The Best and Worst Dota 2 Heroes of TI 2024: Surprises, Disappointments, and Uncontested Picks

The Dota 2 meta is an ever-evolving beast, with the landscape of the game shifting with each tournament. The International (TI) is no exception, often creating its own meta bubble where heroes that dominate the ranked scenes may find themselves ignored, while others rise from obscurity to define the tournament. TI 2024 has unveiled its share of surprises, disappointments, and heroes that, despite the evolving meta, went completely uncontested. Let's dive into the standout heroes of the tournament and those who failed to make their mark.

Key Takeaways:

• Mid Lane Sand King Emerges: Despite a lower win rate in the mid lane compared to the offlane, heroes like Topson and Quinn showcased the potential of Sand King in both mid and lategame scenarios.
• Mirana Shines as a Carry: With a 60.87 percent win rate, primarily in a position one role, Mirana proved to be a versatile and impactful pick throughout TI 2024.
• Tusk Dominates Support Role: As a position four or five, Tusk's versatility and effectiveness in initiating fights or saving allies made him a top pick with a high win rate.
• Shadow Demon's Strategic Utility: With a 60 percent win rate and significant contestation, Shadow Demon's ability to clear buffs and set up team fights was invaluable.
• Naga Siren as the Hero of TI: Despite being picked only 12 times due to an astounding 106 bans, Naga Siren's impact when played was undeniable, boasting a 75 percent win rate.
• Pangolier's Decline: With a mere 35.29 percent win rate from 17 picks, Pangolier's performance at TI 2024 was underwhelming, marking a significant fall from grace.
• Sven's Struggle for Relevance: Attempted both as a carry and a roaming support, Sven failed to secure a single win from six picks, highlighting his limitations in the current meta.
• Primal Beast and Doom's Diminished Impact: Both heroes struggled to find their place, with low win rates and limited effectiveness in their respective roles.
• Lina's Lackluster Performance: Despite potential synergy with popular carry picks, Lina's struggles in lane and squishiness left her with a disappointing 35.71 percent win rate.

A total of 21 heroes went completely uncontested at TI 2024, including some surprises like Witch Doctor and Ogre Magi, indicating the volatile nature of the Dota 2 pro scene's meta.

The International tournaments consistently serve as a crucible for Dota 2's meta, pushing the boundaries of conventional strategies and hero picks. TI 2024 was no exception, providing a fresh perspective on the game's balance and the ever-changing dynamics of competitive play. As the Dota 2 community and professionals dissect the outcomes of this tournament, it's clear that adaptation, innovation, and strategic foresight remain key to mastering the complex and competitive world of Dota 2.