Dark Carnival is the main gaming event of Dota 2 before The International 2026. The first act started on June 25: players guide Hoodwink and Legion Commander through the circus train of the evil Ringmaster in a fully voiced narrative adventure. The progression system is similar to the mechanics from Crownfall — participants collect tickets by playing specific heroes and advance through the story stages.
The update added five new Automaton Personas: for Axe, Bristleback, Legion Commander, Morphling, and Oracle. Each includes a unique character model, revamped animations, visual effects, and original voice lines — not just cosmetics, but a complete redesign of the hero.
The structure of the event is divided into three acts. The first is already active, the second will open on July 10, and the third on July 24. All players, regardless of Battle Pass ownership, receive free rewards: Treasure of Wonders, candies for the Carnival Candyworks shop, emotes, loading screens, and chat lines.
Dark Carnival will stretch almost to the start of TI 2026 in Shanghai — Valve is intentionally building up excitement around the world championship. The second and third acts promise new mini-games, hero sets, and, according to rumors, references to Aghanim's Labyrinth.
Dota 2 community"Dark Carnival is the best thing that has happened to Dota before The International in recent years"
