After spending hours on Crownfall, many Dota players may be looking for a change of scenery. While we eagerly anticipate the next update from Valve, why not explore some other gaming options? Yes, there are alternative games out there worth trying.
Picking Games for Hardcore Dota Players
Choosing new games as a dedicated Dota player can be challenging. Our tastes are influenced by our Dota experiences, making it tough to find satisfying alternatives among the more popular titles. In this list, I will introduce some lesser-known games that I, as a Dota player of ~20 years, have personally enjoyed.
Discovering Hades
Hades is a title well-known in gaming circles for its polish, inventiveness, and engaging gameplay. I found myself drawn to this rogue-lite game, spending nearly 200 hours exploring its world instead of playing Dota. It wasn’t until I read an interview with Hades’ Creative Director that I understood why it resonated with me so deeply.
What sets Hades apart is its strategic gameplay, drawing inspiration from Dota to offer a slower, more methodical experience. This departure from fast-paced action towards thoughtful strategy may appeal to Dota players looking for a new challenge.
If you haven’t delved into Hades yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. The game is still in early access, but it already offers a captivating experience deserving of recognition.
Exploring Strategy Past
Dota’s origins as a custom map in Warcraft 3 highlight the genre’s roots in real-time strategy (RTS) gaming. However, the RTS genre has dwindled in popularity, especially among younger gamers who may not have experienced its challenges.
Enter Mechabellum, a game that focuses on strategic decision-making without the overwhelming micro-management of traditional RTS titles. Drawing inspiration from games like C&C Generals and Dota: Underlords, Mechabellum offers a unique gameplay experience where players must outsmart their opponents with limited resources.
If you’re seeking a game that emphasizes strategy over speed and reflexes, Mechabellum could be a refreshing change of pace.
Unleashing Tactical Mastery
Baldur’s Gate 3 may be a top-tier CRPG, but for Dota players seeking a deeper strategic experience, Pillars of Eternity offers a more satisfying gameplay loop. Emphasizing combat mechanics and character progression, Pillars of Eternity challenges players to think strategically and adapt to complex encounters.
If you enjoy the strategic depth of Dota and crave a similar experience in an RPG setting, Pillars of Eternity may be the perfect fit for your gaming tastes.
Discovering Unique Gameplay
If you’re a fan of deck-building rogue-likes like Slay the Spire, consider exploring Monster Train or InkBound for a fresh take on the genre. These games offer deep, strategic gameplay experiences that can rival the complexity of Dota matches, providing a satisfying challenge for players seeking a new adventure.
Ultimately, finding the right game to take a break from Dota can be a rewarding experience. Share your favorite titles and gaming experiences in the comments below, and let us know if you’d like to see more content like this in the future!