Competitive video gaming, or esports, has grown fast. This expansion has given rise to many teams that have become famous and good at many games. However, which of these teams has earned the right to be among the top ranks?
This article looks at the best teams that have helped shape esports gaming. We will learn about how these teams started, who their best players are, their achievements, and how much money they make.
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G2 Esports
G2 was established in 2013 in Berlin. Since then, the organization has gained prominence in esports. This swift growth is largely due to its unique playing strategies. Acclaimed for versatile tactics, G2 has distinguished itself across various game titles like Counter-Strike.
The organization consistently performs well in international competitions, with star players like Rasmus “Caps” Winther and Nikola “NiKo” Kovač playing crucial roles in their successes.
In 2024, G2 celebrated significant victories, including the Rocket League Championship Series London Major and strong performances in CS tournaments like IEM Dallas. Their partnerships with major brands have further cemented their status as a leading esports organization. G2’s dynamic approach and consistent high-level performance continue to define its presence in the competitive gaming landscape.
Gen.G
Gen.G was established in Seoul in 2017. It has likewise become a powerhouse in esports. This team has secured numerous accolades across multiple tournaments.
Star player Park “Ruler” Jae-hyuk has been instrumental in Gen.G’s League of Legends triumphs, contributing to their 2024 Mid-Season Invitational victory and LCK dominance. Their VALORANT team claimed the Master’s Shanghai title, while the Rocket League squad consistently performs well in regional qualifiers and playoffs.
Gen.G’s success across diverse games showcases its strategic versatility. It also highlights its ability to nurture top-tier talent. Their approach in this area makes them formidable.
FaZe Clan
FaZe Clan is based in Los Angeles. The team was founded in 2010 and has since become a big team in esports. This team is famed for its expertise in first-person shooter games. Their areas of expertise include Call of Duty, CS2, and Halo.
Key players include André “aBeZy” Zinni in Call of Duty and Helvijs “Broky” Saukants in CS2. Both stars have been instrumental in FaZe Clan’s success. In 2024, the organization clinched victories in Call of Duty and Halo majors. They also won the IEM Chengdu title in CS2. Other top performances in second place finishes at the Copenhagen Major and IEM Katowice.
Team Liquid
Team Liquid was founded in 2000 and has evolved into a top team in esports. The team excels across multiple games, including CS and Valorant. It has won numerous championships and placed high in major tournaments.
Key players like Jonathan “EliGE” Jablonowski in CS and Jo “CoreJJ” Yong-in in League of Legends have been pivotal to their success. EliGE’s exceptional CS performances and CoreJJ’s leadership in LCS have solidified their reputations as top-tier professionals.
With an estimated valuation of $440 million, their influence extends beyond competition. Strong partnerships with top brands bolster their global presence. Their thriving merchandise line and loyal fan base further cement their status as a dominant force in competitive gaming.
100 Thieves
This esports team was founded in 2017 by former Call of Duty pro Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag. At first, they made clothes, but now they are a big name in competitive video gaming. They are good at Call of Duty and League of Legends games.
Some of their best players are Spencer “Hiko” Martin, who plays Valorant and Can “Closer” Çelik, who plays League of Legends. These players have helped 100 Thieves win a lot. Hiko leads the team well in big contests, and Closer’s skills have helped them do great in important games.
100 Thieves has won many championships and is worth about $460 million. They’re doing well in both gaming and business. They’re special because they mix excellent branding with being great at games, making them stand out in the gaming world.
Cloud9
The Cloud9 team emerged in 2013 as an esports powerhouse. Since then, it has etched its name, becoming a top team in competitive video gaming. They are outstanding at games like Counter-Strike, League of Legends, and Valorant. The team’s success comes from great players like Ibrahim “Fudge” Allami and Nathan “Leaf” Orf, who have helped win big contests.
Cloud9 is worth about $380 million, which shows its popularity and success. It has many fans and big companies that support it financially. This mix of being great at games and having solid financial backing has made Cloud9 a leader in competitive gaming. They keep showing they can win in many different games at the highest level.
Conclusion
Leading esports teams showcase excellence through strategic gameplay, exceptional talent, and business savvy. G2 Esports impresses with adaptable tactics, while Gen.G demonstrates strategic flexibility across multiple titles. FaZe Clan dominates first-person shooter games, and Team Liquid excels in various competitive arenas.
100 Thieves stands out with its innovative branding approach, while Cloud9 maintains consistent top-tier performances. Each team has etched its name in esports history, setting benchmarks for success and competitive spirit. As the industry grows and transforms, these powerhouses are poised to remain influential, shaping the future of competitive gaming and inspiring upcoming generations of players to push the boundaries of esports achievement.
