Dota 2 is one of the more complex games out there, having survived the test of time and continuing to attract hundreds of thousands of players daily. Here's a comprehensive overview of Dota 2's release and other significant dates and details.
When Did Dota 2 Release?
Dota 2 was officially released on July 9, 2013. Initially available on Windows PC, it was also released for OS X and Linux on July 18, 2013.
The game was accessible to teams and professional players months before its official release. The public first got a glimpse of Dota 2 at Gamescom 2011, coinciding with the first edition of The International. Natus Vincere (NAVI) won the inaugural International, taking home the majority of the $1.6 million prize pool. The original NAVI roster included Danil "Dendi" Ishutin and Clement "Puppey" Ivanov, with Puppey having competed in every International as of 2022.
Background
Dota 2 is a sequel to Defense of the Ancients (DotA), a mod for Blizzard Entertainment's Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos. In Dota 2, two teams of five players each compete for map control, aiming to destroy the opponent’s throne to win the game. Despite its steep learning curve, Dota 2 continues to draw a large player base.
Key Features
- Complex Gameplay: With hundreds of heroes and a vast array of items, talents, and abilities, the permutations and combinations of gameplay strategies are endless.
- Free-to-Play Model: Dota 2’s base game is completely free. Players can buy cosmetics and battle passes for special features, but these do not affect core gameplay, ensuring any pay-to-win advantage.
- Community Funding: Each year, Valve releases a Battle Pass, with 25% of its proceeds funding The International prize pool. Dota 2 regularly boasts some of the largest prize pools in esports.
Dota 2 Esports
- The International (TI): TI is the pinnacle event for Dota 2, celebrating top-tier professional teams and players. It is annually hosted by Valve, with its prize pool primarily funded by the community through the Battle Pass.
- Pandemic Impact: The pandemic led to the cancellation of TI in 2020. In 2021, the event was relocated due to travel restrictions in Sweden.
- Ongoing Events: Besides TI, Valve structures the Dota 2 esports scene by supporting third-party tournament organizers in producing Dota 2 Majors and regional leagues.
Future Events
Dota 2 remains a crucial part of the Esports World Cup, kicking off in 2024. The best teams in the world will compete, culminating in fans converging in Copenhagen for The International 2024 later this year.