Free Game Of The Week focuses on finding the best games for the best price of zero dollars! This week's game is Dota 2 (Defence of The Ancients). But just what is Dota 2? Originally released by Valve in July of 2013, Dota 2 has quickly become one of the most popular games in computer gaming. With over 7 MILLION players and thousands of viewers on Twitch daily, it’s clear that Dota 2 is something special. But what exactly is Dota 2?

What is Dota 2 and how do I play?

All the heroes to choose from. - Source: Valve

Dota 2 is an Action RPG (Role Playing Game), a RTS (Real Time Strategy) and a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) all rolled into one. Highly competitive and addicting, Dota 2 is both a very simple and very complex game, with two teams of five selecting characters or “Heroes” and entering the game. Once in the game the objective is simple: destroy the enemy base or “Ancient”. To do so, you must be powerful. To become powerful you must gain gold and experience. Gold is gained in three ways passively as the game progresses: by killing units or “creeps” and by killing enemy Heroes. With gold you can buy items which makes these things easier. At the end of the game, win or lose, you return to matchmaking and search for another, and the cycle repeats itself. With over 109 heroes and over 100 items to choose from Dota 2 is a unique and interesting experience every time.

Types of Heroes

From fuzzy cuddly bears, knights, and even demons Dota 2 has it all. Dota heroes are broken down into 3 categories: You have strong testosterone-driven strength heroes such as Axe; cunning agility heroes like Drow Ranger; and magical spellcasters like Crystal Maiden. Each Hero is equipped with four to six unique abilities that can be used to alter and affect the tides of battle.

What if I wanted to pay money?

In Dota you receive all the heroes and all the content for free. Everything that costs money is purely cosmetic, and the cosmetic factors have no effect on gameplay. While some cosmetics cost upwards of $300, it is purely for looks.

Is Dota 2 played professionally?

International 5 winners, "Evil Geniuses" - Source: opterown

Dota 2 is played by both professional and amateurs alike. With so many tournaments going on, it feels as if Dota 2 is always being played. As far as big tournaments go, The International 5, which is sort of a grand championship, just finished in late July, 2015. The winning team "Evil Geniuses" won just over 5 MILLION dollars.

Aside from the many hours you will put into normal Dota 2, Valve recently released workshop tools that allow its many users the ability to create games and maps, all of which are playable in the arcade menu. With infinite game modes and games, Dota 2 is sure to keep you entertained for many hours. So go out, and be sure to grab four of your friends, and get ready for a time of excitement and wonder, with Dota 2, available on Steam.