The Nullifier is one of the most powerful and versatile items in Dota 2, offering unique dispel mechanics and stat bonuses that make it a favored choice for certain heroes. As a late-game item, it plays a critical role in countering enemies who rely on protective buffs or escape items like Ghost Scepter and Aeon Disk. Whether you are looking to disable an opponent’s defensive strategies or enhance your right-click potential, the Nullifier can significantly impact team fights and overall game strategy.
What is Nullifier in Dota 2?
The Nullifier is a late-game item in Dota 2 that provides a mix of powerful attributes and a unique active ability designed to debuff enemy heroes. It is categorized under magical items and is available only from the Secret Shop.
Effects and Abilities
- The Nullifier comes with an active ability called Nullify, which applies a debuff on an enemy unit for 5 seconds.
- While affected by the debuff, the target gets slowed by 80% for 0.5 seconds every time they are attacked.
- Unlike some other disabling items, Nullifier pierces magic immunity, making it extremely potent against heroes relying on Black King Bar or other protective spells.
- It can also be cast on invulnerable units, making it hard for enemies to escape.
Combat Stats Provided by Nullifier
Apart from its active ability, the item provides crucial combat stats:
- +75 attack damage
- +10armor
- +6 health regeneration
Best Heroes to Use Nullifier
The Nullifier is most effective on heroes who rely on physical damage and sustained attacks. Below are some of the best heroes to utilize the item properly:
1. Clinkz
Combining Strafe with Nullifier allows Clinkz to quickly apply successive attacks and prevent enemies from activating escape items.
2. Faceless Void
During Chronosphere, Void can ensure enemies cannot use defensive items like Ethereal Blade or Ghost Scepter to evade his damage.
3. Arc Warden
Gains immense benefit from the damage boost and the attack speed synergy offered by Magnetic Field.
4. Riki
When casting Smoke Screen, Riki can use Nullifier to disable an enemy’s ability to activate escape items, ensuring they remain trapped.
5. Slark, Broodmother, Troll Warlord, and Juggernaut
These heroes heavily rely on continuous attacks and sustain, making Nullifier an excellent addition to their arsenal.
How to Counter Nullifier
Since the Nullifier can disrupt an enemy’s item usage, countering it is essential for survival. Here are ways to effectively counter Nullifier:
Dispel Abilities and Items
- Abaddon’s Aphotic Shield: Purges the Nullifier debuff.
- Oracle’s Fortune’s End: Provides an instant dispel on allies.
- Eul’s Scepter of Divinity: Allows players to temporarily become invulnerable, removing Nullifier’s effect.
Reflective and Blocking Items
- Lotus Orb: Reflects Nullifier back to the caster.
- Linken’s Sphere: Blocks Nullifier if it’s cast as a targeted debuff.
Team Coordination
Communication is essential to avoid being caught off guard by Nullifier’s effect. Ensuring your teammates are aware of the enemy’s Nullifier usage helps in preparing counterplays.
How to Use Nullifier Effectively
Understanding how to use Nullifier properly can be a game-changer. Below is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1 – Purchase the Item
Since Nullifier can only be bought from the Secret Shop, make sure you have access to the area safely.
Step 2 – Identify Enemy Targets
Enemies who rely on defense-based items like Ethereal Blade, Ghost Scepter, or Aeon Disk should be prioritized.
Step 3 – Initiate Fights with Nullifier
When jumping into a fight, casting Nullifier early prevents enemies from using their escape mechanisms and forces them into unfavorable situations.
Step 4 – Follow Up with Attacks
Since Nullifier applies an 80% slow with every attack, continuously attacking the target ensures they remain immobile.
Step 5 – Coordinate with Allies
Notify your teammates when using Nullifier so they can follow up with crowd control abilities.
FAQ About Nullifier in Dota 2
What makes Nullifier unique?
Nullifier is unique due to its dispel and slow effect that applies whenever the target is attacked.
Does Nullifier pierce magic immunity?
Yes, the Nullifier’s effect goes through Black King Bar, making it a perfect counter to magic-immune heroes.
Can Nullifier be dispelled?
Yes, it can be removed using dispel abilities such as Aphotic Shield or Fortune’s End.
Where can I buy the Nullifier?
Nullifier is available exclusively at the Secret Shop.
Which heroes benefit most from Nullifier?
Heroes like Clinkz, Faceless Void, and Riki gain the most value from Nullifier.
What items counter Nullifier?
Items such as Lotus Orb, Eul’s Scepter, and Linken’s Sphere counter Nullifier by removing or reflecting its effects.
Can Nullifier be used on allies?
No, it can only target enemy heroes.
When should I build a Nullifier?
Late game, especially against heroes relying on Ethereal Blade, Aeon Disk, or Ghost Scepter.
Does armor or evasion affect Nullifier?
Armor and evasion reduce the physical damage component, but the slow effect still applies.
Can Nullifier be blocked by Spell Immunity?
No, it completely bypasses magic immunity and cannot be blocked by BKB.
Final Thoughts
The Nullifier plays a vital role in disabling enemy escape items and providing core combat stats for physical damage dealers. When used correctly, it can effectively turn the tide of battles by preventing enemies from activating crucial survival tools. Whether playing as an aggressive carry or a utility core, incorporating Nullifier into your strategy can secure game-changing advantages.
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