One of the world’s greatest competitive gaming competitions looms on the horizon for fans of the ARTS genre.
The International is set to take place from August 31st to September 2nd this year in Seattle, Washington in the USA. The competition has invited 16 of the world’s greatest DOTA 2 teams to fight it out for a whopping $1.6 million dollar prize pot, with a staggering $1 million to be given to the winning team.
The competition was introduced in only August 2011 at Gamescom, but will stand alone as a Valve hosted competition at Benaroya Hall, who are also selling digital tickets to the event.
By the looks of the punters talk around the web, Ukraine reigning champions Na’vi (Natus Vincere) look safe to take out the number one spot once again, although some claim Chinese team EHOME have a worthy shot at taking the crown.
So what have competitions like this done for the e-sports scene?
I’m a bit of a fanboy for the Dota economy project that valve is attempting to pursue with the design of their game. Although the details are yet to be revealed, many of the cosmetic items, digital tickets for streaming and tools that can be bought within the game will directly support professional players and tournaments for Dota 2.
Personally, this makes a difference for me between buying a new pixelated courier or outfit for my favourite champion (unfortunately no customizations for Rubick yet!). Knowing the game I enjoy will continue to have a great competitive scene and commitment from Valve to be great.
- Dave
