Jacky “EternaLEnVy” Mao is one of the most iconic figures in the history of competitive Dota 2. Known for his bold and often unorthodox playstyle, EternaLEnVy carved a unique path through the professional esports world, leaving a lasting impact on the game. His career spanned a decade, during which he played for some of the biggest teams in the scene, earning numerous accolades and developing a reputation as both a brilliant and unpredictable competitor. This article explores his journey, achievements, and legacy in the world of Dota 2.
EternaLEnVy – Early Life and Introduction to Dota 2
Jacky Mao, better known by his gaming alias “EternaLEnVy,” was born on July 2, 1991, in Canada. From an early age, he showed a profound interest in competitive gaming, eventually leading him to Dota 2. Before breaking into professional esports, he studied mathematics at the University of Toronto but decided to drop out to pursue a full-time career in gaming.
EternaLEnVy – Competitive Dota 2 Career
No Tidehunter and the Start of Professional Career
EternaLEnVy began his professional Dota 2 career in September 2012 by founding the team No Tidehunter. Under his leadership, the team quickly rose to prominence and won DreamHack Winter 2012, a milestone victory that established EternaLEnVy as a promising young talent in the scene. However, internal team conflicts led to his departure in 2013.
Cloud9 and Team Secret – Rise to Stardom
Following the fallout with No Tidehunter, EternaLEnVy joined Kaipi, which later became Speed Gaming. His strong performances led him to Cloud9, where he played from 2014 to 2015. As Cloud9’s carry player, he secured notable finishes in several tournaments, including a 5th-6th place finish at The International 2014.
His growing reputation earned him a spot on Team Secret in 2015, a period that marked some of the most successful performances of his career. With Team Secret, he won the MLG World Finals, Nanyang Dota 2 Championships, and The Shanghai Major 2016. However, the team faltered at The International 2016, leading to EternaLEnVy’s controversial departure.
Team NP and Leadership Era
Rather than joining another established organization, EternaLEnVy created his own organization, Team NP, in 2016. As the team’s leader, he built a solid roster that gained quick recognition. However, despite promising performances, Team NP struggled to break into the highest tier of competition, leading to roster changes and frustration for EternaLEnVy.
Fnatic, Complexity, and Final Years
After Team NP, EternaLEnVy joined Fnatic in 2017, helping the organization secure a top-four finish at ESL One Katowice 2018. However, his tenure was short-lived, as he moved between several teams, including Complexity Gaming, Infamous, beastcoast, Fighting PandaS, and Business associates. Despite flashes of brilliance, he struggled to maintain consistency.
EternaLEnVy – Playstyle and Signature Heroes
EternaLEnVy was a highly unpredictable player. His aggressive, risk-heavy approach often led to either spectacular victories or costly mistakes. He was famous for clutch plays and unconventional item builds, which made him both feared and criticized in the competitive scene.
Signature Heroes
- Terrorblade – Known for his precise farming and high-impact plays.
- Naga Siren – Mastered split-pushing and illusion-based strategies.
- Juggernaut – Utilized aggressive early-game builds.
- Invoker – Occasionally played as a flashy mid laner.
EternaLEnVy – Tournament Achievements
Major Titles
- MLG World Finals – 1st Place
- Nanyang Dota 2 Championships – 1st Place
- The Shanghai Major 2016 – 1st Place
- MLG Championship Columbus – 1st Place
Notable Placements
- The International 2014 – 5th-6th Place
- ESL One Katowice 2018 – 4th Place
- The Frankfurt Major 2015 – 2nd Place
EternaLEnVy – Retirement from Dota 2
In July 2022, EternaLEnVy officially announced his retirement from competitive Dota 2. He left behind a legacy of thrilling gameplay, high-risk strategies, and a charismatic personality that earned him both devoted fans and passionate critics. With nearly $1 million in earnings from 112 tournaments, he became one of the most significant figures in Dota 2 history.
How To Play Like EternaLEnVy in Dota 2
Step 1: Master High-Risk, High-Reward Heroes
To emulate EternaLEnVy’s style, focus on heroes that require strategic farming but can turn the tide of battle in the late game, such as Juggernaut, Terrorblade, and Naga Siren.
Step 2: Develop an Unpredictable Playstyle
One key element of his success was his ability to surprise opponents with bold plays. Study opponents’ patterns and execute unexpected moves.
Step 3: Prioritize Efficient Farming
EternaLEnVy was known for his ability to maximize farm efficiency. Focus on last-hitting, neutral creeps, and minimizing unnecessary fights to accelerate item builds.
Frequently Asked Questions About EternaLEnVy and Dota 2
Who is EternaLEnVy?
Jacky “EternaLEnVy” Mao is a former professional Dota 2 player from Canada, known for his brilliant yet inconsistent playstyle.
What teams did EternaLEnVy play for?
He played for numerous teams, including No Tidehunter, Cloud9, Team Secret, Fnatic, beastcoast, and more.
Which hero did EternaLEnVy play the most?
He was well-known for playing heroes like Terrorblade, Naga Siren, Juggernaut, and Invoker.
Why did EternaLEnVy leave Team Secret?
After Team Secret’s disappointing performance at The International 2016, he was removed from the roster.
What was EternaLEnVy’s biggest career achievement?
Winning The Shanghai Major 2016 with Team Secret was one of his most significant victories.
How much prize money did EternaLEnVy earn?
He earned approximately $992,684.79 from 112 tournaments.
Why is EternaLEnVy considered a controversial player?
His unpredictable, high-risk gameplay led to both incredible victories and disappointing failures, making him a polarizing figure.
When did EternaLEnVy retire?
He announced his retirement from competitive Dota 2 in July 2022.
Did EternaLEnVy ever win The International?
No, but he finished in the top six at The International 2014 with Cloud9.
What is EternaLEnVy doing after retirement?
There has been no official announcement regarding his post-retirement plans.
Source: theScore esports
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