In the grand pantheon of esports, few tournaments command the reverence and global attention quite like The International (TI), Dota 2`s annual culminating championship. Each iteration leaves an indelible mark, but an ongoing debate among fans often centers on a singular question: which TI was the greatest? Recently, a significant fan poll on Cybersport.ru has provided a definitive, albeit subjective, answer, crowning The International 2018 as the most beloved chapter in Dota 2 history. It appears that when it comes to capturing hearts, a captivating narrative triumphs even over the largest prize pools.
The Unlikeliest of Victories: The International 2018 and OG`s Legendary Run
Securing a resounding 33% of the votes, TI 2018`s victory isn`t merely about the gameplay; it`s a testament to the power of a story that Hollywood scriptwriters would envy. This was the year of OG, a team that, by all conventional metrics, should not have been there. Plagued by roster instability and forced to claw their way through the open qualifiers, OG`s journey to the Aegis of Champions was less a stroll and more a desperate sprint through a gauntlet of skepticism.
Their ascent culminated in a grand final against the formidable PSG.LGD, a match etched into the annals of esports as one of the most thrilling and nerve-wracking showdowns ever. A best-of-five series stretched to its absolute limit, with OG ultimately emerging victorious with a 3-2 scoreline. It was a classic “Cinderella story” — an underdog tale that resonated deeply with fans, proving that with enough grit, anything is possible. It’s almost as if the universe itself decided to write the perfect underdog narrative, delivering drama and elation in equal measure, much to the delight of millions.
The Silent Spectacle and Spirit`s Shocking Rise: The International 2021
Following closely behind, TI 2021 garnered significant appreciation, securing second place in the fan poll. This edition stands out for a contrasting reason: it boasted the largest prize pool in TI history, a staggering sum that would make traditional sports leagues blush. Yet, a crucial element was missing – the roaring crowd. Held without a live audience due to global circumstances, it was a peculiar irony for an event named “The International.”
Despite the lack of live energy, TI 2021 delivered its own potent underdog narrative through Team Spirit. Like OG before them, Spirit`s path to the grand stage began in regional qualifiers, and they were hardly considered top contenders upon arrival. But much like a silent assassin, they systematically dismantled their opponents, culminating in another unforgettable 3-2 grand final victory against, you guessed it, PSG.LGD. It seems that for LGD, the path to the Aegis is perpetually paved with the heartbreak of a final game five loss.
Enduring Legacies: TI 2013 and TI 2017
Tied for third place with 11% of the votes, The International 2013 and 2017 represent seminal moments in Dota 2 history, albeit with slightly different flavors of greatness. TI 2013 is often remembered for the legendary “El Clásico” grand final between Alliance and Natus Vincere (Na`Vi). This rivalry defined an era of Western Dota, showcasing tactical brilliance and mechanical prowess that captivated a nascent esports scene. Alliance`s victory was a masterclass in strategic execution, solidifying their place in history.
TI 2017, on the other hand, belongs to Team Liquid. Their journey through the lower bracket, demonstrating incredible resilience and adaptability, culminated in a dominant performance in the grand finals. It was a display of unwavering focus and skill, proving that even after facing adversity, a team can rise to the occasion and claim the ultimate prize.
The Outlier: The International 2022
Bringing up the rear in the fan poll was The International 2022. While Tundra Esports delivered a fantastic performance, ultimately defeating Team Secret with a dominant 3-0 sweep in the grand finals, this TI seemed to resonate less with the fanbase compared to its predecessors. Perhaps the relative lack of a nail-biting grand final, or a less pronounced underdog narrative, contributed to its lower ranking. Sometimes, efficiency, while impressive, simply isn`t as dramatically satisfying as a hard-fought, five-game slugfest. It serves as a gentle reminder that for fans, the journey and the struggle often matter as much, if not more, than the clinical victory itself.
Ultimately, the results of this fan poll underscore a crucial aspect of what makes The International so special: it`s not just about who lifts the Aegis, but the story woven around their path to glory. Whether it`s the chaotic underdog brilliance of OG, the quiet determination of Team Spirit, or the enduring rivalries of past eras, fans connect with the human element – the struggle, the triumph, and the sheer unpredictability. As Dota 2 continues to evolve, one can only anticipate what new, captivating narratives future Internationals will unveil, forever adding to the rich tapestry of esports history.
