While the world tunes into the Euros and Wimbledon this summer, this article takes a moment to discuss the top eSports teams across the world, for those who aren’t interested in football or tennis!
Team Liquid
Team Liquid have had a huge influence in the eSports world and continue to boast a long line of accomplishments.
The team was launched over two decades ago when the organizers launched a StarCraft community site.
After establishing themselves in StarCraft, the team expanded to create their own Dota 2 group, mainly made up of American players. But the results were mixed after finishing 8th at The International.
However, after gaining a roster from Kuro Kuroky Takhasomi in 2016, the team shot to second place in two majors and back into the top eight in the tournament.
Their story is much deeper than just Dota 2, however. The team dip their toes into plenty of other eSports such as League of Legends, Super Smash Bros and SC2.
Fnatic
The UK-based Fnatic was launched in 2004 but is now a household name for eSports fans across the globe. Typically competing across League of Legends, Dota 2 and CS:GO, the team made history by becoming the first LoL champions in 2011.
The team later acquired two rosters from Europe and Southeast Asia in 2015, which took them to fourth place at TI6.
Alongside their Dota success, the team also provided incredible competition in other eSports such as Fortnite, Street Fighter V and CS:GO. According to Forbes, the organization is now worth $120m.
Cloud9
When Jack Etienne bought the Quantic Gaming League of Legends team in 2013, Cloud9 was created.
The North American organization has now grown to be one of the most valuable teams in the industry, according to eSports betting sites.
Although the team got started in League of Legends (where they have enjoyed huge success), they have also created teams for Dota 2, Super Smash Bros and Rocket League.
Evil Geniuses
Founded in 1999, Evil Geniuses is perhaps one of the oldest eSports organizations in North America. The team have seen success in every game title they’ve chosen to compete in, making them hugely iconic in the industry.
EG finally made it to third place at TI4 when collaborating with another up-and-coming team. EG’s parent organization was later acquired by Twitch.
Like others on this list, EG found success in other fighting games as well as titles such as Rocket League and SC2. The team also went on to become world champions in CoD in 2018.
SK Telecom T1
As one of the most iconic teams for League of Legends fans, SK Telecom T1 (who have now rebranded to T1 Entertainment & Sports) have now branched out to battle royale-style games.
Some believe T1’s glory days have faded into the background, though their incredible contribution to the eSports industry (especially for LoL) is undeniable. They’re still the only franchise to have three world championships under their belt.
These are just a few favourites that will continue to compete in some of the world’s biggest eSports tournaments. Who are your favourites?
