Overview of lion - a dota 2 hero
Af Simon - 15 Sep 2025
Lion Dota 2 Hero is a classic intelligence-based support character known for his reliable disables and burst damage. Whether you're new to Dota 2 or a seasoned veteran, Lion remains one of the most impactful support heroes thanks to his versatile spell set and powerful ultimate. In this article, we will dive into Lion's abilities, playstyle, and how to get the most out of this formidable caster on the battlefield.
Background and Lore
Once a Grandmaster of demonology, Lion sought power beyond anyone’s comprehension. His hunger for supremacy led him to betrayal, corruption, and ultimately transformation. After suffering a defeat by his own hand - quite literally - Lion has returned, his human hand replaced with a monstrous demon claw, full of arcane energy. Now, he walks the battlefield dispensing swift and brutal justice to those who cross him.
Abilities
Impale
Lion's first ability, Impale, is a powerful ground-targeted disable that sends a shockwave through the earth, stunning and damaging all enemies in a line. It is ideal for initiating team fights or disrupting enemy channels.
Hex
Hex is one of the most disruptive crowd control abilities in the game. It transforms an enemy hero into a harmless critter, rendering them unable to attack, cast spells, or use items. Hex is extremely effective in pickoff situations or for stopping dangerous ultimates.
Mana Drain
Mana Drain allows Lion to steal mana from enemy units, refueling his own mana pool while simultaneously weakening his foe's ability to fight. This ability becomes increasingly valuable in prolonged encounters, especially against heroes who rely heavily on their abilities.
Finger of Death
Finger of Death, Lion’s signature ultimate, is a single-target nuke that deals massive magical damage. After acquiring the Aghanim’s Scepter upgrade, Finger of Death turns into an area-of-effect spell, making it even more lethal in the late game. The damage also increases with each kill, incentivizing effective usage throughout the match.
Playstyle and Strategy
Early Game
In the early game, Lion is typically played as a roaming or lane support. His disables make him excellent for securing kills, while Mana Drain helps him stay active without needing to return to base. Positioning is key - landing an Impale or Hex can quickly turn the tide of a skirmish.
Mid Game
During the mid game, Lion's role becomes more defined as a crowd control specialist and burst damage dealer. Using his ultimate to eliminate high-priority enemies is crucial. He should also begin building utility items like Blink Dagger or Force Staff to enhance mobility and survivability.
Late Game
In the late game, Lion remains impactful due to his ability to disable multiple enemies and burst down support or low-health cores. With Aghanim’s Scepter and the right talents, his Finger of Death becomes a game-changing ability capable of wiping out entire teams in critical moments.
Itemization Tips
- Blink Dagger - Allows for precise positioning and initiation.
- Aether Lens - Increases cast range, letting Lion use his spells from a safer distance.
- Aghanim's Scepter - Transforms Finger of Death into an AoE nuke and increases scalability.
- Glimmer Cape - Provides escape mechanisms and protection for allies.
Conclusion
Lion is a rewarding hero for players who enjoy controlling fights and making high-impact plays. With versatile disable options and one of the most devastating ultimates in the game, Lion continues to be a staple in both pub games and professional matches. Whether you're new to supporting or looking for a reliable addition to your hero pool, Lion remains a must-know pick in the Dota 2 universe.