The International 2023 (TI12) is rapidly approaching, and Valve has just rolled out the Patch 7.34d update on October 5th, less than a week before the tournament kicks off. This update aims to address some of the balance issues that have been plaguing Dota 2, with a particular focus on reigning in the overpowered Phantom Assassin (PA). PA has been a dominant force in both professional matches and public games, prompting Valve to take action and tone her down. Additionally, the update includes some minor nerfs to heroes Pangolier and Treant Protector, as well as an adjustment to how backpacking Ninja gear functions.
Let’s delve into the key nerfs introduced in Dota 2 Patch 7.34d:
1. Phantom Assassin Nerfed
Phantom Assassin nerf has finally felt the sting of the nerf bat. Her recent dominance in the Dota 2 scene has prompted the community to call for changes, and Valve has answered. In Patch 7.34, PA received a rework of her ultimate, granting her a chance to gain a powerful 6-second buff called “Deadly Focus,” which guaranteed a massive damage critical strike on her next attack. This, combined with the upgraded Blur from Aghanim’s Scepter, made her a formidable force.
In Patch 7.34d, Valve has taken measures to curb her dominance with the following changes:
- Blur: Vanish Radius increased from 400 to 500.
- Blur: Aghanim’s Scepter Cooldown rescaled from 10 seconds to 50 percent of the current cooldown.
- Blur: Aghanim’s Scepter no longer increases Vanish Buffer.
- Coup de Grace: Chance of Deadly Focus decreased from 20 percent to 17 percent (34 percent for Stifling Dagger).
2. Pangolier’s Mana Costs Increased
Pangolier mana cost increase, known for his sustainability in teamfights, has had his mana costs increased for his primary skills. These adjustments aim to make it more challenging for him to spam his abilities without running out of mana:
- Swashbuckle: Mana Cost increased from 75 to 75/80/85/90.
- Shield Crash: Mana Cost increased from 60/70/80/90 to 70/80/90/100.
Furthermore, Valve has reduced the damage of Shield Crash from 70/140/210/280 to 60/120/180/240 and lowered the level 20 talent Swashbuckle damage bonus from +20 to +15.
These changes should bring some much-needed balance to Dota 2, ensuring a more competitive and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.
