Why is Dota 2 Thailand’s Most Popular eSport?

Dota 2 has become the most popular eSport game in Thailand, giving rise to many professional players. These players have earned nearly $1.5 million from the game, with some Thai-based teams competing in international leagues and tournaments. Thailand’s eSports market is rapidly expanding, and the country will host several major tournaments this year. Thai eSports teams face high expectations as the host of international events, with several gamers predicted to win Dota 2 tournaments. Presently, there are 16 Thai teams competing globally, with their combined winnings approaching $300,000. In December of last year, Thailand’s all-female Dota 2 team won the Global eSports Games, marking one of the most significant achievements by a Thai Dota 2 team. Although it remains to be seen whether they will achieve their goals, the success of Thai Dota 2 players are inspiring other Thai gamers to try their hand at this eSports discipline.

The Popularity of Dota 2 Keeps Rising in Thailand

Dota 2 is a highly popular multiplayer online battle arena game, favored by eSports players worldwide. Although Hearthstone remains the top choice for Thai eSports athletes, Dota 2 is gaining traction in the country’s gaming community.

Thailand’s Dota 2 community has grown exponentially in recent years, with many talented players and teams emerging nationwide. Their achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of both players and eSports organizations, as well as the local community’s support. The lure of financial gain is one of several factors driving their commitment to excel in Dota 2. Professional Dota 2 players can earn a decent living, and many gamers in Thailand are already making a living from it.

One prime example is Anucha “Jabz” Jirawong, the highest-earning Dota 2 player from Thailand, with earnings exceeding $800,000. This is a remarkable feat for a player in their mid-20s residing in a country where the cost of living is 44.4% lower than in the US. Jabz’s success has encouraged other Thai gamers to consider turning pro, with many already following suit, and more expected to do so in the future. Thailand’s Dota 2 eSports scene is poised for growth, and this wouldn’t be possible if the game wasn’t captivating to players, which it undoubtedly is.

Dota 2: Thailand’s Favorite eSports Game 10 Years On

There are several key reasons why Dota 2 has remained a beloved game among Thai gamers, even 10 years after its initial release. Firstly, its gameplay is engaging and requires a high level of skill, which is a challenge that many Thai players enjoy undertaking. To become proficient in Dota 2, players must invest significant time and energy into improving their abilities.

Secondly, Dota 2 is a team-based game that necessitates cooperation between players to achieve objectives. This aspect of the game fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among teammates, which is highly valued in Thai culture.

Lastly, Dota 2 is a free-to-play game, which has contributed to its enduring popularity in Thailand. As everyone enjoys receiving free things, Thai gamers can play Dota 2 without paying a single baht, unlike many other eSports games that require an upfront purchase or ongoing subscription fees. These three factors combine to make Dota 2 a game that is likely to remain a favorite among Thai gamers for years to come.

Video Games That Could Rival Dota 2’s Dominance in Thailand

Although Dota 2 and Hearthstone are currently the top choices of eSports players in Thailand, they are not the preferred options for casual gamers who prefer mobile games. Arena of Valor, a mobile game that can be played on some consoles, is the most popular game in the country. On the other hand, Genshin Impact, a 2020 open-world adventure game from Chinese developer miHoYo, is the most popular desktop game in Thailand, but not yet a significant competitive game. However, the rising popularity of games like Call of Duty, FIFA, and Overwatch in Thailand may present a challenge to the throne of Dota 2 in the future.

Final Thoughts

Dota 2’s popularity has grown in Thailand as a result of its engaging gameplay, team-based structure, and free-to-play strategy. Thai Dota 2 players’ success in international events has prompted many gamers in the country to explore turning pro and making a living from the game. Dota 2’s supremacy in Thailand may be challenged by the growth of mobile games like Arena of Valor and desktop games like Genshin Impact, but for the time being, it remains the most popular eSport in the country. It will be interesting to observe how Dota 2 and other games affect the future of eSports in Thailand as the Thai gaming industry evolves.