Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Melee Assassin · Warcraft

Samuro

The Blademaster

Role
Melee Assassin
Attack
Melee
Difficulty
Very Hard
Released
18 Oct 2016
Last patched
28 Sep 2026
Damage
6/10
Utility
3/10
Survivability
7/10
Complexity
7/10

Samuro is strong against

Score 1–100 for Samuro's net edge once both kits are weighed (50 = neutral)

  1. Sgt. Hammer Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedWind Walk lets Samuro reach a sieging Sgt. Hammer unseen, and she can't walk away without Thrusters cancelling Siege Mode; Mirror Images split her return fire.via Wind Walk, Mirror Image, Siege Mode, Thrusters
    • TheorySamuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Sgt. Hammer relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
    • TheorySgt. Hammer's map-wide reach (Blunt Force Gun) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure. Only when Sgt. Hammer takes Blunt Force Gun.
    • TheorySgt. Hammer clears waves quickly (Spider Mines, Concussive Blast), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  2. Chromie Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedSand Blast stops on the first enemy it hits, so Mirror Images soak Chromie's main damage while Samuro closes on her 1390 Health through Wind Walk.via Sand Blast, Mirror Image, Wind Walk
    • TheorySamuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Chromie's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
    • TheoryChromie can reveal enemies (Timewalker's Pursuit), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Chromie takes Timewalker's Pursuit.
    • TheoryChromie reduces enemy Armor (Unravelling), offsetting Samuro's Physical Armor. Only when Chromie takes Unravelling. Samuro must also take Deflection.
  3. Li-Ming Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheorySamuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch Li-Ming, who is easy to kill when found alone.
    • TheorySamuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Li-Ming's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
    • TheorySamuro reduces enemy Armor (Way of the Blade), offsetting Li-Ming's Spell Armor. Only when Samuro takes Way of the Blade. Li-Ming must also take Force Armor.
  4. Nova Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheorySamuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone.
    • TheorySamuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
10 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Tychus 63 Theory Samuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Tychus relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
  2. Valla 63 Theory Samuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Valla relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
  3. Orphea 61 Theory Samuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Orphea relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
  4. The Lost Vikings 61 Theory Samuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch The Lost Vikings, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  5. Zul'jin 59 Theory Samuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Zul'jin relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
  6. Jaina 54 Theory Samuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch Jaina, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  7. Genji 53 Theory Samuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Genji's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
  8. Probius 53 Theory Samuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch Probius, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  9. Kael'thas 52 Theory Samuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Kael'thas's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
  10. Raynor 52 Theory Samuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Raynor relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.

Samuro is weak against

Score 1–100 for their net edge over Samuro's kit

  1. Johanna Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShield Glare blinds Samuro and any Mirror Images in front of Johanna, and nearly all of their damage is basic attacks and Critical Strikes.via Shield Glare, Critical Strike, Mirror Image
    • TheoryJohanna can Blind (Shield Glare), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage.
    • TheoryJohanna can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Divine Fortress), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Johanna takes Divine Fortress.
    • TheoryJohanna clears waves quickly (Condemn), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  2. Mei Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedSnow Blind hits an area, so one throw Blinds Samuro and every Mirror Image at once, and Blizzard's stun catches all of them too.via Snow Blind, Mirror Image, Blizzard, Critical Strike
    • CuratedSnow Blind blinds and slows Samuro and every Mirror Image in its area for 1.75 seconds, shutting off the basic attacks and crits that carry his damage.
    • TheoryMei can Blind (Snow Blind), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage.
    • TheoryMei can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Skating Away), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Mei takes Skating Away.
  3. Cassia Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedBlinding Light blinds Samuro and his Images in an area for 2 seconds, and Avoidance's Armor while Cassia moves blunts his crits.via Blinding Light, Avoidance, Critical Strike
    • TheoryCassia can Blind (Blinding Light, Imprisoning Light), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage.
    • TheoryCassia clears waves quickly (Lightning Fury, Blinding Light), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
    • TheoryCassia reduces enemy Armor (Titan's Revenge), offsetting Samuro's Physical Armor. Only when Cassia takes Titan's Revenge. Samuro must also take Deflection.
    • TheorySamuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Cassia relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
  4. Mephisto Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedLightning Nova and Skull Missile are area damage that hit Samuro and his Mirror Images together, and the images take double damage from every tick.via Lightning Nova, Skull Missile, Mirror Image
    • TheoryMephisto can reveal enemies (Consume Souls), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Mephisto takes Consume Souls.
    • TheoryMephisto clears waves quickly (Skull Missile, Shade of Mephisto), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  5. Xal'atath Curated
    Why? 6
    • CuratedShadow Mark reveals Samuro through Wind Walk, and the Dark Heart's pulsing area damage shreds Mirror Images, which take double damage.via Shadow Mark, Dark Heart Ritual, Mirror Image, Wind Walk
    • TheoryXal'atath can reveal enemies (Shadow Mark), taking away Samuro's stealth.
    • TheoryXal'atath can Blind (Void Eruption), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage. Only when Xal'atath takes Void Eruption.
    • TheoryXal'atath clears waves quickly (Shadow Mark, Dark Heart Ritual), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
    • TheorySamuro can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Deflection), which Xal'atath relies on for damage. Only when Samuro takes Deflection.
    • TheorySamuro brings Spell Armor (Mirage), which blunts Xal'atath's ability burst. Only when Samuro takes Mirage.
  6. Hogger Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedMirror Images take double damage, and Hogg Wild's area damage (plus Garbage Fire's at level 7) shreds the images while still hitting the real Samuro, taking away his main way to split and juke.via Hogg Wild, Garbage Fire, Mirror Image
    • TheoryHogger clears waves quickly (Staggering Blow, Loot Hoard), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
    • TheoryHogger reduces enemy Armor (Power Spike), offsetting Samuro's Physical Armor. Only when Hogger takes Power Spike. Samuro must also take Deflection.
View 9 more
  1. Muradin 68 Curated Thunder Clap is an area blast, so one cast slows the attacks and movement of Samuro and both Mirror Images, cutting the damage of his whole illusion team.
    1 more reason
    • Muradin can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Dwarf Block), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Muradin takes Dwarf Block.
  2. Deckard 77 Theory Deckard can Blind (Respect the Elderly), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage. Only when Deckard takes Respect the Elderly.
    3 more reasons
    • Deckard can reveal enemies (Scroll of Identify), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Deckard takes Scroll of Identify.
    • Deckard reduces healing received (Emerald), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Deckard takes Emerald.
    • Deckard clears waves quickly (Horadric Cube, Scroll Of Sealing), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  3. Dehaka 77 Theory Dehaka's map-wide reach (Brushstalker) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
    2 more reasons
    • Dehaka can reveal enemies (Isolation), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Dehaka takes Isolation.
    • Dehaka reduces healing received (Paralyzing Enzymes), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Dehaka takes Paralyzing Enzymes.
  4. Valeera 77 Theory Valeera can Blind (Blade Flurry, Blind), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage.
    3 more reasons
    • Valeera can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Combat Readiness), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Valeera takes Combat Readiness.
    • Valeera reduces healing received (Wound Poison), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Valeera takes Wound Poison.
    • Valeera clears waves quickly (Sinister Strike, Blade Flurry), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  5. Brightwing 75 Theory Brightwing's map-wide reach helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
    1 more reason
    • Brightwing can reveal enemies (Peekaboo!), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Brightwing takes Peekaboo!.
  6. Malthael 74 Theory Malthael can reveal enemies (Reaper's Mark), taking away Samuro's stealth.
    1 more reason
    • Malthael reduces healing received (Touch of Death), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Malthael takes Touch of Death.
  7. Qhira 74 Theory Qhira can reveal enemies (No Sanctuary), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Qhira takes No Sanctuary.
    2 more reasons
    • Qhira can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Upstage), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Qhira takes Upstage.
    • Qhira clears waves quickly (Carnage, Revolving Sweep), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  8. Rexxar 74 Theory Rexxar can reveal enemies (Unleash the Boars, Flare), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Rexxar takes Unleash the Boars or Flare.
    2 more reasons
    • Rexxar can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Grizzled Fortitude), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Rexxar takes Grizzled Fortitude.
    • Rexxar clears waves quickly (Spirit Swoop, Misha, Charge!), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  9. Azmodan 73 Theory Azmodan's map-wide reach (Demon Lieutenant) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
    2 more reasons
    • Azmodan clears waves quickly (Summon Demon Warrior, Greed), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
    • Azmodan reduces enemy Armor (Black Pool), offsetting Samuro's Physical Armor. Only when Azmodan takes Black Pool. Samuro must also take Deflection.
48 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Varian 73 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Samuro relies on for damage.
  2. Zagara 73 Theory Zagara can reveal enemies (Creep Tumor), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  3. Tyrande 70 Theory Tyrande can reveal enemies (Sentinel, Hunter's Mark), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  4. Li Li 69 Theory Li Li can Blind (Blinding Wind, Gale Force), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage.
  5. Malfurion 69 Theory Malfurion can reveal enemies (Moonfire, Celestial Alignment), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  6. Ragnaros 69 Theory Ragnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
  7. Zeratul 69 Theory Zeratul can reveal enemies (Vorpal Blade), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  8. Illidan 67 Theory Illidan can reveal enemies (Nowhere to Hide), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Illidan takes Nowhere to Hide.
  9. Auriel 66 Theory Auriel can Blind (Blinding Flash), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage. Only when Auriel takes Blinding Flash.
  10. Artanis 65 Theory Artanis can Blind (Suppression Pulse), and Basic Attacks are most of Samuro's damage. Only when Artanis takes Suppression Pulse.
  11. D.Va 65 Theory D.Va reduces healing received (Aggression Matrix), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when D.Va takes Aggression Matrix.
  12. Falstad 65 Theory Falstad's map-wide reach (Flight) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
  13. Stitches 65 Theory Stitches reduces healing received (Master Hooker), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Stitches takes Master Hooker.
  14. Abathur 64 Theory Abathur can reveal enemies (Toxic Nest), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  15. E.T.C. 64 Theory E.T.C. can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Block Party), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when E.T.C. takes Block Party.
  16. Mal'Ganis 64 Theory Mal'Ganis can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Winged Guard), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Mal'Ganis takes Winged Guard.
  17. Yrel 64 Theory Yrel can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Dauntless), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Yrel takes Dauntless.
  18. Chen 63 Theory Chen can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Elusive Brawler), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Chen takes Elusive Brawler.
  19. Diablo 63 Theory Diablo's map-wide reach (Apocalypse) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure. Only when Diablo takes Apocalypse.
  20. Whitemane 63 Theory Whitemane's map-wide reach (Guiding Light) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure. Only when Whitemane takes Guiding Light.
  21. Kharazim 62 Theory Kharazim can reveal enemies (Air Ally), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Kharazim takes Air Ally.
  22. Lunara 62 Theory Lunara can reveal enemies (Sentinel Wisp, Natural Perspective), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Lunara takes Sentinel Wisp or Natural Perspective.
  23. Medivh 62 Theory Medivh can reveal enemies (Dust of Appearance), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Medivh takes Dust of Appearance.
  24. Cho'gall 61 Theory Cho'gall reduces healing received (Enraged Regeneration), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Cho'gall takes Enraged Regeneration.
  25. Garrosh 61 Theory Garrosh reduces healing received (Body Check), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Garrosh takes Body Check.
  26. Kel'Thuzad 61 Theory Kel'Thuzad can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Armor of the Archlich), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Kel'Thuzad takes Armor of the Archlich.
  27. Lúcio 61 Theory Lúcio reduces healing received (Mixing Fire), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Lúcio takes Mixing Fire.
  28. Nazeebo 61 Theory Nazeebo reduces healing received (Annihilating Spirit), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Nazeebo takes Annihilating Spirit.
  29. Xul 61 Theory Xul reduces healing received (Mortal Wound), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Xul takes Mortal Wound.
  30. Ana 60 Theory Ana reduces healing received (Biotic Grenade), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range.
  31. Arthas 59 Theory Arthas can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Rime), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Arthas takes Rime.
  32. Deathwing 59 Theory Deathwing clears waves quickly (Incinerate, Onslaught), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  33. Maiev 59 Theory Maiev clears waves quickly (Fan of Knives, Spirit of Vengeance), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  34. Sonya 59 Theory Sonya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Tough As Nails), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Sonya takes Tough As Nails.
  35. Stukov 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  36. Zarya 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  37. Rehgar 56 Theory Rehgar reduces healing received (Purification), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Rehgar takes Purification.
  38. Alexstrasza 55 Theory Alexstrasza clears waves quickly (Flame Buffet, Wing Buffet), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  39. Blaze 55 Theory Blaze clears waves quickly (Flame Stream, Pyromania), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  40. Gazlowe 55 Theory Gazlowe clears waves quickly (Deth Lazor, Xplodium Charge), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  41. Kerrigan 55 Theory Kerrigan clears waves quickly (Impaling Blades, Primal Grasp), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  42. Leoric 55 Theory Leoric clears waves quickly (Skeletal Swing), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  43. Sylvanas 55 Theory Sylvanas clears waves quickly, so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  44. Tassadar 55 Theory Tassadar can reveal enemies (Oracle), taking away Samuro's stealth. Only when Tassadar takes Oracle.
  45. Tyrael 55 Theory Tyrael clears waves quickly (El'druin's Might, Smite), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  46. Hanzo 54 Theory Hanzo can reveal enemies (Sonic Arrow), taking away Samuro's stealth.
  47. Junkrat 52 Theory Junkrat clears waves quickly (Frag Launcher, Concussion Mine), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  48. Fenix 51 Theory Fenix's map-wide reach (Planet Cracker) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure. Only when Fenix takes Planet Cracker.

Samuro works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Falstad Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedFalstad's Flight lets him rejoin fights from anywhere while Samuro holds a side lane, so the team isn't caught a hero short.via Flight, Wind Walk
    • TheoryFalstad has map-wide reach (Flight) while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  2. Arthas Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedHowling Blast's root and Frozen Tempest's slow keep targets impaired, so Merciless Strikes makes every Samuro attack a Critical Strike. Only when Samuro takes Merciless Strikes (level 16).via Howling Blast, Frozen Tempest, Merciless Strikes
    • TheoryArthas can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Icebound Fortitude) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Arthas takes Icebound Fortitude.
  3. Stukov Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedWeighted Pustule's growing Slow keeps targets Slowed for seconds, which turns every Samuro hit into a Critical Strike through Merciless Strikes. Only when Samuro takes Merciless Strikes (level 16).via Weighted Pustule, Merciless Strikes
  4. Whitemane Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryWhitemane groups or freezes enemies (Judgment Day) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Whitemane takes Judgment Day. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
    • TheoryWhitemane can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Intercession, Scarlet Crusade) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Whitemane takes Intercession or Scarlet Crusade.
    • TheoryWhitemane has map-wide reach (Guiding Light) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Whitemane takes Guiding Light.
  5. Brightwing Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryBrightwing can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Soothing Mist) to keep the attacks coming.
    • TheoryBrightwing has map-wide reach while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  6. Dehaka Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDehaka has map-wide reach (Brushstalker) while Samuro pressures a side lane.
    • TheoryDehaka groups or freezes enemies (Drag) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
View 3 more
  1. Kel'Thuzad 65 Theory Kel'Thuzad groups or freezes enemies (Chains of Kel'Thuzad) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
    1 more reason
    • Kel'Thuzad has map-wide reach (Shadow Fissure) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Kel'Thuzad takes Shadow Fissure.
  2. Tyrande 65 Theory Tyrande has map-wide reach while Samuro pressures a side lane.
    1 more reason
    • Tyrande can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Celestial Attunement) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Tyrande takes Celestial Attunement.
  3. Zarya 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
    1 more reason
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
38 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Abathur 60 Theory Abathur has map-wide reach while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  2. Anduin 60 Theory Anduin can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Leap of Faith) to keep the attacks coming.
  3. Azmodan 60 Theory Azmodan has map-wide reach (Demon Lieutenant) while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  4. Garrosh 60 Theory Garrosh can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Into the Fray) to keep the attacks coming.
  5. Ragnaros 60 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  6. Rehgar 60 Theory Rehgar can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Purge) to keep the attacks coming.
  7. Tracer 60 Theory Tracer can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Recall) to keep the attacks coming.
  8. Cassia 59 Theory Cassia groups or freezes enemies (Valkyrie) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Cassia takes Valkyrie. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  9. Cho'gall 59 Theory Cho'gall groups or freezes enemies (Upheaval) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  10. Chromie 59 Theory Chromie groups or freezes enemies (Time Trap, Chronic Conditions) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  11. Gazlowe 59 Theory Gazlowe groups or freezes enemies (Grav-O-Bomb 3000) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Gazlowe takes Grav-O-Bomb 3000. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  12. Johanna 59 Theory Johanna groups or freezes enemies (Condemn) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  13. Kerrigan 59 Theory Kerrigan groups or freezes enemies (Primal Grasp) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  14. Maiev 59 Theory Maiev groups or freezes enemies (Umbral Bind) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  15. Medivh 59 Theory Medivh groups or freezes enemies (Ley Line Seal, Medivh Cheats!) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Medivh takes Ley Line Seal or Medivh Cheats!. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  16. Orphea 59 Theory Orphea groups or freezes enemies (Crushing Jaws) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Orphea takes Crushing Jaws. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  17. Stitches 59 Theory Stitches groups or freezes enemies (Hook) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Samuro takes Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  18. Sylvanas 59 Theory Sylvanas groups or freezes enemies (Mind Control) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Sylvanas takes Mind Control. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  19. Tassadar 59 Theory Tassadar groups or freezes enemies (Black Hole) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Tassadar takes Black Hole. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  20. Zeratul 59 Theory Zeratul groups or freezes enemies (Void Prison) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Zeratul takes Void Prison. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  21. Alarak 56 Theory Alarak can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Last Laugh) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Alarak takes Last Laugh.
  22. Alexstrasza 56 Theory Alexstrasza can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Lifeblossom) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Alexstrasza takes Lifeblossom.
  23. Ana 56 Theory Ana can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Purifying Darts, Smelling Salts) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Ana takes Purifying Darts or Smelling Salts.
  24. Diablo 56 Theory Diablo has map-wide reach (Apocalypse) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Diablo takes Apocalypse.
  25. Fenix 56 Theory Fenix has map-wide reach (Planet Cracker) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Fenix takes Planet Cracker.
  26. Hanzo 56 Theory Hanzo has map-wide reach (Dragon's Arrow) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Hanzo takes Dragon's Arrow.
  27. Kharazim 56 Theory Kharazim can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Cleansing Touch) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Kharazim takes Cleansing Touch.
  28. Li Li 56 Theory Li Li can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Let's Go!) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Li Li takes Let's Go!.
  29. Lunara 56 Theory Lunara can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Abolish Magic) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Lunara takes Abolish Magic.
  30. Lúcio 56 Theory Lúcio can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (High Five) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Lúcio takes High Five.
  31. Malfurion 56 Theory Malfurion can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Nature's Cure) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Malfurion takes Nature's Cure.
  32. Mei 56 Theory Mei can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Backup Battery) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Mei takes Backup Battery.
  33. Sgt. Hammer 56 Theory Sgt. Hammer has map-wide reach (Blunt Force Gun) while Samuro pressures a side lane. Only when Sgt. Hammer takes Blunt Force Gun.
  34. Sonya 56 Theory Sonya can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Hurricane) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Sonya takes Hurricane.
  35. The Lost Vikings 56 Theory The Lost Vikings can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (64 KB Marathon) to keep the attacks coming. Only when The Lost Vikings takes 64 KB Marathon.
  36. Uther 56 Theory Uther can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Hand of Protection) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Uther takes Hand of Protection.
  37. Yrel 56 Theory Yrel can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Hand of Freedom) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Yrel takes Hand of Freedom.
  38. Zul'jin 56 Theory Zul'jin can cleanse crowd control off Samuro (Voodoo Shuffle) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zul'jin takes Voodoo Shuffle.

Spot a wrong or missing matchup? Suggest a correction with the mechanical reason; accepted notes land in the theory layer for everyone.

Best maps for Samuro

Score 1–100 from how the kit fits each map's layout and objective (50 = neutral)

  1. Garden of Terror Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheorySamuro's sustained damage (Mirror Image, Critical Strike) speeds up Garden of Terror's race against neutral units.
    • TheoryGarden of Terror has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    • TheorySamuro can cover ground quickly (Mirror Image, Shukuchi) on Garden of Terror's large layout.
  2. Blackheart's Bay Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryBlackheart's Bay has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    • TheorySamuro can reach channelling enemies quickly (Wind Walk) to contest Blackheart's Bay's objective.
    • TheorySamuro can cover ground quickly (Mirror Image, Shukuchi) on Blackheart's Bay's large layout.
  3. Cursed Hollow Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryCursed Hollow has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    • TheorySamuro can reach channelling enemies quickly (Wind Walk) to contest Cursed Hollow's objective.
    • TheorySamuro can cover ground quickly (Mirror Image, Shukuchi) on Cursed Hollow's large layout.
  4. Warhead Junction Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryWarhead Junction has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    • TheorySamuro can reach channelling enemies quickly (Wind Walk) to contest Warhead Junction's objective.
    • TheorySamuro can cover ground quickly (Mirror Image, Shukuchi) on Warhead Junction's large layout.
  5. Alterac Pass Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheorySamuro's sustained damage (Mirror Image, Critical Strike) speeds up Alterac Pass's race against neutral units.
    • TheoryAlterac Pass has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
  6. Infernal Shrines Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheorySamuro's sustained damage (Mirror Image, Critical Strike) speeds up Infernal Shrines's race against neutral units.
    • TheoryInfernal Shrines has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
View 7 more
  1. Dragon Shire 67 Theory Dragon Shire has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    1 more reason
    • Samuro can reach channelling enemies quickly (Wind Walk) to contest Dragon Shire's objective.
  2. Towers of Doom 67 Theory Towers of Doom has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    1 more reason
    • Samuro can reach channelling enemies quickly (Wind Walk) to contest Towers of Doom's objective.
  3. Sky Temple 65 Theory Sky Temple has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
    1 more reason
    • Samuro can cover ground quickly (Mirror Image, Shukuchi) on Sky Temple's large layout.
  4. Tomb of the Spider Queen 60 Theory Tomb of the Spider Queen has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
  5. Volskaya Foundry 60 Theory Volskaya Foundry has three lanes for Samuro to pressure while the team holds the objective.
  6. Battlefield of Eternity 55 Theory Samuro's sustained damage (Mirror Image, Critical Strike) speeds up Battlefield of Eternity's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Battlefield of Eternity has only two lanes, so Samuro's side-lane pressure is easier to answer.
  7. Haunted Mines 55 Theory Samuro's sustained damage (Mirror Image, Critical Strike) speeds up Haunted Mines's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Haunted Mines has only two lanes, so Samuro's side-lane pressure is easier to answer.

Harder maps for Samuro

Score under 50: the map's layout or objective works against the kit, hardest first

  1. Braxis Holdout Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryBraxis Holdout has only two lanes, so Samuro's side-lane pressure is easier to answer.
  2. Hanamura Temple Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryHanamura Temple has only two lanes, so Samuro's side-lane pressure is easier to answer.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Way of Illusion Q Quest

      Quest: Every time a Mirror Image Critically Strikes a Hero, Samuro gains 0.25 Attack Damage, up to 10. Reward: After hitting 40 Heroes, Samuro gains an additional 30 Attack Damage.

    • Way of the Blade W

      Critical Strike now happens for Samuro and his Mirror Images every 3rd Basic Attack. Critical Strikes against enemy Heroes from Samuro or his Mirror Images reduces their Physical Armor by 5 for 2.25 seconds, up to a maximum reduction of 15 Physical Armor.

    • Way of the Wind E

      After activating or exiting Wind Walk, Samuro gains 40% Movement Speed for 3 seconds. Activating Wind Walk instantly heals Samuro for 3% of his maximum Health.

  2. 4

    • Mirage Q

      Mirror Image grants Samuro and his Images 40 Spell Armor against the next 2 sources of Spell Damage, reducing their damage by 40%.

    • One With The Wind E

      While Samuro has Wind Walk active and for 3 seconds after breaking it, both he and his Mirror Images gain 25 Armor, taking 25% reduced damage from all sources.

    • Deflection Passive

      Advancing Strikes grants Samuro and his Mirror Images 35 Physical Armor.

  3. 7

    • Burning Blade W

      Critical Strikes from Samuro or his Mirror Images deal bonus Spell Damage equal to 50% of their Basic Attack damage to the target and other nearby enemies.

    • Phantom Pain W

      Samuro's Critical Strikes against enemy Heroes reduce Image Transmission's cooldown by 1 second, and deal 35% more damage for each active Mirror Image.

    • Crushing Blows W

      Samuro's Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes reduce Critical Strike's cooldown by 2 seconds. Critical Strikes against enemy Heroes increase Samuro's Basic Attack damage by 10% for 4 seconds, up to 30%.

  4. 10

    • Bladestorm Heroic

      Cause a Bladestorm of destructive force around Samuro for 3 seconds, granting him 25 Armor and dealing 180 (+4% per level) damage per second to nearby enemies.

    • Illusion Master Heroic

      Mirror Images can be controlled individually or as a group and their damage is increased by 100%. Passive: Image Transmission's cooldown is reduced to 8 seconds.

  5. 13

    • Mirrored Steel Q

      Samuro's Basic Attacks against Heroes reduce the cooldown of Mirror Image by 0.75 seconds.

    • Kawarimi E

      Wind Walk creates a Mirror Image at Samuro's location that will continue whatever he was doing.

    • Shukuchi E

      Wind Walk teleports Samuro a short distance in the direction he's currently facing.

  6. 16

    • Merciless Strikes W

      Samuro's Basic Attacks against Stunned, Rooted, or Slowed enemies are always Critical Strikes.

    • Harsh Winds E

      If Wind Walk is broken by Samuro attacking an enemy Hero, he deals 30% additional damage to that target for 3 seconds.

    • Press the Attack Passive

      Basic Attacks from Samuro or his Mirror Images against enemy Heroes or while Advancing Strikes is active increases their Attack Speed by 10%, up to 40%. These bonuses are lost when losing Advancing Strikes.

  7. 20

    • Dance Of Death Heroic

      Mirror Images use Bladestorm when Samuro does, but for 45% damage. If Samuro hits at least 20 enemy Heroes with Bladestorm, then reset its cooldown.

    • Three Blade Style Heroic

      Samuro's Mirror Images only deal half of the damage they take to themselves, effectively increasing their Health by 25%, and their duration is increased to 16 seconds.

    • Wind Strider E

      Wind Walk's cooldown is reduced by 6 seconds.

    • Blademaster’s Pursuit Passive

      Advancing Strikes grants an additional 15% Movement Speed for Samuro and his Mirror Images, and its duration is increased by 2 seconds.

  • Image Transmission D Trait

    14 s cooldown

    Activate to switch places with a target Mirror Image, removing most negative effects from Samuro and all Mirror Images. Advancing Strikes Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes increase Samuro's Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds.

  • Mirror Image Q Ability

    14 s cooldown

    Teleport a short distance in the direction of the mouse cursor, creating 2 Mirror Image in the opposite direction with as much Health as Samuro, each dealing 11 (+4% per level) damage with their Basic Attacks. Whenever an Image takes damage, it deals that amount of damage to itself, effectively doubling the damage it takes. Mirror Images last for 8 seconds, and up to 2 Mirror Images can be active at a time. Each time they or Samuro hit an enemy Hero with their Basic Attack, their duration is extended by 1 second. Using Mirror Image removes most negative effects from Samuro.

  • Critical Strike W Ability

    10 s cooldown

    Activate to cause Samuro and his Mirror Images next Basic Attack within 8 seconds to be a Critical Strike, dealing 50% additional damage. Stealth is not broken when activated. Passive: Samuro and his Images also deal a Critical Strike every 4th Basic Attack.

  • Wind Walk E Ability

    15 s cooldown

    Grant Samuro Stealth for up to 10 seconds or until he attacks, uses an Ability, or takes damage. While Stealthed, Samuro heals for 2% of his maximum Health every second, his Movement Speed is increased by 20% and he can pass through other units. Remaining stationary for at least 1.5 seconds while Stealthed grants Invisible. Samuro is Unrevealable for the first 1 second of Wind Walk.

  • Bladestorm R Heroic

    30 s cooldown

    Cause a Bladestorm of destructive force around Samuro for 3 seconds, granting him 25 Armor and dealing 180 (+4% per level) damage per second to nearby enemies.

  • Illusion Master R Heroic

    8 s cooldown

    Mirror Images can be controlled individually or as a group and their damage is increased by 100%. Passive: Image Transmission's cooldown is reduced to 8 seconds.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Samuro's kit. Each tag shows the ability or talent text that produced it; curated notes cover play-style traits the text cannot show.

Defense and mobility

Physical Armor
Talent Deflection “Advancing Strikes grants Samuro and his Mirror Images 35 Physical Armor.”
Self-healing
Ability Wind Walk “While Stealthed, Samuro heals for 2% of his maximum Health every second, his Movement Speed is increased by 20% and he…”
Talent Way of the Wind “Activating Wind Walk instantly heals Samuro for 3% of his maximum Health.”
Spell Armor
Talent Mirage “Mirror Image grants Samuro and his Images 40 Spell Armor against the next 2 sources of Spell Damage, reducing their…”
Stealth
Ability Wind Walk “Grant Samuro Stealth for up to 10 seconds or until he attacks, uses an Ability, or takes damage.”
Teleport
Ability Mirror Image “Teleport a short distance in the direction of the mouse cursor, creating 2 Mirror Image in the opposite direction with…”
Talent Shukuchi “Wind Walk teleports Samuro a short distance in the direction he's currently facing.”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Bladestorm “…force around Samuro for 3 seconds, granting him 25 Armor and dealing 180 damage per second to nearby enemies.”
Talent Burning Blade “…Images deal bonus Spell Damage equal to 50% of their Basic Attack damage to the target and other nearby enemies.”
Armor shred
Talent Way of the Blade “…Heroes from Samuro or his Mirror Images reduces their Physical Armor by 5 for 2.25 seconds, up to a maximum…”
Basic-attack reliant
Ability Mirror Image “…Image in the opposite direction with as much Health as Samuro, each dealing 11 damage with their Basic Attacks.”
Ability Critical Strike “Activate to cause Samuro and his Mirror Images next Basic Attack within 8 seconds to be a Critical Strike, dealing 50%…”
Ability Image Transmission “Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes increase Samuro's Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Way of Illusion “Reward: After hitting 40 Heroes, Samuro gains an additional 30 Attack Damage.”
Curated note Critical Strike and his Images' attacks mean nearly all of Samuro's damage comes from basic attacks.
Sustained damage
Ability Mirror Image “…Image in the opposite direction with as much Health as Samuro, each dealing 11 damage with their Basic Attacks.”
Ability Critical Strike “Activate to cause Samuro and his Mirror Images next Basic Attack within 8 seconds to be a Critical Strike, dealing 50%…”
Ability Image Transmission “Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes increase Samuro's Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Way of Illusion “Reward: After hitting 40 Heroes, Samuro gains an additional 30 Attack Damage.”

Play-style traits

Split push
Curated note Mirror Images push lanes beside him and Wind Walk gets him out when the enemy collapses, so Samuro pressures side lanes alone.
  1. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 28 Sep 2026 Patch Changed

    2 other changes

    • ChangeSelect Samuro: Ability removed.Game data
    • ChangeSelect All: Ability removed.Game data

Game-data changes between builds

Detected by comparing the game files of consecutive builds, including silent changes.

  1. 2.55.17.98025 → 2.57.0.98285

    • Ability removed: Select Samuro
    • Ability removed: Select All

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