How to start playing Dota as a woman and choose your role
Want to try Dota? Give it a go. You don’t have to prove to anyone that you have the right to play. Let’s work out what you enjoy doing on the map instead.
Ruslan · OOPS DOTA author
Original OOPS DOTA AI illustration
The role is yours to choose
You can learn any position: gathering resources, starting fights, protecting an ally or creating space. Support is a full and interesting role, but I’m not going to assign it to someone because of their gender. Try different tasks until you find what suits you. The mechanics and our course are the same for everyone.
Choose any of the five positions based on what interests you, not your gender.
Start somewhere you can try the buttons in peace
Hero demo mode and bots are good for your first actions. If a friend is helping, agree on this: one task at a time, questions are welcome, and mistakes get discussed without shouting. Helping doesn’t give anyone the right to demand photos, a password or private contact. For minors, age requirements and local rules come first.
Dota is for everyone and welcomes everyone.
Ruslan · OOPS DOTA author
That’s my view as the author. We still follow Steam’s age requirements and the rules in your country.
Your voice isn’t an entrance exam
You can use voice or another available channel when you feel comfortable. You don’t need to change your voice or put up with degrading jokes. If communication becomes unpleasant, you can mute the channel, report it and limit further contact. The person acting sexist is responsible for their sexism.
You belong here
Women play Dota and take part in its community. For example, Tiffany Lim spoke to IESF about competing in women’s leagues. That’s a real story, not a made-up share of the player base. I want us to have a place where you can learn, ask questions and play your own game. We’ll work through Dota’s complexity together, one decision at a time.
Interest
Choose an action you want to learn.
Practice
One hero, one clear task.
Boundaries
You don’t have to earn respect with your voice or results.
Quick answers to common questions
Is support the best starting role for women?
Your role depends on your interests and the tasks you enjoy. Gender doesn’t determine which position you should learn.
Do I have to turn on my microphone?
Choose a way to communicate that’s available and comfortable for you. Your voice neither gives you nor takes away your right to play.