch 7.35c, Vengeful Spirit continues to thrive in pub matches, particularly when played in the position 4 role.
2. Oracle (Pick rate: 6.63%, Win rate: 54.27%) – Position 5
Oracle has maintained a steady performance in recent weeks without undergoing any significant nerfs. Noteworthy changes to Fate’s Edict and Rain of Destiny in Dota 2 patch 7.33 bolstered Oracle's utility, making him a go-to pick in a meta where magic damage reigns supreme. False Promise remains a pivotal tool for countering burst damage, often turning the tide of team fights in favor of allied cores.
3. Io (Pick rate: 5.68%, Win rate: 55.99%) – Position 5
Once a staple pick in professional Dota 2, Io experienced a resurgence in top-tier pub matches. Io's strength lies in providing allies with spell amplification and spell life steal through Tether and Shard respectively, crucial attributes in a magic damage-centric meta. With adept utilization, Io's healing prowess can sustain allies through intense magical onslaughts, while Relocate offers strategic mobility for core survivability. Mastery of Io, however, demands extensive practice.
4. Winter Wyvern (Pick rate: 4.85%, Win rate: 54.17%) – Position 4
Winter Wyvern's recent buffs, particularly to Cold Embrace and Winter's Curse, have solidified her role as a support hero. Favoring the position 4 role, Winter Wyvern boasts efficient farming capabilities with Splinter Blast, allowing for a smooth transition into a semi-core position as the game progresses. Additionally, she excels as a carrier of Mage Slayer and Parasma in the late game.
5. Nyx Assassin (Pick rate: 6.38%, Win rate: 53.70%) – Position 4
Nyx Assassin has witnessed a series of buffs across recent patches, rendering him a viable pick in both position 2 and 4 roles, although his prowess shines brightest as a position 4 hero. Nyx's toolkit, reminiscent of Lion, serves as a formidable counter to popular meta picks such as Medusa and Timbersaw. His early to mid-game burst potential is particularly menacing, contributing significantly to team engagements.
Honorable Mentions:
Disruptor (Pick rate: 6.17%, Win rate: 51.48%) – Position 5
Undying (Pick rate: 6.00%, Win rate: 51.88%) – Position 5
Looking ahead, we anticipate the next meta analysis from GosuGamers to feature Dota 2 patch 7.36, potentially showcasing Ring Master as a formidable presence across multiple positions!