Another metagame build removes the Pack Hunters entirely. Often these builds include an Assassin, a Ritualist Spirit spammer, a Necromancer Hexer, and a Monk or other support character such as Ritualist healer. Players using this build concentrate on mass Hexes and Spirits to overwhelm an opponent. While players may still control the Assassin in builds like this, they choose an entirely different play style.

Generally, players capitalize on the huge range of defensive Spirits to bolster the entire party around the map. This tactic works best on smaller maps like the Crossing. While a number of Ritualist Spirits comprise the defense, the Necromancer supports both defense and offense with Hexes such as Insidious Parasite, Faintheartedness, and Reaper?s Mark. Equipping a few offensive spirits like Pain and Bloodsong on the Necromancer is another typical tactic. Although players with these builds have trouble in a battle where the opponent can run around, they can win by controlling the center shrine and another shrine in close proximity.

Currently, builds with incredible split ability dominate Hero Battles. The two Pack Hunter, one Assassin, one Monk build is designed specifically to split off in multiple directions and win through shrine control and picking off opportune targets. Yet players who can force these builds into a 4v4 confrontation tend to succeed when they build for that purpose. The Hero Battle metagame may seem stalled on one build, but many players try new tactics and strategies with varying degrees of success.

Also, the dominant build may fold under recent changes to Hero Battle mechanics and skill balances. Bug fixes to Heal as One could reduce its effectiveness, making Pack Hunters not quite as good. A longer recharge to Expose Defenses may encourage the return of more blocking skills, while the Ritualist change to Spawning Power might generate some Weapon Spell builds. Finally, the balances to morale meter rate and siege cannon fire rate could considerably alter split tactics. Whatever the future holds for the metagame of hero online gold, its popularity is sure to continue for quite some time.