The Most Memorable Plays in Dota 2 History

The world of Dota 2 has been a crucible for some of the most iconic and memorable plays in esports history. These moments have left audiences awestruck, commentators raving, and the community abuzz. We take a look at some of these unforgettable plays that have imprinted themselves on the collective Dota consciousness.

1. The $6 Million Echo Slam – TI5

During The International 2015, in a match between Evil Geniuses and CDEC Gaming, EG’s support player, Saahil “Universe” Arora, delivered a stunning Echo Slam with Earthshaker that would be etched in the annals of Dota 2 history. CDEC had the advantage, pressing into EG’s base when Universe seized the moment. His perfect jump onto CDEC’s tightly packed team turned the game on its head, securing the victory for EG and helping them clinch the championship. This play not only demonstrated incredible skill but transformed a seemingly desperate situation into an iconic victory, ultimately winning EG the lion’s share of the $18 million prize pool.

2. The “Fountain Hook” – TI3

The International 2013 witnessed one of the most controversial yet ingenious plays by Natus Vincere’s Danil “Dendi” Ishutin. Playing as Pudge, Dendi executed the “Fountain Hook” along with his teammate Kuro “KuroKy” Salehi Takhasomi playing Chen. By using Chen’s Teleport ability to send Dendi back to the base while simultaneously landing Pudge’s Meat Hook, they were able to drag enemy heroes into their fountain. This exploit turned around a series against TongFu, although it was later patched, forbidding its use in future competitions. Nonetheless, it remains one of the most talked-about strategies in Dota 2 history.

3. The Six-Million Dollar Šperger – TI8

At The International 2018, OG’s off-laner, Sebastian “Ceb” Debs, executed a play that not only showcased individual brilliance but secured a turning point in the grand finals against PSG.LGD. As they were under severe pressure, Ceb played Axe and repeatedly performed crowd control to perfection, initiating several key fights. His ability to maintain the tempo and disrupt PSG.LGD’s strategy allowed OG to hold on until they could eventually reverse-sweep their opponents. Each perfect Berserker’s Call clutched a crucial teamfight—and the series—turning a potential loss into an unforgettable victory.

4. Arteezy’s Divide – ESL One Frankfurt 2014

Artour “Arteezy” Babaev made headlines with a play known as “The Divide” during ESL One Frankfurt 2014. While playing for Evil Geniuses, Arteezy’s performance on the hero Razor was a thrilling display of skill and map awareness. As Alliance pushed down the mid-lane, Arteezy utilized Razor’s movement speed and incredible map sense to outmaneuver the opponents, splitting their ranks and taking critical objectives. Though EG couldn’t secure victory in that match, Arteezy’s bold move and his ability to manipulate the enemy team laid down a marker for spectacular strategic gameplay.

5. Miracle-‘s 20,000 MMR Combo – TI7

Aliwi “Miracle-” Omar and his team, Team Liquid, were on the precipice of elimination during The International 2017, defending their base against LGD.Forever Young. In a crucial playoff match, Miracle-, playing the hero Invoker, showcased his exceptional skill with the hero’s complex invocations. Building and landing an almost impossible combo, Miracle- deleted key enemy heroes with precision, turning a potential loss into a pivotal victory. This execution of one of the most challenging heroes under immense pressure highlighted the cerebral and mechanical brilliance that experts believe epitomizes Dota 2.

6. BurNIng’s Anti-Mage – G-1 Champions League Season 5

Zhu “BurNIng” Yifans’s Anti-Mage carry performances have often been hailed as a masterclass, but none so more than during the G-1 Champions League Season 5. BurNIng’s calculated farm and methodical playstyle allowed his team, DK, to seize control against iG. His ability to pressure all the lanes while simultaneously avoiding enemy ganks and maintaining a superior farm rate transformed what appeared to be an ordinary match into a remarkable tactical showcase. Many credit his performance in these series as defining the potential of the Anti-Mage hero in competitive play.

7. Chuan’s Rubick Steal – TI2 Grand Finals

The grand finals of The International 2012 presented a platform for one of the greatest Rubick plays. Wong “ChuaN” Hock Chuan of Invictus Gaming faced off against Natus Vincere on the decisive stage. Playing Rubick, Chuan displayed his mastery with a pivotal Spell Steal on Tidehunter’s Ravage, which he then used to turn the tide of the fight against NaVi. This game-defining move showcased his anticipation and quick reflexes, and is often remembered as one of the key moments that brought IG the victory, earning them first place and a place in Dota history.

8. Na´Vi’s “The Play” – TI2

The International 2012 featured another moment of brilliance known simply as “The Play.” In the upper bracket match between Natus Vincere and Invictus Gaming, NaVi executed a perfectly timed coordinated counter-attack. Led by Clement “Puppey” Ivanov on Enigma, KuroKy perfectly timed a Vacuum with Rubick, combining with Enigma’s Black Hole. The choreography of abilities chained together flawlessly wiped IG from the map, resonating with audiences worldwide. Caster screams of “The Play!” captured the energy and excitement, making it a staple in highlight reels.

9. Mushi Refusing to Die – TI3

Chai “Mushi” Yee Fung’s determination and refusal to concede has been iconic, particularly during The International 2013, when he played for Team DK against LGD. Playing Shadow Fiend, Mushi, despite the odds stacked against him, refused to back down during a high-pressure siege. With quick reflexes and judicious item use, Mushi turned gank after gank, holding his ground against relentless pressure. His resilience provided DK with enough leverage to shift the game back in their favor. Mushi’s never-give-up attitude remains inspirational and is frequently cited as a tenet of Dota’s competitive spirit.

10. Notail’s Backdoor – TI8 Group Stage

Johan “Notail” Sundstein’s backdoor play during the TI8 group stages perfectly encapsulates the ingenuity and daring that typifies OG. Faced against Newbee, and with their Ancient under heavy siege, Notail’s Nature’s Prophet made a risky decision to teleport across the map. Racing against the clock, he dove into the enemy base, bypassing the traditional path, and delivered a victory out of thin air. This audacious play not only led to OG’s rise through the tournament but also highlighted the strategic diversity that Prophet and Notail bring to the game.

Dota 2’s rich history is built upon these standout moments, where skill meets opportunity, and legends are forged in the crucible of competition. Whether through innovative exploits, perfectly timed abilities, or game-changing vision, these moments continue to enrich the legacy of Dota 2, captivating the hearts and minds of players and fans around the globe.