The mysterious Watchers, a structure linked to the ancients that grant vision of a short area were recently added to Dota 2. Worse than wards, or automatic objectives?
In Dota 2's 7.33 update, a new structure called the Watcher was added to the game. These diminutive stone obelisks sit at strategic points throughout the jungles of both Dire and Radiant. But what exactly do they do, and how can you best use them?
What are Watchers and how do they work?
Watchers are tiny obelisks that act as static permanent wards in Dota 2. They can be captured by clicking on them channeling for 1.5 seconds. You can cancel the channel at any point by moving away or using an ability, similar to Outposts.
Once captured, Watchers will remain captured until they are channeled by an opposing hero. They provide vision for around 500 units from their central point, much smaller than a Observer Ward.
If a Watcher you have captured is taken over by an enemy, it will be disabled and not captured. It will remain disabled and not capturable for two (2) minutes. This is an effective way of shutting down vision for your opponent.
Watchers do not detect invisible units unless a Sentry Ward has been placed within their vision range.
How to use Watchers in your Dota 2 games
Watchers are essentially free vision, so have to be taken advantage of. It should the priority of players to take control of Watchers on your side of the jungle at the start of the game, while shutting down opposing Watchers.
- As the game progresses, Watchers should be seen as side objectives, as important as clearing wards and retaining vision.
- Supports should augment their Watchers with Sentry Wards, and create large areas of vision, while disabling opposing Watchers during the game. Similarly, carries should see them as great opportunities to deny opponent’s vision
- Overall, good Watcher control has the potential to win you the game in the same way that good warding does. Don’t tunnel on Watchers, but don’t forget to use them.
Stay tuned to esports.gg for more Dota 2 patch 7.33 news, info and guides!