DotA 1 Download Guide – Latest Maps, AI Versions & How to Play (2025)

When referring to DotA 1 (Defense of the Ancients), we are not talking about a standalone game you can install directly. DotA is actually a custom map created for Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. Because of this, classic versions of the map usually weigh under 10 MB, while more recent builds may exceed 100 MB—but they are still relatively lightweight.

To play DotA 1, you must have Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne installed on your PC, preferably version 1.26 or newer, since these are the patches used for modern map development.

With that clarified, what you really need to download are the DotA maps. These maps are constantly updated and must be placed inside the Maps folder of your Warcraft III installation (C:\Program Files (x86)\Warcraft III\Maps) to create and host matches.

Download the Latest DotA 1 Version

There are two types of DotA maps available:

  1. Standard maps: designed for online play or Local Area Network (LAN) matches.
  2. AI maps: include computer-controlled bots, allowing players to enjoy DotA in single-player mode or fill empty slots in 5v5 games.

Standard DotA Maps

Version Description Link
DotA 7.03R10 The most up-to-date map, currently used as the official version in Ranked Gaming Client. Developed by DracoL1ch. Download
DotA 7.03b2 Version used by Atinad, also created by DracoL1ch. Download
DotA 6.85K A major update by DracoL1ch featuring notable gameplay differences compared to Icefrog’s original versions. Download
DotA 6.83d The final version officially developed by Icefrog before DracoL1ch continued the map’s evolution. Download

AI DotA Maps

Version Description Link
DotA 6.88b AI Chinese release and the most recent AI update. Features item icons similar to Dota 2. Download
DotA AI REBORN Chinese AI version based on 6.85K, also using item icons from Dota 2. Download
DotA 6.83d AI Updated version of the PleaseBugMeNot AI map, adapted to Icefrog’s last official patch. Developer unknown. Download
DotA 6.81b AI 1.2.0 AI update originally created by PleaseBugMeNot, later improved by jiayushen1 and translated by JamesDruid0806. Download
DotA 6.78c AI v1.4e – Farewell The final AI version released by PleaseBugMeNot, who maintained the bot project for many years. Download

How to Play DotA 1 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you're new to DotA 1, this tutorial will walk you through downloading, installing, and playing—whether solo, online, or via local network (LAN).

Download & Install DotA 1

  1. Download the DotA map from a trusted source.
  2. Copy the map file into your Warcraft III installation directory.
    • If you don’t know where it is, right-click the Warcraft III shortcut on your desktop and choose Open file location.
  3. Inside the game folder, open Maps → Download.
  4. Paste the downloaded DotA map into this folder.

How to Play DotA 1 in LAN

To play with friends on a local network, follow these steps:

  1. Launch Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne.
  2. Select Local Area Network (LAN).
  3. Click Create Game.
  4. Select the DotA map you copied earlier and press Create Game.
  5. Wait for the other players to join. Once everyone is ready, click Start Game.

Play DotA 1 with Bots (Single-Player Mode)

If you want to practice or simply play alone, follow these steps:

  1. Download a DotA map version that includes Bots (AI).
  2. Open Warcraft III and select Single Player.
  3. Go to Custom Game.
  4. Select the DotA AI map.
  5. Add Bots (computers) to the empty slots and click “Start Game”.

How to Play DotA 1 Online

If you prefer playing with people from around the world, here are the two recommended platforms to play DotA 1 online:

Both platforms allow you to create a free account and start playing with other users easily.

Activate Game Modes and Commands

During a match, you can type game modes in the chat (e.g., -ap, -ar, -em, etc.). For the complete list, visit: DotA 1 Commands

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