League of Legends (LoL) and Dota 2 are two of the most popular Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games. LoL has become one of the most popular games in the world, with a large and active player base and a thriving esports scene. Dota 2 is also highly popular, with a dedicated player base and a large tournament scene.

Both games are free-to-play with optional in-game purchases, and both have a large pool of playable characters, each with unique abilities and play styles. The article will help you to choose, which side you take in a battle League of Legends vs Dota 2 in 2023.

The popularity of MOBA games has grown significantly in recent years, due in part to the rise of esports and the increasing number of professional players and teams. With their combination of strategy, teamwork, and fast-paced action, The MOBA genre has also inspired many other games and game modes and has had a significant impact on the overall gaming industry.

Background on League of Legends

In League of Legends, the objective is to destroy the enemy team’s base, located at the opposite end of the map while defending one’s own. Gameplay in League of Legends is fast-paced and strategic, with players earning gold and experience by killing enemy minions, monsters, and champions. As they progress, players can level up their champions, buy new items, and unlock new abilities. Teams must coordinate and work together, choosing the right champion for the right role and communicating effectively, to be successful.

League of Legends has a large pool of champions, each with unique abilities and play styles. The game includes optional in-game purchases and has a large and dedicated player base that is constantly growing. It is updated regularly with new champions, items, and gameplay mechanics.

League of Legends characters
Image credit: Riot Games

Background on Dota 2

In Dota 2, two teams of five players compete against each other on a map. Each player controls a hero with unique abilities and works together with their team to defeat the enemy team and destroy their main structure, known as the Ancient. The map is divided into three lanes, each with a set of defensive towers, and players earn gold and experience by killing enemy heroes and creeps, which are AI-controlled units that continuously spawn and march down the lanes.

The game is won by destroying the enemy Ancient, which requires coordinated teamwork and strategy to achieve. Dota 2 is a complex and challenging game, with a deep learning curve and a large roster of heroes to master, but it offers a rewarding and engaging experience for those willing to put in the time to learn. The gameplay basis is similar to the LoL’s one.

Dota 2 characters
Image credit: Valve

Comparison of Gameplay and Mechanics

In both LoL and Dota 2, two teams of players compete against each other in a virtual arena intending to destroy the enemy team’s base while defending their own. The map is divided into lanes and players earn gold and experience by killing enemy minions, monsters, and heroes. Both games feature a large pool of heroes, each with unique abilities and play styles, and both require teamwork and strategy to be successful.

One key difference between the two games is the speed of the gameplay. LoL is generally considered to be faster-paced and more action-oriented than Dota 2, with shorter games and a more straightforward item system. Dota 2, on the other hand, is considered to be more complex and strategic, with a wider range of heroes available at the beginning, a more intricate item system, and longer, more intense games.

In Dota 2, the pre-match customization features such as Runes, Masteries, and Summoner Spells that exist in League of Legends are not present. However, Dota 2 has its own unique Rune system. A significant difference in gameplay between the two games can be seen in the aspect of friendly fire, as Dota 2 allows players to hit and potentially kill their allies, which is not possible in League of Legends.

League of Legends gameplay
Image credit: Riot Games

Player Base and Community

In terms of the player base, LoL has a much larger player count of active players compared to Dota 2’s. However, Dota 2’s player base is more dedicated and engaged, with the game having a reputation for having a higher skill ceiling and a more intense learning curve.

The communities of both games are highly passionate and dedicated and they have a similar, bad reputation. The toxicity is at a very high level in both of them. The toxic atmosphere may be hard to understand for newcomers and it’s not possible to explain, where it comes from and why.

Popularity and Competitive Scene

League of Legends, as one of the most popular video games in the world, has helped to bring esports into the mainstream and has popularized the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) genre. The game has a large and dedicated player base, and its competitive scene is growing, with large international tournaments and substantial prize pools.

Similarly, Dota 2 has been a pioneer in the world of esports, with its professional scene being well-established and highly regarded. The Dota 2 International, in particular, is one of the largest and most prestigious esports tournaments in the world. The popularity and success of Dota 2 have helped to cement the status of esports as a legitimate form of competition and entertainment.

Dota 2
Image credit: Valve

Conclusion

League of Legends and Dota 2 are two of the most popular MOBA games in the world, each offering a unique and challenging gameplay experience.

Both games have rich and intricate worlds, with unique lore and storylines, and are highly rated by players and critics alike. The choice between LoL and Dota 2 ultimately comes down to personal preference and playstyle, and both games have dedicated fanbases and active communities. Make your rating and decision carefully, because both games can absorb you for many years.