Taking Roshan is a high-risk, high-reward endeavor that requires careful planning and execution. A successful Roshan attempt can swing the momentum of the game.
Key Strategic Considerations:
- Timing:
- After a Team Fight Win: If you've just won a team fight and the enemy heroes are dead or far away, it's an ideal time.
- Enemy Out of Position: If key enemy heroes are visible on the opposite side of the map, or if they are farming far from Roshan.
- Smoke Gank: Use Smoke of Deceit to approach Roshan undetected.
- Day/Night Cycle: Nighttime can be safer due to reduced enemy vision.
- Vision Control:
- Ward Roshan Pit: Place Observer Wards inside and around the pit to see if enemies are attempting Roshan.
- Deward Enemy Vision: Use Sentry Wards to clear any enemy Observer Wards around the pit.
- Hero Composition:
- High Damage: Heroes with high physical damage (e.g., Ursa, Sven, Troll Warlord) can take Roshan quickly.
- Lifesteal/Sustain: Heroes with lifesteal or healing (e.g., Lifestealer, Dazzle) can sustain through Roshan's damage.
- Disables: Heroes with stuns or silences can interrupt Roshan's Slam, though it's often not worth it.
- Execution:
- Tanking: The hero with the highest armor or damage reduction should tank Roshan's attacks.
- Damage Output: Focus all available damage on Roshan.
- Watch for Contests: Have heroes positioned outside the pit to watch for enemy rotations and be ready to defend or disengage.
- Spells Ready: Ensure your team has key spells (stuns, heals, ultimates) off cooldown in case of a contest.
- Aegis Carrier: Typically, the Aegis should go to your primary carry or a hero who can make the most impact with a second life.
A failed Roshan attempt can be devastating, leading to lost heroes, lost Aegis, and a significant gold/experience swing for the enemy. Always prioritize safety and coordination.