Prominently featured in these patch notes are changes to the Captains Mode draft order, primarily applicable to professional matches. This update introduces varying quantities of bans during each ban phase, contingent on whether a team holds the first or second pick. Second pick receives an additional early ban, while first pick regains their ban during the middle ban phase. This alteration is poised to have a noteworthy impact on professional gameplay, while not directly affecting All Pick matches that most players engage in.
While the patch notes largely omit alterations to systems or maps, Valve has granted the previous substantial changes from the last patch more time to mature and demonstrate their effects. Instead, the focus of this update is on heroes and items, with a barrage of changes.
Notably, the game now starts with only two Blood grenades, and their restocking time has been extended. This change may evoke a tinge of sadness among position 4 players. On a more positive note, the Smoke item undergoes an intriguing adjustment, whereby any ally within 300 range of the player who initiated the Smoke while hidden will also become concealed. This innovation could lead to stealthier team movements.
The hero roster sees comprehensive adjustments, with many characters receiving various changes, some more extensive than others. Initial impressions indicate that Beastmaster's Hawk has been reworked, Bristleback's Aghanim's Scepter has been revamped, granting the ability to cast Bristleback to direct Quill Sprays, and Viper boasts an astounding level 25 talent that transforms him into a Universal hero.
Undoubtedly, numerous heroes that have been less prevalent since the last update have been buffed. Grimstroke, for instance, has received a significant number of buffs, potentially resurrecting him in the meta. Outworld Destroyer's ultimate ability now inflicts damage on enemies who cast spells after being hit by it. Meanwhile, Razor's previous shard ability has become an integral part of his core kit, with a new shard introduced for Static Link.
Among other changes, Invoker undergoes a series of modifications, most notably becoming a Universal hero. Warlock's Fatal Bonds summons imps, adding utility to the ability, and Zeus' ultimate now deals percentage-based damage.
This update introduces a multitude of adjustments that are poised to greatly reshape the meta, particularly in preparation for the TI qualifiers. After several months of occasionally underwhelming professional play, these changes are bound to be welcomed. Players can delve into the patch notes themselves to grasp the scope of these alterations.
Representing the first numbered patch since the substantial 7.33 update earlier in the year, 7.34 seems focused on refining aspects that have not operated as initially intended. With these alterations, Dota 2 enthusiasts can anticipate a revitalized gameplay experience, harnessing the potential that the sweeping changes of 7.33 promised.
