If you’ve spent a lot of time grinding ranked matches in a MOBA, you’ve probably wondered what games might feel like in other regions.
After all, you’ve probably read on Reddit or heard commentators in a pro match say that some regions are known to be more aggressive, more strategic, or even higher-skilled.
But can playing in another server actually make you a better player?
In some ways, yes, it can—but there are a few caveats.
Different Regions, Different Playstyles
Since each server is its own bubble, different regions will naturally develop their own playstyles over time. While, yes, one can argue that a game’s meta is global, since every server plays the same patch and pro matches, and data about win rates or popular builds can be seen by everyone.
Still, there are often certain differences in how regions interpret or apply that information, in addition to their natural tendencies.
Some regions might prioritize farming and try to out-economy enemies, going 4-protect-1 more often than others. Others will play more aggressively and uptempo, favoring fast rotations. Different regions will also prioritize picking some characters over others.
Running into these differences and being exposed to various playstyles should improve your game sense and ability to read different drafts and situations. Overall, it’ll help you become a more versatile and well-rounded player.
Different Attitudes and Skill Levels
Regions can also vary in skill level and attitudes.
In Dota 2, for example, a game without a surrender button, Southeast Asia is known for its never-give-up mentality, defending their base until the bitter end, and always banking on a comeback.
Meanwhile, in North America, many pros complain about inconsistencies in match quality, making some players like Arteezy feel the need to play in Europe.
On the other hand, in League of Legends, Korea has historically been known to be the strongest region in professional play. Public matches are also heavy on a performance-focused solo queue environment, where players are less tolerant of mistakes and more accustomed to structured team play.
Across the sea, China is known for aggressive, high-tempo gameplay that emphasizes mechanical skill and constant pressure.
So, there can be a lot to learn from playing other regions, especially if you’re playing with and against better players. It might be a bit frustrating, though, because your weaknesses might get exposed more.
What About Ping?
Outside of actual gameplay, however, there are several challenges to playing on a different server.
Perhaps the main one is ping.
One of the main reasons MOBAs are split into different servers is to keep latency low for everyone in that region. Different servers are hosted in different physical locations, so ping is always tied to how far you are from the physical server itself.
If the server you want to play on is nearby, your ping might be manageable—for example, if you’re located in SEA or want to play in China. Or if you’re in Russia but want to play in Japan.
Many players use a VPN to game online in other regions, and it may also offer benefits that go beyond that. It helps to protect you against DDoS attacks while trying to access different regions and bypass potential ISP throttling. If you’re interested in improving your skills in different regions, using a VPN is worth a shot.
Communication Can Be a Challenge
Another consideration: can you speak the common language on that server?
Sure, there are pings for basic signals, and you can always rely on map awareness and your ability to read your teammates’ behavior.
Still, that doesn’t compare to in-depth, real-time comms. Of course, you can just focus on your own game, but in team-based games like MOBAs, communication is also an important skill.
This can be a double-edged sword, actually. On one hand, learning how to play effectively with limited communication can be useful. On the other hand, misunderstandings can often cause frustration and lower match quality.
After all, who knows whether your teammate’s ping means they wanted to engage or to back off?
So, Is It Worth It?
Yes, playing MOBAs in another region can help you improve as a player. Getting exposed to different playstyles and tougher opponents can only make you a better overall player.
As long as you can get a playable ping and handle the language barrier in some way or another, then go for it.
Remember, however, that improving mostly comes down to deliberate practice, mindfully watching replays, and learning from both your own mistakes and high-level players.
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