In the dynamic world of Dota 2, controlling vision remains paramount. Each patch presents new strategic opportunities, and recent innovations in warding, highlighted by Adrian's insightful YouTube video analyzing DreamLeague S25 pro gameplay, are game-changers. PC Gamer delves into these advanced ward placements, examining their strategic value and offering alternative positions to enhance your gameplay.

As Dota 2 evolves, professional teams are pushing the boundaries of Observer ward placement. These aren't random; they're precisely calculated for maximum utility and minimal detection. Below are 16 groundbreaking placements used by top players, 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

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

Radiant Ancient Riverbank

Strategic Depth: This unexpected ward provides deep vision into the Radiant base. Its unconventional placement hinders detection, maximizing its effectiveness. Bonus Tip: Combining with a nearby Sentry creates a strong defense.

Dire Top Tier 2 Bushes

Tower Protection: Revealing key areas around Dire's tier 2 towers aids both defense and offense, especially during teamfights. Pro Tip: Regular rotation prevents predictable patterns.

Radiant Bottom Secret Shop Monitor

Economic Intelligence: Monitors enemy secret shop activity, revealing item purchases and timings. Advanced Strategy: Combine with vision denial wards to disrupt buybacks.

Dire Bottom Tier 2 Fog Corner

Ambush Preparation: Provides vision into foggy areas near the Dire's bottom tier 2 tower, facilitating ganks and ambushes. Expert Advice: Use with smoke for surprise attacks.

Radiant Roshan Pit Entrance

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

Dire Mid Lane High Ground

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

Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor Path

Security First: Monitors backdoor paths to the Radiant's top tier 2 tower, preventing surprise attacks. Defensive Tip: Place a Sentry nearby to catch invisible heroes.

Dire Bottom Ancient River Bend

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

Radiant Mid Lane Jungle Passage

Comprehensive Coverage: Reveals key jungle passages near the mid lane, enhancing map awareness. Professional Recommendation: Rotate between different entrances.

Dire Top Secret Shop Approach

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

Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side Path

Flank Detection: Monitors side paths to the Radiant's bottom tier 3 tower, warning against flanking maneuvers. Team Coordination: Share vision for coordinated responses.

Dire Roshan Pit Exit

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

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

Dire Mid Lane Jungle Overlook

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

Radiant Bottom Tier 2 Rear Flank

Preventive Measures: Monitors rear flanks near the Radiant's bottom tier 2 tower, preventing sneak attacks. Defensive Mastery: Critical for tower integrity.

These advanced ward placements represent the highest level of professional vision control in Dota 2. By studying and implementing these strategies, you’ll gain a significant advantage. Effective warding is about understanding map control and adapting to dynamic situations.