No matter how much players may complain, Valve never fails to deliver impactful Dota 2 updates, and the Wandering Waters patch is no exception. This latest update introduces a series of significant gameplay changes, fundamentally altering the way the game is played.
Released on February 18 (or early February 19 for players outside the US), the Dota 2 7.38 Gameplay Update, titled Wandering Waters, brings a dramatic transformation to the map, adding new rivers, streams, and shifting key objectives. Players had been eagerly anticipating gameplay updates, with nearly 200 days passing since the last major patch (7.37 on August 1, 2024). Now, Valve has responded with an update reminiscent of the massive 2023 New Frontiers expansion.
Dota 2 Map Overhaul: What’s Changing in Wandering Waters?
The iconic Dota 2 river is no longer the only water feature on the map. This update introduces two major tributaries, one on each side, providing Radiant and Dire their own dedicated water paths. But that’s just the beginning, Roshan is back in the river, Wisdom Runes and Tormentors have relocated, and brand-new jungle creeps have emerged, reshaping the way matches will unfold.
New Tributary Rivers and Speed Boosts
The new waterways aren’t just for show, they come with a mechanical advantage. When heroes move along the streams in the direction of the water flow, they receive a movement speed boost, allowing for quicker rotations, chases, and escapes. This addition could significantly impact how teams maneuver the map and contest objectives.
New Jungle Creeps Join the Battle
The latest update introduces a variety of new jungle creeps, all thematically suited to the water-based update. These include:
- Pollywog
- Boglet
- Mashmage Apprentice
- Croaker
- Marshmage
- Ancient Croaker
- Ancient Marshmage
These amphibious creatures spawn in the new waterways, making jungle fights even more unpredictable. Expect to see players adjusting their farming strategies as they navigate the revamped jungle ecosystem.
Wisdom Runes Are Now Riskier to Secure
Previously, securing a Wisdom Rune was a relatively safe objective, but that’s changing with this update. The new locations push these runes closer to enemy territory, meaning they’re now easier for opponents to steal. With this shift, teams will have to be more strategic about rune control, potentially leading to more aggressive contests and early skirmishes.
Lotus Pools Get a Tactical Redesign
The Lotus Pools have been completely reworked, now requiring players to stand in the center to activate them. If enemy units are present, the Lotus Pool cannot be accessed, making it a contested objective rather than a passive form of lane sustain. This change adds a new layer of strategy, forcing players to think twice before attempting to claim Lotus rewards.
Roshan Returns to the River—but He’s Still on the Move
The legendary Roshan is finally back where he belongs; in the river. However, despite returning to his classic location, he hasn’t completely settled down. Roshan will continue to swap between different areas depending on the time of day, forcing teams to adjust their map control strategies. This change restores some old-school Roshan dynamics while keeping things fresh.
Tormentor Moves to Roshan’s Old Home
Previously, Tormentors were often too easy to secure, making them a safe objective for teams in the lead. With this update, the Tormentor has taken over Roshan’s previous location and will now shift positions, making it harder to claim without risk. This change adds unpredictability to the late-game economy, preventing teams from securing guaranteed Aghanim’s Shards without a fight.
Madstone Crafting: A New Take on Neutral Items
Neutral items have undergone a major overhaul, introducing a crafting system where players must collect Madstones to create their own custom neutral items for each tier. This radically changes itemization, requiring players to plan their builds more carefully rather than relying on randomly dropped neutral items.
A full breakdown of the new system is coming soon, but in the meantime, expect big changes to how item progression works.
Hero and Item Updates: A Meta-Shifting Patch
Of course, no major Dota 2 update is complete without significant hero and item adjustments. Many champions have received new Facets, altering their abilities and potentially reshaping the competitive meta. Some fan-favorite heroes may rise in popularity, while others may fall out of favor due to stat adjustments and ability reworks.
With so many changes packed into Patch 7.38, expect dramatic shifts in gameplay, making this one of the most impactful updates in recent memory. Stay tuned for more detailed breakdowns on hero buffs, nerfs, and item reworks as the patch unfolds.
Final Thoughts on Dota 2’s Wandering Waters Update
Valve has once again delivered a game-changing update, bringing new strategic depth to Dota 2. With fresh map dynamics, reworked objectives, and a new item crafting system, Wandering Waters is set to redefine the way players approach the game. Whether you’re adjusting to the shifting rivers, contesting riskier objectives, or experimenting with the new neutral item system, there’s plenty to explore in Patch 7.38.
So, dive in and adapt, because Dota 2 just got a major shake-up once again.
