In the dynamic world of Dota 2, one truth remains unchanged: mastering vision control is paramount. Each patch brings fresh opportunities to enhance strategies, particularly in the art of warding. Recently, renowned guide creator Adrian shared an insightful video on his YouTube channel, highlighting the latest warding innovations from professionals competing in DreamLeague S25. At PC Gamer, we’ve delved into these placements, dissecting their strategic value and suggesting alternatives to elevate your gameplay.

As the Dota 2 community adjusts to the latest patch, pro teams are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with Observer wards. These aren’t random spots—they’re meticulously calculated positions designed to maximize utility while minimizing detection risks. Below, we present 16 groundbreaking ward placements currently used by top-tier players, complete with detailed analysis and alternative options.

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

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Early Game Domination
Positioned slightly deeper than traditional mid lane jungle wards, this placement offers unmatched vision over key areas early in the game. It helps secure runes and provides crucial insights into enemy movements through the jungle.
Alternative: A slight shift toward the Radiant side can extend coverage over the secret shop approach.

Radiant Ancient Riverbank

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Strategic Depth
This cleverly placed ward offers deep vision into the Radiant’s base from an unexpected angle. Its unconventional position makes it harder for enemies to locate and destroy, ensuring prolonged effectiveness.
Bonus Tip: Pairing this with a Sentry ward nearby creates a formidable defensive setup.

Dire Top Tier 2 Bushes

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Tower Protection
By revealing critical areas around the Dire’s second tier towers, this ward aids both defense and offensive positioning. It’s especially effective during teamfights near these structures.
Pro Tip: Periodically rotate this ward to avoid predictable patterns.

Radiant Bottom Secret Shop Monitor

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Economic Intelligence
This placement allows you to monitor enemy heroes using the secret shop, offering valuable insights into item purchases and timing.
Advanced Strategy: Combine this with vision denial wards to disrupt potential buybacks.

Dire Bottom Tier 2 Fog Corner

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Ambush Preparation
Giving vision into foggy areas near the Dire’s bottom tier two tower, this ward assists in setting up ganks and ambushes.
Expert Advice: Use this ward in conjunction with smoke to execute surprise attacks.

Radiant Roshan Pit Entrance

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Timing is Everything
Enabling early detection of Roshan attempts from the Radiant side, this ward allows timely responses and potential counter-attacks.
Tactical Insight: Rotate this ward frequently to maintain the element of surprise.

Dire Mid Lane High Ground

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Elevated Awareness
Offering extended vision along the middle lane high ground, this ward improves awareness of approaching enemies.
Strategic Note: Ideal for controlling the mid lane during crucial moments.

Radiant Top Tier 2 Backdoor Path

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Security First
Monitoring backdoor paths leading to the Radiant’s top tier two tower, this ward prevents surprise attacks.
Defensive Tip: Place a Sentry ward nearby to catch sneaky invis heroes.

Dire Bottom Ancient River Bend

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Deep Vision Mastery
Providing deep vision into the Dire’s base through an unconventional river bend location, this ward exemplifies creative thinking.
Advanced Placement: Experiment with slight adjustments to find optimal coverage.

Radiant Mid Lane Jungle Passage

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Comprehensive Coverage
Revealing key jungle passages adjacent to the mid lane, this ward enhances overall map awareness.
Professional Recommendation: Rotate between different jungle entrances for maximum effect.

Dire Top Secret Shop Approach

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Economic Surveillance
Alerts when enemies are heading towards or leaving the Dire’s secret shop area, offering economic intelligence.
Competitive Edge: Use this information to time your pushes effectively.

Radiant Bottom Tier 3 Side Path

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Flank Detection
Monitoring side paths leading to the Radiant’s bottom tier three tower, this ward warns against flanking maneuvers.
Team Coordination: Share this vision with your team for coordinated responses.

Dire Roshan Pit Exit

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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

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Hidden Vantage Point
Offers hidden vision into the Radiant’s base from a cliffside vantage point, surprising opponents.
Elite Placement: Requires precise execution for best results.

Dire Mid Lane Jungle Overlook

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Elevated Advantage
Provides elevated vision over the Dire’s mid lane jungle region, improving situational