Dota - Lan Game

Computer gaming is one of the hottest things most students do during their spare time or even during school days. The trend of online and LAN gaming is getting out of hand and it has become more than just another computer game, it is a lifestyle. Two to three years back, one could probably hear people shouting "Fire in the hole" or "Team fall back" aimlessly. As ridiculous as it may sound but that was the Counter-Strike time. Now, one will occasionally hear people talking about Luna, Lina, Medusa and Zeus. No they are not talking about mythical characters in novel or a storybook; they are actually talking about DotA. This game is seriously addictive. Gamers can play on for hours and hours and sometimes they lose track of time playing it. Dota Allstars, a variant of the custom map Defense of the Ancients for Warcraft III: Frozen Throne, this game has become a hobby of most students. Dota Allstars gameplay revolves around the use of individual heroes and their time is devoted in gaining experience and gold for item making. DotA combines strategy, skill, teamwork, and a little luck, which makes the game a hit.

Computer gaming has been a fad for many years until now- from a simple 2D game "Pacaman" to a more detailed and innovative 3D online games. For some computer gaming is considered as a passion; for many it is an addiction.

At present, DotA Allstars, a variant of the custom map Defense of the Ancients for Warcraft III: Frozen Throne, is about to reach the peak of its popularity. It has captured the interest of many computer gamers as well as the beginners in the world of computer gaming. Young adults, especially the students are mostly hooked in this computer game. Thus, computer games in general as well as Dota have become a hobby by many students and young adults across the nation.

The researchers intend to study the impact of the computer game-Dota on second year Computer Engineering students in USC-TC. By conducting this study, the researchers as well as the readers, will have a broader view regarding computer games in general including Dota. This may also answer the question, "Computer Gaming: A bane or a boon?"