Already one of the most popular free-to-play MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) games on the planet, DOTA 2 is set to reach a higher plateau by incorporating virtual reality into online spectating. Achieved via streaming sites such as Twitch, this is major news for the legions of e-sports fanatics, who can now combine two of the most exciting technological revolutions in recent years. Although there is still no official release date for this epic collaboration, one would expect before the end of 2016 at the very least.
Here’s Why MOBAs Are Taking Over the Gaming World
Along with Riot’s League of Legends, Valve’s DOTA 2 is spearheading the MOBA takeover of online gaming. If you were ever a little brother or sister sullenly watching your elder sibling play a video game, you might balk at the idea of signing up to watch others play game, yet millions upon millions do exactly this. More amazing, perhaps, is that live gaming championships for DOTA 2 and LoL take place in sold out arenas across the world.
Footage of VR spectator mode for #dota2 with @htcvive. Things could NOT get any more exciting today. pic.twitter.com/3f4sEfUX8U
— Robert McGregor (@ID_R_McGregor) April 5, 2016
The idea of being social through online gaming isn’t so uncommon anymore. Over 60 million people visit Twitch every month, and close to a million people are playing DOTA 2 at any time throughout the day, with these facts courtesy of Steam’s incredibly detailed analysis page.
And it’s not just viewing either. Using dedicated servers gamers can create their own leagues with their own rules. Not unlike an exclusive clubhouse in the real world, gamers must be given permission to play in someone’s virtual club. Perfect for the creation of a league with only those you trust, this type of online gaming has allowed players to feel safer and more secure, knowing that everyone is there to have fun and not cause trouble. Unfortunately, bullying and harassment online is still widespread and common, with females especially taking the brunt of abuse.
In fact, e-sports champion Hafu Chan, one of the most successful and popular professional online gamers in the world, recently spoke about her experiences playing games online as a female. Be sure to check out the poignant video below.
Real Future: A Female eSports Champion Speaks Out About Harassment (Episode 7)