The Dota 2 community is currently grappling with a palpable sense of disappointment as the upcoming The International 12 (TI12) tournament has been announced with a notably reduced prize pool compared to previous events. This abrupt shift in the competitive landscape has raised questions and concerns among fans and players alike, who have long associated Dota 2’s appeal with the allure of TI’s extravagant prize money and competitive intensity.
The shrinking prize pool
In a significant departure from the recent trend of escalating prize pools, TI12 appears set to harken back to the days of The International 3 (TI3) with a prize pool estimated to be less than $3 million. This decision by Valve Corporation, the developer of Dota 2, has left many within the community disheartened.
Notable player absences
Adding to the discontent is the absence of notable Dota 2 players such as Kuro “KuroKy” Takhasomi and Clement “Puppey” Ivanov, both celebrated figures in the professional scene. This dearth of star power may diminish the tournament’s appeal for fans and lessen the stakes for participating teams.
Comparison to previous editions
The stark contrast to the previous edition of TI, which boasted a staggering prize pool of around $19 million, is evident. However, that TI was somewhat marred by a lackluster Grand Final that ended with a resounding 3-0 victory for Tundra over Team Secret. The exorbitant prize pool failed to compensate for the underwhelming conclusion.
Valve’s decision on the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC)
Valve’s choice to terminate the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) and reshape The International into a more subdued affair is met with skepticism. The Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) and TI’s colossal prize money had been instrumental in fostering Dota 2’s growth and capturing the imaginations of millions of fans around the world.
Impact on Dota 2’s competitive appeal
The recalibration of TI into a less extravagant event has repercussions that extend beyond just prize money. This shift has the potential to demotivate aspiring Dota 2 players who once saw the allure of substantial TI winnings as a viable career path. Moreover, organizations may hesitate to offer competitive salaries throughout the regular season, knowing that a strong TI showing could turn their fortunes around.
Consequences for the Esports space
There is genuine concern that this decision might signal a downturn in Dota 2’s standing within the esports ecosystem. The game, despite its exceptional quality, has faced stiff competition from titles like League of Legends, which offer different and more attractive incentives for players and organizations.
The Dota 2 community’s disappointment with TI12’s reduced prize pool is palpable. Valve Corporation’s decision to alter the competitive landscape by downsizing the tournament’s prize money and ending the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) raises questions about the future of the game’s esports scene. This change, while aiming to provide a more “casual” experience, may inadvertently harm Dota 2’s competitive appeal and discourage players from pursuing professional careers. The consequences of this shift will undoubtedly reverberate through the Dota 2 community and the broader esports industry.
