Arcanas in Dota 2 are among the most coveted and rarest skins available. However, these aren’t just simple cosmetic changes, they come with exclusive animations, enhanced particle effects, customized ability icons, and sometimes even alternate voice lines. So far, only 24 heroes have received these high-tier skins, making them highly sought after in the community.
In the past, Arcanas were traditionally released as part of The International Battle Pass, a yearly event accompanying Dota 2’s biggest tournament. However, after Valve discontinued Battle Passes in 2023, there was a significant gap in Arcana releases until they were reintroduced during the Crownfall event in 2024. Moving forward, it seems that new Arcanas will be released through major in-game events rather than Battle Passes.
Below is a complete list of all Dota 2 Arcanas, detailing their release dates, availability, and pricing, along with unique features that make each one special.
All Available and Unavailable Dota 2 Arcanas
Crystal Maiden – Frost Avalanche
- Release Date: February 12, 2015
- Availability: Yes (In-store)
- Price: $35 USD
Crystal Maiden is a classic support hero with a vast selection of skins, including an Immortal, a Persona, and several other cosmetics. However, her Arcana stands out with a unique dog companion, customizable shoulder pieces, and multiple visual variations.
Drow Ranger – Dread Retribution
- Release Date: December 14, 2021
- Availability: No
Drow Ranger’s Arcana was one of the first to feature an anime-inspired design, setting it apart from other hero skins. Unlike Dragon Knight and Mirana, whose anime-themed skins were released as Personas, Drow’s Arcana is exceptionally rare. Currently, the only way to obtain it is through Steam trading, as Dota 2 rarely re-releases Arcanas once they are retired.
Earthshaker – Planetfall
- Release Date: May 24, 2019
- Availability: No
Earthshaker’s Planetfall Arcana was part of the 2019 Battle Pass, requiring players to reach level 375 to unlock the base version. A second alternate form was available after achieving 500 kills or assists using Echo Slam. This Arcana also featured custom spell icons and a unique Blink Dagger effect, making it a highly desirable item.
Faceless Void – Claszian Apostasy
- Release Date: September 1, 2022
- Availability: No
One of the most visually stunning Arcanas, Faceless Void’s Claszian Apostasy adds a tentacle theme to his Time Lock and Chronosphere abilities. Since this was a Battle Pass-exclusive item, players who missed it in 2022 have no way of acquiring it unless Valve decides to bring it back in the future.
IO – Benevolent Companion
- Release Date: May 18, 2017
- Availability: No
IO is a hero with very few cosmetics, and its Arcana is one of only three skins available for the hero. Inspired by the Companion Cube from Portal, this Arcana doesn’t feature as many flashy changes as others but remains a collector’s item due to its rarity.
Juggernaut – Bladeform Legacy
- Release Date: March 15, 2017
- Availability: Yes (In-store)
- Price: $35 USD
Despite not being a top pick in pro games, Juggernaut remains one of the most played heroes in casual games. His Bladeform Legacy Arcana, introduced in 2017, is still available for purchase in the Dota 2 store, making it an accessible option for those who want a visually enhanced version of the hero.
Legion Commander – Blades of Voth Domosh
- Release Date: December 12, 2013
- Availability: Yes (In-store)
- Price: $35 USD
One of the oldest Arcanas in the game, Legion Commander’s Blades of Voth Domosh is a classic cosmetic that has stood the test of time. Despite newer, more modern Arcanas being released, this skin remains one of the most iconic choices in the game.
Lina – Fiery Soul of the Slayer
- Release Date: March 7, 2013
- Availability: Yes (In-store)
- Price: $35 USD
Lina’s Slayer Arcana is one of the most recognizable skins in Dota 2. While it’s been around for over a decade, it remains popular among players, and its fiery aesthetic continues to make it a standout cosmetic.
Recent & Exclusive Arcanas (Unavailable for Purchase)
- Skywrath Mage – Crownfall: The Devotions of Dragonus (April 18, 2024)
- Vengeful Spirit – Crownfall: The Resurrection of Shen (April 18, 2024)
- Queen of Pain – Eminence of Ristul (June 11, 2020)
- Windranger – Compass of the Rising Gale (September 4, 2020)
- Wraith King – One True King (May 25, 2020)
These recent Arcanas were tied to special events, making them much harder to obtain. The Crownfall update introduced Skywrath Mage and Vengeful Spirit’s Arcanas, each featuring alternate styles and updated character models.
The Future of Dota 2 Arcanas
With the removal of Battle Passes, future Arcanas are expected to be introduced during major seasonal events, similar to Crownfall 2024. While some classic Arcanas remain available for purchase, others have become exclusive collectibles, unlikely to return unless Valve introduces a new event or promotion.
For now, collectors and dedicated players should keep an eye on major Dota 2 updates, as new opportunities to unlock Arcanas may emerge in upcoming patches.
