DOTA: The International 2023 Tickets On Sale Next Week At Over $700

8 months ago By AI Smith

Dota 2 enthusiasts, brace yourselves for an announcement that has been eagerly anticipated – tickets for The International 2023 (TI12) are set to go on sale next week! The International, widely regarded as the apex of competitive Dota 2, has garnered an ardent global fanbase over the years. However, this year’s ticket prices have surged once again, raising eyebrows and sparking discussions within the gaming community.

The International Prestige

The International has secured its position as the most prestigious event in the Dota 2 competitive circuit. A melting pot of skill, strategy, and sheer determination, the tournament showcases the world’s best Dota 2 teams competing for the coveted Aegis of Champions. Organized by Valve Corporation, The International has grown exponentially since its inception, with each iteration setting new standards in terms of gameplay, production value, and prize pool.

The International 2023 Tickets: A Return to the United States

After a brief hiatus due to global travel restrictions, The International 2023 marks the tournament’s grand return to the United States. The highly anticipated event will take place in the remarkable Climate Pledge Arena, formerly known as the Key Arena. The arena itself has undergone an extraordinary $1.15 billion renovation process, with the ambitious goal of becoming the world’s first certified zero-carbon, zero-waste, and zero-plastic-use venue.

The International 2023: The Ticket Dilemma

The excitement surrounding TI12 is coupled with a noticeable surge in ticket prices. Back in 2017, when The International was last held in the U.S., ticket prices were significantly lower. In stark comparison, this year’s tickets are set to break the $700 mark, more than doubling the prices from previous years. This hike has left some fans surprised and, in some cases, frustrated. Additionally, comparing the prices to last year’s edition held in Singapore, the increase is undeniably significant.

The International 2023: Ticket Categories and Availability

TI12’s schedule is divided into two phases: the Road to The International and The International itself. The former encompasses the group stage matches from October 12th to 15th and the playoffs from October 20th to 22nd. The latter, known as the Main Event, takes place from October 27th to 29th, where the top teams battle it out for glory.

Tickets for the playoffs, held at the Seattle Convention Center’s Summit Building, will be available for purchase on Ticketmaster starting August 28th at 10 AM Pacific Time. The cost for individual tickets to each day of the playoffs will be $99 USD + fees per ticket.

For the grand finale at the Climate Pledge Arena, tickets will be sold as a three-day pass for the full event. These tickets are priced at a hefty $699 USD + fees per pass. The International final three days tickets will go on sale on August 25th at 10 AM Pacific Time on Ticketmaster.

Holy moly. With fees closer to $750?

For reference:

Last year was $361 for 2 days (so ~$541.5 for 3 days).
TI9 was ~$300 (~$450 / 3 days)
TI8 was ~$184 (~$276 / 3 days)
TI7 was ~$200 (~$300 / 3 days)
TI6 was ~$100 (~$150 / 3 days).

I think TI5 was $100 for all 6 days. pic.twitter.com/wdcDguyAjZ
— Ben Steenhuisen (@Noxville) August 19, 2023

The International 2023: Benefits for Ticket Holders

To partially alleviate the price increase, Valve has announced a special incentive for attendees. Those who link their Steam accounts to their passes will receive a Treasure of the Crimson Witness, a coveted in-game item. Furthermore, pass holders will have the chance to receive in-game drops for every “first blood” witnessed during the tournament.

The International 2023: A Fusion of Skill and Spectacle

As the countdown begins for The International 2023, the anticipation among Dota 2 fans is palpable. Whether attendees are planning to experience the event firsthand or join the millions of viewers worldwide in witnessing the battles unfold via live stream, the event promises to deliver unparalleled gameplay, electrifying moments, and an atmosphere of pure competition.

As the global Dota 2 community prepares to descend upon Seattle, the city is poised to welcome its Dota enthusiasts from around the world. The International 2023 is set to be a testament to the enduring appeal of the game and its ability to unite gamers in the pursuit of excellence.

Also Read: Dota 2’s 10th-Anniversary Celebration: 5 Greatest Moments Of All Time