Danil “gpk” Skutin is one of the most talented and celebrated mid-lane players in the professional Dota 2 scene. Hailing from Russia, he has carved a reputation for himself as a dominant force in the game, anchoring the mid-lane with unparalleled skill and precision. Currently playing for BetBoom Team, gpk has consistently showcased his ability to outplay opponents, execute calculated strategies, and make high-impact plays that swing the momentum of matches. With multiple tournament victories, remarkable MMR milestones, and an extensive career spanning various elite teams, gpk remains a key figure in competitive Dota 2. This article provides a detailed look at his journey, achievements, playstyle, and influence in the game.
Early Life and Introduction to Dota 2
Danil Skutin, better known as gpk, was born on August 23, 2001, in Russia. Like many young esports stars, he fell in love with Dota 2 at an early age and dedicated countless hours perfecting his skills. His innate talent for the game, coupled with an analytical mindset, quickly set him apart as a formidable player. By the time he was a teenager, gpk had already established himself as a top-tier mid-lane player in pub matches, earning recognition within the Dota 2 community.
Professional Career – Rise to Stardom
Gpk’s professional Dota 2 career began in 2017 when he started competing at an amateur level. His undeniable skill and high-level decision-making quickly caught the attention of established teams.
Marlerino eSports (2018 – 2019)
gpk’s first major stint in the professional scene was with Marlerino eSports, where he played from May 31, 2018, to March 21, 2019. This period allowed him to gain valuable experience competing against professional-tier opponents.
Vega Squadron (2019)
Following his tenure with Marlerino eSports, he joined Vega Squadron on March21, 2019. Although his time with Vega Squadron was relatively short, lasting only until July 27, 2019, it was a crucial stepping stone in his career, as it provided him with exposure to international competitions.
Gambit Esports – Breakthrough Performance (2019 – 2020)
August 22, 2019, marked gpk’s arrival on the big stage when he joined Gambit Esports. Over the next year, he cemented his status as one of the most promising mid-lane players. His remarkable individual performances helped the team achieve impressive results in online and LAN tournaments. While he faced brief inactive periods during this time, his overall impact on the team was significant.
Virtus.pro – Climbing to the Top (2020 – 2022)
After a short time with VP.Prodigy in November 2020, gpk was promoted to the main Virtus.pro roster. From November 5, 2020, to December 6, 2022, he was an integral part of Virtus.pro’s dominance in regional and international tournaments. He played a pivotal role in their victories and consistently delivered top-tier performances, solidifying his reputation as one of the best mid-laners in the world.
BetBoom Team – Current Home (2022 – Present)
In December 2022, gpk joined BetBoom Team, continuing his professional journey with significant success. He helped the team achieve impressive tournament finishes, including winning BLAST Slam I in 2024. Although he experienced a brief inactive period from September 21, 2024, to January 6, 2025, he remains an active and vital member of the roster.
Gpk’s Playstyle – A Mid-Lane Maestro
Playing predominantly as a mid-laner, gpk excels at securing map control, applying pressure, and dictating the tempo of games. He is known for his aggressive gameplay, mechanical prowess, and quick decision-making. A few defining aspects of his playstyle include:
- Exceptional Laning Phase: He consistently outperforms opponents in the early game, securing an advantage for his team.
- High Kill Participation: Gpk is highly influential in team fights, boasting a playstyle that revolves around skill shots, burst damage, and superior positioning.
- Versatile Hero Pool: His ability to play a wide range of mid-lane heroes, including Invoker, Storm Spirit, and Ember Spirit, makes him difficult to counter.
- Clutch Performances: He thrives under pressure and often delivers game-winning plays when it matters the most.
Notable Achievements – Career Highlights
MMR Milestones
Gpk has consistently pushed boundaries in ranked matchmaking, achieving several major MMR milestones:
- 10,000 MMR: May 15, 2020
- 11,000 MMR: August 24, 2020
- 12,000 MMR: May 27, 2021
- 13,000 MMR: March 28, 2024
- 14,000 MMR: June 19, 2024
- 15,000 MMR: January 21, 2025
Major Tournament Wins
Among the most notable achievements in his tournament career:
- 1st Place at EPIC League Season 2 Division 1 (2020): $200,000
- 2nd Place at ESL One Summer 2021: $85,000
- 5th-6th Place at The International 2021: $1,400,600
- 1st Place at BLAST Slam I (2024): $400,000
How to Play Like gpk in Dota 2
If you aspire to replicate gpk’s playstyle, follow these steps:
Master the Laning Phase
- Secure last hits and denies to gain an early advantage.
- Use spells efficiently to harass opponents.
Increase Your Map Awareness
- Keep track of enemy rotations and adjust your positioning accordingly.
- Communicate with teammates for better coordination.
Choose the Right Hero
- Focus on heroes that suit your aggressive and playmaking style.
- Study gpk’s replays to understand itemization and skill builds.
Frequently Asked Questions About gpk in Dota 2
What team does gpk currently play for?
As of 2025, gpk plays for BetBoom Team.
What role does gpk specialize in?
Gpk primarily plays the mid-lane position.
Has gpk won The International?
While he has not won The International, he achieved a high placement of 5th-6th at TI 2021.
Which hero is gpk best known for?
He is widely recognized for his Invoker, Storm Spirit, and Ember Spirit performances.
What is gpk’s highest recorded MMR?
He reached a staggering 15,000 MMR on January 21, 2025.
How did gpk start his professional career?
He began with Marlerino eSports in 2018 before joining bigger teams.
What makes gpk a great mid-laner?
His laning dominance, mechanical skill, and game sense set him apart.
Which tournaments has gpk won?
Notable victories include BLAST Slam I 2024 and EPIC League Season 2 Division 1.
What is gpk’s total career earnings?
His total winnings exceed $1,041,774.
Where can I find gpk’s latest matches?
His matches are regularly updated on platforms like Liquipedia and Dota 2 pro-tracking sites.
