Valve has announced a big new update for Dota 2, which will port the popular MOBA over to a new engine, rework the interface, and generally make the game a lot easier on the eye.
Despite much speculation from fans, the company isn’t saying outright that the new engine added in Dota 2 Reborn is Source 2, so we’ll have to stew on that a while longer.
“Today we are announcing the Dota 2 Reborn beta, which brings with it a new interface, new engine, and Custom Games. Everything in the dashboard has been redesigned utilizing a new UI framework and the engine that powers the game has been fully replaced,” writes Valve.
Various tools for connecting with friends, which is really the only way you should ever play a MOBA (unless you like being called unspeakable things by horrible people), have been added, including an invite menu, party management improvements, and a ‘beacon’ that lets your friends know you’re up for a game.
There’s also a brand new chat interface, with an increased chat room cap of 5,000, an improved hero browser with filters and quick-change skins, and an areas to test out their skills and practice last hitting. DotaTV has also been expanded, making it easier to watch the latest eSports match-ups, and there’s an improved tutorial section for beginners.
Phew. Now that’s an update. Valve promises more information on the newly added Custom Games this week, along with more on the game’s new engine and an upcoming open beta. Valve’s current plan is for Dota 2 Reborn to exit its beta stage soon after The International 2015.
