On September 14, 2023, Valve announced that the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) would be discontinued after the end of the 2023 season. The DPC was introduced in 2017 and has been the primary competitive format for Dota 2 for the past five years.
Valve has not given a specific reason for removing the DPC, but it is likely due to a number of factors. One factor is that the DPC has become increasingly complex and difficult to follow. With six regional leagues and two majors per season, it can be hard for even the most dedicated fans to keep up with all the action.
Another factor is that the DPC has not been as successful as Valve had hoped in terms of attracting new players and viewers. The DPC matches are often played at inconvenient times for viewers in the West, and the prize pools are relatively small compared to other esports leagues.
Finally, it is possible that Valve is simply looking to try something new. The DPC has been in place for five years now, and it may be time for a change. Valve has not announced any specific plans for a replacement for the DPC, but it is likely that the company is working on something new.
What does this mean for the future of Dota 2 esports?
The removal of the DPC is a major change for Dota 2 esports. It is unclear how Valve plans to replace the DPC, or if it will be replaced at all. It is also unclear how the removal of the DPC will affect the professional Dota 2 scene.
One possibility is that Valve will move to a more decentralized Dota 2 esports scene. With no official Valve-sanctioned league, teams will be free to compete in a variety of different tournaments. This could lead to more competition and more opportunities for teams to earn money.
However, it is also possible that the removal of the DPC will lead to a decline in Dota 2 esports. Without a central league, it may be more difficult for teams to attract sponsors and viewers. This could lead to fewer teams competing at a high level, and less interest in the game overall.
It is also worth noting that Valve has a history of making major changes to the Dota 2 esports scene. In 2011, Valve switched from a direct invite system to a regional qualifier system for The International. This change was met with mixed reactions from fans at the time, but it is now widely considered to have been a positive change.
It is possible that the removal of the DPC is another such major change. Valve may be planning to introduce a new esports format that is more streamlined and easier to follow. Or, Valve may be planning to leave the competitive scene more open-ended, allowing teams and tournament organizers to create their own events.
Only time will tell what the future holds for Dota 2 esports. However, it is clear that the removal of the DPC is a major change, and one that is likely to have a significant impact on the professional scene.