LGD Gaming stands tall as one of the most iconic names in the competitive gaming world, particularly in the realm of Dota 2. Founded in China, this multigaming organization has an illustrious history filled with triumphs, partnerships, and challenges that have shaped its legacy. From its early days to its recent endeavors, LGD Gaming has continued to inspire fans worldwide with its dedication to excellence in Dota 2. This article explores the rich history, achievements, roster changes, and more about this legendary esports titan.
LGD Gaming’s Legacy and Early Foundation
Founded in 2009, LGD Gaming’s Dota 2 division quickly rose to prominence, especially after 2012. Their victory at the Gigabyte Dota 2 Masters in 2012 marked their debut on the global stage. The roster at the time—xiao8, Sylar, Yao, ddc, and DD—proved unstoppable, earning the squad recognition as one of the leading teams worldwide.
Their third-place finish at The International 2012 (TI2) solidified their standing as a dominant force. Despite an impressive group stage performance, they were eventually eliminated by Invictus Gaming (IG) in the lower bracket. This blend of success and setbacks fueled their competitive spirit, and they continued to make waves in the esports scene.
2012-2014 – A Time of Transition and Growth
Following their stellar performance at TI2, LGD Gaming built upon their success with several commendable wins. In 2012, they triumphed at tournaments such as the G-1 Champions League Season 4 and The Asia 2012. By 2013, despite roster changes, LGD secured consistent top placements: third at the G-League Season 2, second at the G-1 Championship League Season 5, and victories in the RedBull ECL 2013 Dota 2 Season and the National Electronic Sports Tournament 2013.
However, their journey was not without challenges. A disappointing performance at The International 2013 led to roster adjustments, including the departure of sylar and the arrival of xiaotuji. By 2014, the roster underwent additional changes, recruiting Faith, MMY, injuly, and inflame, with Yao later replacing inflame to steady the team. Despite their evolving lineup, their performance at major events saw mixed results, keeping fans on edge about the team’s potential in the global arena.
2015-2017 – A Rollercoaster Period of Flux
During 2015, LGD made strategic changes that bore fruit, including the return of veteran xiao8 and the addition of Maybe. This iteration of the team managed a respectable third-place finish at The International 2015. However, stability remained elusive, and the roster saw constant upheavals, including Yao’s exit and r0tK’s entry.
These frequent changes prevented the team from performing consistently, leading to further tweaks in 2016 with the inclusion of Agressif, September, and xiao8 once again. In 2017, the team recruited players such as Ame and chalice, laying the groundwork for a new Era of LGD’s dominance, foreshadowing what was to come.
2018-2019 – The PSG Partnership and Return to Glory
A significant milestone in LGD’s history came in April 2018, when they partnered with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), rebranding the team as PSG.LGD. This collaboration rejuvenated LGD, helping them achieve unparalleled success in 2018. PSG.LGD claimed victory at the EPICENTER XL and the MDL Changsha Major, proving that they were once again a formidable force in Dota 2.
PSG.LGD made it to the grand finals of The International 2018 (TI8), where they faced OG in a thrilling series. However, a narrow defeat relegated them to a bittersweet second-place finish. In 2019, they continued to impress, earning fourth-place finishes at various majors and a podium finish at TI9, falling once again to OG in the upper bracket of the grand finals.
2020-2022 – Pandemic Challenges and Strong Recovery
When the COVID-19 pandemic upended esports’ global ecosystem in 2020, the team shifted their focus to online tournaments in the Chinese region. They thrived, winning the China Dota2 Professional League Seasons 1 and 2 and the CDA-FDC Professional Championship.
By 2021, the star roster of Ame, Faith_bian, y`, NothingToSay, and XinQ propelled PSG.LGD to the grand finals of The International 2021. Despite their strength, they narrowly missed out on the title, losing to Team Spirit in one of the most memorable TI matches in history. The following year, they clinched victory at the Riyadh Masters and secured second place at the PGL Arlington Major.
2023 and Beyond – End of PSG Partnership
In September 2023, the partnership with PSG concluded, and the team began competing under the LGD Gaming name once again. However, the year marked a downturn in fortunes, as LGD failed to qualify for The International 2024, ending an 11-year streak of consecutive appearances. This was an uncharacteristic hiccup for the storied franchise, as fans hoped for their revival in future tournaments.
Current Roster
As of now, LGD Gaming’s roster features a mix of experienced players and rising stars. Their current lineup is as follows:
- shiro (Guo Xuanang) – Carry
- Echo (Xu Ziliang) – Midlane
- y` (Zhang Yiping) – Support
- niu (Li Kongbo) – Offlane
- Pyw (Xiong Jiahan) – Support
The team is coached by Zhang “xiao8” Ning, a former player and a key figure in LGD Gaming’s storied history.
How to Support LGD Gaming
- Follow their matches on official streaming platforms.
- Engage with their social media channels for updates.
- Support their merchandise and sponsors.
- Participate in their fan clubs and online communities.
FAQs About LGD Gaming and Dota 2
What is LGD Gaming?
LGD Gaming is a renowned esports organization based in China, known for its Dota 2 division.
When was LGD Gaming’s Dota 2 team founded?
The LGD Gaming Dota 2 division was founded in 2009 but gained prominence in 2012.
What is PSG.LGD?
PSG.LGD was the result of a partnership between LGD Gaming and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2018. The partnership ended in 2023.
Who are the current players on LGD Gaming?
The current roster includes shiro, Echo, y`, niu, and Pyw.
What are some of LGD Gaming’s greatest achievements?
LGD Gaming has multiple accolades, including second-place finishes at TI8 and TI10, and victories at EPICENTER XL and MDL Changsha Major.
Who is LGD Gaming’s coach?
The team is coached by Zhang “xiao8” Ning, a veteran player and former member of the squad.
When did LGD Gaming partner with PSG?
LGD Gaming partnered with PSG in April 2018.
Has LGD Gaming won The International?
Unfortunately, despite multiple appearances in the grand finals, LGD Gaming has not yet won The International.
Why did LGD Gaming end its partnership with PSG?
The partnership ended in September 2023 due to undisclosed reasons, after which the team reverted to the LGD Gaming banner.
What is the history behind LGD Gaming’s name?
The name “LGD” originates from “LiGeDo,” an internet café where the team was initially formed. It reflects their early roots in local gaming culture.
Conclusion
LGD Gaming remains one of the most respected names in Dota 2 history. Despite recent challenges, their legacy of outstanding performances and their role in shaping competitive Dota 2 are undeniable. Fans worldwide eagerly await their comeback in future tournaments, as LGD Gaming continues to strive for greatness in the esports world.
