The latest Dota 2 patch, version 7.39d, has once again stirred the pot, introducing a series of balance changes that have players and professional esports figures alike scrutinizing every line. Among the adjustments, one particular modification to the hero Tinker has garnered significant attention, prompting a characteristic, eyebrow-raising remark from none other than Team Liquid`s carry, Artur “Arteezy” Babaev.
The Tinker Tweak: More Mobility, More Mayhem?
At the heart of the community`s current debate lies the cooldown reduction of Tinker`s ultimate ability, Keen Conveyance. Previously set at 80 seconds, this crucial skill now recharges in a mere 50 seconds. For those less familiar with Tinker`s mechanics, Keen Conveyance allows the hero to teleport to any allied building, including towers, barracks, and the fountain. Coupled with his ability to reset item cooldowns, this ultimate is the cornerstone of Tinker`s global presence, enabling relentless split-pushing, rapid farming, and evasive maneuvers that can feel impossible to counter.
A 30-second reduction on such a pivotal ability is not a minor adjustment; it`s a seismic shift. This change significantly boosts Tinker`s mobility, allowing him to cycle through lanes, push objectives, and retreat to safety with unprecedented frequency. Imagine a Tinker who can push a wave, teleport to another lane to apply pressure, and then be back at the fountain for a quick heal and mana refresh, all while his ultimate is nearly ready again for the next engagement. The potential for map control and sustained aggression has just been cranked up several notches.
Arteezy`s Enigmatic Reaction: Irony or Insight?
Upon seeing this particular change, Arteezy took to social media, delivering a cryptic yet telling statement that perfectly encapsulates the community`s mix of confusion and amusement:
Lmao… Изменение ультимейта Tinker = признак исправления ИИ? Или троллинг следующего уровня?
Translated: “Lmao… Tinker ultimate change = sign of AI fix? Or next-level trolling?”
Arteezy`s remarks carry layers of potential meaning. Is he genuinely questioning Valve`s intent? Or is this the trademark irony of a seasoned pro who has witnessed countless balance changes, some of which seem to defy logical explanation?
The “AI fix” part could be a sardonic nod to Tinker`s past reputation. Tinker, with his complex spell rotations and high demands on player micro, has often been a hero associated with “botting” or automated scripts in lesser-regulated environments, given the precise timings required. The idea that a fundamental balance change might be related to fixing some unseen AI behavior (perhaps internal testing bots becoming too weak against him?) is, of course, a ludicrous thought—which is precisely why it works as an ironic jab. It suggests the change is so out of left field, so seemingly unbalanced, that only an esoteric, internal reason could justify it.
Alternatively, the “next-level trolling” comment speaks to the perceived absurdity of buffing a hero already capable of causing immense frustration. Tinker`s playstyle can be incredibly oppressive, leaving opponents feeling like they are constantly chasing shadows. Many players find themselves exasperated when facing a well-played Tinker. To then reduce the cooldown on his core mobility spell could be seen as Valve intentionally “trolling” the player base, daring them to endure an even more elusive and impactful Tinker.
Beyond Tinker: A Glimpse at the Broader Patch
While Tinker`s buff has stolen the spotlight, patch 7.39d also includes other significant adjustments. Heroes like Puck and Shadow Fiend, who have recently seen strong performances in competitive and public matches, received nerfs, indicating Valve`s ongoing efforts to fine-tune the meta. These changes are part of the usual ebb and flow of Dota 2`s balance updates, aiming to prevent certain heroes from becoming too dominant and to encourage strategic diversity.
In addition to the balance adjustments, the patch ushered in a new in-game event, “Aghanim`s Quartero,” offering players a chance to earn free cosmetic items. Such events are a welcome addition, providing engaging content outside of the competitive grind and a lighter counterpoint to the sometimes intense discussions surrounding hero balance.
Ultimately, Arteezy`s brief but potent commentary on the Tinker change encapsulates the dynamic and often perplexing nature of Dota 2`s continuous evolution. Whether it`s a subtle tweak or a dramatic overhaul, every patch has the potential to reshape strategies and spark passionate debate. For now, players will be testing the limits of this new, faster Tinker, and perhaps, keeping a watchful eye on whether Valve truly is engaging in “next-level trolling” or simply a bold attempt at meta-shaking balance.
Finley Holt