The Best Custom Games in Dota 2
Author: Hawk Live LLC
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Custom games in Dota 2 have become an integral part of the gaming experience, attracting millions of players worldwide. These unique game modes, created by the community, offer the opportunity to try something new and go beyond the standard gameplay. In this article, we will explain what custom games in Dota 2 are, when they were added, and highlight some of the best ones that deserve your attention.
What are Custom Games in Dota 2?
Custom games, or custom maps, are user-generated game modes created using the built-in map editor and mods in Dota 2. These games allow developers and regular players to create unique scenarios, changing the rules, heroes, and game mechanics. As a result, you get a completely new gaming experience that can range from minor tweaks to the standard game to entirely new games.
When Were Custom Games Added to Dota 2?
Custom games first appeared in Dota 2 in July 2015 with the release of the Reborn update. This update not only introduced a new game system based on Source 2 but also provided tools for creating custom games. Since then, the community has created numerous interesting and engaging custom games that continue to attract players to this day.
The Best Custom Games in Dota 2
Now let's take a look at some of the most popular and interesting custom games that deserve your attention.
Custom Game | Current Players | Peak Players |
|---|---|---|
Dota Auto Chess | 10,000 | 140,000 |
Ability Arena | 4,000 | 19,000 |
Custom Hero Chaos | 3,500 | 18,000 |
Overthrow | 5,000 | 20,000 |
Legends of Dota | 3,000 | 15,000 |
Pudge Wars | 2,500 | 12,000 |
Dota IMBA | 2,300 | 11,000 |
Element TD | 2,000 | 10,000 |
Tower Defense | 1,800 | 9,000 |
Imba Wars | 1,500 | 8,000 |
Epic Boss Fight | 1,000 | 7,000 |
RPG Adventures | 1,200 | 6,000 |
Battle of Mages | 1,000 | 5,500 |
X Hero Siege | 800 | 5,000 |
Fate/Another | 900 | 4,500 |
Dota Auto Chess

Credit: Valve Corporation
One of the most famous and popular custom games, Dota Auto Chess, is a strategic game where players assemble a team of heroes and battle each other on a chessboard. Each round, they can buy new heroes, combine them for upgrades, and place them on the battlefield. The goal is to be the last player standing, defeating all opponents. Dota Auto Chess became so popular that it spawned its own genre of auto chess and served as the foundation for standalone games.
Pudge Wars

Credit: Valve Corporation
This custom game offers players a unique mechanic where they control only one hero — Pudge. Players battle each other using Pudge's hook to catch and destroy opponents. The game takes place on small arenas, requiring quick reactions and precise aiming. Pudge Wars is a great way to hone your skills with Pudge and have fun with friends.
Overthrow
Credit: Valve Corporation
Overthrow is a custom game where players fight in a small arena, trying to score the most kills within a limited time. Both solo players and teams can participate. This mode is characterized by high dynamics and intense battles, making it perfect for short gaming sessions and fun with friends.
Legends of Dota

Credit: Valve Corporation
Legends of Dota allows players to create their unique heroes by combining abilities from different characters. This opens up endless possibilities for experiments and creating new strategies. Players can choose any abilities and create their "legendary" hero that matches their play style.
Imba Wars

Credit: Valve Corporation
In Imba Wars, players battle on a large map where heroes have incredibly powerful and unusual abilities. This mode makes the gameplay completely unpredictable and exciting, giving players the opportunity to try something completely new and extraordinary.
Conclusion
Custom games in Dota 2 offer endless possibilities for entertainment and experimentation. They allow players to go beyond the standard gameplay and experience something new. Whether you prefer strategy, dynamic battles, or unique ability combinations, Dota 2 custom games provide many exciting modes for every taste.






