Introduction to Dota 2 Patch 7.38: Wandering Waters
Patch 7.38 for Dota 2, titled "Wandering Waters," was a surprise release that dropped early on a Wednesday morning, bringing a significant wave of changes to the game. This update, crafted by Ice Frog and Valve, is notable for its extensive map redesign, which introduces a new aquatic theme and alters the strategic landscape of the game. The changes are not just cosmetic; they deeply impact gameplay, introducing new mechanics and altering existing ones. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key elements of Dota 2’s new map and the broader implications of the patch.
The River Redefined
One of the most significant changes in the new map is the reimagining of the river. Valve decided to move beyond the traditional design of the river flowing between the side lanes and instead made it an integral part of the map’s terrain. The river now flows through the safe lane sides of the map and pierces into the safe lane jungles on both sides. This shift has created new high ground positions, such as the safe lane Tier Two towers, which can now be defended as if they were Tier Three. Additionally, the river itself offers a speed boost to players as they traverse through it, adding a new layer of mobility and strategic depth. The new river mechanics are likely to influence how players navigate the map and engage in team fights, making the water a crucial element in the game’s dynamics.
New Neutral Camps and the Madstone Currency
The aquatic theme of the new map is further emphasized by the introduction of a series of new neutral camps. These camps, which spawn within the river, are modeled after amphibious animals such as lizards, frogs, and other water-dwelling creatures. The new neutral creeps include Pollywog, Boglet, Marshmage Apprentice, Croaker, Marshmage, Ancient Croaker, and Ancient Marshmage. These creeps are not just visually appealing but also grant Madstone, a new crafting currency used to acquire the enhanced Neutral Items. The addition of these new camps and the Madstone currency adds a fresh layer of resource management and strategic decision-making, as players will need to balance their time between farming these new creeps and other game objectives.
Roshan’s New Abode
Roshan, the game’s most formidable neutral boss, has also found a new home—or rather, homes. With the Gates being moved to the corners of the map, Roshan’s old pits have been displaced. He now resides in his old positions between mid and the side lanes, switching between them by passing through the river and mid, rather than using the gates. Roshan starts the game on the Radiant side (bottom) and switches sides every five minutes. This change in Roshan’s location and movement pattern is likely to affect how teams approach the Roshan pit, as the new positions offer different vantage points and strategic advantages. The Tormentor, another significant neutral boss, has also been relocated to the corners of the map, where the Gates used to be in previous patches.
Wisdom Runes and Lotus Pools: New Looks and Functions
The new map also brings changes to the Wisdom Runes and Lotus Pools, both of which have been given a facelift and new functions. Wisdom Runes have been replaced by Shrines of Wisdom, which appear as crumbled ruins when inactive. To obtain the rune, players now have to stand amid the reconstructed ruins and channel the rune, similar to capturing a point. If an opposing player enters the area, the channeling is interrupted, turning the Wisdom Shrine into a point of contention that players can fight over. This change adds a new element of risk and reward, as players will need to decide whether to risk a confrontation to secure the rune. Similarly, Lotus Pools have been redesigned to look like temple fountains. Players now have to stand in the middle of the pool to collect a lotus, and if an opposing player enters the area, the channeling is stopped. These changes make both the Wisdom Shrines and Lotus Pools more dynamic and interactive, enhancing the strategic depth of the game.
Relocation of Safe Lane Bounty Runes
In addition to the changes in neutral camps and runes, the safe lane Bounty Runes have also been relocated. These runes, which provide gold and experience, are now situated much deeper within each faction’s jungle, within the new river that pierces into it. This relocation means that players will need to venture further into the jungle to secure these runes, potentially exposing themselves to greater risk. The new positions of the Bounty Runes are likely to influence early game strategies, as teams will need to balance the benefits of securing these runes with the potential dangers of being ambushed in the jungle.
Conclusion and Further Reading
Overall, Patch 7.38: Wandering Waters represents a significant overhaul of Dota 2’s map, introducing new mechanics and altering existing ones. The changes to the river, neutral camps, Roshan’s location, and the runes and pools are designed to add more strategic depth and variety to the game. These updates are not just about aesthetics; they are about creating a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. For a detailed breakdown of the hero changes and other aspects of the patch, you can check out our comprehensive guide. Additionally, Valve’s official Patch 7.38 website provides all the information you need to understand the full scope of the update. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to Dota 2, Patch 7.38 offers a fresh and exciting experience that is sure to keep the game engaging and challenging.
