Valve Confirms The International 2017 Happening in Seattle
In a recent news update, Valve subtly confirmed that The International 2017 event will commence in Seattle.
Despite earlier fears that President Donald Trump's travel restrictions might affect the attendees of The International 2017 if the tournament is to be held in the United States, Valve has discreetly announced that will not be the case when they provided updates about the event's cosplay competition.
To quote Valve's announcement, "We invite all dedicated cosplayers to craft their best Dota-themed costumes and make the journey to Seattle in August for the Main Event of The International."
It is important to note that The International has been held in Seattle since 2012. However, the recent political climate in the U.S. posed some uncertainties which was confirmed by Valve last month, according to a report from Polygon.
According to Polygon, Valve's Erik Johnson mentioned that the tournament is already experiencing some problems brought about by the visa restrictions. He also admitted that several politicians in the state of Washington have "pulled strings" before just to help them let The International players in.
On the other hand, Valve is yet to confirm whether or not The International is going back to Key Arena this year or if it is going to be held in a different venue in Seattle.
Meanwhile, the said Cosplay Competition that coincides with The International's main event has a $15,000 prize pool. Participating individuals in the said contest will not be required to acquire event tickets. "All cosplayers who register to participate will be admitted to a Prejudging Phase near the event venue," Valve further explained. Contestants will perform at the Main Event stage.
The International has been known for gathering staggering amounts as prize pool for DOTA 2 teams who will make it the main event. For 2016, The International prize pool reached as much as $20,770,460, according to the event's official website.
The Chinese team Wings Gaming walked away with the 2016 championship trophy and a cash prize of more than $9,100,000. The American team Digital Chaos came in second place, taking home more than $3,400,000.
Valve is yet to announce the specific dates for The International's Main Event. However, DOTA 2 fans know that it is usually held in August.
