Invites have been sent out, flights have been booked, and the good old booths are undergoing their final checks: The International in Seattle is just a couple of weeks away.

Every Dota tournament has been inextricably linked with pubstomps—events where fans and players gather to enjoy watching the games together in a lively atmosphere. This year, we are excited to announce that we will be showcasing some of these pubstomps from around the world on our official broadcast for the very first time. Pubstomps create a unique experience, bringing together diverse groups of people who share a passion for Dota 2. Whether it’s in a local gaming café, a community center, or even a friend’s living room, these gatherings foster a sense of camaraderie among attendees. Fans cheer for their favorite teams, discuss strategies, and share in the thrill of each match. The energy is palpable, and the excitement of watching the games live adds an extra layer of enjoyment. As we approach the tournament, we will be providing more details on how these pubstomps will be integrated into our official broadcasts. We want to ensure that the vibrant atmosphere of these events is captured and shared with viewers around the globe. If you’re interested in hosting a pubstomp, we will also share information on how to apply for participation. Whether you’re a seasoned organizer or new to the scene, we welcome everyone to join in and create unforgettable memories with fellow Dota fans. By showcasing pubstomps, we aim to celebrate the community that surrounds Dota 2.

It’s not just about the competition on the screen; it’s also about the friendships forged and the experiences shared. We hope that these events will inspire more fans to come together, whether in person or virtually, to enjoy the games they love. Stay tuned for announcements regarding the application process and more details about how you can be part of this exciting initiative. We can’t wait to see how fans from different regions come together to celebrate their passion for Dota 2, and we look forward to sharing these experiences with all of you during the tournament! In the meantime, we encourage everyone to connect with one another, share their pubstomp plans, and create a buzz around this year’s tournament. Let’s make this event not just a competition, but a celebration of the Dota 2 community as a whole. Your enthusiasm and participation will help elevate the experience for everyone involved, and we are thrilled to be able to spotlight these gatherings in our broadcast. So, whether you’re planning to host a pubstomp or attend one, get ready for an incredible journey filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Together, we will make this tournament a landmark event that highlights not just the skill of the players, but the passion of the audience. Join us in celebrating Dota 2, and let’s create something extraordinary together!

Video contest

This year, we received a record number of submissions for our short film competition. Out of 90 entries, we have carefully selected around twenty outstanding short films that will be available for viewing and voting within the game client. This voting period will run from September 29 to October 9. The community will have the opportunity to watch these films and vote for their favorites, creating an engaging and interactive experience for everyone involved. The selected films showcase a diverse range of creativity and storytelling, reflecting the unique perspectives of our talented community members. Each submission brings something special to the table, whether it’s humor, drama, or stunning visuals. We are excited to provide a platform for these creators to share their work and for players to discover new narratives that resonate with the Dota 2 universe. During the voting period, we encourage everyone to not just watch the films but to participate actively in the voting process. Your votes will determine which ten entries are recognized as the best by the community. These top films will be featured prominently during The International, our premier Dota 2 tournament, where they will be showcased to a global audience. This is an incredible opportunity for the filmmakers to gain exposure and recognition for their hard work and creativity.

The culmination of this competition will take place during The International, where the winners will be announced and rewarded for their outstanding contributions. The atmosphere will be electric as we celebrate not only the skill of the players on the battlefield but also the creative talents of our community members behind the scenes. The recognition of these filmmakers is an important aspect of fostering a vibrant and diverse Dota 2 culture. For those interested in participating in future competitions, we encourage you to start brainstorming ideas and honing your filmmaking skills. Each year, we strive to improve the submission process and provide even more opportunities for creators to showcase their talents. We value creativity and innovation, and we are committed to supporting our community of filmmakers. In addition to the excitement surrounding the competition, this initiative also highlights the importance of storytelling within the Dota 2 universe. The short films allow fans to explore narratives that complement the gameplay, deepening their connection to the characters and lore. By sharing these stories, we hope to enrich the overall experience for players and fans alike.

As we approach the voting period, be sure to engage with fellow fans and filmmakers. Discuss your favorite films, share your thoughts, and encourage others to participate in the voting process. The more people that get involved, the more vibrant the community becomes, and the better the overall experience will be for everyone. We are thrilled to see such a passionate response from the community this year, and we can’t wait to showcase the selected films. Remember to mark your calendars for the voting dates from September 29 to October 9. Your voice matters, and your votes will help shape the future of our short film competition.

Let’s come together to celebrate the creativity and talent within the Dota 2 community. We look forward to seeing which films resonate with you and which creators will take home the coveted titles during The International. This is a fantastic opportunity to recognize and appreciate the hard work of our fellow community members, and we are excited to share these stories with you. As we gear up for The International, let’s make this event unforgettable by showcasing the best of what our community has to offer. Together, we can elevate the competition and celebrate the artistic achievements of our filmmakers. Thank you for your enthusiasm and support, and we can’t wait to see you during the voting period!