In the vibrant tapestry of esports, few events command the gravitas and fan devotion quite like Dota 2`s The International. Annually, this tournament crowns the world champion, but more profoundly, it etches indelible moments into the collective memory of its community. A recent poll conducted by Cybersport.ru sought to quantify this sentiment, asking fans to identify the single greatest TI in history. The results, while perhaps unsurprising to long-time enthusiasts, offer a fascinating glimpse into what truly resonates with the Dota 2 faithful.
The Crowning Glory: The International 2018
Emerging as the overwhelming victor, with a commanding 33% of the votes, was The International 2018. To understand its legendary status, one must revisit the narrative that unfolded. It was the year of OG`s improbable triumph, a story so compelling it reads like a Hollywood script. Starting their journey from the crucible of open qualifiers, a path less travelled for a team of their caliber, OG defied every expectation.
Their grand final showdown against the formidable PSG.LGD was a masterclass in high-stakes Dota 2. A nail-biting five-game series, culminating in a 3:2 victory for OG, solidified their legend. It wasn`t merely a win; it was a revolution. The sheer audacity of their run, the dramatic comebacks, and the underdog spirit captivated millions. It taught us that in esports, much like traditional sports, the most cherished victories are often those that defy logic and emerge from the brink of defeat. It`s less about raw power and more about the power of belief – a narrative perfectly engineered for mass appeal.
The Titans That Almost Were: TI 2021 and the Classics
Following closely in second place was The International 10 (2021). This edition holds the record for the largest prize pool in TI history, a staggering sum that could change lives. Yet, despite its financial might, it faced an invisible opponent: the lack of a live audience. Held during unprecedented global circumstances, the electric atmosphere generated by thousands of screaming fans was notably absent. Still, TI10 delivered its own underdog saga with Team Spirit, another squad that battled through regional qualifiers to conquer the giants, defeating PSG.LGD in a thrilling 3:2 grand final. Their victory proved that the spirit of competition could thrive even without roaring crowds, but perhaps also highlighted that an engaged audience is part of the ultimate “best TI” recipe.
Tied for third place, with 11% of the votes each, were two other titans of the past:
- The International 2013: Forever etched in memory for the legendary clash between Alliance and Na`Vi, often cited as one of the most iconic grand finals ever.
- The International 2017: Saw Team Liquid embark on an incredible lower bracket run, showcasing resilience and tactical brilliance to lift the Aegis.
The Quest for Dominance vs. The Drama of the Underdog
Interestingly, The International 2022 garnered the fewest votes. While Tundra Esports delivered a dominant performance, ultimately defeating Team Secret 3:0 in the grand final, perhaps the clean sweep, while technically impressive, lacked the rollercoaster emotional impact that fans crave. Sometimes, a decisive victory, though a testament to skill, doesn`t quite stir the soul in the same way as a knife-edge, five-game thriller where both teams push each other to their absolute limits. One might even muse that a perfectly executed clean sweep, while showcasing mastery, leaves less room for the delightful agony of “what if?” – a key ingredient in many legendary tales.
The Enduring Legacy of The International
The results of this poll are a powerful testament to the factors that elevate a great esports tournament to legendary status. It`s not just about the prize money or the technical skill on display, although both are crucial. It`s about the compelling narratives, the underdog stories that inspire, the nail-biting grand finals that leave spectators breathless, and the collective experience shared by millions. The International 2018, with OG`s seemingly impossible journey, perfectly encapsulated this blend, securing its place as the definitive fan-favorite. As Dota 2 continues to evolve, future TIs will undoubtedly deliver new heroes and new dramas, but the echo of 2018`s unforgettable spectacle will resonate for years to come.
Finley Holt