The Dota Pro Circuit Will Not Exist Next Year
Valve released a post on their official blog reflecting on the Dota Pro Circuit.
The Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) was introduced in 2017 because fans were unsure how teams get directly invited to The International. Valve decided to try out the DPC system as the primary way for teams to get invited to Dota 2’s biggest tournament.
Valve mentions that the DPC succeeded in demystifying the invitation criteria and made it easier for professional players to understand what they must do to get invited to TI. However, the downsides were that the DPC brought in strict rules and regulations, making Dota 2 tournaments throughout the year less exciting, less varied, and less fun.
Since the DPC change, there have been fewer tournaments in the event calendars, as the DPC was eating up large portions of the year for all the top teams. Event organizers must follow Valve’s expectations and requirements for the DPC and the Majors, giving them less room for innovation.
Valve reflects on the DPC change, mentioning that competitive Dota 2 was much healthier back then, as we had many tournaments and varying teams. Tournaments could explore different schedules, event lengths and formats to keep things interesting.
With all of this in mind, Valve has announced that they are ending the Dota Pro Circuit, making DPC 2023 the final DPC season. They are yet to announce what the system for next year will look like and have promised their full focus on The International 2023.