The International (TI) is the annual world championship of Valve’s Dota 2, and for years it boasted the largest prize pools in all of esports. Here’s the essentials.
Community-Funded Prize Pools
What made TI famous is that fans help fund the prize pool: a portion of in-game Battle Pass / event sales is added to the pot, which historically pushed it past $30–40 million in peak years — far beyond a typical esports event.
The Format
The world’s top teams qualify through regional circuits, then compete in a group stage followed by a double-elimination main-event bracket. Matches are best-of-three, with a best-of-five grand final.
The Aegis of Champions
Winners lift the Aegis of Champions, one of the most prestigious trophies in gaming. Victory cements a roster’s place in Dota history — and often a life-changing payday.
