For many players in the West and especially in China (where internet cafes, or wangba , ran this version for years), was the definitive "vanilla" experience. It predated the modern meta of jungling ward wars and introduced heroes that are now considered classic.

Gather nine friends, ban Terrorblade, pick the original Invoker (with 27 spells), and feel the nostalgia rush. The Frozen Throne awaits.

Searching for is a quest to reclaim that specific moment in time—a time of less polish, but more raw fun.

This version introduced the Spiritbreaker (Barathrum) rework and the classic Gambler (a removed hero). It also featured the original Silencer, Stealth Assassin (Riki), and the pre-nerf Terrorblade.