Dota 2

Dota 2 is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) that boasts over 100 playable characters, 130 unique items, and countless hours of fast-paced gameplay.

The worldwide popularity of this game is a testament to just how well-balanced and engaging it can be. Not only are there millions of amateur players, but Dota 2 has become one of the biggest names in the professional gaming industry with thousands of teams competing for staggering prizes. For those who are looking to engage in grinding PvP, there are very few games that stand up to Dota 2.

An Overview of Dota 2 Gameplay

Dota 2 is a competitive online game with matches between two teams of five players each. The matches generally last for anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes, but some landslide victories can be carried out in significantly less time. The team members fight alongside waves of NPCs in an attempt to make it across the map and destroy the other team's tower. The team that does this first is declared the winner.

The strategic aspect of this game comes down to the skill of each individual player as well as the composition of the team. Utilizing various characters that complement one another is the only way to overcome competitive teams. Each player must also be an outstanding communicator, have excellent eye-hand coordination, and be aware of the overall “flow” of the game at all times. While the game does take hundreds of hours to master, most players can pick it up and begin enjoying it after just an hour or two of research.

Character Customization

Gamers who do not enjoy pay-to-win titles will be glad to hear that Dota 2 is completely free, and no mechanical advantages are given to those who invest money into the game. The only items that can be purchased within the game are cosmetic upgrades that do not impact any strategies. Each playable character has a number of slots that are filled with custom or generic gear. This includes everything from hats and gloves to boots and steeds. For most players, the goal is to find a mix of gear that improves their stats by as much as possible. Some items have straightforward bonuses such as increased strength while others provide subtle features such as a reduction in tower armor.

Long-Term Playability

One of the biggest draws of this game is the fact that new team combinations and strategies are being created all the time. Unfortunately, that means it can also be difficult for newer players to keep up with those who have invested hundreds of hours into the game. Some of the others pros and cons of Dota 2 include:

Pros

• Excellent replay value
• Competitive and casual matches
• Unique characters and customizations

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Unreliable matchmaking for newer players