The esports world is buzzing with excitement as the twelfth edition of The International (TI 12) approaches. Dota 2 enthusiasts from around the globe are eagerly anticipating the biggest event in the Dota 2 calendar, set to take place in Seattle, Washington, from October 12 to 29, 2023. With a prize pool expected to break all the records once again, TI 12 promises to be a spectacle like no other.
The Tournament Format
Group Stage
As in previous editions of The International, TI 12 will kick off with a group stage that serves as a battleground for the 18 elite Dota 2 teams worldwide. These teams will be divided into four groups, each consisting of five teams. The group stage format will be a single round-robin, with each team facing every other team in their group once.
- Best-of-Two Matches: Each match in the group stage will be a best-of-two series. This format ensures that teams have a chance to recover from early setbacks and display their versatility in different matchups.
- Advancement to Main Event: The top two teams from each group will secure a coveted spot in the main event. Their consistent performance in the group stage will be rewarded with the opportunity to compete on the grand stage.
- Elimination: Unfortunately, for the bottom team in each group, their TI 12 journey will come to an end at this stage. The competition is fierce, and only the strongest will progress.
Main Event
The main event is where the drama and excitement of TI 12 will reach its pinnacle. It features a double-elimination bracket, adding an element of unpredictability to the proceedings. This is where the most intense Dota 2 matchups happen.
- Upper Bracket vs. Lower Bracket: The top eight teams from the group stage will enter the upper bracket, while the remaining eight will start in the lower bracket. This format ensures that even teams facing early setbacks still have a chance at redemption.
- Best-of-Three Matches: In the main event, all matches will be best-of-three series. This format intensifies the competition and demands consistent performance from the teams.
- Grand Finals: The grand finals, the ultimate showdown, will be a best-of-five series. It’s here that the two top teams will battle it out for Dota 2 supremacy and the lion’s share of the colossal prize pool.
Teams
The International 2023 (TI 12) is set to feature a total of 20 elite Dota 2 teams, bringing together some of the most formidable talent from around the world. Of these 20 teams, 12 received direct invitations based on their performance and reputation in the Dota 2 competitive scene. These invited teams include the likes of:
- Team Liquid
- Gaimin Gladiators
- Tundra Esports
- 9Pandas
- Evil Geniuses
- LGD Gaming
- Shopify Rebellion
- Talon Esports
- Beastcoast
- Team Spirit
- TSM
- BetBoom Team
An additional 8 teams came from regional qualifies:
- Nouns
- Keyd Stars
- Thunder Awaken
- Entity
- Quest Esports
- Virtus.pro
- Azure Ray
- Team SMG
The Teams to Watch
Liquid
Team Liquid has consistently been a powerhouse in the Dota 2 scene. With a rich history of success in various tournaments, they are always a team to watch. Their roster boasts some of the most skilled and experienced players in the game, making them strong contenders for the TI 12 title.
Tundra Esports
Tundra Esports has been making waves in the Dota 2 community with their impressive performances and strategic gameplay. As a rising star in the competitive scene, they have the potential to surprise and challenge the established giants of Dota 2 at TI 12.
Evil Geniuses
Evil Geniuses is a name synonymous with excellence in Dota 2. With a roster of world-class players, they are perennial contenders for the championship. Their calculated and disciplined style of play makes them a formidable force, and they are sure to be a crowd favorite at TI 12.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The International 2023 (TI 12) promises to be an esports extravaganza like no other. The tournament format ensures intense competition, while teams like Liquid, Tundra Esports, and Evil Geniuses will vie for the title of world champion. As the Dota 2 community counts down to October 12, 2023, the anticipation and excitement for TI 12 continue to grow, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable esports spectacle.