Introduction
Esports has grown from being a small niche of competitive gaming into a global phenomenon with millions of fans, multi-million-dollar tournaments, and teams that function like traditional sports organizations. Over the years, certain teams have not only dominated their respective games but also shaped the history of esports itself. These legendary teams left behind a legacy of unforgettable plays, iconic championships, and fan followings that rival those of traditional sports teams.
This blog takes a deep dive into the best esports teams in history, covering their rise, achievements, style of play, and impact on gaming culture. From the early days of competitive gaming to modern multi-game organizations, these teams represent excellence and innovation in esports.
What Defines a Legendary Esports Team
Before exploring the greatest teams, it’s important to understand what makes a team legendary in esports. Success in gaming is measured not just by trophies, but by consistency, cultural influence, and their ability to inspire fans and future players.
Dominance in Competition
A great esports team is measured by its ability to win consistently. Teams that dominate leagues or tournaments across multiple seasons establish themselves as dynasties.
Longevity
Some teams shine for only a year or two, while others maintain high-level performance for nearly a decade. Longevity is often a key indicator of greatness.
Innovation
Legendary teams are often innovators, introducing new strategies, playstyles, and approaches to the game that change the competitive landscape.
Global Fanbase and Influence
An elite esports team also leaves a cultural mark. They attract global fans, become symbols of their games, and inspire countless gamers to compete at higher levels.
Versatility Across Titles
Some esports organizations dominate in more than one game. Teams that perform at the top level across different titles cement their place in esports history.
Team Liquid
Origins and Growth
Founded in the Netherlands in 2000, Team Liquid started as a small StarCraft: Brood War community and gradually expanded into one of the biggest multi-game organizations in the world.
Achievements
Team Liquid is famous for success in multiple games. In Dota 2, they won The International 2017, one of the most prestigious and high-paying tournaments in esports history. Their League of Legends squad has dominated the North American scene, winning multiple domestic championships. They have also performed strongly in StarCraft II, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), and even in newer games like Valorant.
Legacy
What makes Team Liquid legendary is not just their victories but their reputation as one of the most professional and respected organizations. They run state-of-the-art training facilities, foster a strong fan community, and continue to field competitive rosters across numerous games.
Fnatic
Origins
Founded in 2004 in London, Fnatic quickly became one of the most recognizable brands in esports. They were one of the first teams to gain mainstream sponsorships and recognition.
Achievements
Fnatic is best known for its dominance in League of Legends during the early years. They won the very first League of Legends World Championship in 2011, establishing themselves as pioneers in the game. Their CS:GO roster has also been historically dominant, winning multiple Major titles and showcasing legendary players like Olofmeister and JW.
Legacy
Fnatic is one of the most respected esports organizations worldwide, with fans across continents. They have maintained relevance for nearly two decades, proving their ability to adapt and thrive across different games and competitive eras.
Natus Vincere (Na’Vi)
Origins
Founded in 2009 in Ukraine, Natus Vincere, often abbreviated Na’Vi, became a household name in esports thanks to its early dominance.
Achievements
Na’Vi made history in Counter-Strike 1.6 by winning three major tournaments in a single year (2010), a feat unmatched at the time. Their CS:GO roster also achieved great success, winning the PGL Major Stockholm 2021. In Dota 2, Na’Vi was the first-ever champion of The International in 2011, led by superstar player Dendi.
Legacy
Na’Vi’s legacy comes not just from winning but from producing some of esports’ most beloved players. The team helped popularize esports in Eastern Europe and is remembered for its loyal fanbase and legendary moments that defined early Dota 2 and Counter-Strike history.
SK Telecom T1 (T1)
Origins
SK Telecom T1, now known as simply T1, is a South Korean organization that became synonymous with success in League of Legends.
Achievements
T1 is the most successful team in League of Legends history. With three World Championship titles (2013, 2015, 2016), they became the first dynasty in the game. Their dominance was led by the legendary player Faker, often considered the greatest League of Legends player of all time.
Legacy
T1 set the gold standard for professionalism, discipline, and competitive excellence. Their matches defined eras of League of Legends and inspired millions of fans. Even when they are not at their peak, they remain one of the most feared and respected teams in the world.
Evil Geniuses
Origins
Founded in 1999, Evil Geniuses is one of the oldest esports organizations in North America.
Achievements
Their Dota 2 roster famously won The International 2015, delivering North America its first TI victory. In addition, Evil Geniuses have fielded successful teams in StarCraft II, CS:GO, and League of Legends.
Legacy
Evil Geniuses is legendary for its legacy of star players and its long-standing reputation as a professional powerhouse. They have been innovators in talent development and continue to push boundaries in the esports scene.
Cloud9
Origins
Founded in 2013, Cloud9 quickly rose to prominence in the North American esports scene.
Achievements
Cloud9’s most iconic achievement was winning the ELEAGUE Boston Major in CS:GO in 2018, marking the first time a North American team won a CS:GO Major. Their League of Legends team is also one of the most consistent in North America, frequently qualifying for the World Championship.
Legacy
Cloud9 is known for its passionate fanbase, entertaining roster personalities, and breakthrough moments that defined NA esports. Their Major victory is still celebrated as one of the greatest underdog runs in history.
OG
Origins
Founded in 2015, OG quickly established itself as a powerhouse in Dota 2.
Achievements
OG is most famous for winning The International twice in a row (2018 and 2019), an unprecedented achievement. Their victory in 2018 was especially iconic, as they came into the tournament as underdogs and went on to lift the trophy in one of the greatest Cinderella stories in esports.
Legacy
OG’s back-to-back International wins are legendary, showcasing teamwork, resilience, and innovative strategies. They are forever etched in Dota 2 history as one of the greatest teams ever.
Astralis
Origins
Formed in Denmark in 2016, Astralis quickly rose to become one of the most dominant teams in CS:GO history.
Achievements
Astralis is remembered for its dominance between 2018 and 2019, during which they won multiple Major Championships. Their structured approach, teamwork, and utility usage changed how CS:GO was played, setting new standards for strategy in the game.
Legacy
Astralis not only won but also redefined the game. Their dominance and innovation created a blueprint for future teams to follow. For many fans, Astralis represents the peak of competitive CS:GO.
Ninjas in Pyjamas (NiP)
Origins
Founded in 2000 in Sweden, Ninjas in Pyjamas, or NiP, is one of the oldest and most iconic esports organizations.
Achievements
NiP is best remembered for their legendary unbeaten streak in CS:GO during 2012–2013, where they won 87 maps in a row. They have also fielded competitive teams in Dota 2, Rainbow Six Siege, and other games.
Legacy
NiP’s dominance in early CS:GO established them as legends. Their unmatched streak remains one of the greatest records in esports history, and they are still a respected name in the industry.
Other Legendary Teams Worth Mentioning
While the above teams stand out the most, several others also deserve recognition for their contributions and dominance:
- FaZe Clan – Known for their star-studded rosters in CS:GO, Call of Duty, and Valorant.
- G2 Esports – A powerhouse in League of Legends and CS:GO with entertaining flair.
- 100 Thieves – Stylish branding combined with competitive teams across Valorant, Call of Duty, and LoL.
- Gen.G Esports – Strong multi-game performances across Asia and North America.
The Evolution of Esports Teams
Esports teams have evolved from small groups of passionate players into massive organizations with professional management, sponsors, training facilities, and global branding. Today’s top teams resemble traditional sports clubs, with marketing departments, analysts, coaches, and international rosters.
The growth of prize pools, streaming platforms, and mainstream recognition has transformed these teams into global icons. Some organizations even collaborate with traditional sports teams, merging the two worlds of competition and entertainment.
Conclusion
The history of esports has been written by the teams that dared to dominate, innovate, and inspire. From Na’Vi’s early victories to OG’s back-to-back International wins, from SK Telecom T1’s League of Legends dynasty to Astralis’ strategic revolution in CS:GO, these organizations are not just champions of their games—they are symbols of what esports can achieve.
As esports continues to expand, more legendary teams will rise, adding to this rich history. But the teams mentioned here will always be remembered as pioneers, dynasties, and icons of competitive gaming.
The best esports teams in history remind us that gaming is not just about fun—it is about competition, teamwork, strategy, and unforgettable moments that bring people together worldwide.