If you’re looking to dominate from the offlane in Patch 7.38c, there are two heroes you absolutely need to add to your arsenal. Whether you’re after tanky frontliners with game-changing utility or surprising scaling potential, this patch offers something for every offlaner.
In this article, Dota 2 expert and educator Speed breaks down the top 2 offlaners of the patch and how to build them for maximum impact—from lane domination to late-game presence.
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#1 – Vengeful Spirit: Axe-Timing Beast
Vengeful Spirit might not be the flashiest offlaner, but she is incredibly effective in 7.38c—particularly when built around an early Aghanim’s Scepter.
Why Venge Is Great Right Now
Venge’s power spike comes from her ability to reliably contribute in fights even after death with her Aghanim’s Spirit form. Her kit offers everything a team could ask for:
- Reliablestun (Magic Missile)
- Wave of Terror (armor reduction, vision)
- Nether Swap (game-breaking repositioning)
She shines in average pub games where coordination isn’t always perfect—because even if you get caught, you still contribute.
Item Build
- Start: Wand, 3 Branches, Tango
- Early: Boots (or Wraith Band/Bracer if lane is easy)
- Core: Rush Aghanim’s Scepter
- Post-Aghs Options:
- Utility: Aether Lens, Vlads, Shard (Magic Missile bounce)
- Scaling: Manta, Butterfly, Dragon Lance, Hurricane Pike
Venge offlane thrives in high-tempo skirmishes, with swap saving teammates and initiating clutch picks.
#2 – Dawnbreaker: Trailblazer Facet & Aghs Powerhouse
Dawnbreaker’s Aghanim’s Scepter received a rework that many players overlooked—but in practice, it’s incredibly strong when paired with the right facet.
Why Dawnbreaker Works
- The Trailblazer facet grants 25% bonus movement speed to allies walking along Celestial Hammer.
- Aghanim’s now makes Solar Guardian land instantly, removing the old evasion perk but turning Dawnbreaker into a frontline healing nuke.
Unlike carry-style Dawnbreakers that rely on Deso or Harpoon, this version focuses on utility, sustain, and control.
Item Build
- Start: Bracer, Magic Stick, Tango
- Early Core: Phase Boots, Soul Ring, Blade Mail
- Power Spike: Aghanim’s Scepter
- Post-Aghs Options:
- Utility: Pipe, Crimson Guard, Shiva’s, Holy Locket
- Semi-Core: Harpoon, S&Y, Deso + Shard (if scaling)
This build is especially effective in teamfight-heavy games, where AoE healing and stun chains can win you fights outright.
Honorable Mentions
- Beastmaster: Always relevant but better with micro skill.
- Underlord: Solid utility but lower impact early.
- Dark Seer: Niche but devastating in the right lineup.
Patch 7.38c’s offlane meta favors heroes that combine impact with flexibility—and both Venge and Dawnbreaker fit the bill. Whether you’re trying to force objectives or enable your greedy cores, these two picks will give you control, scaling, and utility in one package.
Grab your Phase Boots and prepare to frontline like a boss—because these offlaners are here to carry from the 3 position.
FAQs
Q: Is Venge still viable in high MMR games?
A: She’s more common in pubs, but her early Aghanim’s timing and utility make her viable even in serious stacks.
Q: What’s the best facet for Dawnbreaker in 7.38c?
A: Trailblazer is the highest win-rate facet in pubs. The 25% bonus move speed is amazing for coordination and setup.
Q: Does Dawnbreaker still work as a carry?
A: Yes, but utility Dawn with Aghs is far more effective and easier to execute right now.
Q: Should Venge build Manta or go full utility?
A: Depends on the game. Manta + Butterfly lets you scale hard, while Aether Lens and Shard offer Pure utility.
Q: Can these offlaners frontline reliably?
A: Yes. Both heroes offer natural tankiness and game-saving ultimates, allowing them to initiate and survive.
