TI14: A Surprising Shift in Dota 2 Meta

The ongoing TI14 tournament has proven to be one of the most unexpected events in the history of Dota 2 esports.

The group stage of The International 2025 showcased a total of 108 matches filled with exceptional Dota 2 action. However, a noteworthy trend emerged: several of the game’s classic carry heroes did not see a single selection.

Unused Classic Carriers

Renowned characters like Phantom Assassin, Wraith King, and Drow Ranger, which have historically been pivotal in both casual matches and previous International tournaments, were completely overlooked by all competing teams. For long-time enthusiasts of the game, this absence is particularly noteworthy, given that these heroes were once considered reliable options for late-game success.

The glaring fact that these heroes went unpicked in so many games indicates that the issue is not merely one of niche counter-strategies or situational line-ups. It appears that these carries currently lack relevance in the professional meta. The focus of TI14 has shifted towards fast-moving, utility-based carry heroes that offer more than just straightforward attack power.

Emergent Meta Preferences

For instance, Faceless Void provides essential game-altering Chronospheres along with scaling potential, while Monkey King excels in team fight control with agility and disruption techniques. Templar Assassin brings both survivability and map dominance, offering strategic advantages that traditional damage dealers struggle to match.

Notably, Nature’s Prophet has emerged as a highly contested hero at TI14, capable of applying pressure in lanes while delivering significant contributions in team fights. In contrast, the late-game dependent playstyle of Phantom Assassin, Wraith King’s predictable resurrection ability, and the aura-centric mechanics of Drow Ranger do not harmonize with the tempo-driven strategies that currently dominate the game.

A Tale of Two Worlds

Interestingly, while these three heroes have vanished from the competitive scene, they continue to thrive in casual matchmaking. Both Phantom Assassin and Wraith King consistently rank high among players, showcasing that their simplistic mechanics and potential for snowballing are still appreciated at the non-professional level. Nonetheless, the competitive landscape of Dota 2 has transitioned to prioritize early engagements, map control, and adaptability.

As the tournament progresses, the pivotal question arises: will any teams take the risk of integrating these overlooked heroes into their strategies? If future game patches do not provide adjustments to their effective play styles, mobility enhancements, or earlier impact opportunities, these once-popular carries may remain on the sidelines for the foreseeable future. As the playoffs draw near, it remains to be seen whether these heroes will make a comeback or stay relegated to the slower metagame.