Slardar, also known as the Slithereen Guard, stands as one of the most iconic strength heroes in Dota 2. Revered for his role as a Durable, Initiator, and Carry, this amphibious hero combines his powers of mobility, physical damage, and debuffs to devastate his opponents. From the underwater realms of the deep, Slardar emerges as a relentless chaser who excels at hunting fleeing enemies and initiating critical team fights. This guide will provide an in-depth look at everything Slardar, from his compelling lore and abilities to item builds, strategies, and even counter-tactics. Whether you’re new to Dota 2 or an experienced player wanting to refine your understanding of Slardar, this comprehensive guide will help you master the Slithereen Guard.
Overview – Who Is Slardar?
Slardar, the Slithereen Guard, is a melee strength hero known for his aggressive playstyle and ability to dominate team fights. He can chase enemies down using Guardian Sprint, disable them with Slithereen Crush, and deal heavy damage through his Bash of the Deep. His ultimate ability, Corrosive Haze, strips away enemy armor and reveals invisible units, making him an excellent choice for countering elusive heroes and securing kills. Coupled with incredible mobility and debuffs, Slardar is a constant threat both early and late in the game.
Background – Origins of the Slithereen Guard
Deep beneath the ocean’s waves lies the domain of the Slithereen, an Ancient and proud aquatic race charged with guardingsprawling sunken cities and immeasurable riches. Born of the crushing pressure of the depths, Slardar serves as an elite sentinel for these submerged enclaves. Known as the “Slithereen Guard,” he has sworn to uphold his people’s legacy by keeping intruders away from their hidden treasures. Harnessing his unparalleled strength and boundless resolve, Slardar will not hesitate to drag his enemies into the deep and obliterate them for their insolence.
Attributes and Stats – Slardar’s Core Strength
Primary Attribute
Strength
Base Stats
- Health: 582
- Mana: 255
- Damage: 51-59
- Armor: 5.83
- Attack Speed: 100 (1.7 base attack time)
- Movement Speed: 300
- Vision Range: 1800/800
- Turn Rate: 0.6
Attribute Growth
- Health (per level): +79.2
- Mana (per level): +18.0
- Strength (per level): +3.6
- Agility (per level): +2.1
- Intelligence (per level): +1.5
Abilities
Guardian Sprint
Slardar increases his movement speed and gains phase movement, making it easier to chase enemies or maneuver in fights.
- Move Speed Bonus: 10%/20%/30%/40%
- Duration: 10 seconds
- Notes: Grants slow resistance and extra movement at the start.
Slithereen Crush
Slardar slams the ground in an area, stunning and damaging enemies. After the stun, enemies are slowed for a duration.
- Move Speed Slow: 20%/25%/30%/35%
- Attack Speed Slow: 20/25/30/35
- Damage: 75/150/225/300
- Notes: Upgradeable with Aghanim’s Scepter and Shard for additional effects.
Bash of the Deep
Every 4th attack, Slardar bashes enemies for bonus damage and stuns them briefly. This ability scales well for both farming and fighting.
- Bash Duration: 1.1 seconds
- Bash Damage: Increased against creeps for farming efficiency.
Corrosive Haze
Slardar reveals a target enemy, reducing their armor and granting True Sight while they leave behind a water trail.
- Armor Reduction: -10/-15/-20
- Duration: 18 seconds
- Notes: Excellent for countering invisible heroes.
Core Roles and Playstyle – Mastering the Slithereen Guard
Slardar thrives in multiple roles: Durable initiator, utility-based disabler, and even a physical damage carry. Success with Slardar often revolves around effective timing and positioning. His Slithereen Crush combined with a Blink Dagger can initiate fights, while abilities like Corrosive Haze make him invaluable for taking down key targets.
Playstyle Tips
- Early Game: Focus on farming with Bash of the Deep while controlling the lane with well-timed Crushes.
- Mid Game: Roam and gank with Blink Dagger to eliminate priority targets.
- Late Game: Transition to a DPS role by leveraging Bash procs and building damage items.
Item Builds – Best Equipment for Slardar
Core Items
- Blink Dagger: Essential for closing distances quickly and initiating fights.
- Armlet of Mordiggian: Amplifies survivability and damage output.
- Aghanim’s Scepter: Increases water-based terrain bonuses and status resistance.
- Phase Boots: Enhances mobility and allows phase movement.
Situational Items
- Assault Cuirass: Reduces enemy armor and increases team attack speed.
- Black King Bar: Protects against magical damage and disables.
- Lotus Orb: Reflects spells and dispels debuffs.
Counter Strategies – How to Defeat Slardar
- Neutralize Bash of the Deep: Avoid getting into prolonged engagements.
- Debuff Corrosive Haze: Purchase items like Eul’s Scepter or Lotus Orb to dispel it.
- Deny Vision: Avoid granting Slardar True Sight by preventing Haze casts.
FAQ – Everything About Slardar
What is Slardar’s primary attribute?
Slardar is a strength-based hero.
How do I counter Slardar’s Corrosive Haze?
Use dispel abilities or purchase items like Lotus Orb to remove the debuff.
What items should I always buy for Slardar?
Blink Dagger, Armlet of Mordiggian, and Aghanim’s Scepter are core items for Slardar.
Who is Slardar strong against?
Slardar is particularly effective against invisibility-reliant heroes due to Corrosive Haze.
Is Slardar viable as a carry?
Yes, Slardar can transition into a carry role with proper Bash procs and physical damage items.
What heroes counter Slardar?
Heroes with spells like Glimmer Cape or strong dispels can counter him effectively.
What is Slardar’s role in team fights?
His role is primarily to initiate and lock down enemies while debuffing their armor.
Does Slardar rely on mana heavily?
Slardar has low mana needs but requires proper mana management for ability casts.
What is his best lane?
Slardar is most commonly played offlane but can also work as a safe-lane carry.
What makes Slardar so unique?
His combination of mobility, armor reduction, and stuns create immense utility for his team.
Source : Rizpol
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