Just before the start of DreamLeague Season 22, we caught up with Clement “Puppey” Ivanov to discuss the current state of Dota and settle the ongoing League of Legends vs. Dota 2 debate!
Credit: Valve / The International
Sophie: As a veteran player, what are your thoughts on the removal of the DPC system and the shift towards a tournament-to-tournament structure?
Puppey: The current structure is a bit ambiguous, driven mainly by ESL and Riyadh tournaments. While it may lack a concrete plan, the support from organizers is promising. The sudden changes like the removal of the battle pass can be confusing, but overall, I believe in letting the scene evolve naturally.
Sophie: The uncertainty around TI and the qualifiers can be challenging. How do you feel about the current system favoring top-tier teams?
Puppey: The system may lean towards the top teams, but it’s a work in progress. As an organizer, the lack of clarity from Valve makes it difficult to plan ahead. We’ll need time to adapt and refine the system as we move forward.
Sophie: With DreamLeague Season 22 kicking off, how do you approach preparing for different opponents and adapting strategies?
Puppey: Each series requires a unique approach, analyzing and countering specific team strategies. Preparation is key, and it demands time and effort to stay competitive in the ever-evolving meta.
Sophie: The recent patch introduced some changes. Do you anticipate a shift in the current meta?
Puppey: While some heroes have been tweaked, the overall meta remains largely unchanged. Certain heroes might see more play, but the core strategies remain consistent.
Sophie: Switching gears, how do you unwind during off-time away from Dota?
Puppey: We often explore different games as a team, trying out custom maps and puzzle games like “Baba Is You.” Engaging in activities outside of Dota helps maintain a healthy balance and keeps us refreshed for the game.
Sophie: Do you ever delve into playing other roles in Dota to gain a deeper understanding of the game?
Puppey: Playing core roles can offer valuable insights, but my role in drafting often dictates the need to adapt. While mid lane poses a challenge, I embrace the opportunity to explore different hero roles for a well-rounded perspective.
Sophie: And finally, the ongoing debate between League of Legends and Dota 2. Who would you pick from Dota 2 to settle it in a ring against the best from League of Legends?
Puppey: Fly would be my pick without hesitation. It’s all in good spirits, and at the end of the day, both games have their strengths. A friendly showdown between the top players could be an interesting way to settle the debate.
