Summons:

Summons are units created by a hero’s ability or item rather than by a player’s normal hero spawn. They are controlled separately from the main hero and are used to scout, push lanes, body-block, farm, or add extra damage in fights. In Dota 2, summons matter because they let one hero affect more of the map at once and can force enemies to spend attacks, spells, or time dealing with extra units.

A clear example is Lycan’s wolves: they can be sent ahead to check vision, attack structures, or chase a vulnerable support while Lycan stays safer behind them. Summons often have their own strengths and weaknesses, so learning how to control them is an important part of playing heroes that rely on unit management.

Related: Creep, Illusions, Units