DotA - Art of Gameplay

[previously discussed-other than psychological impact]

I would like to add in 3 main awareness that any high level player will implement in their gaming styles. Although it is standard that players should cultivate their awareness, reaction[quick-thinking, essentially], teamwork[determines outcome of game play ultimately] as well as game knowledge, and the subconscious or deliberate knowledge of who is around and not. Most importantly, communication.

1.) Situational Awareness - Who is around you[prevent ganks or counter that], WHAT is around you? Items, objects that may pose a threat or be of help[Using trees, forests and fog; neutral creeps to amplify damage or increase % of proc - AXE or creeps to block movement/trap]. Is there any escape routes, or what other alternatives are there? [ do you have a specific skill that can help you escape or is there any mechanics in your skill allowing you to depart /recede from ganks?- e.g pugna with decrepify on low hp forces opponent to use magic attacks. You can then tp to safety. This is more viable when opponents skill are in cool down

2.) Fear Control/ Fear Manipulation - Are you going to freak out in the event of a team fight. Are you able to maintain your composure or lose it and lose your life? Are you able to play a psychological game with your opponent- can you trick him into believing that you are escaping but turn around in the critical moment and deliver that unexpected blow to end his spree? Are you able to control your anxiety and anger?

3.) Critical Weaknesses - In the event of an intense struggle, be able to analyze and assess the situation tersely and then make your move fast. Who would you target ? Discuss with your teammates to take down the opponent who poses a greater threat in terms of damage, how vulnerable opponent is due to low hp count? Can you buy items to counter any incoming threat or to prevent yourself from being focus-fired because you are not meant to tank?

Please do read all information, and note that all these information are not exclusive, but are just basic fundamentals that are effective in determining game play and outcome. All in all, practice with heroes that you have not encountered and figure out their STRENGTH AND WEAKNESSES. Obviously in games, there lies lots of strategy and mind work through analysis. To refine these skills to perfection, being in different situations all the time in games will allow you to gain inspiration of what to do and what not to do. Words cannot simply evaluate the higher level players' abilities, but only provide comprehensive and a not-so pragmatic overview of what is happening.

Last but not least, do not get deterred easily. Keep the fighting spirit up because that is what you still need to have even if your team is on the losing end.