Dota 2
Dota 2: A free competitive strategy game with matchmaking, bot co-op, and cosmetic purchases. Ranked #1 of 98 in PC Games by our editors (9.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free competitive strategy multiplayer.
At a glance
- Editor score9.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree competitive strategy multiplayer
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Supported OSMultiple
- Founded2013
- Facts checked5 Oct 2026
Where it wins
- Core hero roster and online matchmaking are free to play
- Includes co-op bot matches and a hero demo mode
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
Where it doesn't
- Optional cosmetic purchases add a paid layer
- Matches depend on online multiplayer matchmaking
- The focus is team battles rather than a broad range of game modes
Our verdict on Dota 2
Dota 2 is a free-to-play team strategy game from Valve, built around choosing heroes and competing in online battles. It suits players looking for competitive multiplayer strategy, with a large hero roster and varied roles, abilities, and item builds shaping each match. The game is also available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and includes single-player play against bots alongside online multiplayer.
Its free entry point includes the core hero roster, online matchmaking, co-op matches against bots, and a hero demo mode. Optional purchases include cosmetic items and other add-ons; the paid layer does not gate the base hero roster. Players can also create and submit items through the Dota 2 Item Workshop, adding a community-created cosmetic avenue to the game. This combination makes it possible to explore heroes and practice without paying for access to the core roster.
The strongest fit is for players who want team-based competitive strategy and are comfortable with online matchmaking as a central part of play. Bot co-op and hero demos offer ways to engage outside competitive matches, but Dota 2 remains focused on hero battles rather than a broad mix of game types. Those seeking a strategy game with online competition, role-based play, and no-cost access to its heroes should consider it; players who prefer a primarily solo or noncompetitive experience may want a different focus.
Dota 2 pricing
Dota 2 fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Genre | Strategy |
| Single-player | Yes |
| Online multiplayer | Yes |
| Controller support | Not verified |
| Mod support | Yes |
| Supported OS | Multiple |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | dota2.com |
| Facts checked | 5 Oct 2026 |
Alternatives to Dota 2
- Counter-Strike 2A free competitive shooter with visible ratings, leaderboards, and optional Prime matchmaking.9.3
- VALORANTA free online shooter built around team tactics, round objectives, and multiple match modes.9.2
- PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDSA free Windows battle royale with Solo, Duo, and Squad play.9.1
Dota 2 vs the competition
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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