Outrage Erupts as Dota 2’s The International 2023 Tickets Draw Comparisons to Taylor Swift Concerts
Valve’s recent unveiling of the ticket prices for The International 2023, Dota 2’s most prestigious event, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. The exorbitant costs have sparked outrage and drawn comparisons to attending a Taylor Swift concert, known for their high price tags. Fans are voicing their discontent, questioning the reasoning behind the staggering prices in contrast to other esports tournaments.
The format of TI 2023 differs from previous years, and with it, a new pricing structure that has left many bewildered. Attending the Playoffs section of the event will set back fans a staggering $99 per day, while access to the main event requires purchasing a three-day bundle priced at $699.
To fully experience The International, Dota 2 enthusiasts will have to bear the burden of paying nearly $1,000 for their tickets. This eye-watering price tag is difficult to swallow when compared to other forms of entertainment. In response, disillusioned fans have taken to social media, sharing cost analyses of past events they attended. Some have pointed to the 2019 CS:GO Major, which had a four-day pass priced at a more reasonable $90.
Interestingly, a small minority drew parallels between the ticket prices of TI 2023 and Taylor Swift concerts. While the pop superstar is notorious for organizing expensive shows, her VIP ticket prices are the only ones that come close to rivaling those of Dota 2’s TI. Taylor Swift fans are typically charged around $900 for VIP passes, granting them unique perspectives and experiences not mirrored in the case of TI 2023.
To add salt to the wound, attendees of The International’s main event, TI12, will only receive an in-game chest called Treasure of the Crimson Witness 2023. This lackluster reward has further disappointed fans, especially given Valve’s repeated claims that Dota 2 is a passion project for them. The high ticket prices have left many potential attendees disheartened and questioning their willingness to attend the event.
Over the years, ticket prices for The International have seen a steep increase. In the mid-2010s, attending the entire tournament would cost fans around $300-500. Although TI11 had relatively lower ticket prices, they were still steep by regional standards, resulting in devoted Dota 2 fans missing out on the opportunity to witness the event live at the venue.
Currently, the Dota 2 TI12 Regional Qualifiers are underway, with teams vying for a chance to secure a spot at the event in Seattle. Once the qualifying teams are determined, they will embark on the journey to compete for the highly coveted Aegis of Champions.
As the outcry continues, Valve is under scrutiny for the steep prices of The International 2023 tickets. Fans are left hoping for a more affordable and inclusive approach to attending future editions of this premier esports event.
