Is it Ever Acceptable to Go an Attack Damage Build for Axe in Dota 2?

Axe, the mighty Forest Phantom, has long been established as a versatile hero in Dota 2. While many players adhere to the traditional damage build route, which includes items like Vanguard and Blade Mail, some questions remain: is it ever acceptable to opt for an attack damage build?

The Standard Build

The standard build for Axe is highly efficient, covering a myriad of roles and providing significant crowd control and tanking capabilities. Key items that players typically choose include Phase Boots/ Tranquil Boots, Vanguards/Crimps, Blink Dagger, Blade Mail, Attack Centaur, Heart of Tarrasque, Radiance, and Force Staff. This build is robust and supports the hero's primary roles effectively.

When is an Attack Damage Build Acceptable for Axe?

While the standard build remains the most effective, there are rare cases where an attack damage build might be considered. However, it's crucial to note that such a build is highly situational and not universally recommended.

Early Game Utility

The only time an attack damage build can be somewhat useful for Axe is during the early game phase. During this time, Axe's skills, such as Counter Helix and Berserkers Call, combined with his right-click damage, can be effective against very weak heroes. This strategy, however, becomes significantly less viable as the game progresses. At level 6, Axe's edge diminishes, making a straight attack damage build impractical.

Axe's Primary Roles

Axe is primarily designed to be an initiator and a tank. His skills are best utilized when he can control enemy movements and initiate fights rather than focus solely on dealing damage.

Mastery in Initiation and Control

1. Initiation with Blink Dagger: Axe's Blink Dagger is a crucial tool for initiating fights. By blinking into the enemy lineup, he can maximize the effects of his Berserkers Call, contributing to the gank or team fight. This not only helps in crowd control but also in disabling enemy spells and preventing early escapes.

2. Ultimate to Rescue Allies: Axe's ultimate, Grudge, is powerful for initiating and rescuing allies. It can be deployed to save an ally from a dangerous situation or to manage crowd control, making it an invaluable tool in team fights.

Handling Weak and HP-Hungry Heroes

One of Axe's strengths lies in his ability to deal significant damage to low-health heroes. For example, heroes like Huskar and Dazzle are particularly vulnerable to Axe's attacks due to their reliance on health and low HP.

Conclusion

While an attack damage build can be a viable option under specific circumstances, it is generally not the best choice for Axe in most games. The standard build, which includes items like Vanguards, Blade Mail, and Radiance, better supports his primary roles as an initiator and tank, increasing the overall chances of team success.

Ultimately, players should consider the specific match-up, team composition, and the positioning of his opponents to determine the most effective build for Axe. Flexibility and adaptability are key in the ever-changing landscape of Dota 2.