Top 3 longest Dota 2 games in history

The competitive Dota 2 scene has witnessed matches that push the boundaries of the game’s timer, showcasing the pinnacle of competitive gameplay. In 2024, the ESL One Birmingham 2024 China closed qualifier saw Azure Ray and G2.iG engage in the longest series in Dota 2 esports history, setting a new standard for endurance and skill in the game.

Although this series marked a significant milestone, it does not hold the record for the single longest Dota 2 game in professional play.

3. Gaimin Gladiators vs Quest Esports

Ranking third in the list of the longest Dota 2 games in history, the Bali Major 2023 group stage featured a thrilling clash between Western European powerhouses Gaimin Gladiators and Quest Esports. Lasting an incredible two hours and 16 minutes, this match captivated Dota 2 enthusiasts worldwide with its display of skill and perseverance.

Despite Gaimin Gladiators’ impressive arsenal that included 14 Divine Rapiers and 11 Roshan kills, and their strategic buybacks and total death time, Quest Esports emerged victorious in a decisive teamfight, pushing the boundaries of longest Dota 2 games records.

2. Vega Squadron vs Team Empire

Prior to the Bali Major encounter, the second-longest Dota 2 game was a crucial match between Vega Squadron and Team Empire in June 2017. This intense battle was pivotal for Team Empire’s journey to the International 2017 (TI7) finals, lasting over two hours and bearing witness to exceptional resilience and strategic gameplay.

Vega Squadron’s emphasis on solo kills and deliberate game prolongation led to a historic match that peaked after two hours and 20 minutes, securing its place in Dota 2 history.

1. The longest Dota 2 game in history: Cloud9 vs ScaryFaceZ

The title for the longest competitive Dota 2 game belongs to the legendary match between Cloud9 and ScaryFaceZ in March 2015 during the StarSeries Season 12 qualifiers. Lasting an unprecedented three hours and 20 minutes, this game showcased strategic gameplay and endurance, culminating in a surprising victory for ScaryFaceZ after a grueling 200-minute battle.

Honorable Mention: The six-hour pub match

While professional matches often dominate discussions about the longest Dota 2 games, a casual pub match in February 2020 broke records by lasting over six hours. Featuring players from different skill tiers, this epic showdown aimed to set a new record for the longest Dota 2 game, showcasing a mix of late-game heroes and impeccable base defense strategies. Despite challenges and player abandonments, this match remains a remarkable feat in Dota 2 history.