Dota 2, one of the most celebrated multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games, has seen its player base fluctuate significantly over the years. Since its release in 2013, it quickly gained a dedicated following, reaching a peak in 2016 before experiencing a decline, hitting a low of 400,000 players in 2023.
However, the game has made a remarkable recovery, now averaging 500,000 players daily and peaking at 750,000 players each day. This resurgence has reignited excitement among the community, proving Dota 2’s lasting appeal.
Dota 2 Player Base in 2025
For much of 2023, fans expressed concern over the state of Dota 2, citing a lack of support from the development team. The game appeared to be losing momentum, with fewer updates and declining player engagement. But no one expected what was to come.
Dota 2 (image via Getty)Crownfall 2024 Brought Dota 2 Back to Life
A major factor in Dota 2’s resurgence has been the success of Crownfall 2024. Although its release was delayed, the event delivered a content-rich experience that engaged both longtime fans and new players. This well-designed event showcased the developers’ ability to create compelling in-game experiences despite past criticism for inconsistent updates.
Crownfall 2024 is designed with longevity in mind. With only Acts 1 and 2 released as of June 2024, players can expect the event to continue into August, aligning with The International 2024 (TI13). The anticipation for upcoming Acts has fueled excitement and retained player interest, ensuring sustained engagement in the months ahead.
A Game for All Players
One of Crownfall 2024’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Unlike previous events that favored paying players, this update includes a variety of engaging quests and redeemable rewards for both free and paying users. The inclusion of Arcana skins, progressive challenges, and in-game discounts has created a rewarding experience that appeals to all levels of players.
Beyond the rewards, the Crownfall quests present a formidable challenge, even for seasoned players. Complex puzzles and mechanics demand strategic thinking, leading to widespread discussions in the Dota 2 community. Online forums like Reddit have become hubs for players to collaborate, share tips, and solve the most difficult quests, such as acquiring the elusive candle token or winning the Omexe Daily Duel.
A Comparison to 2023’s Decline
Looking back, Dota 2’s decline in 2023 seemed inevitable. Valve shifted its focus from the annual Battle Pass to broader gameplay updates, aiming to appeal to a larger audience. While this move was meant to revitalize interest in the game, it resulted in a smaller prize pool for The International 2023, totaling only $3.3 million.
Dota 2 (image via Getty)Throughout 2023, Valve only released three significant updates: the New Frontiers Patch in April, the Summer 2023 Update in August, and the Frostivus 2023 event in December. While these updates brought temporary increases in player numbers, none had the lasting impact that Crownfall 2024 has achieved. This latest update is widely regarded as the best content Valve has produced since Battle Pass 2020.
Dota 2 Player Count in 2024
With the success of Crownfall 2024, Dota 2’s player count has seen a significant boost. The game has reestablished itself as a dominant force in the MOBA genre, proving that its player base remains loyal when provided with engaging content and consistent updates.
