Dota 2 Special Event Dark Moon Adds a Horde Mode

Dota 2 is running a free special event titled "Dark Moon" that adds a Horde Mode to the game through February 6, 2017, according to a news post on the game's official website.

To play the event, you must join the Dark Moon queue while it's available. Gameplay is standard Horde Mode fare - you and your team will have to defend a temple against waves of enemies. As you survive the increasingly deadlier assaults you'll acquire Special Event points. These points can be redeemed by spinning the Dark Moon reward wheel which offers a decent variety in potential prizes. Extraordinarily lucky players can get their hands on the extremely rare Dark Moon Baby Roshan courier.

Horde mode aside, a dash of lore was included with the announcement:

For millennia, the warriors of the Nightsilver Woods have stood vigilant against vile forces intent on the advent of a Dark Moon, earning both title and divine charge in sacred defense of the Goddess Selemene. But now, as the night of the new moon falls, Selemene’s chosen lie helpless behind her temple walls, victims of an arcane slumber that has left the temple grounds undefended.

With Selemene’s influence at its weakest, and twisted shades of the familiar creeping across her domain, the Moon Goddess beckons five new protectors to stand in the stead of her champions against the corruption of the Dark Moon Horde. Will you be one to answer the hallowed call?

In true mysterious Valve fashion, the event was announced with no warning or hype in advance of the launch whatsoever. Though Dota 2 players may not have expected an event like Dark Moon, it's nonetheless a nice free surprise for the community. If you're keen to play this particular event, you'll have just over a week to do it - the Dark Moon event concludes on February 6, 2017.

What do you think of the Dark Moon event? Do you think Valve should have hyped the event and announced it in advance or were you pleasantly surprised by it springing up suddenly? What's your favorite Dota 2 Special Event to date? Let us know in the comments below!