How to play in Dota 2?: Beginners guide

Dota 2 is one of the most popular multiplayer online games in the MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) genre, captivating millions of fans worldwide. Launched in 2013 by Valve Corporation, the game quickly became a leader in the esports arena. If you're looking to learn how to start playing Dota 2 and achieve success, this detailed guide will help you understand all aspects of the game.

What Is Dota 2?

Credit: Valve Corporation

At its core, Dota 2 is a team-based strategy game where two teams of five players compete to destroy the enemy's main structure—the Ancient. The game map is divided into three lanes:

• Top Lane

• Middle Lane (Mid)

• Bottom Lane

Each lane is guarded by powerful towers. Players choose from over 100 unique heroes, each with their own abilities and roles, allowing for a wide variety of strategies.

Core Game Mechanics

Heroes and Roles

In Dota 2, heroes are categorized into various roles:

• Carry: Weak at the start but become powerful towards the end of the game.

• Support: Assist the team through healing, buffs, and control abilities.

• Initiator: Start team fights and control opponents.

• Tank: Have high health and can absorb a lot of damage.

• Nuker: Deal significant damage in a short amount of time.

Creeps and Farming

Creeps are AI-controlled units that spawn every 30 seconds and move along the lanes towards the enemy base. By killing creeps and enemy heroes, players earn experience and gold to level up skills and purchase items.

Items and Economy

Gold can be spent in the shop on various items that enhance a hero's attributes. Choosing the right items significantly impacts combat effectiveness.

How to Download and Install Dota 2

Dota 2 is available for free on the digital distribution platform, Steam. You will need to create a Steam account, if you don't already have one, and download the Steam client to your computer.

1. Create a Steam Account: Visit the official Steam website and sign up.

2. Install the Steam Client: Download and install the application on your computer.

3. Find Dota 2: Enter "Dota 2" in the Steam search bar.

4. Add to Library and Download: Click "Install" to begin downloading the game.

In-Game Tutorial for Dota 2

Credit: Valve Corporation

The in-game tutorial of Dota 2 is a useful starting point for beginners. It comprises several games or mini-games designed to familiarize you with the game and teach you the basics. It currently consists of five sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the game and played with different heroes. The tutorial can be completed in about two hours, even by a complete beginner.

How to start in-game tutorial

The tutorial can be found in the main menu, under the "Learn" tab. You'll need to complete each section in order, as subsequent sections won't unlock until you've finished the previous ones. The first section focuses on game mechanics and is played with Luna, a hero known for her high damage output. This section will teach you how to control your hero, purchase items, understand basic combat against creeps and heroes, and familiarize yourself with abilities and how to use them.

Preparing for the Dota 2 Tutorial

Credit: Valve Corporation

After launching the game, spend some time familiarizing yourself with the interface. It's crucial to understand the game's layout, the shop, hero abilities, and the map. If you're new to MOBA games, don't worry. Dota 2's design is intuitive, and you'll get the hang of it quickly.

Getting Started with the Dota 2 Tutorial

Credit: Valve Corporation

Now, it's time to dive into the tutorial. You can find the "Training" section in the main menu under the "Learn" tab. The tutorial consists of five parts, each focusing on different aspects of the game and introducing you to various heroes.

Mechanics - Luna

In the first part, you'll learn how to control your hero, Luna. The tutorial will introduce you to item purchasing, camera control, basic combat against creeps (AI-controlled units), and ability usage.

First Game - Dragon Knight

The second part lets you play your first full game as Dragon Knight. You'll learn more about the objectives of the game, including pushing lanes, destroying enemy structures, and defending your own.

Ranged Hero - Sniper

The third part focuses on playing a ranged hero, Sniper. You'll learn about positioning, last hitting (dealing the final blow to a unit to earn gold), and using Sniper's long-range abilities.

Mage - Shadow Shaman

The fourth part introduces you to magic users with Shadow Shaman. You'll learn how to use abilities to control enemies and support your team.

Network Game

The final part of the tutorial will put you in a real game with other players. It's a chance to apply everything you've learned.

Remember, you'll need to complete each part in order to unlock the next one.

Detailed Overview of Tutorial Heroes

Credit: Valve Corporation

Understanding the heroes you play in the tutorial is crucial for your success in Dota 2. Here's a brief overview:

Luna

Credit: Valve Corporation

Luna is a carry hero known for her high damage output. Her "Moon Glaives" ability allows her attacks to bounce between enemies, making her great at pushing lanes.

Dragon Knight

Credit: Valve Corporation

Dragon Knight is a durable melee hero who can transform into a dragon. His ability to take a lot of damage and push towers makes him a strong presence in any game.

Sniper

Credit: Valve Corporation

Sniper is a ranged carry hero who excels at dealing damage from a distance. His long-range abilities allow him to pick off enemies from safety.

Shadow Shaman

Credit: Valve Corporation

Shadow Shaman is a support hero who excels at crowd control. His abilities can disable multiple enemies, giving his team the upper hand in fights.

Tips for a Successful Start

• Learn About Heroes: Understanding hero abilities will help you better coordinate with your team.

• Practice: Play against bots to improve your skills.

• Watch Guides and Streams: Educational materials can help you quickly grasp complex aspects of the game.

• Communicate with Your Team: Effective communication increases your chances of victory.

Beyond the Tutorial - What's Next?

After you finish the tutorial, the real fun begins. You can start playing with other players, train with bots or find guides with interesting builds on heroes and try them during matches. It all depends on the preferences of each player.

Conclusion

Dota 2 is a complex game that offers an immersive and strategic multiplayer experience. While the learning curve can be steep, the rewards of mastering the game's many facets are great. With patience, practice, and the help of this guide, you'll be on your way to becoming a skilled Dota 2 player. Welcome to the exciting world of Dota 2!

Please note that this guide provides a very basic overview of Dota 2. The game has a lot more depth and complexity which you will discover as you gain more experience. The in-game tutorial and guides available on various Dota 2 community websites can provide further assistance as you delve deeper into the game.