The Unpicked Heroes of Dota 2's The International 2024: A Deep Dive into the Meta

Dota 2's The International 2024 was a spectacle of strategy, skill, and the unexpected. Among the numerous storylines that emerged, one particularly intriguing narrative was the record-setting number of heroes that went unpicked—25 in total, 21 of whom weren't even contested. This phenomenon marked a new record in the prestigious event's 13-year history. But what led to these heroes being sidelined, and what does it tell us about the current state of the Dota 2 meta?

Key Takeaways:

• A shift in the meta towards ranged carries, leaving many melee heroes out in the cold.
• The introduction and rise of the Gleipnir item significantly influenced hero viability.
• Patch 7.37's nerfs contributed to sidelining previously favored melee cores.
• The change in gameplay pace and strategy preferences impacted hero picks.
• Upcoming patches and meta shifts are eagerly anticipated by the community.

Dota 2's hero pool is vast and varied, offering a rich tapestry of abilities, roles, and strategic potential. In theory, every hero has its moment—its chance to shine within the right lineup or meta. However, The International 2024 painted a different picture, with a significant portion of the roster remaining untouched throughout the tournament.

The Rise of Ranged Carries and the Fall of Melee Heroes

The meta's evolution towards favoring ranged carries significantly impacted hero selection. This shift was largely propelled by the item Gleipnir, which not only boosts farming speed and early-game safety but also serves as an effective initiation tool in the mid to late game. The resurgence of ranged cores in the meta left many melee heroes, traditionally favored for their durability and frontline presence, without a role in the current competitive landscape.

The Impact of Patch 7.37

Patch 7.37 brought with it a slew of nerfs that further alienated melee cores from the competitive scene. Heroes that were once staples of The International's winning lineups, such as Tidehunter, found themselves completely ignored during the drafting phase. This marked a significant departure from their historical prominence and underscored the profound impact balance changes can have on the competitive viability of heroes.

Shifting Strategies and Gameplay Pace

Comparing the hero picks and strategies employed at The International 2024 with those of the previous major tournament, the Riyadh Masters 2024, highlights a distinct shift towards faster-paced, more aggressive gameplay. Heroes capable of coming online quickly and contributing to early skirmishes and team fights dominated the drafts. This meta favored active carries like Luna, Windranger, and Mirana, who could engage in the game's current burst-heavy combat style without needing extensive farm.

Looking Ahead: Meta Evolution and Anticipated Changes

As the Dota 2 community looks forward to Crownfall Act IV and the introduction of Kez, speculation abounds regarding the potential shifts in the game's meta. The post-TI patch is expected to bring significant changes, possibly reinvigorating the viability of heroes left untouched at The International 2024. The community eagerly awaits these updates, hopeful for a meta that offers a broader range of strategic possibilities and hero viability.

Engaging with the Community

What changes are you hoping to see in the upcoming patch? Do you think the sidelined heroes deserve a second chance in the spotlight, or should the focus be on balancing the current meta favorites? Share your thoughts and predictions for the future of Dota 2's ever-evolving competitive landscape.

The International 2024's unpicked heroes serve as a stark reminder of the dynamic nature of Dota 2's meta. While some may view this as a sign of imbalance, it also highlights the game's complexity and the continuous challenge of mastering its strategic depth. As the community and developers reflect on the event's outcomes, the anticipation for what's next continues to build, promising an exciting future for Dota 2 esports.