Grimstroke vs Tidehunter

How this matchup plays

Deciding whether to pick Grimstroke into a Tidehunter, or the other way around, is a genuine puzzle. The heroes have famous synergy, but they also possess tools that directly foil each other. Grimstroke's entire plan often revolves around landing Soulbind on a key frontliner, and Tidehunter is a perfect, lumbering target for that. Yet, Tidehunter’s Kraken Shell provides a periodic dispel that can cleanse away a spell like Phantom's Embrace, completely negating a huge chunk of Grimstroke's control and damage.

This tension plays out in teamfights as a game of chicken. The Grimstroke player holds Soulbind, waiting for Tidehunter to commit or be caught near a support. The Tidehunter player holds Ravage, knowing that if he can absorb Grimstroke’s initial volley with Kraken Shell and land his ultimate, the fight is won. Success for either hero depends entirely on which team better executes their setup. One side tries to isolate and leash, while the other aims to soak the pressure and turn the fight with one massive stun.