Esports has grown into a billion-dollar industry, with top teams competing at the highest levels across multiple games. These organizations have risen to fame not just through their incredible skill and strategic gameplay but also through their dedication to building legacies that inspire fans worldwide. Here’s a look at some of the most successful esports teams, their achievements, and what makes them stand out.
1. Team Liquid
- Founded: 2000.
- Notable Games: Dota 2, League of Legends, CS:GO, Valorant, StarCraft II.
- Key Achievements: Winners of The International 2017 (Dota 2), consistent top performers in multiple esports titles.
- Top Players: Miracle-, nitr0, EliGE, and others.
Team Liquid started as a community-focused organization centered on StarCraft: Brood War but grew to become a dominant force in competitive gaming. Their breakthrough came in 2017 when their Dota 2 roster won The International, securing one of the largest prize pools in esports history. Beyond Dota 2, Liquid has a strong presence in League of Legends, consistently qualifying for major events like the League of Legends World Championship.
Their CS:GO team has also been a standout, winning multiple titles and holding the No. 1 ranking globally in 2019. Liquid’s commitment to nurturing talent and adapting to new games has made it one of the most versatile esports organizations in the world.
2. Fnatic
- Founded: 2004.
- Notable Games: League of Legends, CS:GO, Dota 2, Valorant, Rainbow Six Siege.
- Key Achievements: Winners of the first League of Legends World Championship (2011), multiple major CS:GO trophies.
- Top Players: Rekkles, JW, and Boaster.
Fnatic is a household name in esports, particularly in League of Legends and CS:GO. The team made history by winning the inaugural League of Legends World Championship in 2011 and has since remained a formidable presence in the game’s European scene.
In CS:GO, Fnatic dominated the mid-2010s, claiming three Major Championships and establishing themselves as one of the most successful teams in the game’s history. Their adaptability and innovative gameplay continue to keep them competitive across multiple titles. Fnatic is also known for fostering a strong connection with their fanbase, blending performance with accessibility.
3. T1
- Founded: 2003 (as SK Telecom T1).
- Notable Games: League of Legends, Valorant, Overwatch.
- Key Achievements: 3-time League of Legends World Champions (2013, 2015, 2016).
- Top Players: Faker, Gumayusi, Zeus.
When it comes to League of Legends, T1 stands as a dynasty. With three World Championships and multiple domestic titles in Korea’s LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea), they have set the standard for excellence in the game. Central to their success is their star player, Faker, often referred to as the “Michael Jordan of esports.” Faker’s skill, consistency, and leadership have been pivotal in T1’s continued dominance.
T1 has also expanded into other games like Valiant, where they are building strong rosters to compete internationally. Their emphasis on player development and strategic gameplay keeps them among the top-tier organizations globally. Just as understanding how to choose a slot machine can enhance your chances of success in a casino, T1’s strategic approach to selecting the right players and games has been key to their dominance in esports.
4. Cloud9
- Founded: 2013.
- Notable Games: CS:GO, League of Legends, Valorant, Overwatch.
- Key Achievements: 2018 ELEAGUE Major Champions (CS:GO), consistent top performances in League of Legends.
- Top Players: TenZ, Zven, Perkz.
Cloud9 burst onto the esports scene with its vibrant branding and standout performances. Their crowning achievement came in 2018 when they became the first North American team to win a CS:GO Major, a historic moment that solidified their place in esports history.
In League of Legends, Cloud9 has been one of North America’s most consistent teams, regularly representing the region at Worlds. They have also excelled in Valorant, where their roster includes standout players like TenZ. Cloud9’s ability to balance competitive success with building a relatable, fan-first identity has made it a fan favorite worldwide.
5. Natus Vincere (Na’Vi)
- Founded: 2009.
- Notable Games: CS:GO, Dota 2, Rainbow Six Siege, PUBG.
- Key Achievements: Winners of The International 2011 (Dota 2), PGL Major Stockholm 2021 Champions (CS:GO).
- Top Players: s1mple, Dendi, electronic.
Na’Vi is a legendary organization known for producing some of the most iconic moments in esports. Their Dota 2 team won the first-ever The International in 2011, creating a legacy that resonates to this day.
In CS:GO, Na’Vi has consistently been at the top, with their star player s1mple regarded as one of the best players in the history of the game. Much like the thrill of witnessing Na’Vi’s gameplay, fans seeking excitement off-screen might explore opportunities like a Richard Casino no deposit bonus for a fun and rewarding experience. Na’Vi’s ability to stay competitive across multiple games, coupled with their passionate fanbase, has made them one of the most respected teams in esports.
6. G2 Esports
- Founded: 2014.
- Notable Games: League of Legends, CS:GO, Valorant, Rocket League.
- Key Achievements: Multiple European titles in League of Legends, 2019 Mid-Season Invitational Champions.
- Top Players: Caps, NiKo, Mixwell.
G2 Esports has built a reputation for flair and innovation. Known for their dominance in the European League of Legends scene, G2 made history by reaching the World Championship finals in 2019. They are also a major force in CS:GO, with star players like NiKo consistently delivering standout performances.
G2’s success extends to Valorant and Rocket League, where they continue to make waves. Their ability to entertain fans with both their gameplay and social media presence makes them a unique force in esports.
7. FaZe Clan
- Founded: 2010.
- Notable Games: CS:GO, Call of Duty, Fortnite, Valorant.
- Key Achievements: Multiple championships in Call of Duty and CS:GO.
- Top Players: Carrigan, Twistzz, Bizzle.
FaZe Clan began as a sniping team in Call of Duty but quickly expanded into a global lifestyle brand. Their success in CS:GO includes winning the PGL Major Antwerp 2022, while their Call of Duty teams have consistently dominated tournaments.
FaZe’s unique blend of esports and entertainment has helped them become a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of fans and making them one of the most valuable esports organizations.
8. Evil Geniuses
- Founded: 1999.
- Notable Games: Dota 2, CS:GO, League of Legends, Valorant.
- Key Achievements: Winners of The International 2015 (Dota 2).
- Top Players: Arteezy, Jaedong, Tarik.
Evil Geniuses is one of the oldest and most storied organizations in esports. Their Dota 2 roster achieved legendary status by winning The International 2015 with a jaw-dropping $6.6 million prize. They also have strong lineups in CS:GO and League of Legends, maintaining relevance across multiple eras of esports.
9. Astralis
- Founded: 2016.
- Notable Games: CS:GO.
- Key Achievements: Winners of four CS:GO Majors (2017-2019).
- Top Players: dev1ce, gla1ve, dupreeh.
Astralis is synonymous with excellence in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Their unprecedented dominance in the late 2010s saw them win four Major Championships, including three consecutively between 2018 and 2019. Known for their impeccable team coordination, utility usage, and tactical innovation, Astralis redefined how CS:GO is played at the highest level. Their success not only brought them accolades but also solidified Denmark as a powerhouse in competitive gaming.
10. 100 Thieves
- Founded: 2017.
- Notable Games: League of Legends, Valorant, Call of Duty, Apex Legends.
- Key Achievements: LCS Champions (2021 Summer), Valorant Champions Tour top performances.
- Top Players: Asuna, Huhi, Kenny.
100 Thieves is a modern-day esports powerhouse and lifestyle brand that excels at blending competition with culture. Their League of Legends roster captured the LCS 2021 Summer Championship, marking a significant milestone for the organization. In Valorant, they field one of the most exciting teams, regularly making deep runs in international tournaments. Beyond esports, 100 Thieves has become a trendsetter in gaming apparel and content creation, appealing to both casual fans and hardcore gamers alike.
Conclusion
Esports has come a long way, from small LAN tournaments to packed stadiums and millions of viewers online. The teams highlighted here have not only excelled competitively but have also played pivotal roles in shaping the industry. Organizations like T1 and Fnatic are symbols of legacy, representing decades of dominance in games like League of Legends and CS:GO. Meanwhile, newer teams like 100 Thieves and FaZe Clan are pushing the boundaries by blending competition with cultural influence, creating a new blueprint for esports organizations.
Each team’s journey is a testament to the passion, dedication, and innovation that drive esports forward. From Astralis redefining CS:GO tactics to Cloud9’s historic Major win and Na’Vi’s consistent excellence across games, these teams have inspired millions of fans around the globe.
As the industry continues to grow, the impact of these organizations will only deepen. They’ve shown that esports isn’t just about winning trophies—it’s about building legacies, uniting communities, and proving that gaming is a force to be reckoned with on the global stage. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to esports, these teams represent the best of what competitive gaming has to offer, setting the standard for future generations.
