The International 2024 (TI 2024) is set to be a thrilling showcase of global Dota 2 talent from September 4 to 15 at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark.
This year’s event will not only crown the world champion but also reveal which of the six Dota 2 regions—Western Europe, Eastern Europe, China, Southeast Asia, North America, and South America—will emerge as the strongest.
In this comprehensive breakdown, we delve into each region’s prospects and key players for TI 2024.
Will Europe Continue Its Dominance?
For over half a decade, Europe has been a powerhouse in Dota 2, with teams from both Western and Eastern Europe dominating the TI stage. Since TI 2017, the Aegis of Champions has consistently found its home in Europe:
- 2017: Western Europe (Team Liquid)
- 2018: Western Europe (OG)
- 2019: Western Europe (OG)
- 2021: Eastern Europe (Team Spirit)
- 2022: Eastern Europe (Team Spirit)
Key Contenders for TI 2024
- Eastern Europe’s Team Spirit: The reigning champions are vying for their third title. Despite mixed results recently, their ability to perform under pressure makes them a formidable contender.
- Western Europe’s Team Falcons and Gaimin Gladiators: These teams are expected to challenge for the title with their impressive performances and tactical prowess.
- Western Europe’s Team Liquid and Tundra Esports: These teams, while not leading the charge, are also strong candidates for deep runs in the tournament.
- Eastern Europe’s BetBoom Team: Known for their strategic play, they are another potential surprise package.
Western Europe appears to be the strongest region heading into TI 2024, with high expectations for its teams to make a deep run. Eastern Europe is slightly behind but still a strong contender, especially with Team Spirit’s history of stepping up when it matters most.
Can China Upset Europe’s Reign?
Before 2017, China was the dominant force in Dota 2, securing three TI titles:
- 2012: Invictus Gaming
- 2013: Alliance (Although Alliance was from Europe, Chinese teams were dominant in previous years)
- 2014: Newbee
Current Chinese Contenders
- Xtreme Gaming: Led by Wang “Ame” Chunyu, Xtreme Gaming is looking to reclaim China’s lost glory. Ame, often referred to as an ‘uncrowned king’, could finally secure his first TI title.
- G2 x iG: Despite a star-studded roster, this team has yet to live up to expectations but remains a potential threat.
- Team Zero: This team made headlines by qualifying through upsets but faces challenges in competing at the highest level.
Chinese teams, while not the front-runners, could still pose a significant threat, as evidenced by their two Top 4 finishes last year. Xtreme Gaming and Ame might lead a resurgence, potentially securing China’s fourth Aegis.
The Dark Horses: Southeast Asia and the Americas
Southeast Asia
Historically, Southeast Asia has produced strong teams but has faced stagnation recently:
- 2013: Teams from Southeast Asia finished third.
- 2016: Southeast Asia teams finished fourth.
Recent performances indicate a decline, and while teams from this region have the potential to cause upsets, a Top 8 finish is likely the best-case scenario.
North America
North America’s Dota 2 scene has seen limited success:
- 2015: Evil Geniuses won the Aegis.
- Recent years have seen North American teams struggle to make a significant impact.
South America
South American teams have shown promise but have yet to secure a TI title:
- 2022: South American teams reached the Top 6.
Despite some promising performances, the region is currently seen as a dark horse, with significant challenges ahead.
Final Toughts
As TI 2024 approaches, Europe remains the dominant force with strong contenders from both Western and Eastern Europe. China could pose a challenge, especially with Xtreme Gaming and Ame leading their charge. Southeast Asia, North America, and South America are likely to be underdogs, with a potential for upsets but facing significant obstacles.
Prepare for an exciting tournament as these regions battle for supremacy in The International 2024.
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