As we approach the end of 2024, it’s clear that Dota 2 continues to evolve. With fresh surprises not just in gameplay but also within the competitive scene, this year has been nothing short of thrilling. From unexpected victories to new hero releases, 2024 has given us plenty to talk about. Let’s dive into some of the biggest shocks and moments that defined Dota 2 this year!

Team Liquid Breaks The Curse

Team Liquid's journey has been filled with highs and lows. For years, they’ve been a top-tier team, consistently finishing in the top 6 of major tournaments but often falling short of the coveted first-place finish. The 2nd-place curse haunted them for a long time, with heartbreaking losses in crucial finals. But 2024 was different.

Despite being counted out in the early part of the year, Team Liquid defied the odds, overcoming their past and clinching the Aegis of Champions at The International (TI) 2024. This was their second TI win, but for most of the roster, it marked their first-ever victory in the prestigious tournament. Team Liquid’s triumph is a story of resilience and perseverance that will be remembered for years to come.

Topson Retires From Competitive Dota

Every year, we see some of Dota’s legends step away from the competitive scene, but 2024’s retirement announcement from Topson hit hard.

The Finnish mid-laner, a two-time TI champion, was hoping (and was insanely close) for a third Aegis. But together with Tundra Esports, they ultimately fell short, securing third place at TI 2024. Dota 2 lost one of its most creative and beloved players with his departure. The crowd gave him a rousing send-off as he walked off the stage for the last time.

Over his 8-year career, Topson earned almost $6 million in prize money. He left a legacy that is forever immortalized in the hearts of Dota 2 players.

Team Falcons' Jaw-Dropping Dominance

While new teams occasionally rise to prominence, Team Falcons’ meteoric rise in 2024 took everyone by surprise. Formed just in late 2023, this roster of rising stars and experienced players has been absolutely unstoppable.

In 2024, they claimed $3.4 million in prize money, taking first place in an impressive seven different tournaments. Falcons’ performance has far exceeded expectations, with some even comparing them to long-standing powerhouses. In just one year, they’ve become a team to watch.

Two New Heroes In A Row?!

Fans had low expectations after a couple of years with few hero releases, but Valve surprised everyone by launching two new heroes in 2024!

The first, Ringmaster, had fans buzzing with anticipation after months of teasing. However, upon release, many felt the hero didn’t live up to the hype. Nonetheless, Valve quickly redeemed themselves with the release of Kez, a complex hero with two sets of abilities and a playstyle that excited the community. Kez’s unexpected arrival alongside the packed Crownfall event gave players something fresh to explore. 

A Sad Farewell to Orgs

The world of Dota 2 is also shaped by the teams and organizations that compete, and 2024 saw the exit of several notable names.

Nouns, a top North American team, disbanded after TI, marking the end of an era. Similarly, Invictus Gaming—one of the most storied organizations in Dota 2, with a history dating back to 2011—announced they would step away from Dota 2 esports for now. While they’ve promised to return in the future, their inactivity in 2024 feels like the closing of a chapter. 

M80 Acquires Beastcoast

The South American Dota 2 scene underwent a major shake-up when M80, a newer organization, acquired the roster of Beastcoast, a team that had long been a staple in the region. Beastcoast had solidified their place in Dota 2 history, but their absorption into M80 signals a new era for South American esports.

While it’s exciting to see fresh organizations entering the scene, it’s bittersweet to see such a legendary name bow out, making way for new beginnings.

End-Of-The-Year Chaos

After TI 2024, the Dota 2 scene took a chaotic turn, with some shocking upsets and unexpected victories. The first wave of post-TI tournaments saw some huge surprises, like HEROIC’s win at PGL Wallachia, where they stunned the community by defeating favorites Team Falcons.

This was just the beginning, as BetBoom triumphed at the BLAST Slam I, marking a milestone for the team. Finally, in an even more shocking moment, PARIVISION - a team formed just three months prior - captured their first trophy at ESL One Bangkok. These late-year surprises added an element of unpredictability to the competitive scene and capped off 2024 with a bang!

Welcome 2025!

As the year draws to a close, one can only wonder what 2025 will bring. What surprises will the new year hold? We’ll have to wait and see!

Did we miss any major surprises in Dota 2 this year? Or were there any moments that stood out to you? Let us know in the comments below!