Players are split into two teams, ideally in a five-on-five or three-on-three format, to compete as the primary defenders for each ancient. The basic setup of Dota 2 places two strongholds with 'ancients' at opposing ends of an evenly-balanced map with multiple connecting regions identified as 'lanes', in which enemy units primarily traverse, while also combating powerful defensive towers along the way. Players assume the role of a unit categorized as a 'hero', which can be leveled up to a maximum level of 25. Much like the original Defense of the Ancients title, Dota 2 combines the real-time strategy element of traditional perspective projection, while also incorporating the leveling and itemization system of a role playing game.
