Matchfixing Scandals and Resilience in the Chinese Dota Scene
2023 began on a rocky note for the Dota 2 community, particularly in China. Allegations of matchfixing and cheating plagued teams such as KNIGHTS and EHOME, culminating in a major blow with Valve’s ban of forty-six players in March. Despite this setback, the region showed remarkable resilience, promising a revitalized outlook for 2024.
Check the full list of banned players here.
Muerta’s Debut: A New Hero Shakes Up the Meta
March 2023 marked the introduction of Muerta, Dota 2’s 124th hero. An Intelligence hero with a twist, Muerta brought a unique approach to magical damage, blending folklore and firepower into the game. Her impact on gameplay and strategy was immediate and significant.
The Dead Reckoning Update – Hola Muerta & Gameplay Update 7.32e https://t.co/5qu5hoTMum #Dota2 pic.twitter.com/zSlRt3Mtq5
— Wykrhm Reddy (@wykrhm) March 6, 2023
Valve’s Engaging Riddles and Puzzles
In the spirit of engagement, Valve released a series of riddles and puzzles prior to major updates, including emojis and poems. This novel approach to community interaction kept players intrigued and guessing about what was next.
EMOJIS IN THE DARK https://t.co/0noV83NTWU pic.twitter.com/91ukhEQCNl
— Wykrhm Reddy (@wykrhm) August 8, 2023
The Game-Changing New Frontiers Update
April 2023 saw the massive New Frontiers update, rumored to be influenced by IceFrog’s return. This update expanded the game map by 40%, introducing new elements like Tormentors, Lotus Pools, and Wisdom Runes, revolutionizing gameplay.
The New Frontiers Update && DOTA 7.33 GAMEPLAY UPDATE!!! ITS A WHOLE NEW WORLD!! https://t.co/EguQw5QNmf pic.twitter.com/L5iKq6pnsV
— Wykrhm Reddy (@wykrhm) April 20, 2023
Rivalry of the Year: Team Liquid vs Gaimin Gladiators
Dominating the Western Europe scene, the rivalry between Team Liquid and Gaimin Gladiators was a highlight of 2023. Their face-offs in major tournaments, including four Grand Finals, were a spectacle, with Gaimin Gladiators consistently emerging victorious.
Pure’s Controversy and a Lesson in Professional Integrity
Ivan “Pure” Moskalenko found himself in the midst of controversy at the Bali Major. Caught viewing his own live game on Twitch, this indiscretion led to his disqualification, highlighting the importance of integrity in esports.
23savage’s Premature Celebration: A Cautionary Tale
Nuengnara “23” Teeramahanon’s early celebration at the Riyadh Masters became a cautionary tale about premature victory celebrations. His oversight provided a dramatic turn of events, leading to an unexpected defeat.
An Absence Felt: No Puppey at TI
For the first time, Dota 2’s The International lacked the presence of Clement “Puppey” Ivanov, ending his remarkable streak of appearances. This marked a significant moment in the game’s history.
The International no longer has any All-Timers. That legacy will end with 11 consecutive appearances from Puppey. #TI12 #Dota2 pic.twitter.com/8lOYIbRDZ7
— Wykrhm Reddy (@wykrhm) August 31, 2023
Farewell to Dota Pro Circuit
2023 was the farewell year for the Dota Pro Circuit, a major shift in the professional landscape of Dota 2. The future now looks towards The International and third-party events for the game’s competitive structure.
Check the post here.
Team Spirit’s Rise to Glory
Team Spirit’s transformation in 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. Their journey from instability to dominating victories, culminating in their second win at TI12, marked them as the second team to achieve the prestigious two-time TI champion title.
A Quirky Tribute: Team Spirit Breaker
In a light-hearted tribute, Valve temporarily renamed the hero Spirit Breaker to Team Spirit Breaker, celebrating Team Spirit’s TI12 victory. This playful gesture was a testament to the game’s evolving culture and community engagement.
Expanding Horizons: G2 and Team Falcons Enter Dota 2
The European G2 Esports and the MENA-based Team Falcons expanded the Dota 2 family. Their entrance into the scene with fresh rosters promised new dynamics and competition.
Excited to finally announce the project I’ve been working on since TI – adding a Dota team to the #g2army ! Stoked to see what @G2esports and @invgaming can achieve together as @G2DOTA . Omw to KL for our first big LAN with the @ESLDota2 pro tour 👊🏻 👊🏻 pic.twitter.com/PVzGu3X6lz
— G2 KBBQ (@KBBQDotA) December 8, 2023
The Comeback Season
The latter part of 2023 saw the return of several renowned players. The comebacks of Miracle-, SumaiL, Ame, Faith_bian, and Ori added a layer of excitement and anticipation for the future of professional Dota 2.
Miracle has returned to competitive Dota 2!
Considered one of the greatest players of all-time, Miracle will play carry for @NigmaGalaxy
💰11th highest earning esports player of all time ($4.9 million)
🏆TI7 winner and TI9 runner-up
🏅4 x Major winner pic.twitter.com/9JL2sMIFly— esports (@esports) December 22, 2023
Valve’s Stance Against Smurfs and Toxicity
Ending the year on a high note, Valve took a firm stance against smurfs, boosters, and toxic behavior. The Frostivus event’s unique approach to discipline demonstrated Valve’s commitment to improving the gaming experience.
Dota 2 in 2023: Evolving Play and Community Dynamics
“Dota 2 in 2023: Highlights and Transformations” – 2023 was a pivotal year for Dota 2, marked by new heroes, major updates, and notable controversies. The end of the Dota Pro Circuit and the rise of new teams set the stage for an exciting 2024, driven by a passionate community.