Xtreme Gaming Unveils New Dota 2 Roster
In a significant reshuffle within the esports landscape, Chinese organization Xtreme Gaming has announced an updated lineup for their Dota 2 team. The revamped roster is poised to make waves in the competitive scene with the addition of seasoned players and the return of familiar faces.
Among the new recruits is Guo "Xm" Hongchen, who, along with Zhao "XinQ" Zixing, has made a comeback to Xtreme Gaming after a stint with Azure Ray. Lin "Xxs" Jing is also set to make his debut under the Xtreme Gaming banner, bringing fresh talent to the squad.
The announcement has been further bolstered by the news that Wang "Ame" Chunyu will be joining the team. Ame, often hailed as the "uncrowned king" of Dota 2 for his remarkable skill but lack of a TI win, was transferred from powerhouse LGD Gaming to Xtreme Gaming, sparking excitement among fans. Ame is slated to take on the role of carry player, a position where he has excelled throughout his career.
Adding to the list of high-profile signings, Ding "Dy" Cong is rejoining the competitive Dota 2 scene with Xtreme Gaming. Dy's previous tenure with Vici Gaming saw him achieve considerable success, and his experience is expected to be invaluable for the team. Additionally, Wang "Liekkas" Yutian has been appointed as the head coach, bringing strategic depth to the team's gameplay.
Xtreme Gaming has its sights set on competing in the BetBoom Dacha 2024 Dubai qualifiers, where they will look to secure a spot in one of the year's most anticipated tournaments.
Azure Ray Undergoes Strategic Roster Revamp
Azure Ray, sharing ownership with Xtreme Gaming under Yang Yiqing, has not been left behind in the shuffle. Following a commendable 4th place finish at The International 2023 and a triumphant victory at ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023, the team has made strategic additions to its roster.
Zeng "Ori" Jiaoyang and Zhang "Faith_bian" Ruida are the latest additions to Azure Ray. Both players bring a wealth of experience to the table, having had illustrious careers before their brief retirements. Faith_bian, known for his time with teams such as Wings Gaming and PSG.LGD, has come out of retirement to join Azure Ray. Ori, who started his professional Dota 2 journey in 2016 and became a staple of Vici Gaming in 2017, has similarly reversed his retirement decision, stirred by what he describes as the "enthusiasm and sincerity of the Azure Ray team."
The roster is rounded out by Lou "Lou" Zhen and Jiang An, two players who will be looking to make their mark alongside their more established teammates. The coaching mantle has been taken up by Zhang "LaNm" Zhicheng, whose guidance is expected to steer the team towards continued success.
Faith_bian's return to professional play is particularly noteworthy, given his storied history in the game. His decision to come back, influenced by a "contractual arrangement respecting his personal wishes," suggests a renewed commitment to the sport and a desire to add to his already impressive legacy.
Ori's return also marks a significant moment for both him and Azure Ray. Having retired after The International 2022, his return signals a rekindled passion for the game and a drive to compete at the highest levels once again.
As these two storied teams recalibrate and refine their rosters, the Dota 2 community eagerly anticipates the impact these changes will have on the competitive circuit. With experienced players returning to the fold and promising talents stepping into the limelight, the stage is set for a thrilling chapter in the esport's history.
Both Xtreme Gaming and Azure Ray are gearing up for a year filled with high expectations and the promise of electrifying matches. As they embark on their respective journeys with rejuvenated lineups, fans around the world will be watching closely, ready to witness the unfolding of a new era in Dota 2 esports.