TL;DR
- Valve eliminated pre-match bans to counter third-party software exploitation
- Set four strategic hero bans through the Heroes tab interface for optimal coverage
- System randomly selects one ban from your four choices with equal probability
- Change bans freely between matches with no usage restrictions
- Single-hero bans provide only 25% effectiveness – diversify for better results
Games and Esports Articles Dota 2
Valve fundamentally transformed Dota 2’s matchmaking ban mechanics with patch 7.35d, deployed on March 21. This strategic shift eliminates traditional pre-pick phase hero exclusions entirely. Players now configure four permanent character restrictions directly from the main interface, creating a personalized ban pool that persists across gaming sessions.
The primary motivation behind this architectural change targets third-party applications like Overplus that leveraged pre-game intelligence. These tools analyzed opponent match histories to gain unfair competitive edges. By removing pre-match visibility, Valve levels the playing field and restores matchmaking integrity. This represents one of the most significant matchmaking adjustments in recent Dota 2 history.
Navigate to the Heroes section within Dota 2’s main menu interface. Locate the ban configuration panel positioned in the upper-right corner, featuring four distinct selection slots. Click each available slot sequentially to designate which champions you wish to exclude from upcoming matches. These choices directly impact both opponents’ selections and potential teammates’ options in your future games.
When you queue for your next matchmaking session, the system automatically prohibits one character from your designated four-hero ban list. Critical insight: selecting only a single hero dramatically reduces system effectiveness, maintaining merely a 25% prohibition probability for that specific champion.
The ban mechanism operates on pure randomization principles – each of your four selections carries equal weight in the exclusion lottery. This design prevents predictable patterns and ensures fair distribution across the player ecosystem. You retain complete flexibility to modify your ban preferences between matches without any cooldown restrictions or usage limitations.
Strategic ban management requires understanding common player errors. Many competitors make the critical mistake of banning only their personal counter-heroes rather than considering meta threats. The most effective approach combines personal preference with current patch dominance – target both the heroes you struggle against and those dominating the competitive landscape.
Optimize your ban selection by analyzing recent match data and professional tournament picks. Focus on high-impact heroes with significant win rate advantages in your skill bracket. Avoid banning niche picks that rarely appear – instead prioritize frequently selected champions that dictate game tempo.
Advanced players should regularly rotate their ban preferences based on patch evolution and meta shifts. The system’s unlimited modification capability enables dynamic adaptation to emerging strategies. For comprehensive gaming mastery, explore our Complete Guide to competitive strategy fundamentals.
Remember that ban effectiveness multiplies with strategic diversity. While you might personally despise facing Techies, if that hero has minimal pick rate in your bracket, that ban slot delivers reduced practical value. Balance personal preference with statistical effectiveness for optimal results.
Action Checklist
- Access Heroes tab and locate four ban slots in top-right interface
- Select four diverse heroes covering both personal counters and meta threats
- Verify ban selection covers different roles (carry, support, mid) for comprehensive coverage
- Monitor match results and adjust bans based on opponent selections and patch changes
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides » How to ban heroes in Dota 2 patch 7.35d? Why can’t I ban heroes before games? Master Dota 2's new hero ban system with strategic insights and practical implementation tips