Valve is shaking things up for The International 2023 (TI12) by replacing the battle pass with a new content drop. While details are still scarce, data pulled from a recent Dota 2 update suggests that players can expect a Dota 2 visual novel and some exciting cosmetics.
Previously, Valve announced that they would be moving away from the battle pass model and focusing on a more diverse range of updates. However, they did promise a TI12 content drop. Thanks to information extracted from an August update, we now have a glimpse of what this new TI “event” might entail.
The data reveals a new file format called “NOVELDEF” in the game’s backend, which is similar to the “eventdef” subclass used for storing data related to the battle pass and ongoing events. This, coupled with the mention of a visual novel in the title, suggests that Dota 2 will introduce a new type of content as part of the TI12 update, possibly as an ongoing series rather than a one-time event.
The leaked information also hints at the introduction of Arcanas for Skywrath Mage and Vengeful Spirit, indicated by the appearance of the word “crownfall” alongside other files.
Furthermore, the leak mentions additional content such as the Road to TI quests, Fantasy Gems, a Hoodwink Immortal set, and more. There is also speculation about a potential Collector’s Cache featuring heroes like Dragon Knight, Lone Druid, Lycan, Night Stalker, Ogre Magi, Phoenix, and others.
While this information surfaced over 10 days ago, it is crucial to revisit it as new files are being released, and TI12 is just around the corner, starting on October 12. However, there is still much we don’t know about the event, including details about the prize pool. Valve has confirmed a base prize pool of $1.6 million, but the crowdfunding method or additional contributions without the battle pass remain uncertain.
We can expect Valve to unveil their plans for TI12 after DreamLeague Season 21 concludes on September 24. This will likely include information about this year’s potential Compendium. It’s worth noting that Valve previously stated that “new cosmetic items won’t play a notable part” in the TI-themed update, so some of the leaked content may be intended for other purposes as well.
Source: DOTESPORTS
