# Thought League Was Just One of Many Games? My Surprise After Trying Dota 2
I always thought League of Legends was just one among many popular games. But that changed the moment I gave Dota 2 a shot.
### From Casual Curiosity to Serious Comparison
I’ve played a bit of Dota 1 in the past and naturally expected Dota 2 to feel a lot like League. After all, the games come from the same roots, right? But when I launched Dota 2 (on my Ubuntu setup, since League doesn’t run there), I quickly realized things aren’t that similar after all.
The immediate feeling I got was surprise. Compared to League, Dota 2 felt… distant. The gameplay wasn’t clicking the same way. Every little action — like kiting between auto attacks — felt less fluid, more like work. And that’s where things got me thinking.
### What Makes League Stand Out?
League’s moment-to-moment gameplay is just catchy. There’s something about how responsive and visceral it feels that keeps me hooked. I have at least 20 champions I love right away — whether it’s their theme or how they play. Unlike Dota 2, I rarely get bored in League, and that’s saying something.
In Dota 2, many champions feel a bit all over the place. There’s creativity for sure, but the designs lack coherence sometimes. Imagine having three different marksmen, but only one is truly viable. That was a bit off-putting for me.
Also, there’s something special about League’s tiny moments of skill — the quick Vayne tumble to dodge spells, the well-timed Fortune bounces early in the game, or the adrenaline rush of ulting with Fiora. Dota 2 didn’t give me those same feelings.
### But Dota 2 Has Its Own Charm
I have to admit, Dota 2 isn’t all bad. The less stylized 3D animation was actually really cool. I found myself just spinning the Ranger model in the menu for a good 20 minutes, fascinated by the way her hair moved with physics. That kind of attention to detail is neat.
It just reminded me that every game has its unique strengths.
### Changing My Perspective on League
I used to be quick to criticize League. I thought it was just another game with massive hype. But after trying Dota 2, I started appreciating what Riot has done with League. It’s polished. It’s thoughtfully designed. And making a game like this? It’s not easy.
So, I think sometimes we forget to give credit where it’s due. Maybe having a more open, curious mindset — and a little gratitude for the developers — wouldn’t hurt.
### Keep Critiquing, But Appreciate Too
That said, never stop pointing out what bugs you in your favorite games. Honest criticism drives improvement and innovation. It’s what helps games grow and become better experiences for everyone.
But maybe, just sometimes, take a step back. Try a similar game. Appreciate the work that goes into what you love. It might change the way you see things.
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### A Quick Recap:
– Tried Dota 2 thinking it’d feel like League — it didn’t
– League feels more fluid, fun, and engaging for me
– Dota 2’s animation and some designs are impressive in their own right
– Playing Dota 2 made me appreciate how much Riot polished League
– Be curious, be thankful, but stay honest with your critiques
If you’re a gamer like me, sometimes trying something different can really shift your perspective. And even if it doesn’t lead you to a new favorite, it might just deepen your appreciation for the game you love.
So — what about you? Ever had a moment where trying a different game made you see your usual pick in a new light? I’d love to hear about it.
