ESL’s EPT Dota 2 Leaderboard faces early criticism as DPC rankings abolished

The ESL Pro Tour (EPT) Season 2 for Dota 2 has recently sparked significant debate within the Dota 2 esports community. Central to this controversy is the leaderboard’s methodology for awarding points, which has been criticized for its perceived undervaluing of The International 2023, one of the most prestigious events in the Dota 2 calendar.

Gaimin Gladiators’ Ranking Discontent on EPT Leaderboard

A prime example of the discontent is the experience of Gaimin Gladiators. The team, showcasing impressive skill, secured a second-place finish at The International in Seattle. However, this achievement did not translate into a favorable position on the EPT leaderboard, where they found themselves outside the top four. This ranking is more than a mere number; it’s the key to direct invites to major ESL events, which are essential for any top-tier team’s visibility and success.

Big ESL fan.

But this leaderboard has to be one of the worst, it only took Dreamleague 21 in consideration because it’s the tournament after Riyad Masters. TI is just whatever.
If we knew it worked like that I guess we should have skipped BB Dacha to make sure we would play well pic.twitter.com/GjaNHsUEuQ

— Melchior Hillenkamp (@Seleri4096) November 29, 2023

Melchior “Seleri” Hillenkamp, the support player for Gaimin Gladiators, voiced his dissatisfaction openly. He criticized the EPT ranking system for disproportionately favoring the Dreamleague S21 over TI12. Seleri’s comments, however, reflect a broader sentiment in the community that the current ranking system might not accurately represent teams’ performances and standings in the global Dota 2 arena.

EPT Leaderboard as the new DPC Rankings

Despite the criticisms leveled at the ranking system, it’s important to note the positive aspects of ESL’s involvement in Dota 2 esports. Seleri himself acknowledged the high quality of ESL’s production and the overall excellence of their tournaments. ESL has been instrumental in elevating the standard of Dota 2 events, providing fans and players alike with memorable esports experiences.

The 2024 Outlook: Uncertainty and Opportunity

Looking ahead to 2024, the disbandment of Valve’s Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) poses both challenges and opportunities for the Dota 2 esports landscape. The absence of the DPC has created a void, particularly affecting the tier-2 scene. These teams, which form the backbone of the Dota 2 community, now face significant financial and structural challenges.

The need for more third-party organizers, such as ESL, to step in and support these teams is more critical than ever. Smaller-scale tournaments can play a pivotal role in sustaining the tier-2 scene and providing a nurturing ground for emerging talent. This support is crucial not just for maintaining the competitive integrity of Dota 2 esports but also for ensuring its growth and diversity.

How about the amateur Dota 2 scene?

Peter “ppd” Dager, a seasoned player and respected figure in the Dota 2 community, has highlighted the difficulties faced by tier-2 teams in the current ecosystem. The lack of a clear competitive pathway post-DPC has led to a sense of uncertainty and frustration among these teams. Ppd’s experiences with his team, Yangzhiganlu, particularly during the ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 qualifiers, exemplify these struggles. The team’s journey and challenges are a microcosm of the broader issues plaguing the tier-2 scene, which is now at a crossroads.

As the Dota 2 community looks towards the future, the role of organizations like ESL in shaping the competitive landscape becomes increasingly significant. The EPT Season 2 ranking controversy highlights the need for a balanced and fair system that recognizes and rewards all levels of competitive play. As the Esports world adapts to the post-DPC era, it is imperative that the concerns of players and teams are addressed, ensuring a healthy and vibrant future for Dota 2 Esports.