Since items have such a sweeping and drastic effect on the game, I am especially interested in balancing them, ideally by simply altering their gold costs. Suggestions are very welcome.

I am also considering adding a small amount of damage to all upgraded items, since most items no longer provide attributes (and therefore, heroes will not acquire as much bonus damage from their primary attribute). Let me know if traditional late-game autoattacking carries seem to fall off as the match progresses, which may be an indication that such a change is needed.