Regardless of how many times you’ve launched the game, chances are you haven’t played all game modes in Dota 2. This game thrives in its highly competitive aspect, as most players seek improvement and progression when playing the game. However, the game also offers various modes catering to more casual players.
Game modes in Dota 2 are divided into two primary categories, which are ranked and unranked modes. Let’s check out every game mode you can expect to play in Dota 2.
All Ranked Modes in Dota 2
Ranked matchmaking is the most popular queue type in Dota 2, as most players engage in the game to improve and track their progression through the Dota ranking system. There are only two game modes in the ranked category.
Ranked All Pick
Ranked All Pick is the most-played on the whole list of all game modes in Dota 2. It follows a basic structure, allowing players to pick from all heroes in the game. Ten heroes are randomly banned before players have access to picking, and teams will go through an order-based selection process. Standard Dota 2 gameplay is applied.
Features:
- It is a ranked mode resulting in MMR changes after every game.
- Players pick heroes in turns, alternating between Radiant and Dire.
- A pool of heroes is banned before players can start picking.
Ranked Random Draft
Ranked Random Draft is a ranked variation where players must choose from a limited pool of 50 randomly selected heroes. Though Random Draft isn’t too popular, it could be favorable for players who have a vast hero pool and a deeper understanding of different heroes. Apart from the drafting stage, standard Dota 2 gameplay is applied.
Features:
- It is a ranked mode featuring a smaller hero pool of 50 heroes.
- Players pick heroes in turns, alternating between Radiant and Dire.
- Versatility and adaptability are required to succeed in Random Draft.
All Game Modes in Dota 2 – Unranked Games
Casual players looking to play some chill Dotes can turn to the different unranked game modes available. Players can have a more relaxing time practicing the most difficult Dota heroes in unranked modes.
All Pick
All Pick is the most widely played unranked game on the list of all game modes in Dota 2. Players can access the entire hero pool, allowing them to pick their favorite heroes or practice new ones. The picking stage follows a free-for-all manner, as players can reserve heroes by clicking them as quickly as possible. Gameplay-wise, All Pick follows standard Dota 2 procedures.
Features:
- Players can pick any hero if they have not been picked or banned.
- All Pick features normal Dota 2 gameplay with no additional mechanics.
- Ideal for casual play and experimenting with different/new heroes.
Turbo
Turbo has become one of the most popular unranked game modes in recent times. It is a fast-paced version of All Pick, designed for quicker and more casual gameplay. Turbo mode features increased gold and experience gain and weaker defensive structures, meaning quicker creep farming. Couriers also deliver items at lightning speeds. Games essentially progress twice as fast as regular matches.
Features:
- Hero progression is amplified with increased gold and experience gain.
- Towers and structures are weaker and couriers are faster to speed up the game flow.
- Great for busy players who want to play quick and less stressful matches.
Ability Draft
Ability Draft is arguably the most unique game mode in Dota 2. Instead of picking heroes based on their default abilities, players will draft separate abilities from a randomized hero pool. Players are assigned to a hero immediately and can create custom combinations using spells of other heroes.
Features:
- Players pick abilities instead of standard heroes.
- There will be a picking order where players can reserve abilities, preventing others from picking the same.
- Creates unique gameplay experiences and an enjoyable time.
Single Draft
In Single Draft, players are only given a choice of only three heroes to select from: one Strength, one Agility, and one Intelligence hero. This mode forces players to adapt and play heroes they usually wouldn’t pick. Players who are punished into Low Priority for abandoning or griefing games are forced to play in the Single Draft game mode. Nobody willingly queues for Single Draft unless forced to.
Features:
- Limited hero selection forces players to get out of their comfort zone.
- Single Draft is the game mode forced into players in Low Priority.
- Apart from drafting, matches follow standard Dota 2 gameplay procedures.
Random Draft
Like Ranked Random Draft, regular Random Draft provides players a smaller hero pool. Instead of 50 heroes in its ranked mode, standard Random Draft only gives access to 33 heroes, making strategic drafting more critical. This is a great unranked game mode for players to get their feet dirty and try new heroes.
Features:
- Features a limited hero pool of 33 randomly selected heroes.
- Perfect for players looking to try new heroes and get out of their comfort zone.
- Apart from drafting, matches follow standard Dota 2 gameplay procedures.
Play vs. Bots
For players who are still learning the game or want a relaxed time, Play vs. Bots is an excellent option. Players will team up with others and go against AI-controlled opponents, also known as Bots. These Bots have adjustable difficulty settings to cater to the level of players.
Features:
- Play against AI opponents with varying difficulty levels.
- Excellent for new players to learn the game or practice heroes.
- Less pressure compared to other matchmaking modes.
New Player Mode
The final mode on the long list of all game modes in Dota 2 is the New Player Mode. As its name suggests, this mode introduces new players to Dota 2 and how the game works. It features a controlled environment that guides players to understand the different mechanics offered in the game. Hero pools are also limited to streamline learning.
Features:
- Simplified matchmaking to help players learn the basics.
- Catered to new players that are just starting out.
- Perfect for players transitioning from tutorials to full matches.
