In the dynamic world of Dota 2, controlling vision remains paramount. Each patch presents new strategic avenues, and recent innovations in warding, highlighted by Adrian's insightful YouTube video analyzing DreamLeague S25 professional play, are game-changers. PC Gamer delves into these advanced ward placements, offering strategic analysis and alternative options to enhance your gameplay.
As Dota 2's meta shifts with each patch, professional teams are refining Observer ward placement to maximize utility while minimizing detection. Below are 16 groundbreaking ward positions used by top players, complete with analysis and alternative suggestions.
Table of Contents
- Mid Lane Jungle Extension
- Radiant Ancient Riverbank
- Dire Top Tier 2 Bushes
- Radiant Bottom Secret Shop Monitor
- Dire Bottom Tier 2 Fog Corner
- Radiant Roshan Pit Entrance
- Dire Mid Lane High Ground
- Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor Path
- Dire Bottom Ancient River Bend
- Radiant Mid Lane Jungle Passage
- Dire Top Secret Shop Approach
- Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side Path
- Dire Roshan Pit Exit
- Radiant Top Ancient Cliffside
- Dire Mid Lane Jungle Overlook
- Radiant Bottom Tier 2 Rear Flank
Mid Lane Jungle Extension
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Early-game dominance. Positioned slightly deeper than traditional mid lane jungle wards, this provides superior vision over key areas early on. It secures runes and reveals enemy jungle movements. Alternative: Shifting slightly Radiant-side increases secret shop approach coverage.
Radiant Ancient Riverbank
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Strategic depth. This unexpected ward provides deep vision into the Radiant base. Its unconventional placement makes it harder to spot, ensuring prolonged effectiveness. Bonus Tip: Combine with a nearby Sentry ward for a strong defensive setup.
Dire Top Tier 2 Bushes
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Tower protection. Revealing key areas around the Dire's tier 2 towers aids defense and offense, particularly during teamfights. Pro Tip: Rotate this ward to avoid predictable patterns.
Radiant Bottom Secret Shop Monitor
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Economic intelligence. Monitor enemy shop usage, gaining insights into item purchases and timing. Advanced Strategy: Combine with vision denial wards to disrupt buybacks.
Dire Bottom Tier 2 Fog Corner
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Ambush preparation. Vision into foggy areas near the Dire's bottom tier 2 tower facilitates ganks and ambushes. Expert Advice: Use with smoke for surprise attacks.
Radiant Roshan Pit Entrance
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Timing is key. Early Roshan detection allows timely responses and counter-attacks. Tactical Insight: Frequent rotation maintains surprise.
Dire Mid Lane High Ground
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Elevated awareness. Extended vision along the mid lane high ground improves awareness of approaching enemies. Strategic Note: Ideal for mid lane control during crucial moments.
Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor Path
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Security first. Monitoring backdoor paths to the Radiant's top tier 2 tower prevents surprise attacks. Defensive Tip: Place a Sentry ward nearby to catch invisible heroes.
Dire Bottom Ancient River Bend
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Deep vision mastery. Deep vision into the Dire base via an unconventional river bend location showcases creative warding. Advanced Placement: Experiment for optimal coverage.
Radiant Mid Lane Jungle Passage
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Comprehensive coverage. Reveals key jungle passages near the mid lane, enhancing map awareness. Professional Recommendation: Rotate between different entrances for maximum effect.
Dire Top Secret Shop Approach
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Economic surveillance. Alerts when enemies approach or leave the Dire's secret shop, offering economic intelligence. Competitive Edge: Time your pushes effectively.
Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side Path
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Flank detection. Monitors side paths to the Radiant's bottom tier 3 tower, warning against flanking maneuvers. Team Coordination: Share this vision for coordinated responses.
Dire Roshan Pit Exit
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Counterplay opportunity. Detects enemy movements exiting the Roshan pit from the Dire side, enabling timely reactions. Strategic Positioning: Essential during late-game Roshan battles.
Radiant Top Ancient Cliffside
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Hidden vantage point. Offers hidden vision into the Radiant base from a cliffside, surprising opponents. Elite Placement: Requires precise execution.
Dire Mid Lane Jungle Overlook
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Elevated advantage. Provides elevated vision over the Dire's mid lane jungle, improving situational awareness. Advanced Technique: Combine with other mid lane wards for comprehensive coverage.
Radiant Bottom Tier 2 Rear Flank
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Preventive measures. Monitors rear flanks near the Radiant's bottom tier 2 tower, preventing sneak attacks. Defensive Mastery: Critical for maintaining tower integrity.
These advanced ward placements represent top-tier Dota 2 vision control. By studying and applying these strategies, you'll gain a significant advantage. Effective warding goes beyond placement; it's about understanding map control and adapting to dynamic situations.
