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'''Defense of the Ancients''' (often referred to as '''DotA''') is a custom scenario for ''[[Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne]]'', based on the "Aeon of Strife" map for the [[Blizzard Entertainment|Blizzard]] title ''[[Starcraft]]''.<ref name=gotfragpg1>{{cite web|author=Tok, Kevin|date=[[2006-01-25]]|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/war/story/31052/|title=Defense of the Ancients 101|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> The objective of the scenario is to destroy the opponents' base using a hero, along with allied heroes and allied [[AI]]-controlled fighters called "creeps". As in [[role playing games]], players [[leveling|level up]] their hero and use gold to buy equipment during the mission.<ref name=gotfragpg2>{{cite web|author=Tok, Kevin|date=[[2006-01-25]]|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/war/story/31052/?spage=3|title=Defense of the Ancients 101, Page 2|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref>
'''Defense of the Ancients''' (often referred to as '''DotA''') is a custom scenario for ''[[Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne]]'', based on the "Aeon of Strife" map for ''[[Starcraft]]''.<ref name=gotfragpg1>{{cite web|author=Tok, Kevin|date=[[2006-01-25]]|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/war/story/31052/|title=Defense of the Ancients 101|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> The objective of the scenario is to destroy the opponents' base using a hero, along with allied heroes and allied [[AI]]-controlled fighters called "creeps". As in [[role playing games]], players [[leveling|level up]] their hero and use gold to buy equipment during the mission.<ref name=gotfragpg2>{{cite web|author=Tok, Kevin|date=[[2006-01-25]]|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/war/story/31052/?spage=3|title=Defense of the Ancients 101, Page 2|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref>


The scenario was developed with the [[World Editor]] of ''[[Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos]]'', and was updated upon the release of ''The Frozen Throne''. Although there have been many variations of the original concept, the most popular version at tournaments is DotA Allstars,<ref name=starpg1>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star...| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url = http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=0| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> which has been maintained by several authors during development. Since its release, Allstars has become a feature at several worldwide tournaments, including [[Blizzard Entertainment]]'s [[Blizzcon]] and the Asian [[World Cyber Games]], as well as the [[Cyberathlete Amateur League|Cyberathlete Amateur]] and CyberEvolution leagues.
The scenario was developed with the [[World Editor]] of ''[[Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos]]'', and was updated upon the release of ''The Frozen Throne''. There have been many variations of the original concept, the most popular of which is DotA Allstars,<ref name=starpg1>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star...| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url = http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=0| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> which has been maintained by several authors during development. Since its release, Allstars has become a feature at several worldwide tournaments, including [[Blizzard Entertainment]]'s [[Blizzcon]] and the Asian [[World Cyber Games]], as well as the [[Cyberathlete Amateur League|Cyberathlete Amateur]] and CyberEvolution leagues.


==Development==
==Development==
The original author of Defense of the Ancients was a mapmaker named Eul. After the release of ''The Frozen Throne'', Eul did not update the scenario; instead, Eul made the code [[open source|open]] for other developers, which split the original development of Defense of the Ancients from the development of DotA Allstars.<!--a bit confusing; how does DotA Allstars "split" if the scenerio hasn't even been updated yet? Shouldn't it be "which allowed -the creation- of DotA allstars"?--><ref name=techtreepg1>{{cite web|author=Eul|date=[[2003-04-28]]|url=http://www.thewarcenter.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=19852|title=Farewell|work=thewarcenter.net|accessdate=2007-11-01}}</ref> Numerous variants were created based on the original, but Allstars became the ''[[de facto]]'' standard.<!--"standard", or just the best map?-->
The original author of Defense of the Ancients was a mapmaker named Eul. After the release of ''The Frozen Throne'', Eul did not update the scenario; instead, he made the code [[open source|open]] for other developers, which allowed the creation of DotA Allstars.<ref name=techtreepg1>{{cite web|author=Eul|date=[[2003-04-28]]|url=http://www.thewarcenter.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=19852|title=Farewell|work=thewarcenter.net|accessdate=2007-11-01}}</ref> Numerous variants were created based on the original, but Allstars became the ''[[de facto]]'' standard.


Allstars was developed by an author under the alias Guinsoo, who was succeeded by IceFrog after the release of version 6.x.<ref name=starpg1 /> With successive versions, IceFrog fixes bugs and adds or updates features; for example, in version 6.48, Icefrog added a feature which automatically changes the terrain from grass to snow. Each release is accompanied with a [[changelog]].<ref name=changelog>{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog.txt|title=DotA Changelog|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2007-09-04}}</ref> On the DotA Allstars forum, users can post ideas for new heroes or items, some of which are added to the map.<ref name=starpg2>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 2| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url =http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=1| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> <!-- players have contributed icons and hero descriptions and created the artwork displayed while the map loads.<ref name="v639">{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog6.39.txt|title=DotA Changelog v6.39|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2008-03-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author= Stanley, Lau |date = 2006-08-27| title = DOTA Loading Screen Wallpaper| url = http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/38780471/| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref><ref name="v636">{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog6.36.txt|title=DotA Changelog v6.36|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2007-09-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=[[2006-10-25]]|url=http://video-games.elliottback.com/2006/08/25/get-dota-allstars-version-636-download/|title=DotA Allstars 6.36 Change Log|work=elliottback.com|accessdate=2007-08-09}}</ref>-->
Allstars was developed by an author under the alias Guinsoo, who was succeeded by IceFrog after the release of version 6.x.<ref name=starpg1 /> With successive versions, IceFrog fixes bugs and adds or updates features; for example, in version 6.48, he added a feature which automatically changes the terrain from grass to snow. Each release is accompanied with a [[changelog]].<ref name=changelog>{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog.txt|title=DotA Changelog|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2007-09-04}}</ref> On the Allstars forum, users can post ideas for new heroes or items, some of which are added to the map.<ref name=starpg2>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 2| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url =http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=1| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> <!-- players have contributed icons and hero descriptions and created the artwork displayed while the map loads.<ref name="v639">{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog6.39.txt|title=DotA Changelog v6.39|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2008-03-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author= Stanley, Lau |date = 2006-08-27| title = DOTA Loading Screen Wallpaper| url = http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/38780471/| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref><ref name="v636">{{cite web|author=Icefrog|url=http://www.getdota.com/changelog6.36.txt|title=DotA Changelog v6.36|work=getdota.com|accessdate=2007-09-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=[[2006-10-25]]|url=http://video-games.elliottback.com/2006/08/25/get-dota-allstars-version-636-download/|title=DotA Allstars 6.36 Change Log|work=elliottback.com|accessdate=2007-08-09}}</ref>-->


In the more recent versions of DotA Allstars, [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] versions have been released for the official stable scenarios. Although DotA is intended to be played between human players, AI scripts have been written to allow the computer to control heroes; this allows human players to train their heroes and improve their skills. The AI versions can be downloaded on the main DotA Allstars download page; however, AI version releases are sporadic because they are not authored by Icefrog.<ref>{{cite web|author=King Feare|date=2007-06-28|url=http://forums.dota-allstars.com/index.php?showtopic=153951|title=DotA AI F.A.Q.|work=dota-allstars.com|accessdate=2007-08-05}}</ref>
In the more recent versions of Allstars, [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] versions have been released for the official stable scenarios. Although Defense of the Ancients is intended to be played between human players, AI scripts have been written to allow the computer to control heroes; this allows human players to train their heroes and improve their skills. The AI versions can be downloaded on the main Allstars download page; however, AI version releases are sporadic because they are not authored by IceFrog.<ref>{{cite web|author=King Feare|date=2007-06-28|url=http://forums.dota-allstars.com/index.php?showtopic=153951|title=DotA AI F.A.Q.|work=dota-allstars.com|accessdate=2007-08-05}}</ref>


==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
[[Image:Dota allstars game.jpg|thumb|right|A game of DotA Allstars in progress]]
[[Image:Dota allstars game.jpg|thumb|right|A game of DotA Allstars in progress]]
DotA pits two teams of players against each other. Each team has a base in an opposite corner of the map. The Sentinel players have their base at the bottom left corner of the map, while the Scourge players are based in the top right corner. The respective bases are defended by towers, present on the three primary lanes with respective individual levels, the first tower starting from the diagonal being the weakest to the towers flanking the "Ancients" being the strongest. In the heart of each base is the "Ancient", a building which must be destroyed in order to win the game.<ref name=dotafaq>{{cite web|url=http://www.dota-allstars.com/faqs.php|title=Frequently Asked Questions|work=dota-allstars.com|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> Teams fight against the enemy team as well as computer controlled units and defensive structures.<ref name=techtreepg1/>
Defense of the Ancients pits two teams of players against each other. Each team has a base in an opposite corner of the map. The Sentinel players have their base at the bottom left corner of the map, while the Scourge players are based in the top right corner. The respective bases are defended by towers, present on the three primary lanes with respective individual levels, the first tower starting from the diagonal being the weakest to the towers flanking the "Ancients" being the strongest. In the heart of each base is the "Ancient", a building which must be destroyed in order to win the game.<ref name=dotafaq>{{cite web|url=http://www.dota-allstars.com/faqs.php|title=Frequently Asked Questions|work=dota-allstars.com|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> Teams fight against the enemy team as well as computer controlled units and defensive structures.<ref name=techtreepg1/>


Each human player controls a single Hero; a powerful unit with unique abilities. In DotA Allstars, players choose one of ninety heroes available between the two teams, each with different spells, strengths, and tactical advantages over other heroes.<ref>{{cite web| title = DotA-Allstars.com Hero Database| work=dota-allstars.com| url =http://www.dota-allstars.com/heroes.php| accessdate = 2007-02-19}}</ref> DotA is very team-oriented; it is hard for one player to carry his or her team to victory single-handedly.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/40388/?spage=1|title=Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 1)|author=Nair, Neha|date=[[2007-10-30]]|accessdate=2007-11-01|work=[[GotFrag]]}}</ref> Albeit, some heroes do exist who can, given a certain amount of time to level up and obtain the required items to accomplish this task, change the game single-handedly, while simultaneously countering all of the opposing team's heroes. DotA allows for a maximum of ten players in a five versus five format and an additional two slots for referees or observers, and games are usually played with even numbers of players on each side.<ref name=starpg1 />
Each human player controls a single Hero; a powerful unit with unique abilities. In Allstars, players choose one of ninety heroes available between the two teams, each with different spells, strengths, and tactical advantages over other heroes.<ref>{{cite web| title = Hero Database| work=dota-allstars.com| url =http://www.dota-allstars.com/heroes.php| accessdate = 2007-02-19}}</ref> The game is highly team-oriented; it is hard for one player to carry his or her team to victory single-handedly.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/40388/?spage=1|title=Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 1)|author=Nair, Neha|date=[[2007-10-30]]|accessdate=2007-11-01|work=[[GotFrag]]}}</ref> Albeit, some heroes do exist who can, given a certain amount of time to level up and obtain the required items to accomplish this task, change the game single-handedly, while simultaneously countering all of the opposing team's heroes. Defense of the Ancients allows for a maximum of ten players in a five versus five format and an additional two slots for referees or observers, with games usually played with even numbers of players on each side.<ref name=starpg1 />


As gameplay revolves around the use of individual heroes, it does not require one to focus on resource management and base-building, which is common in traditional [[real-time strategy]] games. Instead players focus on strengthening their heroes.<ref name=starpg2 /> Killing computer-controlled creeps earns the player's experience, and when enough experience is accumulated the player gains a level. Leveling up improves the hero's toughness and the amount of damage it can inflict, as well as allowing players to upgrade their spells or skills. In addition to accruing experience, players also manage a single resource, [[gold]]. The typical resource-gathering of ''Warcraft III'' is replaced by a combat-oriented money system; in addition to a small periodic gold income, heroes earn gold by killing creeps, base structures, and enemy heroes.<ref name=techtreepg2>{{cite web|author=Lodaya, Punit|date=[[2006-02-09]]|url=http://www.techtree.com/techtree/jsp/article.jsp?article_id=71257&cat_id=541&page=2|title=DotA: AllStars Part 2: What Do I Do?|work=techtree.com|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> With their gold, players buy items to strengthen their hero and gain additional abilities. Certain items can be combined along with 'recipes' to create more powerful items. Buying items to suit one's hero is an important tactical element of the game.<ref name=starpg2/><ref>{{Cite web| title = DotA-Allstars.com Items Database| url = http://www.dota-allstars.com/items.php|work=dota-allstars.com| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref>
As gameplay revolves around the use of individual heroes, it does not require one to focus on resource management and base-building, which is common in traditional [[real-time strategy]] games. Instead players focus on strengthening their heroes.<ref name=starpg2 /> Killing computer-controlled creeps earns the player experience, and when enough experience is accumulated the player gains a level. Leveling up improves the hero's toughness and the amount of damage it can inflict, as well as allowing players to upgrade their spells or skills. In addition to accruing experience, players also manage a single resource, [[gold]]. The typical resource-gathering of ''Warcraft III'' is replaced by a combat-oriented money system; in addition to a small periodic gold income, heroes earn gold by killing creeps, base structures, and enemy heroes.<ref name=techtreepg2>{{cite web|author=Lodaya, Punit|date=[[2006-02-09]]|url=http://www.techtree.com/techtree/jsp/article.jsp?article_id=71257&cat_id=541&page=2|title=DotA: AllStars Part 2: What Do I Do?|work=techtree.com|accessdate=2007-08-04}}</ref> With their gold, players buy items to strengthen their hero and gain additional abilities. Certain items can be combined along with 'recipes' to create more powerful items. Buying items to suit one's hero is an important tactical element of the game.<ref name=starpg2/><ref>{{Cite web| title = DotA-Allstars.com Items Database| url = http://www.dota-allstars.com/items.php|work=dota-allstars.com| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref>


DotA Allstars offers a variety of game modes, which are selected by the game host at the beginning of the match. The game modes dictate whether people can choose their own hero or be assigned one randomly, as well as the difficulty of the game.<ref name=gotfragpg1/> Many game modes can be combined (for example, an easy difficulty level and a random hero pick), allowing for even more flexible game options.<ref>{{Cite web| author = Batchelder, Matthew| date =[[2006-06-12]]| title = DotA Game Modes| url = http://borkweb.com/story/dota-game-modes| accessdate = 2007-02-19|work=borkweb.com }}</ref>
Allstars offers a variety of game modes, which are selected by the game host at the beginning of the match. The game modes dictate whether people can choose their own hero or be assigned one randomly, as well as the difficulty of the game.<ref name=gotfragpg1/> Many game modes can be combined (for example, an easy difficulty level and a random hero pick), allowing for even more flexible game options.<ref>{{Cite web| author = Batchelder, Matthew| date =[[2006-06-12]]| title = DotA Game Modes| url = http://borkweb.com/story/dota-game-modes| accessdate = 2007-02-19|work=borkweb.com }}</ref>


==Recognition and popularity==
==Recognition and popularity==
DotA has experienced increasing popularity over time. The scenarion was featured by ''[[Computer Gaming World]]'' in a review of new maps and mods in ''Warcraft III'',<ref>{{cite web|author=CGW staff|date=[[2004-09-01]]|url=http://www.mywire.com/pubs/ComputerGamingWorld/2004/09/01/503898?extID=10051|title=WarCraft Maps Go Mod|work=mywire.com|accessdate=2007-08-12}}</ref> and has been called "the ultimate [[real time strategy|RTS]]".<ref>{{cite video |people=O'Connor, Frank; Smith, Luke; et al |date2= |month2=February |year2=2008 |title=Bungie Podcast |url=http://download.microsoft.com/download/d/8/5/d85ce76f-0cb2-41df-aaae-a8c96790332b/Bungie_Podcast_021908.mp3 |format=MP3 |medium= |publisher= [[Bungie Studios]]|location= |accessdate=2008-02-27 |time= |quote= }}</ref> Allstars is also played at the tournament level, becoming an independent tournament item at the debut of Blizzard's [[BlizzCon]] convention in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|author=Blizzard|yea=2005|url=http://www.blizzard.com/blizzcon05/tournaments.shtml|title=Blizzcon '05 Tournaments|work=blizzard.com|accessdate=2007-08-05}}</ref> DotA Allstars was also featured in the [[Malaysia]] and [[Singapore]] [[World Cyber Games]] 2005, 2006, and the World Cyber Games Asian Championships 2006.<ref>{{cite web|date=2006-08-05| title = About WCG Asian Championships| url=http://asian.worldcybergames.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1&Itemid=3|work=worldcybergames.com| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref> The gametype is now included in the game lineup for the internationally-recognized [[Cyberathlete Amateur League]] and CyberEvolution leagues.<ref>{{cite web| title = CyberEvolution - Warcraft 3: Defense of the Ancients - Series 1 | url = http://www.cevolved.com/?page=event&id=21|work=cevolved.com| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref> DotA is also slated to appear in [[Electronic Sports World Cup]] (ESWC) 2008.<ref>{{cite web| date=2008-01-06|author=Banks, James|title = ESWC Gamelist | url = http://www.sk-gaming.com/content/15348-The_official_games_for_ESWC_2008|work=[[SK Gaming]]| accessdate = 2008-01-02 }}</ref> In an interview, Oliver Paradis, ESWC's competition manager, noted that the high level of community support behind the game and worldwide appeal were among the reasons that DotA was chosen.<ref name="why dota">{{cite web|author=Nair, Neha|date=2008-01-18|title=ESWC interview, why DotA?|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/41175/|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2008-03-07}}</ref> [[Local area network|LAN]] tournaments are a major part of competitive DotA play around the world,<ref name="why dota"/> including tournaments in Sweden and Russia; due to a lack of LAN tournaments and championships in North America, several DotA teams have since disbanded.<ref name="Why2">{{cite web|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/40388/?spage=2|title=Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 2)|author=Nair, Neha|date=[[2007-10-30]]|accessdate=2007-11-01|work=GotFrag}}</ref>
DotA has experienced increasing popularity over time. The scenarion was featured by ''[[Computer Gaming World]]'' in a review of new maps and mods in ''Warcraft III'',<ref>{{cite web|author=CGW staff|date=[[2004-09-01]]|url=http://www.mywire.com/pubs/ComputerGamingWorld/2004/09/01/503898?extID=10051|title=WarCraft Maps Go Mod|work=mywire.com|accessdate=2007-08-12}}</ref> and has been called "the ultimate [[real time strategy|RTS]]".<ref>{{cite video |people=O'Connor, Frank; Smith, Luke; et al |date2= |month2=February |year2=2008 |title=Bungie Podcast |url=http://download.microsoft.com/download/d/8/5/d85ce76f-0cb2-41df-aaae-a8c96790332b/Bungie_Podcast_021908.mp3 |format=MP3 |medium= |publisher= [[Bungie Studios]]|location= |accessdate=2008-02-27 |time= |quote= }}</ref> Allstars is also played at the tournament level, becoming an independent tournament item at the debut of Blizzard's [[BlizzCon]] convention in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|author=Blizzard|yea=2005|url=http://www.blizzard.com/blizzcon05/tournaments.shtml|title=Blizzcon '05 Tournaments|work=blizzard.com|accessdate=2007-08-05}}</ref> Allstars was featured in the [[Malaysia]] and [[Singapore]] [[World Cyber Games]] 2005, 2006, and the World Cyber Games Asian Championships 2006.<ref>{{cite web|date=2006-08-05| title = About WCG Asian Championships| url=http://asian.worldcybergames.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1&Itemid=3|work=worldcybergames.com| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref> The gametype is now included in the game lineup for the internationally-recognized [[Cyberathlete Amateur League]] and CyberEvolution leagues.<ref>{{cite web| title = CyberEvolution - Warcraft 3: Defense of the Ancients - Series 1 | url = http://www.cevolved.com/?page=event&id=21|work=cevolved.com| accessdate = 2007-02-19 }}</ref> Defense of the Ancients is also slated to appear in [[Electronic Sports World Cup]] (ESWC) 2008.<ref>{{cite web| date=2008-01-06|author=Banks, James|title = ESWC Gamelist | url = http://www.sk-gaming.com/content/15348-The_official_games_for_ESWC_2008|work=[[SK Gaming]]| accessdate = 2008-01-02 }}</ref> In an interview, Oliver Paradis, ESWC's competition manager, noted that the high level of community support behind the game and worldwide appeal were among the reasons it was chosen.<ref name="why dota">{{cite web|author=Nair, Neha|date=2008-01-18|title=ESWC interview, why DotA?|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/41175/|work=[[GotFrag]]|accessdate=2008-03-07}}</ref> [[Local area network|LAN]] tournaments are a major part of competitive play around the world,<ref name="why dota"/> including tournaments in Sweden and Russia; however, due to a lack of LAN tournaments and championships in North America, several DotA teams have since disbanded.<ref name="Why2">{{cite web|url=http://www.gotfrag.com/dota/story/40388/?spage=2|title=Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 2)|author=Nair, Neha|date=[[2007-10-30]]|accessdate=2007-11-01|work=[[GotFrag]]}}</ref>


The game has become a hit in many parts of the world, especially in the Philippines and Thailand, where it has replaced ''[[Counter-Strike]]'' as the most-played game.<ref name="Why2"/><ref name=starpg3>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 3| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url =http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=2| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> It is also popular in Sweden and other Northern European countries, where the DotA-inspired song "[[Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA]]" by Swedish musician [[Basshunter]] reached the European 2006 charts at #116 and cracked the top ten Singles Charts in Sweden, Norway,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://norwegiancharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Basshunter&titel=Vi+sitter+i+ventrilo+och+spelar+dota&cat=s| title=Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA|work=norweigancharts.com|accessdate=2007-08-07}} </ref> and Finland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finnishcharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Basshunter&titel=Lol+%26lt%3B(%5E%5E%2C)%26gt%3B&cat=a| title=Bass hunter - LOL <(^^,)>|work=finnishcharts.com|accessdate=2007-08-07}}</ref> DotA has also been credited as one of the influences for the upcoming [[Gas Powered Games]] title ''[[Demigod (video game)|Demigod]]''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Purchese, Rob|date=2008-03-04|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=93953|title=GPG "fairly certain" Demigod will make 08|work=[[Eurogamer]]|accessdate=2008-03-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Paul, Ure|date=2008-03-04|url=http://www.actiontrip.com/previews/demigod.phtml?2553|title=Demigod First Look|work=ActionTrip|accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref>
The game has become a hit in many parts of the world, especially in the Philippines and Thailand, where it has replaced ''[[Counter-Strike]]'' as the most-played game.<ref name="Why2"/><ref name=starpg3>{{cite web|author = Lim, Marco| title = Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 3| work = Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site| url =http://www.starcade.com.ph/inner.php?id=13&name=&selection=80&page=2| accessdate = 2007-03-01 }}</ref> It is also popular in Sweden and other Northern European countries, where the game-inspired song "[[Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA]]" by Swedish musician [[Basshunter]] reached the European 2006 charts at #116 and cracked the top ten Singles Charts in Sweden, Norway,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://norwegiancharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Basshunter&titel=Vi+sitter+i+ventrilo+och+spelar+dota&cat=s| title=Basshunter - Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA|work=norweigancharts.com|accessdate=2007-08-07}} </ref> and Finland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finnishcharts.com/showitem.asp?key=366167&cat=s | title=Bass hunter - Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA|work=finnishcharts.com|accessdate=2007-08-07}}</ref> Defense of the Ancients has been credited as one of the influences for the upcoming [[Gas Powered Games]] title ''[[Demigod (video game)|Demigod]]''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Purchese, Rob|date=2008-03-04|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=93953|title=GPG "fairly certain" Demigod will make 08|work=[[Eurogamer]]|accessdate=2008-03-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Paul, Ure|date=2008-03-04|url=http://www.actiontrip.com/previews/demigod.phtml?2553|title=Demigod First Look|work=ActionTrip|accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref>


==References==
==References==

Revision as of 01:33, 8 March 2008

Defense of the Ancients
Engine
  • unknown
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Operating systemMac OS X, Windows
TypeMod
Websitegetdota.com Edit this on Wikidata

Defense of the Ancients (often referred to as DotA) is a custom scenario for Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne, based on the "Aeon of Strife" map for Starcraft.[1] The objective of the scenario is to destroy the opponents' base using a hero, along with allied heroes and allied AI-controlled fighters called "creeps". As in role playing games, players level up their hero and use gold to buy equipment during the mission.[2]

The scenario was developed with the World Editor of Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, and was updated upon the release of The Frozen Throne. There have been many variations of the original concept, the most popular of which is DotA Allstars,[3] which has been maintained by several authors during development. Since its release, Allstars has become a feature at several worldwide tournaments, including Blizzard Entertainment's Blizzcon and the Asian World Cyber Games, as well as the Cyberathlete Amateur and CyberEvolution leagues.

Development

The original author of Defense of the Ancients was a mapmaker named Eul. After the release of The Frozen Throne, Eul did not update the scenario; instead, he made the code open for other developers, which allowed the creation of DotA Allstars.[4] Numerous variants were created based on the original, but Allstars became the de facto standard.

Allstars was developed by an author under the alias Guinsoo, who was succeeded by IceFrog after the release of version 6.x.[3] With successive versions, IceFrog fixes bugs and adds or updates features; for example, in version 6.48, he added a feature which automatically changes the terrain from grass to snow. Each release is accompanied with a changelog.[5] On the Allstars forum, users can post ideas for new heroes or items, some of which are added to the map.[6]

In the more recent versions of Allstars, AI versions have been released for the official stable scenarios. Although Defense of the Ancients is intended to be played between human players, AI scripts have been written to allow the computer to control heroes; this allows human players to train their heroes and improve their skills. The AI versions can be downloaded on the main Allstars download page; however, AI version releases are sporadic because they are not authored by IceFrog.[7]

Gameplay

A game of DotA Allstars in progress

Defense of the Ancients pits two teams of players against each other. Each team has a base in an opposite corner of the map. The Sentinel players have their base at the bottom left corner of the map, while the Scourge players are based in the top right corner. The respective bases are defended by towers, present on the three primary lanes with respective individual levels, the first tower starting from the diagonal being the weakest to the towers flanking the "Ancients" being the strongest. In the heart of each base is the "Ancient", a building which must be destroyed in order to win the game.[8] Teams fight against the enemy team as well as computer controlled units and defensive structures.[4]

Each human player controls a single Hero; a powerful unit with unique abilities. In Allstars, players choose one of ninety heroes available between the two teams, each with different spells, strengths, and tactical advantages over other heroes.[9] The game is highly team-oriented; it is hard for one player to carry his or her team to victory single-handedly.[10] Albeit, some heroes do exist who can, given a certain amount of time to level up and obtain the required items to accomplish this task, change the game single-handedly, while simultaneously countering all of the opposing team's heroes. Defense of the Ancients allows for a maximum of ten players in a five versus five format and an additional two slots for referees or observers, with games usually played with even numbers of players on each side.[3]

As gameplay revolves around the use of individual heroes, it does not require one to focus on resource management and base-building, which is common in traditional real-time strategy games. Instead players focus on strengthening their heroes.[6] Killing computer-controlled creeps earns the player experience, and when enough experience is accumulated the player gains a level. Leveling up improves the hero's toughness and the amount of damage it can inflict, as well as allowing players to upgrade their spells or skills. In addition to accruing experience, players also manage a single resource, gold. The typical resource-gathering of Warcraft III is replaced by a combat-oriented money system; in addition to a small periodic gold income, heroes earn gold by killing creeps, base structures, and enemy heroes.[11] With their gold, players buy items to strengthen their hero and gain additional abilities. Certain items can be combined along with 'recipes' to create more powerful items. Buying items to suit one's hero is an important tactical element of the game.[6][12]

Allstars offers a variety of game modes, which are selected by the game host at the beginning of the match. The game modes dictate whether people can choose their own hero or be assigned one randomly, as well as the difficulty of the game.[1] Many game modes can be combined (for example, an easy difficulty level and a random hero pick), allowing for even more flexible game options.[13]

Recognition and popularity

DotA has experienced increasing popularity over time. The scenarion was featured by Computer Gaming World in a review of new maps and mods in Warcraft III,[14] and has been called "the ultimate RTS".[15] Allstars is also played at the tournament level, becoming an independent tournament item at the debut of Blizzard's BlizzCon convention in 2005.[16] Allstars was featured in the Malaysia and Singapore World Cyber Games 2005, 2006, and the World Cyber Games Asian Championships 2006.[17] The gametype is now included in the game lineup for the internationally-recognized Cyberathlete Amateur League and CyberEvolution leagues.[18] Defense of the Ancients is also slated to appear in Electronic Sports World Cup (ESWC) 2008.[19] In an interview, Oliver Paradis, ESWC's competition manager, noted that the high level of community support behind the game and worldwide appeal were among the reasons it was chosen.[20] LAN tournaments are a major part of competitive play around the world,[20] including tournaments in Sweden and Russia; however, due to a lack of LAN tournaments and championships in North America, several DotA teams have since disbanded.[21]

The game has become a hit in many parts of the world, especially in the Philippines and Thailand, where it has replaced Counter-Strike as the most-played game.[21][22] It is also popular in Sweden and other Northern European countries, where the game-inspired song "Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA" by Swedish musician Basshunter reached the European 2006 charts at #116 and cracked the top ten Singles Charts in Sweden, Norway,[23] and Finland.[24] Defense of the Ancients has been credited as one of the influences for the upcoming Gas Powered Games title Demigod.[25][26]

References

  1. ^ a b Tok, Kevin (2006-01-25). "Defense of the Ancients 101". GotFrag. Retrieved 2007-08-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  2. ^ Tok, Kevin (2006-01-25). "Defense of the Ancients 101, Page 2". GotFrag. Retrieved 2007-08-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  3. ^ a b c Lim, Marco. "Hey Now, You're an All-Star..." Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site. Retrieved 2007-03-01.
  4. ^ a b Eul (2003-04-28). "Farewell". thewarcenter.net. Retrieved 2007-11-01. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  5. ^ Icefrog. "DotA Changelog". getdota.com. Retrieved 2007-09-04.
  6. ^ a b c Lim, Marco. "Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 2". Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site. Retrieved 2007-03-01.
  7. ^ King Feare (2007-06-28). "DotA AI F.A.Q." dota-allstars.com. Retrieved 2007-08-05.
  8. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions". dota-allstars.com. Retrieved 2007-08-04.
  9. ^ "Hero Database". dota-allstars.com. Retrieved 2007-02-19.
  10. ^ Nair, Neha (2007-10-30). "Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 1)". GotFrag. Retrieved 2007-11-01. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  11. ^ Lodaya, Punit (2006-02-09). "DotA: AllStars Part 2: What Do I Do?". techtree.com. Retrieved 2007-08-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  12. ^ "DotA-Allstars.com Items Database". dota-allstars.com. Retrieved 2007-03-01.
  13. ^ Batchelder, Matthew (2006-06-12). "DotA Game Modes". borkweb.com. Retrieved 2007-02-19. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  14. ^ CGW staff (2004-09-01). "WarCraft Maps Go Mod". mywire.com. Retrieved 2007-08-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  15. ^ O'Connor, Frank; Smith, Luke et al. Bungie Podcast (MP3). Bungie Studios. Retrieved 2008-02-27. {{cite AV media}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |date2= (help); Explicit use of et al. in: |authors= (help); Unknown parameter |month2= ignored (help); Unknown parameter |year2= ignored (help)
  16. ^ Blizzard. "Blizzcon '05 Tournaments". blizzard.com. Retrieved 2007-08-05. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |yea= ignored (help)
  17. ^ "About WCG Asian Championships". worldcybergames.com. 2006-08-05. Retrieved 2007-02-19.
  18. ^ "CyberEvolution - Warcraft 3: Defense of the Ancients - Series 1". cevolved.com. Retrieved 2007-02-19.
  19. ^ Banks, James (2008-01-06). "ESWC Gamelist". SK Gaming. Retrieved 2008-01-02.
  20. ^ a b Nair, Neha (2008-01-18). "ESWC interview, why DotA?". GotFrag. Retrieved 2008-03-07.
  21. ^ a b Nair, Neha (2007-10-30). "Why Defense of the Ancients? (Pg. 2)". GotFrag. Retrieved 2007-11-01. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  22. ^ Lim, Marco. "Hey Now, You're an All-Star... Pg. 3". Starcade: Philstar.com's Official Gaming Site. Retrieved 2007-03-01.
  23. ^ "Basshunter - Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA". norweigancharts.com. Retrieved 2007-08-07.
  24. ^ "Bass hunter - Vi sitter i Ventrilo och spelar DotA". finnishcharts.com. Retrieved 2007-08-07.
  25. ^ Purchese, Rob (2008-03-04). "GPG "fairly certain" Demigod will make 08". Eurogamer. Retrieved 2008-03-05.
  26. ^ Paul, Ure (2008-03-04). "Demigod First Look". ActionTrip. Retrieved 2008-03-12.
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