What is The International now?
The International has changed a lot since 2011. It has more media coverage now thanks to the acceptance of e-Sports.Valve sells an item called the "Compendium" to the community. The Compendium gives out rewards based on levels which can be earned through fulfilling objectives or buying levels. Money spent on the Compendium will be contributed to The International's prize pool. Here's an example of the 2016 Compendium.
The compendium offers many rewards to players who spend time on it. From treasures, skins, couriers and many more! Unfortunately, it is not easy to get your rewards. It starts from getting them often and gradually reduces over time until it is scarce. Luckily, Valve made a business solution for that. We can buy levels and 25% of the money spent buying levels will be added to "The International" prize pool. With that, you can expect that the prize has been increasing.
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The International 2013 had a prize pool of $2.8 Million.
The International 2014 had a prize pool of $10 Million.
The International 2015 had a prize pool of $18 Million.
The International 2016 is expected to have a prize pool of $20 Million!
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The game has changed a lot also. It is now called DOTA 2 Reborn instead of DOTA 2.There are more heroes to choose from meaning more strategies and more amazing combos. From 46 heroes during 2011, to 111 heroes in 2016. There are many more items as well to counter your enemies or aid your heroes.
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The graphics have improved drastically as well.
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The game also has community game modes to make it fun. Like joining together with other players to fight a boss or having a survival game or the famous 10 VS 10 game mode. It won't end there as long as Valve keeps it together. The game will only get harder, funnier and more enjoyable for its players.
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