DotA stands from Defense of the Ancients – a custom map created for Blizzard’s critically-acclaimed Warcraft 3 Reign of Chaos, based on a similar mod from Starcraft. The first version of the map was released in 2003 and after the Warcraft 3 Frozen Throne update it was modified to the version we all know about or even play today. An instant success story, DotA quickly climbed the popularity ladder in the gaming community and the original version (of course, updated in time) is still played to this day. Valve Corporation did a great thing and decided to release Dota 2 – basically the same gameplay and idea behind DotA, but with better graphics, more modding options and loads of other cool, interesting features. It’s free to play and available through Valve’s proprietary Steam platform.
Dota 2 Lounge
The Dota 2 Lounge website offers users the possibility to further increase their interaction options with the game and community. It basically allows you to bet on your favorite Dota 2 teams. Special items available in-game as rewards can be used in the betting system. Alternatively, you can trade items with other players. The platform seems legit, as you’ll need to log in with your Steam account. Aside from that, there are quite a few strict rules you’ll have to follow in order to use the website and not get banned.
In terms of design, the website is pretty simplistic – which is great, as it offers you exactly what you need without fluff content. They also have a Facebook page and Twitter account which you can access from the main page. The site looks nice all around and is highly functional, moves quickly and the browsing experience is intuitive. There’s a huge community of Dota 2 players backing it up, so you’re pretty safe on that part, as in you’ll always find games to bet on and people willing to trade their special items for yours. And the best part about it is that it’s free, so join the fun today!