Discover New Dota 2 Patch 7.38 “Wandering Waters” Game Map Changes

On February 19, 2025, the highly anticipated Dota 2 new patch 7.38 – Wandering Waters was released. It introduced a host of new mechanics, balanced heroes and items, and, most importantly, revamped the game map. Players will have to adapt to new rivers, teleport locations, Roshan’s position, and more. In this article, we’ll break down the key map changes in Dota new patch – Wandering Waters.

Wandering Waters

The main map change in new Dota 2 patch is the addition of two water currents located in the upper and lower jungle areas. These aren’t just decorative streams but key map elements that will directly impact gameplay. Moving with the current grants you a speed boost, making it easier to reach the lanes, while moving against it won’t slow you down.

The biggest advantage of this new Dota patch feature is that it provides faster lane access without using portals and allows for more efficient jungle farming. For most players, navigating the map this way might feel awkward at first, but we’re confident that after a few games, you’ll adapt and start using these water currents to your advantage.

Shrines and Lotus Pools

Another notable update is the reworked mechanics for acquiring Wisdom Runes and Lotuses. In short, in new patch 7/38 the Wisdom Rune and Lotuses have been removed in their traditional form. Now, they can be obtained from Shrines, which are located in roughly the same areas as the previous runes. You will still gain experience for yourself and your ally, but instead of picking up a rune, you must stand inside the Shrine to receive experience. The challenge is that the Shrine will not activate if an enemy hero is nearby.

A similar mechanic applies to Lotuses. To obtain one, you must stand inside the Lotus Pool. However, if enemies are nearby, the pool will not activate, so make sure you are alone before attempting to claim your reward. This will definitely add some complexity to the laning stage in the new Dota patch.

Roshan’s Relocation

This change will also have a massive impact on Dota new patch gameplay. The legendary boss has relocated and now resides in the central river near the Power Runes—locations that have long been significant for him. Roshan will still move between his lairs based on the day-night cycle, but now this transition happens along the central river. If a player approaches him during this movement, they will be knocked back. This change will likely increase the number of river skirmishes, adding more dynamism to the game.

New Tormentor Location

Since their introduction, Tormentors have unexpectedly become a crucial aspect of the game. In the new Dota 2 patch, it’s time for some adjustments. Tormentors no longer spawn at their usual spots near each team's Tier 2 tower. Instead, a single Tormentor will now appear in one of two corner locations on the map, depending on the time of day—meaning it will always spawn on the opposite side of Roshan. This adds another layer of strategic complexity, forcing teams to decide whether to prioritize killing the Tormentor or contesting Roshan in Dota new patch.

Among several other new Dota patch adjustments, the Tormentor now has a new ability that leaves behind an AoE healing effect upon death. These changes in the Dota new patch signal one thing—more fights for the valuable Aghanim’s Shard.

In addition, in the Dota new patch, Valve has slightly changed the location of portals. Now they are located a little further away from the Tier 1 towers, which increases the time spent moving between lanes. In addition, in the new Dota 7.38 patch, Valve has slightly updated the map textures, making them more vivid and visually expressive.