In the world of Dota 2, the role of a carry is pivotal to a team's success. The primary responsibility of a carry is to deal damage, particularly in the late game when they become increasingly powerful. A carry hero typically begins the match with limited strength but gains momentum as they accumulate gold and experience. This sequence typically involves farming effectively in the early game to secure essential items that enhance their capabilities. Hence, understanding the timing of when to farm, participate in team fights, and push lanes is crucial for a carry to fulfill their role.

Another core responsibility of a carry is to maintain a balance between aggression and survivability. Since they often attract attention from enemy heroes, a successful carry must master the art of positioning and map awareness to mitigate threats. Additionally, a carry should coordinate with their team to optimize their potential during fights. For example, leveraging abilities such as crowd control from allies can make it easier for them to land crucial attacks without being eliminated quickly. Ultimately, a carry's ability to scale into the late game is not only about individual performance but also about teamwork and strategic decision-making.

In the ever-evolving landscape of competitive gaming, identifying the top 5 carry heroes that define the meta is crucial for players aiming to climb the ranks. These heroes possess unique abilities and potential that allow them to carry their teams to victory, making them invaluable picks in both casual and professional play. Among the most dominant carry heroes, you'll find those whose scaling power and team-fighting capabilities can turn the tide of any match, showcasing their importance in various strategies.

1. Anti-Mage: With his ability to quickly farm and a powerful ultimate, Anti-Mage is a classic example of a carry hero that excels in late-game dominance.
2. Juggernaut: Known for his versatility and survivability, Juggernaut can outlast opponents while dishing out significant damage.
3. Phantom Assassin: Featuring high burst damage and critical hit potential, Phantom Assassin can eliminate key targets swiftly.
4. Medusa: A late-game powerhouse, Medusa can turn any battle in her favor with her incredible scaling.
5. Spectre: With her ability to haunt enemies and deal damage from afar, Spectre is a force to be reckoned with.
These heroes collectively shape the current meta, catering to various play styles and team compositions, ensuring that they remain pivotal in the game's competitive scene.

Last-hitting is a crucial skill for aspiring Dota 2 carries that can significantly influence the game. Mastering this technique allows players to secure gold and experience from enemy creeps while minimizing damage taken. To begin, focus on understanding the mechanics of damage dealt by your hero and the enemy creeps. Each creep dies at a specific health threshold, and timing your attacks just before they reach this threshold is key. Utilize the practice mode in Dota 2 to hone your last-hitting proficiency without the pressure of a live game. Regular practice will help you develop muscle memory, making last-hitting second nature during actual matches.

Another essential aspect of last-hitting is positioning and map awareness. Always be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on the enemy’s potential interventions. If you notice the enemy jungler or offlaner approaching, reposition yourself to a safer distance, while still staying close enough to secure your last hits. Additionally, pay attention to creep equilibrium; pushing the lane too hard can put you at risk of ganks and missed last-hits. Finally, consider using abilities to assist with last-hitting when necessary, but ensure that you do not overextend yourself in the process. By combining these strategies, you will not only improve your last-hitting but position yourself as a formidable carry in any Dota 2 match.