Mars counter picks: who to choose against this hero in Dota 2

Mars is an active and unpredictable character, who is able to defeat almost any opponent in close combat. He deals mostly physical damage. The hero has few magical abilities, but this does not make him weak. Despite the fact that Mars appeared relatively recently in the Dota 2 game, millions have already managed to fall in love with him.

The character feels confident on any lane. The developers endowed him with great power. He was created to win, so Mars causes only anxiety and great fear among rivals. No matter what position you put the hero in, he will unconditionally lead you to success.

Who can counter Mars in Dota 2

• Riki. This character has Blink, which allows you to attack the opponent from behind. Riki can also quickly escape the arena if necessary.
• Viper. Mars heavily depends on his ultimate ability Arena of Blood, but Viper can easily counter him by applying constant poison, reducing his defense and movement speed. This makes him vulnerable to further attacks.
• Anti-Mage. This hero can quickly drain Mars' mana, preventing him from using Arena of Blood and other crucial abilities. Anti-Mage can also quickly kill Mars, especially if he hasn't built survivability items.
• Oracle - With his ultimate ability False Promise, Oracle can negate the damage from Arena of Blood, saving his allies from massive damage. Also, with Fate's Edict, he can interrupt Mars' attack.
• Dazzle - Dazzle can reduce Mars' damage with his ability Shallow Grave, allowing his allies to survive even when Mars activates his ultimate ability. Also, Weave lowers Mars' armor, making him vulnerable.
• Bane - With Fiend's Grip, Bane can disable Mars and make him vulnerable to attacks. This is especially useful if Mars decides to activate Arena of Blood at a critical moment.
• Lifestealer - Lifestealer can survive in Arena of Blood thanks to his ability Rage, which makes him immune to control. He also deals a lot of damage to Mars, especially if Mars has a lot of armor.

Items against Mars

• Black King Bar – protects against control, including Arena of Blood.
• Force Staff – helps to escape from the Arena of Blood zone.
• Glimmer Cape – can hide allies from Arena of Blood, giving them a chance to maneuver.
• Blade Mail – returns some damage to Mars, especially useful against his physical damage in Arena of Blood.
• Eul’s Scepter of Divinity – allows you to deflect Spear of Mars and avoid getting trapped in Arena of Blood.

How to play against Mars

Early Game

Mars can be dangerous in lane thanks to his abilities Spear of Mars and God's Rebuke. Try to avoid his attacks and stay away from walls to prevent being hit by Spear. Use heroes with high mobility or ranged attacks to avoid Mars' control.

Mid Game

Mars heavily depends on his ultimate Arena of Blood, so avoid grouping up to prevent taking massive damage from his Arena. Use items like Blink Dagger or other mobility items to escape from Arena or prevent its activation.

Late Game

Mars becomes very dangerous in the late game, where he can initiate team fights with Arena of Blood. To win, use items and heroes that can disable his ultimate or prevent him from controlling the fight. Items like Black King Bar or Eul’s Scepter of Divinity will help you avoid control and survive in battle.

Key Principle against Mars

Avoid being caught in Arena of Blood and use mobility and items to avoid his control. Control the space and don't allow Mars to group your team for his ultimate.