Chen “Zhou” Yao is a legendary figure in the world of Dota 2, renowned for his exceptional skills, strategic mind, and an illustrious career that spanned both Defense of the Ancients (DotA) and its sequel, Dota 2. A Chinese esports icon, Zhou gained prominence as one of the most consistent and talented carry players of his Era, eventually leading Invictus Gaming to victory at The International 2012, one of the most prestigious championships in esports history. With a career filled with numerous accolades, Zhou left an indelible mark on the competitive Dota scene, earning the admiration of fans and peers alike. In this article, we will explore his journey from his early years in DotA to his transition into Dota 2 and his legacy in the esports industry.
Early Career and Achievements in DotA
Zhou’s journey into the world of professional gaming began in the late 2000s when he joined Team CD. Quickly earning a reputation for his mechanical skill and game sense, he became one of China’s most feared carry players. His early career was marked by impressive performances in several high-profile tournaments, laying the foundation for his legacy.
Team CD and Rise to Prominence
During his time with Team CD, Zhou showcased exceptional prowess and led his team to several strong finishes. One of his first major successes was securing second place at the SMM Grand National Final DotA Tournament in 2009. The event, considered one of the most competitive DotA tournaments in the world, was a testament to Zhou’s immense potential.
Joining Nirvana and International Success
In 2010, Loveen’s Nirvana acquired Team CD, rebranding the team as Nirvana. This transition proved to be beneficial for Zhou and his teammates as they went on to achieve significant success:
- Champions of the G-League Season 1
- Winners of the World DotA Championship 2010
- Victors of The DotA Razer Global Challenge 2010
- Third place at SMM 2010 and WGT 2011
This period was pivotal in Zhou’s career, solidifying his status as one of the strongest carry players in the DotA competitive scene.
Transition to Dota 2 and Invictus Gaming
When Dota 2 was introduced in 2011,many top DotA players transitioned to the new game, including Zhou. That same year, he joined team CCM, which was later acquired by Wang Sicong and rebranded as Invictus Gaming (iG), one of China’s most prestigious organizations.
Dominance in DotA and Early Dota 2 Tournaments
Before fully transitioning to Dota 2, Zhou led Invictus Gaming to victory at the SMM Grand National DotA Championship in 2011. Shortly after, the team switched its focus to Dota 2, adapting quickly to the new game.
At The International 2011 (TI1), iG finished in 5th place. Despite this result, Zhou and his squad learned valuable lessons that would set them up for future success.
The International 2012 – A Career-Defining Victory
One of the most defining moments of Zhou’s career was his performance at The International 2012 (TI2). With an exceptional roster including Ferrari_430, YYF, and Faith, iG showcased brilliant strategy and resilience throughout the tournament.
In the grand finals, iG faced Natus Vincere (Na’Vi) in an intense best-of-five series. Zhou’s leadership and precision guided iG to a dominating 3-1 victory, securing the Aegis of Champions and writing their names in Dota 2 history.
Along with winning TI2, Zhou led iG to another world championship title at the World Cyber Games 2012, further cementing his legacy as one of the best carry players of his time.
Later Career and Retirement
Following the immense success of TI2, Zhou continued to compete at the highest level. However, he began to struggle with motivation and consistency. Despite this, he led iG to a respectable 5th place finish at The International 2013.
Move to TongFu and Retirement
In September 2013, Zhou was traded to TongFu. However, this transition did not bring the same level of success he had previously experienced with iG. Eventually, on February 10, 2014, Zhou announced his official retirement from professional gaming.
In his farewell message, Zhou cited a need for a change in pace and acknowledged that his time as a professional player had run its course.
Post-Retirement Plans and Reflections
Even after retiring, Zhou remained engaged in the esports industry. He explored roles as a commentator, leveraging his deep understanding of the game to provide insightful analysis. Additionally, he expressed interest in possibly taking on coaching roles or applying his university degree to new opportunities.
While reflecting on his career, Zhou stated that winning TI2 was his proudest moment. Though he expressed some regret about not prolonging iG’s dominance, he remained grateful for the support of his teammates and fans.
Legacy and Impact on the Dota 2 Scene
Zhou is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers of Chinese Dota 2, earning the nickname “Zhou-God” from his fans in China. His ability to stay calm under pressure, make game-winning decisions, and lead his team to victory made him an iconic figure in the professional scene.
Career Achievements
- The International 2012 Champion
- World Cyber Games 2012 Champion
- 27 Championships in DotA and Dota 2
- Top 5 Finishes at TI1 and TI3
- His ID featured in DotA loading screens seven times
His achievements continue to inspire new generations of competitive Dota 2 players, and his contributions to the game will never be forgotten.
How to Play Carry Like Zhou – A Guide for Aspiring Players
If you aim to play carry like Zhou, it’s crucial to understand the core principles that made him one of the best in the role.
1. Farming Efficiency
Zhou mastered the art of efficient farming. Always prioritize last hitting and utilize good creep equilibrium to maximize gold gain.
2. Map Awareness
A great carry knows when to farm and when to rotate for fights. Keep an eye on enemy movements and avoid unnecessary risks.
3. Team Communication
As a carry, you set the pace for your team’s late-game potential. Coordinate effectively with your support players to create space.
4. Itemization
Choose items that fit the game’s situation. Understanding when to build defensive items over offensive ones is key to survival and success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Zhou and Dota 2
Who is Zhou in Dota 2?
Zhou, whose real name is Chen Yao, is a retired Chinese Dota 2 professional known for his exceptional carry play and leadership.
Which teams did Zhou play for?
Zhou played for Team CD, Nirvana, Invictus Gaming, and TongFu during his career.
Did Zhou win The International?
Yes, Zhou won The International 2012 with Invictus Gaming.
When did Zhou retire?
Zhou retired from professional Dota 2 on February 10, 2014.
What is Zhou doing after retirement?
He explored opportunities as a commentator and considered staying in the gaming industry.
What made Zhou a great carry player?
Zhou was known for his superior decision-making, farming efficiency, and leadership in-game.
How many titles did Zhou win?
He won 27 championships throughout his career.
What was Zhou’s most famous tournament win?
His most famous victory was at The International 2012.
Why was he called “Zhou-God”?
Chinese fans gave him the nickname due to his incredible performances and leadership.
How did Zhou impact Chinese Dota?
He played a crucial role in shaping the early competitive scene in China, inspiring future generations of players.
