Gyrocopter Context

Gyrocopter is a dynamic hero in Dota 2, possessing the ability to perform both carry and support roles. The character is equipped with Flak Cannons and stands out in its capacity to execute area-of-effect damage combined with single-target burst potential. This feature becomes especially potent in the later stages of the game.

Understanding Gyrocopter’s Abilities

The primary source of damage in the early game for Gyrocopter is the Rocket Barrage ability. It causes damage over time in an area around the hero and should typically be maxed out first. This ability can deal extra attacks without drawing creep aggro when no creeps are around and you’re in melee range with a target, reducing damage split.

Homing Missile, another of Gyrocopter’s abilities, is a stun feature that follows enemies even through fog of war or invisibility. However, it can be dispelled and destroyed by enemies, making the timing of use crucial. It can be used more effectively when cast from behind trees or out of range, making it harder for enemies to destroy prior to reaching its target.

Flak Cannon extends Gyrocopter’s attack ability, allowing it to hit enemies in a wide range, beyond the typical attack range. Nevertheless, Flak Cannon does not activate item effects like critical strikes on non-primary targets. It proves highly useful for clearing creep waves and attacking several enemies at once.

Gyrocopter’s ultimate ability, Call Down, consists of three aerial missile strikes which deal magical area-of-effect damage and apply a slow effect to enemies in the targeted area.

Exploring Skill Build Strategies

The skill build for Gyrocopter is usually straightforward and changes based on your chosen role. If you’re taking the role of carry, Rocket Barrage typically needs to be maximized first, followed by a decision between Homing Missile and Flak Cannon based on the needs of the game. However, for those choosing the support role, you may want to skip Flak Cannon completely and concentrate on Rocket Barrage and Homing Missile as you won’t be building damage or attack speed items.

At the onset of the game, you will need to choose between Rocket Barrage or Homing Missile for your first level, a decision that should be based on your lane matchup and tactic. After reaching level three, your skill progression will generally remain consistent throughout most games.

Lane Positioning and Prioritizing the Early Game

In general, Gyrocopter is played in the safe lane as an easy farmer, though he can also operate as a mid laner. As the hero lacks right-click damage early on, your positioning and how you use your abilities can be crucial. To prevent damage splitting with creeps, try to avoid attacking creeps when using Rocket Barrage in the lane.

Scaling in the Later Games

In the late game, Gyrocopter has the ability to decimate supports in the backline whilst engaging an opponent up close thanks to the expanded range of Flak Cannon. The hero scales well with right-click items and can transition into a core role given a long enough game. For more specific build recommendations, item progressions, and matchup information, consider checking the latest patch guides on platforms such as DotaBuff or Liquipedia since hero builds evolve with each game patch.