Dota 2 has long been a staple in the esports community, captivating audiences since 2011. The game’s allure extends beyond casual play, firmly entrenched in the professional arena. The year 2025 marked a transformative period with significant tournament format alterations, new circuits, and unforgettable global achievements.
DreamLeague – The Beginning
In 2025, DreamLeague emerged as one of the inaugural major tournaments, showcasing the best in competitive Dota 2. Organised by ESL, the 25th season was the third tournament in ESL Pro Tour Season 3, featuring the top 16 teams vying for a piece of a $1 million prize pool. DreamLeague Season 25 offered an early glimpse into the competitive landscape following the Patch 7.38 update. Team Spirit ultimately clinched victory, while Tundra Esports settled for second place. Meanwhile, Team Falcons, finishing fifth, embarked on a journey culminating in a historic win at the prestigious International.
BLAST Slam – Shaping Dota 2 Esports
2025 also saw the rise of the BLAST Slam series, a new esports circuit running parallel to the ESL Pro Tour. Throughout the year, four BLAST Slams were held, each featuring top teams competing for a $1 million prize. Tundra Esports dominated, winning all four events, including BLAST Slam V, where they defeated Team Yandex in the Grand Finals. This series provided a crucial platform for establishing competitive dynamics beyond major international events.
ESL One Raleigh – Dota 2 Returns to the US
ESL One Raleigh 2025 was a significant milestone for ESL’s Dota 2 history, marking the first ESL One event in the US since 2015. The top 12 teams from the ESL Pro Tour and regional qualifiers competed for a $1 million prize, with PARAVISION emerging victorious. This event played a crucial role in shaping the ESL Pro Tour standings and served as a qualifier for the Esports World Cup 2025.
The International 2025 – One for the History Books
The International remains the crown jewel of the Dota 2 esports calendar. In 2025, the event was noteworthy for its format change to a Swiss-system in the Group Stage, which enhanced the viewer experience. Held at the Barclays Arena in Hamburg, Germany, Team Falcons triumphed over Xtreme Gaming in a thrilling 3-2 Grand Final. This victory was a landmark achievement for the Saudi Arabian organisation, solidifying its place in esports history.
Dota 2 Esports in 2026 – What’s Next?
As Dota 2 looks to the future, the esports scene anticipates further expansion with multiple circuits, new teams, and format changes in 2026. The ESL Pro Tour has already commenced, offering a glimpse into the evolving competitive landscape. With organisers like PGL committing long-term investments and upcoming events like ESL One Birmingham, the Dota 2 esports scene is poised for continued evolution and excitement.