Hidden Dota 2 files show new DPC features coming in 2021

Dota 2 fans have a lot of new toys to play with, but hidden files show that there’s also quite a bit left to come.

The Mistwood Update gave fans a whole lot to be excited about between new Dota 2 hero Hoodwink and the massive 7.28 update. Those weren’t the only things added to the client, though. The Mistwood Update laid the foundation for a major expansion of Dota 2 esports into the game’s client and an expansion of the Dota 2 website.

Included in this are files for new menu layouts related to the Dota Pro Circuit. These files also make references to Dota Pro Circuit teams, players, standings, and schedules. This likely means that Valve is planning to add expanded support for the DPC next year by highlighting the competitors and leagues in the Dota 2 client.

Mistwood Update sneaks new DPC into Dota 2

There are two aspects to this, including what seems to be an esports-focused expansion to the Dota 2 client as well as other Dota 2 media.

It's unknown what is included in this update, but it has most of the trimmings of the compendium that is included in The International Battle Pass. This includes features related to perusing a list of teams and players set to compete in the Dota Pro Circuit.

There is no sign that this will be attached to any mini-games such as the battle pass’ fantasy esports tool, but at the very least it will offer increased visibility and integration for Dota Pro Circuit events.

There are also a number of new features regarding Dota 2 teams. Included in this is the ability to choose a “favorite team” and the ability to “become a fan.” It is unknown what this may entail, but there are files for “teamfancontent” in the client. 

The TI Battle Pass has offered fans the opportunity to add a team’s banner to their designated base structure to show their fandom for a team. People in the esports industry have also lamented the removal of the purchasable in-lane banners that popped up in 2012 and disappeared without comment from Valve. There are also files for icons related to linking out to teams’ websites and social media pages.

There is certainly a lot of room to improve the support for Dota 2 esports. One only needs to look at League of Legends’ dedicated esports site to see what might be in Dota 2. More information can be found on Steamdb.info.

What is the Dota Pro Circuit?

Starting in 2021, the Dota Pro Circuit will largely be made up of a series of regional leagues. These will see teams from the six main Dota 2 regions come together and compete for a spot in interregional majors. In both the leagues and majors, teams earn points which are used to determine the invitees to The International.