The rise of competitive gaming, commonly referred to as esports, has transformed our understanding of video games. Gone are the days of playing alone or in small groups; esports elevates gaming to a new realm where teams of exceptionally talented players face off in complex virtual battlegrounds, frequently vying for substantial cash rewards.
Over the last ten years, several prominent teams have risen to prominence, establishing their dominance in the esports world.
Esports teams enable competitors to blend their distinct skills and strategies, achieving feats impossible for a single player. Similar to traditional sports organizations, these teams offer a framework that fosters communication, collaboration, and strategic planning.
Beyond gameplay, the team structure also provides social and financial support, helping players to advance their careers and paving the way for individual stars to attain greater fame and fortune.
The leading esports teams boast captivating origin stories and remarkable track records. Let’s delve into the profiles of some of the most renowned esports teams in the current competitive landscape. The leading esports teams boast captivating origin stories and remarkable track records.
Let’s delve into the profiles of some of the most renowned esports teams in the current competitive landscape. Check out Hella Good Marketing for more insights!
Astralis
Astralis, a Danish esports powerhouse, has become a symbol of triumph in the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS2) arena. Established in 2016 by players who broke away from Team SoloMid, Astralis marked a significant shift towards player-driven professional gaming.
Their journey is a testament to sustained excellence in esports. Astralis not only thrived in numerous international tournaments but also revolutionized the game with their innovative strategic approach.
Their breakthrough came with a victory at the ELEAGUE Major in Atlanta in 2017. Astralis solidified their legendary status with consecutive wins at the Intel Extreme Masters in 2019 and 2020. Known for their disciplined gameplay and strategic mastery, Astralis remains a dominant force in the CS scene.
Evil Geniuses
Founded in 1999, Evil Geniuses has established itself as a giant in the competitive gaming world. Initially focusing on the game Quake, they soon expanded to include Counter-Strike and Defense of the Ancients (DotA), evolving into a multifaceted gaming organization.
Evil Geniuses entered the League of Legends scene in 2013, adding to their diverse portfolio. Their illustrious history includes significant victories such as winning The International 2015 Dota 2 Championship and the 2018 Call of Duty World League Championship. These achievements highlight Evil Geniuses’ remarkable ability to adapt and excel in the ever-evolving gaming industry.
Team Liquid
Originating in the Netherlands in 2000 as a StarCraft community, Team Liquid transitioned into a competitive esports organization by 2010, broadening their roster to include titles such as League of Legends and others.
Team Liquid’s journey is marked by numerous significant victories that underscore their competitive prowess. Notable achievements include their victory at The International 2017 Dota 2 Championship, securing four consecutive LCS titles in League of Legends, and winning the Intel Grand Slam for CS in 2019.
These accomplishments highlight Team Liquid’s exceptional skill and consistent success across various esports domains.
OG
Established in 2015, OG has garnered significant acclaim in the Dota 2 competitive arena. Their inventive playstyle and outstanding performance under pressure have positioned them among the elite teams worldwide.
OG’s ascent to the pinnacle of Dota 2 was marked by consecutive victories at The International in 2018 and 2019—an unprecedented feat in esports history. Their groundbreaking strategies and unique gameplay have profoundly influenced the highest levels of Dota 2, setting new benchmarks in the competitive landscape.
FaZe Clan
Originating in 2010 as a YouTube sniping team, FaZe Clan quickly expanded into competitive gaming, establishing itself as a prominent force across various titles, especially Call of Duty.
FaZe Clan’s impressive track record includes victories at major Call of Duty tournaments, such as the CWL Pro League 2018 and the CWL Championship 2020. Their success also extends to CS, where they claimed victory at the ELEAGUE CS Premier in 2017. These accomplishments highlight FaZe Clan’s versatility and dominance in the esports arena.
SK Telecom T1
SK Telecom T1 (SKT T1): Founded in 2002, this South Korean team rapidly became a powerhouse in the League of Legends scene. Their strategic gameplay and outstanding team synergy led to championship victories in the League of Legends World Championship in 2013, 2015, and 2016.
Beyond their dominance in League of Legends, SKT T1 has also excelled in other esports. Their StarCraft II squad has won the Global StarCraft II League championship multiple times, reflecting their commitment to cultivating talent and advancing competitive gaming.
Fnatic
Fnatic: Established in 2004, this British esports organization has profoundly influenced the esports world. Boasting a storied history in titles such as League of Legends, Fnatic has continually showcased its competitive edge and skill.
One of their most remarkable accomplishments was clinching the inaugural League of Legends World Championship in 2011. Furthermore, their CS team has secured three major championships, cementing Fnatic’s status as one of the most successful and impactful esports organizations globally.
Other notable esports teams
Several other teams have made significant contributions to the esports scene:
- Cloud9: Founded in 2013, this North American team has significantly influenced the League of Legends landscape, capturing the 2018 League Championship Series title and achieving a remarkable win at the 2023 LCS Spring Finals.
- G2 Esports: Founded in 2014, this team has consistently dominated the League of Legends scene, securing multiple EU LCS titles, with their most recent victory at the 2022 LEC Summer Split.
- Natus Vincere (Na’Vi): Esteemed for their excellence in CS, this Ukrainian team has accumulated numerous victories since its founding in 2009, highlighted by a remarkable win at the PGL Major Stockholm in 2022.
- 100 Thieves: Founded in 2017, this American team has showcased its skill across various games, including Call of Duty and League of Legends. Their Call of Duty squad achieved a major milestone by winning the Call of Duty League 2023 Championship.
- Rogue: Since its start in 2016, Rogue has built a strong reputation in the esports world, particularly in Overwatch and League of Legends. Their Overwatch team captured the title at the Overwatch League 2022 Grand Finals.
- TSM (Team SoloMid): A cornerstone in the esports industry since 2009, TSM has thrived in multiple games, such as League of Legends and Fortnite. They notably claimed first place at the 2023 Fortnite World Cup.
- Team Vitality: This French team, established in 2013, has risen to prominence through remarkable achievements, highlighted by a notable victory in the 2022 Rocket League Championship Series Season X – Europe.
- Dallas Empire: As a part of the Call of Duty League, Dallas Empire has made impressive strides since their formation in 2020, including a triumph at the Call of Duty League 2022 Championship.
- Invictus Gaming: Established in 2011, this leading Chinese team boasts a rich history in various esports titles. They recently claimed victory at the 2023 League of Legends Pro League Spring tournament.
- Virtus.Pro: Founded in 2003, this Russian esports powerhouse has excelled in games such as Dota 2 and CS. Their Dota 2 squad recently secured a major triumph at the 2023 Dota 2 Major, cementing their status as one of the elite teams globally.
Summary
Esports, with its blend of competitive gaming and team dynamics, is leaving an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. The best esports teams—like those described here—have elevated the level of gameplay and significantly shaped today’s competitive gaming industry.
With their unique origins, rich histories, and impressive accomplishments, these top esports squads inspire gamers worldwide. They prove that esports is more than just gaming; it’s a global phenomenon redefining popular entertainment.