Valve announces the commencement of The International 2012, their second annual Dota 2 championship. The festivities are being broadcast through this page. Word is:

The event takes place today through Sunday at Benaroya Hall in Seattle, WA.

The tournament is being broadcast worldwide, free of charge, with play-by-play commentary in multiple languages, the ability to view the games from multiple angles, and more - all in full HD quality - from a dedicated client (available here: http://www.dota2.com/international/mainevent/watch/). A browser-based broadcast of the action is also available.

Meanwhile, those in the Seattle area this weekend attending PAX Prime may attend The International, free of charge with a PAX Badge (based upon space availability in the Hall).