Patch 7.38 has introduced big changes to Dota 2, including hero adjustments, item updates, a reworked neutral items system, and more. The biggest change, however, is the completely revamped map. Valve has moved important objectives like Roshan and Tormentors, redesigned Wisdom Runes and Lotus Pools, and changed the jungle and pathways.

With so many changes, the new map can be tough to navigate, especially for support players who need to figure out vision and warding. But don't worry! In this guide, we’ll show you the best new warding spots in Patch 7.38, along with the advantages of each location. 

Cliff Wards

The first part of warding we highlight is the cliff ward. Ward cliffs in Dota 2 are key warding spots marked with eye symbols on the map. It is essentially designed for warding, offering valuable vision in crucial areas. 

However, the cliffs being obvious warding spots also make them vulnerable to being dewarded. The ideal scenario when using the ward cliffs is for securing teamfights or monitoring enemy movements in a dominated area. 

There are six ward cliffs on the map in total - three on the Radiant side and three on the Dire side. They are strategically positioned near the Wisdom Rune locations, in the triangle jungles, and within the larger jungle, making them valuable for controlling these important areas.

While they offer great vision, players should be aware of their high risk of being dewarded, especially if the enemy team is actively contesting vision control in that area.

River and Roshan Wards

River wards are always crucial in Dota 2, but the new map in Patch 7.38 makes it harder to ward these areas due to new trees blocking vision. To overcome this, you can use a Quelling Blade to cut down trees and open up more vision, or you can choose different warding spots. 

In Patch 7.38, there are a few standard warding spots that cover the middle area and both entrances to Roshan's pit, helping you keep track of key areas and potential threats. 

For a broader vision in the midlane, you can plant a ward in the center of the lane. You can plant it a bit further from the river to avoid being dewarded. You can also plant it at the edge of the terrain which provides vision for rotations, power runes, and the Roshan pit. 

Another great warding location to keep an eye for the Roshan pit, is on top of the staircase - for both the Radiant and Dire side. This is one of the predictable spots, but it gives great vision, especially when your team is constesting Roshan and anticipating enemy's gank.

If you're feeling crafty, you can also chop a tree at the edge of the cliff (near the stairs) and plant a ward. It is harder to detect for enemies and it also provides an equally great vision. Refer to the image below!

Radiant Outer Jungle Wards

The outer jungle areas—bottom of Radiant and top of Dire—are tricky when it comes to warding. These zones lack designated warding spots, making it difficult to secure vision and even harder to deward effectively. However, there are a few key locations where wards can provide excellent vision. In some areas, chopping down trees with a Quelling Blade can improve your vision even further, giving you better control of these complex regions.

On the Radiant side, you can plant the wards where it provides vision to the neutral creep camps to spot enemy farming.

You can also plant a ward in pathways such as at the waterfall area, where the enemy will be passing by often.  

On the cliff with a Watcher, you can also chop a tree to place an Observer. It provides decent vision with lesser chances of being dewarded. It also doesn't block any camp.

On the Dire side, find similar warding spots with the same principles. Area that give great coverage to neutral camps or pathways are great for information. Find examples below.

Dire Outer Jungle Wards

This ward gives great vision over neutral camps and if enemy is walking towards the Twin Gate or the Tormentor.

You can chop a tree on this cliff and plant a ward to give a broad vision over Dire's outer jungle.

This is a great deep ward to spot enemy's farming pattern. 

Conclusion

Patch 7.38 introduces a map that completely changes the approach to warding, offering a wide range of potential warding locations. While this variety makes dewarding more challenging, it also means you must be more strategic in your placements, as many spots offer less vision coverage compared to traditional cliff wards. To make the most of the new map, you'll need to use Observers and Sentries wisely.

We hope our guide to the best warding spots will enhance your experience and help you stay ahead of the competition!