Dota 2 Joins Esports World Cup 2025
Esports World Cup 2025: Dota 2 Announcement
The Esports World Cup (EWC) will welcome back the popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, Dota 2, for its 2025 edition. This announcement comes as part of the EWC’s strategy to feature multiple esports titles in its prestigious competition. Dota 2, developed by Valve, previously featured in the 2024 edition of the competition under the Riyadh Masters banner and is now confirmed as the fifth title for the upcoming event.
Prize Pool and Competition Format
While the exact prize pool for the 2025 Dota 2 tournament has not been disclosed, the organizers have promised a “life-changing prize pool” for the participating teams. The 2024 Riyadh Masters Dota 2 tournament had a substantial prize purse of $5 million, with 20 teams competing across several stages. Additionally, the event contributed to a larger $20 million Club Championship, where organizations accumulated points to vie for an additional prize pool.
Viewership Success of Riyadh Masters 2024
The 2024 Riyadh Masters achieved impressive viewership numbers, peaking at 419,244 simultaneous viewers and maintaining an average of 178,349 viewers throughout its 147 hours of broadcast. This success highlights the growing popularity of Dota 2 and its competitive scene, paving the way for an even more engaging tournament in 2025.
Other Featured Titles in Esports World Cup 2025
Besides Dota 2, the Esports World Cup 2025 will showcase a variety of other games, including:
- Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
- Call of Duty: Warzone
- Honor of Kings
- Free Fire
- Street Fighter 6
These titles have already been confirmed for the event, which will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia next summer. The diverse range of games reflects the EWC’s commitment to providing a comprehensive esports experience catering to various genres and audiences.
Organizational Backing and Controversy
The EWC is organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, which is supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. However, the event has faced criticism from some esports industry stakeholders due to concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. Despite this, the EWC continues to draw significant attention and participation from major esports organizations worldwide.
Conclusion
The return of Dota 2 to the Esports World Cup in 2025 signifies the game’s enduring appeal and competitive spirit. With a promise of substantial rewards and an extensive lineup of games, the upcoming EWC aims to set new standards in the global esports arena. As preparations intensify, fans and participants can look forward to a thrilling showcase of skill, strategy, and entertainment in the heart of Riyadh.
