Vitalie “Save-” Melnic has established himself as one of the most talented support players in the Dota 2 professional scene. Hailing from Moldova, he has consistently showcased remarkable gameplay and strategic depth, making him a formidable force on the battlefield. From his early days competing with FlyToMoon to his tenure with the legendary Virtus.pro and now as a key member of BetBoom Team, Save- has demonstrated unwavering dedication and skill. With an impressive list of achievements, including reaching 14,000 MMR and winning prestigious tournaments, he continues to shape the competitive landscape of Dota 2. This article explores the life, career, and impact of Save-, highlighting his journey to becoming one of the most respected support players in the esports world.
Who is Save-? – The Rising Star of Dota 2
Vitalie “Save-” Melnic, born on February 4, 2002, is a professional Dota 2 player from Moldova. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation as an exceptional support player and shot-caller in the competitive Dota 2 scene. His strategic prowess, mechanical finesse, and incredible game sense have allowed him to rise to prominence, turning him into one of the most influential players in the Eastern European region.
Early Career – The Journey Begins
FlyToMoon – First Steps into the Competitive Scene
Save- began his professional Dota 2 career in 2019 with FlyToMoon. Although his stint with the team was short-lived, from May 14, 2019, to June 29, 2019, it was pivotal in laying the foundation for his future in professional esports. FlyToMoon gave him a taste of high-level competition and allowed him to showcase his skills on a larger stage.
Virtus.pro – The Breakthrough
After leaving FlyToMoon, Save- joined Virtus.pro on a trial basis on October 2, 2019. His consistency andperformance quickly earned him a permanent spot on the roster by October 30, 2019. Throughout his time with the organization, he played multiple roles, including being part of VP.Prodigy, the team’s youth squad. His adaptability and leadership skills earned him the role of team captain, further cementing his legacy within Virtus.pro.
Success with VP.Prodigy
During his tenure with VP.Prodigy, Save- demonstrated exceptional shot-calling and coordination. Under his guidance, the team showcased dominance in several competitions, solidifying its status as a rising force in Dota 2. His ability to execute well-timed saves and control team fights contributed significantly to the team’s success.
BetBoom Team – A New Chapter
On December 8, 2022, Save- joined BetBoom Team, marking a new chapter in his career. His experience and leadership provided a much-needed boost to the squad, allowing them to remain competitive in the international Dota 2 scene. With BetBoom, he has continued to display high-level gameplay, regularly competing in top-tier tournaments.
Achievements and Milestones
MMR Records
Save- has consistently achieved remarkable milestones in terms of MMR (Matchmaking Rating), showcasing his individual skill:
- 10,000 MMR – June 29, 2020
- 12,000 MMR – April 26, 2022
- 14,000 MMR – June 19, 2024
Top Tournament Performances
Throughout his career, Save- has secured multiple high placements in prestigious Dota 2 tournaments:
- BLAST Slam I 2024 – 1st Place ($400,000 Prize)
- DreamLeague Season 24 – 2nd Place ($175,000 Prize)
- ESL One Birmingham 2024 – 2nd Place ($175,000 Prize)
- DreamLeague Season 22 – 2nd Place ($175,000 Prize)
- The International 2021 – 5th-6th Place ($1,400,600 Prize)
- EPIC League Season 2 Division 1 – 1st Place ($200,000 Prize)
Playstyle and Signature Heroes
Save- is known for his exceptional ability to anticipate enemy movements and guide his team with strategic precision. His support playstyle revolves around setting up kills, team-saving rotations, and efficient ward placements. He is particularly adept at making game-changing plays with heroes such as:
- Rubick – Known for his best-in-class spell-stealing abilities that allow him to turn the tide of battles.
- Windranger – A hero he utilizes masterfully to set up kills and escape pressure.
- Phoenix – Expertly manages team fights with Phoenix’s powerful abilities.
How Save- Stands Out in the Competitive Scene
Strategic Leadership
One of Save-‘s most remarkable attributes is his leadership ability. As a captain, he has led multiple teams to success, ensuring they execute strategies efficiently. His deep analytical understanding of the game allows him to make crucial decisions that often determine victory.
Consistency in Performance
Throughout the years, Save- has maintained a high level of performance, whether on a rising team or when competing against world-class opponents. His ability to maintain his gameplay at the top tier is why he is considered one of the best support players of his generation.
How to Play Support Like Save- in Dota 2
Understanding Map Control
- Always keep vision with Observer and Sentry Wards.
- Deny enemy vision by dewarding key areas.
- Position in a way that minimizes unnecessary deaths.
Effective Team Coordination
- Communicate with your core players about cooldowns and movement plans.
- Synchronize spell usage to maximize effectiveness in fights.
Making Game-Changing Saves
- Use defensive items such as Force Staff and Glimmer Cape at critical moments.
- Time your spells to prevent key allies from dying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Save- and Dota 2
Where is Save- from?
Save- is from Moldova, making him one of the most prominent Moldovan players in Dota 2 history.
How old is Save-?
Save- was born on February 4, 2002, making him 23 years old as of 2024.
What teams has Save- played for?
Save- has played for FlyToMoon, Virtus.pro, and currently plays for BetBoom Team.
What role does Save- play?
He primarily plays as a support and has also served as a team captain in different teams.
What are Save-‘s most famous heroes?
Rubick, Windranger, and Phoenix are among his most played heroes.
What is Save-‘s highest MMR?
His highest achieved MMR is 14,000, reached in June 2024.
What was Save-‘s performance at The International?
His best placement was 5th-6th at The International 2021.
Does Save- still play professionally?
Yes, he currently plays for the BetBoom Team.
What major tournaments has Save- won?
He won BLAST Slam I 2024 and EPIC League Season 2 Division 1.
How can I play like Save-?
Master ward positioning, practice defensive item usage, and work on team coordination to emulate his playstyle.
