Maps Control: The difference between victory and defeat

 

Image retrieved from: http://www.myreviews.it/41065_dota-2-recensione/

Maps in practical terms can be manipulated and changed based on peoples observations and motivates, as Ariella van Luyn mentioned in the lecture "They(Maps) are powerful (especially because we believe them to be representations of reality)." When a country is large/central on the map its importance is increased, which is why previous maps centralized the country of origin. Dota does not have this problem, its map is the same with everyone, however depending on everyone's view of the map, depends on whether the map will become a weapon against your enemies or guide to the fastest death.

As Prouty, R describes "turtle on the leash" approach is the best way of utilizing the map, as if you do not take the time to observe the map and the surroundings around you the risk of getting killed becomes more dangerous. On the flip side if you do go slow and pay attention the chances to gain ground and noticing the enemy movements become worth the slow movement. Wards help this also, imagine them as the eyes and positions place them in the correct place and those dark patches will light up and you will have more to see at the cost of time also, you can find a description of these here.

A Cyber-Flanuer someone who as Gaylene Barnes describes 'let themselves be drawn by the attractions of the terrain and the attractions they find there' will find this game to be a luring poisoned apple. The variety of heroes and combinations mean that they will never be bored however the learning and control it takes will cause disappointment and boredom to those who do not take a distanced view. The game is not for those who are looking for a quick fix of enjoyment, running after the first objective you see will lead you dead and bored, maps are important they mean the difference between victory and defeat in the game and in life.

Reference List

Barnes, G. (1997) Passage of the Cyber Flaneur. Retrieved on August 21, 2015 from http://www.raynbird.com/essays/Passage_Flaneur.html

Prouty, R. (2009, October 28). Turtle On a Leash. Retrieved August 21, 2015, fromhttp://www.onewaystreet.typepad.com/one_way_street/2009/10/a-turtle-on-a-leash.html

Unkown. (2015, August 10). Observer Ward. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from http://dota2.gamepedia.com/Observer_Ward

Van Luyn, A. (2015). BA1002: Space: Networks, Narratives, and the Making of Place, week 4 notes. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from https://learnjcu.jcu.edu.au/webapps/blackboard/execute/content/file?cmd=view&content_id=_1992266_1&course_id=_69740_1