The Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) 2020-2021 season is coming to an end, and with it, the opportunity for teams to earn direct invitations to The International 10 (TI10) through their performances. However, all hope is not lost for those who have fallen short of securing a spot in the main event. This is where the Regional Qualifiers come in.
What Are Dota 2 Regional Qualifiers?
Regional Qualifiers are a series of tournaments that offer teams from each region an opportunity to compete against one another and earn a place in TI10. These qualifiers serve as the last hope for those teams who have not met the requirements for direct invitations through the DPC.
The Importance of Regional Qualifiers
The importance of Regional Qualifiers lies in their ability to provide a level playing field for underdog teams. They offer an opportunity for those teams that may not have had the resources or opportunities to perform at the same level as the top-tier teams during the regular season. By offering this chance, Valve and the Dota 2 community are able to promote fairness and competitiveness in the scene.
**Regional Qualifiers: A Closer Look**
Now that we have an understanding of what Regional Qualifiers are, let’s take a closer look at how they work and what teams can expect.
Format
The format for each regional qualifier varies slightly depending on the number of teams participating. Generally, however, the qualifiers consist of a group stage followed by a playoff stage. In the group stage, teams are divided into groups where they face off against one another in a round-robin or double elimination format. The top teams from each group then advance to the playoffs, where they compete in a single-elimination bracket.
Examples of Success Stories
Many successful stories have emerged from the Regional Qualifiers over the years. For instance, in TI9, Team Liquid qualified for the main event through the European qualifier. The team, which consisted of players such as MinD_ContRol and Fata, had a strong performance during the qualifiers, ultimately earning themselves a spot at TI9. Another example is that of OG, who went on to win TI10 after qualifying through the European qualifier in 2018.
**Summary: A Chance for Dreams**
In conclusion, Regional Qualifiers offer teams a last chance to make their dreams of competing at The International a reality. They provide an opportunity for underdog teams to prove themselves and compete against the best in the scene. So, as we approach the end of the DPC 2020-2021 season, keep an eye on your favorite regional qualifiers and root for the teams that have what it takes to make it to TI10.