"Heroes of Newerth Returns, Celebration on Hold"

The MOBA genre is currently facing significant challenges. Two of the most prominent games, Dota 2 and League of Legends, are experiencing difficulties. Valve's Dota 2 has increasingly become a niche product, particularly popular in Eastern Europe, while Riot Games seems to struggle to revitalize League of Legends, a game that appears to be in its later stages.

Amid these struggles, Garena has announced the revival of Heroes of Newerth, a game that once rivaled Dota 2 and League of Legends in the early 2010s but was later discontinued. The new version is being built on a modern engine, and the trailer has generated excitement. While this news might seem cause for celebration, several concerns temper the enthusiasm.

First, Heroes of Newerth is a re-release of a live-service game that is over a decade old. The MOBA genre has lost some of its luster, with many gamers shifting their attention to newer platforms and gaming trends.

Second, Garena's track record in supporting projects and esports has often been questioned. The company insists on its belief in the potential of Heroes of Newerth, yet the original shutdown raises doubts about their commitment.

Third, the game is set to launch on the iGames platform, which uses partial crowdfunding. This choice prompts the question: Why not Steam? In today's gaming landscape, reaching a broad audience without Valve's platform can be challenging.

Image: igames.com

These factors suggest that Heroes of Newerth might remain a niche project with potential for organic growth, but doubts persist. On a positive note, the game is slated for release within the next year, offering a clear timeline for fans and potential players.