You gain a minor amount of gold over time, but most of your gold will be gotten by landing the finishing blow on a hero or creep. With gold you can buy various items. Some of these items are offensive in nature while others are designed for survival. There are specific item combinations that form a more powerful item when put together. Go to
www.dota-allstars.com/items.php for more information.
Download it from
www.getdota.com
After you finish downloading it, move the map to
C:\Program Files\Warcraft III\Maps\Download
Make sure you have the latest warcraft patch, which is automatically downloaded when you log onto Battlenet.
DotA Allstars is by far the most played custom game on Battlenet so it is never hard to find a game. You can play in the public realm, which is the best place to start if your new. Clan TDA provides private games where breaking rules, such as leaving a game, has consequences. There are also leagues and tournaments available for highly competitive players.