Shadow Shaman

Rhasta the Shadow Shaman is a ranged intelligence Hero mostly used as a pusher and disabler, wielding abilities that make pushing lanes more efficient. He is also capable of disabling multiple enemy heroes, allowing him to initiate encounters as well. Though very supportive in nature, until the late game Rhasta is capable of killing lone enemy heroes with the use of his entire skillset; meaning he is more difficult to gank than most other supports. Playing Rhasta well requires good knowledge of target priority and timing; and some minor micromanagement. His peak is mid-game, but he can continue to wreak havoc on enemies all throughout the match. Shadow Shaman requires some positioning as well as a bit of micromanagement of his Serpent Wards and so is recommended for Intermediate players.

Tips

 * Euls Scepter of Divinity is a commonly built item, used in conjunction with Mass Serpent Wards. Catching an enemy hero in a cyclone gives you ample time to place the Serpent Wards around the hero, trapping it. You can then further disable the hero by using Shackles.
 * Shackles is a channeling spell. Enemy units and heroes can interrupt Rhasta with stuns and disables, when he is holding enemy down. It's better to use it when your target is alone.
 * Always cancel the backswing animation after casting your spells, as Rhasta's animations are quite lengthy.
 * Necronomicon is an ideal choice to attack your enemy while you're shackling it. Together with your Serpent Wards and the Necronomicon's Summons, the kill is almost guaranteed.
 * Rhasta's spells have a very high mana cost. Build up your mana pool and mana regeneration with items or you may find yourself unable to cast anything in critical situations.
 * A useful trick when going one-on-one with an opponent is to summon your Mass Serpent Ward near or behind the enemy and then hold them in place with your Shackles spell. If mana will allow, using Hex will give you a few seconds to set this up uninterrupted.
 * Rhasta's Serpent Wards can be commanded. Beginners often neglect to control them, but even if Rhasta is dead he can have a big impact on a fight with intelligent use of his wards.

Trivia

 * The name Rhasta is based on the Rastafarians, a follower of a religious movement in Jamaica known as Rastafari. In DotA, his hero model and dialogue had a strong Jamaican influence and style. But in Dota 2, his theme and style has undertaken a more Middle-Eastern influence, mostly evident in his attire and accent.
 * Rhasta is also a Persian name and word that means "truth."