Why a Ranked Turbo Mode Could Benefit Dota 2’s Future

[Mudspiritual]

Hello everyone,

I’d like to revive and expand on the discussion around introducing a Ranked Turbo Mode to Dota 2—an idea first brought up by other community members like @andrestrindade. Over the years, Turbo has attracted a growing player base that appreciates shorter, more action-packed matches. However, because it currently lacks a ranked ladder, many competitive-minded players overlook it. Here are a few reasons why I believe Ranked Turbo could be a welcome addition:

Faster Games for Busy Schedules

As more players find themselves short on free time, committing to a 40–60 minute standard or ranked match can be impractical.
A ranked Turbo environment would cater to those who still love Dota 2’s depth but need a condensed match format, without sacrificing the competitive spirit.
Accessibility & Wider Appeal

Players over 30 or those juggling work, studies, or family responsibilities often cite time constraints as a barrier to playing traditional Dota.
By offering a formal ranked system in Turbo, Dota 2 becomes more inviting to a broader audience—including both new players and veterans seeking a quick, high-energy experience.
Precedent in Other MOBAs

Historically, other MOBA titles (such as Heroes of Newerth) have used a similar approach, offering both classic ranked modes and faster-paced ranked modes.
This demonstrates that faster-ranked game modes can coexist with traditional ones, often increasing overall community engagement.
Retaining Competitive Depth

Contrary to fears that quicker games might lessen strategic depth, Turbo’s fast progression can actually amplify certain aspects of the game (e.g., itemization choices, early team fights).
A ranked version of Turbo would still reward skill, decision-making, and hero mastery; it would merely place these elements in a more rapid context.
Low Risk to Standard Modes

If there is a concern about splitting the player base, this mode could be introduced as a seasonal or experimental feature first, similar to how other limited-time events and modes have been handled in Dota 2’s history.
If the mode proves successful, it could then be integrated permanently, fostering distinct but complementary competitive experiences.
New Incentives & Tournaments

A Ranked Turbo Mode could open up new opportunities for event organizers to host tournaments or leagues exclusively for faster matches.
This would bring additional variety to the Dota 2 esports scene and highlight talented players who excel in rapid-play environments.
Ultimately, Ranked Turbo is about recognizing that Dota 2’s community is diverse—encompassing everything from hardcore players who love long, methodical games to those who crave shorter, more intense sessions. Providing a competitive Turbo ladder would allow more players to chase ranks, earn rewards, and stay engaged without the time commitment of the standard format.

Thank you for considering this suggestion. I hope the Dota 2 development team and community will continue to discuss the potential merits of Ranked Turbo, and I look forward to seeing how Dota 2 evolves in the future.

Kind regards,
A fellow Dota 2 enthusiast

[Mudspiritual]

Hi Jenny, thank your fo key insights, though i'm not sure anymore how to even get this proposal to one of the developer but even so,
It's really heartening to see another person participating here. I also posted a discussion on Steam, but most of the responses there were negative, and I'm not sure if it will go anywhere. Honestly, I believe a variety of modes in the long run would only make the game more inclusive for different types of players. Games are, in a way, tools to sharpen our minds, and a Ranked Turbo would cultivate that aspect just as much as normal Ranked. I believe its existence would help players develop decision-making skills in both fast-paced and slow-paced situations.

As I mentioned, adults usually have more money but less time, so they would likely buy items and Battle Passes while playing shorter matches. They could also spend quality time with childhood or teenage friends, which helps keep their inner child alive and maintain a youthful spirit. In that sense, their adult life might feel more balanced... but maybe I'm stretching things too far here.

Either way, I never asked for a permanent mode—just a trial period. If the feedback is positive and it doesn't hurt normal Ranked (which is mainstream), then keep it; otherwise, it can always be removed. Unfortunately, many people insulted me on Steam when I proposed this, and some even insulted the developers, saying they’re incapable of implementing it. But I believe that, with the rise of AI and AGI, programming will become simpler and simpler, and the gaming world will only get more competitive. The games that appeal to the widest audience will likely have a brighter future overall.

Honestly, if I hadn’t grown up with Dota 2, I might never have written this post at all. I love this game and want it to shine at its brightest—so much so that, if I have children in the future, they can experience the same joy I felt when I first started playing this wonderful masterpiece. But I don’t really know how to contact the developers directly about this feature, so all I can do is post here and in the Steam Dota 2 discussions. Hopefully someone on the dev team—one of the legends who brought us so much joy—might see it and give it a try. If it’s too much to ask, never mind; I still appreciate the game as it is. I just wanted to offer an option for those who otherwise might quit each year due to time constraints.

Anyway, thank you for making this wonderful game, and once more thank you, Jenny, for taking the time to reply to my post.
Kind regards,
A fellow Dota 2 enthusiast

[superjacques]

completely agree and support this.

there really isn't a downside to this, since it takes nothing away from the AP players.

Some players, like myself, have spent thousands of hours playing, and it feels like an endless loop. I just dont have the time to commit to 40-60 minute games. 15-30 minutes are definitely do-able.

I would love to see a ranked turbo too.