
Dota 2 is one of the most legendary and competitive esports titles in the world. With massive global tournaments like The International (TI), it attracts millions of fans and has become a hotspot for esports betting. This guide will walk you through the essentials of Dota 2 betting—from the basics to advanced strategies.
What is Dota 2 Betting?
Dota 2 betting refers to placing wagers on the outcomes of professional matches and tournaments. Much like traditional sports betting, players can stake on match winners, map results, total kills, first blood, and many other in-game events.
Major Dota 2 Tournaments
Dota 2 hosts several world-class tournaments every year, with the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) being the most recognized. The crown jewel of the circuit, The International, keeps fans on the edge of their seats every summer. Another noteworthy event is the Mars Dota 2 League (MDL), organized by Mars Media in China.
Major Dota 2 Tournaments
Known as one of the most prestigious tournaments in esports, The International is held annually, usually in August. It features 18 of the world’s strongest teams, offering not only record-breaking prize pools but also countless betting opportunities for fans.
The competition takes place in two stages. Teams earn their spots through direct invitations based on their DPC performance or via regional qualifiers. The six official regions include Europe, CIS, North America, South America, China, and Southeast Asia. Out of 18 total slots, the top 12 are given to the highest-ranked teams in the DPC, while the remaining six are filled by regional qualifier winners.
Mars Dota 2 League (MDL)
Launched in 2014 by Mars Media, this Shanghai-based tournament has grown into one of the most respected Dota 2 competitions. Between 2018 and 2019, four MDL events were hosted, three of which boasted $1 million prize pools.
For bettors, MDL offers excellent markets thanks to its three tournament formats:
Minors – Usually feature 8 teams and can either be part of the DPC or stand-alone events. They include both group stages and playoffs.
Majors – Part of the DPC, with 16 teams split into four groups, and a $1 million prize pool. Structured similarly to TI but on a smaller scale.

Is Dota 2 Betting Safe?
Safety depends on the platform you choose. Many online sportsbooks provide secure Dota 2 betting, offering reliable payment methods, player protection, and bonuses. It’s important to select a licensed and trusted betting site that ensures smooth deposits and withdrawals.
What is the Best Dota 2 Betting Site?
When it comes to esports betting in Asia, Nova88 is one of the most trusted names. Renowned for its wide coverage of esports tournaments, user-friendly interface, and secure platform, Nova88 gives players an excellent betting experience.
From welcome bonuses and promotions to VIP programs, Nova88 ensures both new and seasoned bettors feel valued. Most importantly, it offers highly competitive odds across all major Dota 2 tournaments, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking to maximize their chances of winning.
Betting on Dota 2 with Real Money
Wagering real money on Dota 2 adds an extra thrill, but it also carries risks. To stay safe, always practice bankroll management—never stake more than 5% of your betting budget in a single bet. This strategy helps you play responsibly and reduces the risk of losing large amounts quickly.
Betting platforms like Nova88 also offer free bets, bonuses, and promotions to regular players. While these can be rewarding, always check the wagering requirements and terms before claiming them.
What is Dota 2 Item or Skin Betting?
Skins and items are a big part of the Dota 2 ecosystem. They are cosmetic enhancements for heroes and can be bought or traded on the Steam Community Market. Some platforms allow skin betting, where players use in-game items instead of real money.
While it’s a popular option, skins hold no real-world value beyond their cosmetic appeal. Players often invest in unique skins to stand out in the game, but when it comes to betting, real money wagering is generally more reliable.
Where Can You Bet on Dota 2?
For the best experience, look no further than Nova88. It offers secure betting, competitive odds, and coverage of all the biggest Dota 2 tournaments worldwide. Whether you’re new to esports betting or a seasoned bettor, Nova88 provides everything you need—from great promotions to trusted payment options.
If you’re ready to combine your passion for Dota 2 with the excitement of betting, Nova88 is your #1 destination in Asia.