Sergei “G” Bragin, also known as “God” in the Dota 2 esports scene, has been an integral part of competitive Dota for over a decade. His remarkable journey from a young aspiring player to a seasoned professional and, more recently, a coach, is a testament to his dedication and skill. Born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on April 16, 1992, G has played for numerous top-tier teams, making his mark as one of the most formidable mid-lane players in the game’s history. Throughout his career, he participated in prestigious tournaments, including The International, while setting individual records that cemented his legacy in the Dota 2 community.
Biography – The Early Days of G in Dota
Sergei Bragin’s introduction to the competitive scene began in 2008 when he started playing DotA. His dedication and extraordinary talent soon propelled him into professional gaming by 2010. During his initial years, he played for teams such as The Retry and DTS.Chatrix, setting the foundation for a long and illustrious career.
G’s first major break came when he joined DTS.Chatrix to replace Dendi, who later became a legendary figure himself. This transition proved pivotal, and G quickly became one of the most well-known mid-laners in the CIS region.
Career Timeline – The Rise of a Dota 2 Icon
2010-2012 – Early Competitions and Moscow Five
After moving to Moscow Five in 2011, G participated in The International 2011, where his team showcased formidable performances. Although M5 did not secure a podium finish, G’s skill on heroes like Queen of Pain and Invoker quickly gained recognition.
Following his time with Moscow Five, he played for various teams, including Darer, Absolute Legends, and LGD.international. His stint in LGD.int was particularly noteworthy, as he competed with a multinational roster against top-tier competition.
2013-2015 – Joining Virtus.pro
Virtus.pro is one of the most iconic teams in CIS Dota history, and in August 2013, Gjoined their ranks. This marked the beginning of one of his most successful stints in competitive Dota 2.
While leaving Virtus.pro briefly to play for ASUS Polar in April 2015, he soon returned to Virtus.pro the same month, demonstrating his loyalty and synergy with the organization.
2015-2020 – A Journey Through Multiple Teams
Between 2015 and 2020, G continued his competitive career with several teams, including:
- Team Empire
- Vega Squadron
- Gambit Esports
- Team Spirit
- EXTREMUM
His ability to adapt and transition between organizations highlighted his vast knowledge and professional approach to the game.
2020-Present – Transition to a Coaching Role
In 2020, G played for EXTREMUM before transitioning to a coaching role with CIS Rejects and Pari Parni. By January 2023, he had joined One Move as a coach and then took his expertise to Virtus.pro in May 2023, where he currently serves as head coach.
Major Achievements and Records
Participation in The International
G competed in multiple The International tournaments, solidifying his reputation as an elite player. While he did not claim an Aegis of Champions, his performances consistently impressed fans and analysts.
Setting a Last-Hit Record
One of his most extraordinary achievements was setting the record for the most last hits in a professional Dota 2 game. Playing as Queen of Pain for Vega Squadron against Team Empire in The International 2017 CIS Qualifiers, he amassed an astonishing 2,417 last hits, a feat that remains unparalleled in the Dota 2 competitive scene.
Playing Style and Signature Heroes
Throughout his career, G was best known for his mid-lane prowess. His aggressive laning phase and ability to control the tempo of games made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Signature Heroes
- Queen of Pain – His most famous hero, associated with his last-hit record.
- Invoker – A mechanically intensive hero that matched his skillset perfectly.
- Lina – Known for her burst potential, a staple pick for G in past tournaments.
G’s Transition to Coaching
After an extensive playing career, G moved to a coaching role, leveraging his experience to mentor younger players. As a coach for Virtus.pro, he provides strategic insights and guidance to a new generation of Dota 2 professionals.
How to Play Like G – A Guide for Aspiring Mid Laners
Mastering the Mid Lane
G was known for his crisp decision-making in the mid lane. Below are some essential tips for aspiring players looking to emulate his playstyle:
- Lane Control – Focus on denying creeps and securing last hits to gain an early advantage.
- Hero Pool – Master 3-4 core mid-lane heroes to expand flexibility in drafts.
- Map Awareness – Keeping track of enemy movements and predicting ganks is crucial.
- Itemization – Adapt your item build based on the enemy’s lineup and playstyle.
Frequently Asked Questions – God in Dota 2
Who is G in Dota 2?
Sergei “G” Bragin is a professional Dota 2 player from Russia known for his exceptional mid-lane play.
Which teams has G played for?
G has played for various teams, including Virtus.pro, Moscow Five, LGD.International, Team Empire, and Vega Squadron.
What is G’s most iconic achievement?
G holds the record for the most last hits in a single professional game, with 2,417 last hits as Queen of Pain.
When did G transition to coaching?
He became a full-time coach in 2023, joining Virtus.pro to mentor and lead the squad.
Which hero is G best known for?
He is best known for his Queen of Pain, a hero on which he set a legendary last-hit record.
Has G won The International?
No, but he has participated in multiple TI events and delivered noteworthy performances.
What role did G play in competitive Dota 2?
He primarily played mid-lane but was also adept at playing other core roles when necessary.
Why did G leave professional play?
His transition to coaching was driven by his vast knowledge of the game and a willingness to develop younger players.
Does G still compete in professional tournaments?
He currently does not play at the highest level but remains involved as a coach.
Where can I learn more about G’s career?
For a comprehensive overview of his career, visit his profile on Liquipedia.
Conclusion
Sergei “G” Bragin, also known as “God”, has left an indelible mark on Dota 2, both as a player and as a coach. His incredible performances in mid-lane, record-breaking feats, and transition into a leadership role showcase his enduring passion for the game. Whether leading Virtus.pro from the sidelines or contributing to the strategic development of CIS talent, G continues to be an essential figure in the global Dota 2 community.