Valve warns teams against 322 or bug abuse at The International 2024

Teams shared Valve's message to the participants of The International 2024. The company urged them not to bet on the matches, pay attention to bug abuse, and show respect to the TO and Valve's employers. Here are the key takeaways:

Welcome to The International.

In the last year, half a billion Dota 2 games have been played, with players in almost every country. Dota players have played games on every continent, including Antarctica. Of the many millions of players in last year, you are the elite, the highest-skill Dota players on the best Dota teams in the world. Congratulations.

The International is a tournament, a contest of skill and willpower that will crown this year's greatest Dota team. It is also a celebration for Dota and the Dota community. Here are the important things to keep in mind over the next few weeks:

— You are professionals. You represent yourself, your team, the game and community of Dota, and the wider world of esports. Be thoughtful about how you communicate publicly, whether in a post-game interview or a tweet. Remember that The International is watched not only by millions of Dota players, but also by friends, family, and newcomers watching their first match. Be good stewards of the event and of Dota.

— Fairness and competitive integrity are paramount. Do not bet on matches at The International, whether they're your games or not. Do not collude with other players or organizations. Always play to win, whether it's the first game of the group stage or the last game of the grand finals. If you are unsure if an in-game mechanic is an exploit or a bug, talk to us before using it in a match and we'll clarify. If it's correct behavior, we won't share the your strategy with other teams. If it is an exploit, we will make it clear to all teams what the exploit is and that it's off-limits.

— We have no tolerance for discrimination, abusive behavior, or abusive language. Treat everyone with respect, including Valve and event staff, broadcast talent, and other teams.

— Your first point of contact for questions about the event or the game of Dota is Valve and the event staff. If you witness poor treatment of anyone or experience poor treatment yourself: Come talk to us. If you are feeling sick: Come talk to us. If you experience bugs or issues with Dota: Come talk to us. If you are not sure who to talk to, any event staff can connect you with the right person.

This is the first International in Europe with an audience since the very first event in Cologne in 2011. You are all now part of a tradition stretching back more than a decade. You have already achieved something rare and incredible, and the next two weeks will see a new champion lift the Aegis. Be proud, play well, have fun, and we'll see you on stage.

The International 2024 will be held from September 4 to 15 in Copenhagen. Most teams arrived at the venue with full rosters. The exception was Tundra Esports, as their support Edgar "9Class" Naltakyan did not get a visa. He was replaced by Martin "Saksa" Sazdov.

Comments