Dota 2 Balance of Power update delivers Arc Warden and much more

Dota 2's latest update brings a lot to the table.

The first and most obvious change to Dota 2 as of the Balance of Power update is the addition of the Arc Warden hero. This "fractured guardian" has existed since the beginning of time and until recently stood as jailor to Radiant and Dire; two other aspects of the cosmic essence that gave it birth.

This lightning-themed, ranged hero can draw on Flux,Magnetic Field, Spark Wraith and Tempest Double abilities. For all the details, check out its new hero hub.

In keeping with the elemental theme, the update also introduces the Helm of the Thundergod, an arcana item for Zeus. It goes on sale soon, and if you buy in before December 31 you'll get the exalted quality version.

As with other arcana items, this one changes the look of the hero, with a new base model, texture, sound effects, animations, portrait, hero icon, ability icon, voice, mount and chat emoticon.

Elsewhere, the update delivers the Desert terrain to all those who purchased The International 2015 Compendium, along with three new desert music tracks. The new Desert Colosseum map is free to everyone, though.

An upgrade allows players with powerful rigs to choose ultra shadow quality in the video settings menu, rendering shadows at twice the previously-supported resolution. Other client improvements include a hero stats page, an easy access armoury, a simplified store UI and private chat channels.

In-game, you'll find changes to the river map, new neutral spawn locations and three new Captains.

There are also a stack of new items, a new "nested treasure", an arcane rune for all heroes, and some hero rebalancing; read the full patch notes at the bottom of the Balance of Power hub for further information