Dota 2 announces the lowest prize pool in The International’s history
Valve is changing how it funds the tournament, causing a dramatic drop in the prize pool compared to previous Battle Pass-funded editions.
This article contains affiliate links. Installing a game through one of them may earn PicGamers a commission. It stays free for you and never influences our recommendations.
Valve has confirmed a change in how it funds The International, causing the prize pool to drop to its lowest level since the tournament launched in 2011.
The end of the community Battle Pass model
Unlike previous editions where a share of Battle Pass sales directly inflated the prize pool, Valve now funds the tournament on a fixed budget — more predictable, but far less spectacular.
A split esports community
While some welcome a more stable approach less reliant on cosmetic purchases, others mourn the loss of the community angle that made The International stand out from other esports circuits.
Verdict
A funding model change that makes the tournament more predictable, at the cost of a strong symbol for the Dota community.
