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16 Cutting-Edge Warding Strategies from Pro Players in Dota 2's Latest Patch

Author:Kristen Update:Mar 16,2025

In the dynamic world of Dota 2, controlling vision remains paramount. Each patch presents new strategic opportunities, and nowhere is this more apparent than in warding. Adrian, a renowned guide creator, recently highlighted innovative warding techniques employed by professional players at DreamLeague S25 in a insightful YouTube video. PC Gamer delves into these placements, analyzing their strategic value and offering alternative options to enhance your gameplay.

As the Dota 2 community adapts to the latest patch, professional teams are pushing the boundaries of Observer ward usage. These aren't random placements; they're meticulously chosen positions maximizing utility while minimizing detection risk. Below are 16 groundbreaking ward placements used by top-tier 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

Mid Lane Jungle ExtensionImage: ensigame.com

Early Game Domination: Positioned slightly deeper than traditional mid lane jungle wards, this placement provides superior vision over key early-game areas. It secures runes and reveals enemy jungle movements. Alternative: Shifting slightly towards the Radiant side enhances secret shop approach coverage.

Radiant Ancient Riverbank

Radiant Ancient RiverbankImage: ensigame.com

Strategic Depth: This ward provides deep vision into the Radiant base from an unexpected angle. Its unconventional placement hinders detection, ensuring prolonged effectiveness. Bonus Tip: Combining with a nearby Sentry ward creates a strong defensive setup.

Dire Top Tier 2 Bushes

Dire Top Tier 2 BushesImage: ensigame.com

Tower Protection: Revealing critical areas around the Dire's tier two towers aids both defense and offense, especially during teamfights. Pro Tip: Periodic ward rotation avoids predictable patterns.

Radiant Bottom Secret Shop Monitor

Radiant Bottom Secret Shop MonitorImage: ensigame.com

Economic Intelligence: Monitor enemy secret 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

Dire Bottom Tier 2 Fog CornerImage: ensigame.com

Ambush Preparation: Provides vision into foggy areas near the Dire's bottom tier two tower, facilitating ganks and ambushes. Expert Advice: Use with smoke for surprise attacks.

Radiant Roshan Pit Entrance

Radiant Roshan Pit EntranceImage: ensigame.com

Timing is Everything: Enables early detection of Roshan attempts from the Radiant side, allowing timely responses and counter-attacks. Tactical Insight: Frequent rotation maintains surprise.

Dire Mid Lane High Ground

Dire Mid Lane High GroundImage: ensigame.com

Elevated Awareness: Offers extended vision along the middle lane high ground, improving awareness of approaching enemies. Strategic Note: Ideal for mid lane control during crucial moments.

Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor Path

Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor PathImage: ensigame.com

Security First: Monitors backdoor paths to the Radiant's top tier two tower, preventing surprise attacks. Defensive Tip: Place a Sentry ward nearby to catch invisible heroes.

Dire Bottom Ancient River Bend

Dire Bottom Ancient River BendImage: ensigame.com

Deep Vision Mastery: Provides deep vision into the Dire base via an unconventional river bend location. Advanced Placement: Experiment with slight adjustments for optimal coverage.

Radiant Mid Lane Jungle Passage

Radiant Mid Lane Jungle PassageImage: ensigame.com

Comprehensive Coverage: Reveals key jungle passages adjacent to the mid lane, enhancing map awareness. Professional Recommendation: Rotate between different jungle entrances for maximum effect.

Dire Top Secret Shop Approach

Dire Top Secret Shop ApproachImage: ensigame.com

Economic Surveillance: Alerts when enemies approach or leave the Dire's secret shop, offering economic intelligence. Competitive Edge: Use this information to time pushes effectively.

Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side Path

Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side PathImage: ensigame.com

Flank Detection: Monitors side paths leading to the Radiant's bottom tier three tower, warning against flanking maneuvers. Team Coordination: Share this vision for coordinated responses.

Dire Roshan Pit Exit

Dire Roshan Pit ExitImage: ensigame.com

Counterplay Opportunity: Detects enemy movements exiting the Roshan pit from the Dire side, facilitating timely reactions. Strategic Positioning: Essential during late-game Roshan battles.

Radiant Top Ancient Cliffside

Radiant Top Ancient CliffsideImage: ensigame.com

Hidden Vantage Point: Offers hidden vision into the Radiant base from a cliffside vantage point, surprising opponents. Elite Placement: Requires precise execution for best results.

Dire Mid Lane Jungle Overlook

Dire Mid Lane Jungle OverlookImage: ensigame.com

Elevated Advantage: Provides elevated vision over the Dire's mid lane jungle region, improving situational awareness. Advanced Technique: Combine with other mid lane wards for comprehensive coverage.

Radiant Bottom Tier 2 Rear Flank

Radiant Bottom Tier 2 Rear FlankImage: ensigame.com

Preventive Measures: Monitors rear flanks near the Radiant's bottom tier two tower, preventing sneak attacks. Defensive Mastery: Critical for maintaining tower integrity.

These advanced ward placements represent peak professional vision control in Dota 2. By studying and implementing these strategies, you'll gain a significant advantage in both casual and competitive play. Effective warding involves understanding map control and adapting to changing situations.