For Dota 2 pros and fans, winning The International and holding the Aegis of Champions is the ultimate goal. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused The International 10 to be postponed indefinitely, leaving players unable to compete for the prestigious title. With offline tournaments no longer an option, online regional competitions took their place. Many teams struggled to overcome geographical constraints and had to find substitutes for their rosters.
This year’s ranking of the best Dota 2 teams will have a regional breakdown, unlike previous years. Without further ado, here are the best Dota 2 teams of 2020 in each region, presented in no particular order.
Europe: Team Secret
Throughout Dota 2’s history, certain teams like Natus Vincere, Alliance, DK, and Virtus Pro dominated specific eras. However, in 2020, Team Secret outperformed them all. With a roster of mechanically skilled players, Secret surpassed all expectations. They achieved win streaks, won trophies, secured another Major title, and showcased impressive plays. Each player on the Secret roster was capable of bearing the burden and leading the team to victory. Despite their dominance, the question remains: Can they win The International?
China: Vici Gaming
Vici Gaming had a consistent year, despite facing a public transfer dispute and losing key players. The team adapted by bringing in new talent and experimenting with a six-man roster, which is rare in the competitive Dota 2 scene. Vici Gaming started strong in offline tournaments and will continue to compete with a capable roster heading into next year. Other Chinese powerhouses like EHOME, PSG.LGD, and Elephant also showed promise and are expected to perform well in international competitions.
CIS: Virtus Pro and Natus Vincere
Virtus Pro and Natus Vincere have long dominated the CIS Dota 2 scene with their aggressive and peerless playstyles. However, this year was not their best performance. Both teams experienced roster changes but showed potential for the future. Virtus Pro’s new lineup, promoted from an academy roster, impressed with great results and claimed their first premier championship. Na’Vi underwent a full rebuild and achieved commendable results. These teams are determined to retain their position at the top.
North America: Evil Geniuses
Evil Geniuses faced roster instability due to their players being from different regions. Despite this challenge, they continued to dominate the North American region. The organization made roster changes, including the addition of experienced offlaner iceiceice. Although the team is currently not competing, they maintained their dominance in 2020.
South America: Beastcoast
Beastcoast remained the most consistent and strongest team in South America. Despite facing internet issues and strict lockdown rules, they had respectable finishes in major tournaments. Valve’s support for the South American Dota 2 scene has helped teams like Beastcoast, but increased aid is needed to raise the region’s level of competition.
Southeast Asia: Fnatic and TNC Predator
Fnatic and TNC Predator stood at the top of the Southeast Asian scene for most of 2020, securing dominant positions and performed well in international tournaments. However, both teams faced challenges and underwent roster changes. TNC is currently searching for a captain, while Fnatic had a messy window of transfers and swaps. Despite these setbacks, both organizations have strong backing and talented players, making it likely for them to return to the top.
In a region with a large talent pool, it’s not always guaranteed that teams will find the right lineup due to issues with chemistry, stability, or leadership. Nevertheless, teams like Fnatic and TNC have the potential to shine in the Dota 2 scene. The Southeast Asian region still has room to grow and compete with the elites of Dota 2.
Dota 2, esports, teams, ranking, tournaments, COVID-19, Team Secret, Vici Gaming, Virtus Pro, Natus Vincere, Evil Geniuses, Beastcoast, Fnatic, TNC Predator, Southeast Asia.