Why I'm obsessed with Clockwerk support

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on playing Clockwerk as a position 4 or 5 support in Dota 2. Clockwerk is a versatile hero with strong initiation and control capabilities, making him an excellent choice for active support. This guide covers skill builds, item selection, gameplay strategies, and practical tips to enhance your Clockwerk gameplay.

Step 1: Skill Build

Understanding the optimal skill build for Clockwerk is crucial for maximizing his effectiveness in games.

1. Level 1: Hookshot

   • Start with Hookshot to initiate engagements from a distance.

2. Level 2: Battery Assault

   • Take Battery Assault for damage and disruption during fights.

3. Level 3: Power Cogs

   • Choose Power Cogs to create barriers and control enemy movements.

4. Level 4: Upgrade Hookshot

   • Continue upgrading Hookshot at every opportunity.

5. Levels 5-10: Prioritize Battery Assault and Power Cogs

   • Maximize Battery Assault first, followed by Power Cogs for effective crowd control.

6. Level 11: Upgrade Ultimate (Cogs)

   • Upgrade your ultimate ability when available.

7. Levels 12-15: Distribute Points

   • Balance between Battery Assault and Cogs based on match needs.

8. Levels 16-20: Finalize Skill Build

   • Finish upgrading your ultimate, then fill in remaining skills based on the game flow.

Step 2: Item Build

Selecting the right items is essential for enhancing Clockwerk's support capabilities.

1. Starting Items

   • Tango
   • Healing Salve
   • Clarity
   • Iron Branches
   • Quelling Blade (for cutting trees)

2. Early Game Items

   • Magic Wand: For burst health and mana.
   • Boots of Speed: Essential for mobility.

3. Core Items

   • Arcane Boots: Provides mana regeneration for you and your team.
   • Aether Lens: Increases your spell range, allowing for safer engagements.

4. Situational Items

   • Force Staff: Great for positioning and escaping.
   • Glimmer Cape: Offers invisibility for saving allies or escaping.
   • Guardian Greaves: Provides a healing boost to your team.

5. Late Game Items

   • Blink Dagger: For initiation and repositioning during fights.
   • Agility and other damage items based on game dynamics.

Step 3: Gameplay and Tips

Executing your role effectively during the game is vital for success.

1. Early Game: Be Active

   • Focus on roaming and ganking lanes. Use Hookshot for surprise engagements.
   • Secure vision by placing wards in strategic locations.

2. Mid Game: Team Coordination

   • Participate in team fights, using Battery Assault to disrupt enemies.
   • Create space for your carry to farm by zoning out opponents.

3. Late Game: Initiate and Control

   • Use Hookshot to initiate fights, targeting key enemy heroes.
   • Position Power Cogs strategically to block escape routes and isolate enemies.

4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

   • Don’t overcommit without backup; always communicate with your team.
   • Avoid using Hookshot recklessly; ensure it guarantees a kill or significant advantage.

5. Real-World Applications

   • Clockwerk can be used effectively in various team compositions, typically those that benefit from crowd control and initiation.

Conclusion

Mastering Clockwerk as a position 4 or 5 support involves understanding skill and item builds, as well as effective gameplay strategies. By actively participating in fights, providing vision, and controlling the battlefield, you can significantly impact your team's performance. For continued improvement, consider reviewing gameplay VODs and practicing your skills in different match scenarios. Happy gaming!