Grimstroke + Slardar

Why this works

Facing a Slardar often involves trying to stay out of range of Corrosive Haze. When Grimstroke is on his team, that threat extends to a second target. Grimstroke's Soulbind can link two enemy heroes, allowing Slardar to cast his single-target ultimate on one and have the armor reduction apply to both. This instantly creates two vulnerable targets for your entire team's physical damage. The setup is also easier, as a well-aimed Stroke of Fate can slow a priority hero, letting Slardar close the distance to apply his stun and ultimate.

The duo's main strength comes online once both heroes have their ultimates. They excel at punishing enemies who are grouped up, looking for opportunities to bind and eliminate two heroes at the start of a fight. The effectiveness of this plan, however, relies on enemy positioning. A disciplined opponent will spread out, making it difficult to land a high-value Soulbind. If Grimstroke can’t find two heroes to link, Slardar and Grimstroke are left with more standard lockdown, which is helpful but not as decisive.