Bristleback Nerfed, but Meta Remains Unchanged
Valve has released Patch 7.34e for Dota 2, following the conclusion of The International 2023 season. Despite the dominance of heroes like Bristleback, Kunkka, Spirit Breaker, and Dazzle, the changes in this patch are relatively minor. Valve seems to be taking a slower approach to adjusting heroes, so the meta is not expected to change significantly for the upcoming ESL One Kuala Lumpur tournament in December.
Overview of Changes in Dota 2 Patch 7.34e
Patch 7.34e brings adjustments to 29 Dota heroes and six items. Notably, Bristleback receives multiple nerfs, reducing his damage output and weakening his Aghanim’s Shard upgrade. However, these changes may not be enough to completely balance the hero. Other heroes like Spirit Breaker and Timbersaw also see adjustments, but the impact on the meta is limited.
Details of Dota 2 Patch 7.34e
Here is a breakdown of the changes made in Dota 2 Patch 7.34e:
| Item | Change |
|---|---|
| Eternal Shroud | Magic Resistance bonus increased from +30% to +35%. |
| Hand of Midas | Base Charge Restore Time increased from 100s to 110s. |
| Heart of Tarrasque | Recipe cost increased from 1300 to 1400. Total cost increased from 5100 to 5200. Strength bonus decreased from +40 to +35. |
| Helm of the Overlord | Vladmir’s Aura Armor increased from three to four. |
| Pavise | Protect Cooldown decreased from 18s to 16s. |
| Vladmir’s Offering | Vladmir’s Aura Armor increased from three to four. |
Hero Adjustments in Dota 2 Patch 7.34e
Bristleback
Bristleback, a dominant hero in TI 2023, receives several nerfs. His Quill Spray deals less damage at max stacks, and his passive quills proc less frequently in the early game. Additionally, his Aghanim’s Shard upgrade, Hairball, has its range reduced and cooldown increased.
Spirit Breaker
Spirit Breaker, previously known as Barathrum, sees slight nerfs to his Charge of Darkness ability. The cooldown is increased at all levels and after purchasing Aghanim’s Scepter. Greater Bash also deals less damage to creeps.
Timbersaw
Timbersaw, who has been relatively inactive in recent months, receives a welcome buff. The stat steal after landing a successful Whirling Death is increased, potentially making him more viable in the current meta.
Conclusion
Dota 2 Patch 7.34e brings adjustments to heroes and items, but the overall impact on the meta is minimal. Bristleback, Spirit Breaker, and Timbersaw receive changes, but it remains to be seen if these adjustments will significantly alter the competitive scene. The upcoming ESL One Kuala Lumpur tournament will provide further insight into the evolving Dota 2 meta.
Source: DOTESPORTS
