7 things you will experience during The International (for people watching at home)

The International 2014 (TI4) is just around the corner (read: a few days). If you have been watching at home since the first International way back 2011, you’ve probably noticed that certain things repeat itself every year. And in case you’re new to this Dota 2 annual “tradition”, here are things that you’ll normally encounter throughout the International season.

1. Getting drowned in group stage matches (because they’re happening all at the same time)

TI4 has a new format, but if it’s anything like the last ones, the group stage matches are going to be at the same time. Don’t panic if you can’t watch everything. That’s normal especially if you don’t have a kick-ass setup with multiple monitors or tablets and whatnot.

2. Having a screwed up body clock

This is something fans from Asia know all too well. Morning becomes night and night becomes morning, but your body clock just won’t understand that. And it’s going to take a while before you fix it after The International, too. It’s tough being a fan from another time zone.

3.Taking days off from your job to watch the game

First off, if you’re a student, I don’t suggest that you take absences for the duration of the tournament. No matter how much you love Dota 2 and eSports, school should be a priority.

Now if you’re an employed person, it’s normal if you take a few days off your job to watch the games. If you’re thinking it’s weird, it’s not. It’s normal. At least for us. People from work might think otherwise, but if you inform them nicely and beforehand, I think you’re going to be good. After all, suddenly disappearing for day from work is not cool.

4. Not knowing how to explain the importance of The International to other people

This often happens when you have to decline attendance to social events because you’re prioritizing the tournament. Some people will understand it and some won’t. But, hey, this tournament happens once a year so I say leave me be.

5. Seething jealousy for those who attended personally