Dota 2: What updates can really help the game's mechanics and characters
It seems like Zharvakko's transformation spell in Dota 2 is causing quite a stir among players, especially in the Turbo mode where the pace is faster. One fan expressed frustration over its overpowered nature and called for it to be nerfed or removed, stating that it disrupts their gameplay experience. Others chimed in, sharing similar sentiments and emphasizing the need for a change to balance the game.
The Voodoo Switcheroo ability granted by Aghanim’s Shard in Dota 2 allows Witch Doctor to temporarily transform into their ultimate, Death Ward. This transformation renders the hero "hidden" and immune to damage for three seconds, albeit with reduced power compared to the regular Death Ward. When coupled with the original Death Ward and items like Glimmer Cape for invisibility, Witch Doctor can deal significant damage unnoticed, making him a formidable force on the battlefield.
Players have proposed various adjustments to Voodoo Switcheroo and Death Ward in Dota 2, including reverting Death Ward's damage type back to Physical. In Patch 7.34, the ward's damage was changed to Pure, allowing it to bypass all resistances like armor, albeit with a slight reduction in damage. Despite Valve's efforts to tweak the ability by reducing its damage and removing True Strike from the hero's Aghanim's Scepter upgrade in recent patches, Witch Doctor remains a dominant force in the game.
Witch Doctor has been on a winning streak in Dota 2, especially in lower ranks, boasting an impressive 53.75 percent win rate this patch, as reported by Dotabuff. Currently, he stands as the fourth-most picked hero, trailing behind Sniper, Lion, and Pudge.
With such dominance and popularity, it's likely that a nerf is on the horizon. Players will be closely monitoring Valve this week to see if a patch drops and how they address Witch Doctor's overwhelming presence in the casual meta.