The Shadow Amulet is one of the most intriguing items in Dota 2, providing temporary invisibility that can be used for creative plays, escapes, and ambush setups. While it may seem like a minor item at first glance, its potential for both defensive and offensive maneuvers makes it an essential consideration for many support heroes and initiators. In this guide, we’ll explore its properties, strategic applications, item progression, and frequently asked questions to help you make the most of it in your Dota 2 matches.
Shadow Amulet – Cost and Availability
The Shadow Amulet is available for purchase in the main shop for 1000 gold. It does not require any additional recipes or components, making it an accessible item for various heroes looking for temporary invisibility.
Shadow Amulet – Active Ability: Fade
The defining characteristic of the Shadow Amulet is its active ability, “Fade”, which grants invisibility at the cost of remaining stationary. Here are the key details about this ability:
- Duration: The invisibility lasts for 3.5 seconds.
- Fade Time: A hero takes 1.25 seconds to fade into invisibility fully.
- Movement Restriction: Moving will instantly break the invisibility. Additionally, during the fading process, the hero’s movement speed is reduced by 35%.
- Cooldown: The ability has a cooldown of 18 seconds, but there is no cooldown when using it on yourself.
How to Use the Shadow Amulet Effectively
1. SettingUp Ambushes
The invisibility provided by the Shadow Amulet allows heroes to position themselves strategically while waiting for an opportunity to strike. Whether hiding in the enemy’s jungle or awaiting a high-priority target, it enables more calculated engagements.
2. Escape Mechanism
In situations where teleportation scrolls or mobility items aren’t available, the Shadow Amulet can serve as a means of evading enemy detection. If an enemy lacks vision or dust, it can delay fights or prevent unnecessary deaths.
3. Item Progression
Many supports purchase the Shadow Amulet as a stepping stone toward a Glimmer Cape, which offers additional resistance to magic damage and a more flexible invisibility effect.
Shadow Amulet – History & Evolution
Originally, the Shadow Amulet was a required component of the Shadow Blade (formerly known as Lothar’s Edge). However, as Dota 2 evolved, this changed, and it became a standalone tactical item with its own unique purpose.
How to Use the Shadow Amulet – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Purchase the Item
Buy the Shadow Amulet from the main shop for 1000 gold. Ensure that it fits into your overall strategy before committing to the purchase.
Step 2: Activate “Fade”
Use the active ability “Fade” by selecting yourself or an ally. Remember, the invisibility won’t take effect instantly—it has a fade time of 1.25 seconds.
Step 3: Stay Still
To remain invisible for the duration of 3.5 seconds, avoid moving or performing actions such as attacking or using abilities.
Step 4: Execute Your Strategy
Whether escaping, setting up for a team fight, or baiting enemies into a trap, use the Shadow Amulet’s invisibility wisely.
FAQ – Shadow Amulet in Dota 2
What does the Shadow Amulet do?
The Shadow Amulet grants temporary invisibility through its active ability “Fade,” which lasts for 3.5 seconds unless broken by movement or action.
Does the Shadow Amulet work while moving?
No, the invisibility effect is broken immediately if the hero moves or performs an action.
What is the cooldown of the Shadow Amulet?
Using the Shadow Amulet on allies has an 18-second cooldown, but there is no cooldown when using it on yourself.
Can the Shadow Amulet be upgraded?
Yes, it is often upgraded into a Glimmer Cape, which provides additional benefits such as magic resistance and a more flexible invisibility duration.
Is the Shadow Amulet effective for all heroes?
While any hero can use the item, it is most effective on supports and heroes that rely on positioning.
Does True Sight detect a hero using Shadow Amulet?
Yes, enemies with True Sight (such as Sentry Wards, Dust of Appearance, or Gem of True Sight) can reveal invisible heroes using the Shadow Amulet.
Can the Shadow Amulet be used multiple times?
Yes, as long as it is off cooldown (when used on allies), it can be used repeatedly.
How does the Shadow Amulet compare to Shadow Blade?
The Shadow Blade provides both invisibility and the ability to move, while the Shadow Amulet requires the user to remain stationary.
What counters the Shadow Amulet?
Items such as Dust of Appearance, Sentry Wards, and Gem of True Sight are strong counters to the invisibility effect.
Can the Shadow Amulet be sold after use?
Yes, like most items, it can be sold if no longer needed.
Conclusion
The Shadow Amulet is a versatile and underrated item in Dota 2, often overlooked due to its stationary invisibility. However, its potential for surprise attacks, strategic positioning, and tactical escapes offer immense value, particularly for support heroes. Whether you use it for ambushing opponents or for its item progression into a Glimmer Cape, mastering the Shadow Amulet can provide a unique edge in your matches.
Source : DotaCinema
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