Valve, led by developer Jeff Hill, recently introduced a significant update to the banning system in Dota 2, affecting how it integrates with the player matchmaking process. Now, players can no longer modify their ban settings while waiting in the lobby; instead, adjustments must be made between gaming sessions.
Hill explained that the recent update to the game coordination system was aimed at addressing this issue. Although players can still adjust their bans at any time through the client, these changes will not be reflected in the lobby where matches are conducted after a player joins them. However, in training lobbies and other types of non-matchmaking gatherings, bans will continue to update instantly, as before.
JeffHill commented on a Reddit post
“This should be fixed with the gc prop that just happened.
While you can still change your bans at any time on the client, your bans for a matchmade lobby won't update once you're added to the lobby. Your bans will still update immediately for practice lobbies and other non-matchmade lobby types.”
After the introduction of the updated banning system in Dota 2, the Overplus team found a workaround that allowed their program to continue recommending bans automatically as soon as the game identified the opposing team. This adaptation showcases the ongoing battle between game developers and third-party programs in the esports arena.