The Most Memorable League of Legends Esports Moments
Introduction:
League of Legends (LoL) has captivated millions of players worldwide since its release in 2009. As one of the most popular esports in the world, the game has produced countless unforgettable moments that have left fans at the edge of their seats. From epic comebacks to jaw-dropping plays, let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the most memorable moments in LoL esports history.
xPeke's Backdoor (IEM Katowice 2013)
Arguably one of the most famous moments in LoL history, xPeke's backdoor play during the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Katowice 2013 left everyone in awe. As the mid-laner for Fnatic, xPeke managed to sneak into the enemy base and single-handedly destroy the Nexus while dodging his opponents' abilities. This clutch play secured Fnatic's victory against SK Gaming and marked the beginning of xPeke's legendary status in the LoL esports scene.
Faker's Outplay (OGN Champions Summer 2013)
Faker, often considered the greatest LoL player of all time, showcased his skills during the OGN Champions Summer 2013. Facing off against KT Rolster Bullets' mid-laner Ryu, Faker demonstrated his prowess by outplaying his opponent using Zed. In a nail-biting duel, Faker dodged Ryu's abilities and eliminated him in a matter of seconds, earning the title "The Unkillable Demon King."
The Great Escape (Worlds 2014)
During the 2014 League of Legends World Championship, Royal Club's support player Zero demonstrated the importance of quick thinking and precise timing. While playing as Thresh, Zero was caught out of position by Samsung White but managed to dodge all incoming abilities and escape unharmed. This thrilling moment showcased the high level of skill and coordination required to compete at the highest level of LoL esports.
OMG vs. Fnatic - The Longest Game in Worlds History (Worlds 2014)
At the 2014 League of Legends World Championship, OMG and Fnatic competed in an epic showdown that went down as the longest game in Worlds history. Lasting over 71 minutes, this intense battle saw both teams trading blows, with the gold lead swinging back and forth. Ultimately, OMG emerged victorious, showcasing the tenacity and endurance required to compete at the highest level of esports.
ROX Tigers' Miss Fortune Support (Worlds 2016)
During the 2016 League of Legends World Championship, ROX Tigers surprised everyone by picking Miss Fortune as a support champion in their semifinal match against SK Telecom T1. This unconventional pick took the esports world by storm and proved to be a game-changer, giving ROX Tigers the edge they needed to take down the reigning champions in the first game of the series. Although SKT eventually won the series, the Miss Fortune support pick remains one of the most innovative and memorable strategies in LoL esports history.
SKT's Epic Comeback (MSI 2017)
In the 2017 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), SK Telecom T1 faced off against G2 Esports in a thrilling group stage match. G2 had the upper hand throughout the majority of the game, with a seemingly insurmountable lead. However, SKT managed to turn the tide in a decisive team fight, wiping out all five members of G2 Esports and securing the Baron Nashor. This comeback allowed SKT to take control of the game and eventually secure the victory, proving that no lead is ever truly safe in League of Legends.
SSG's Cinderella Run (Worlds 2017)
Samsung Galaxy's run at the 2017 League of Legends World Championship is remembered as one of the most inspiring underdog stories in esports history. After barely making it to the knockout stage, SSG found themselves facing the three-time world champions, SK Telecom T1, in the grand finals. In an incredible display of teamwork and determination, SSG defeated the favorites 3-0, dethroning the reigning champions and etching their names in the annals of LoL esports history.
The Base Race (NALCS Summer 2018)
In a heart-stopping moment from the North American League of Legends Championship Series (NALCS) Summer 2018, 100 Thieves and OpTic Gaming clashed in a dramatic base race. Both teams were locked in a dead heat, making a mad dash to destroy each other's Nexus. In the end, 100 Thieves barely edged out OpTic Gaming, securing the win by a matter of seconds. This nail-biting finish is remembered as one of the closest and most exciting finishes in LoL esports history.
G2 Esports' Reverse Sweep (LEC Spring 2019)
G2 Esports' reverse sweep against Fnatic in the LEC Spring 2019 playoffs is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. After losing the first two games of the best-of-five series, G2 managed to turn the tide, winning three consecutive games to secure their spot in the finals. This incredible comeback showcased the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level of esports and solidified G2 Esports as one of the strongest teams in the European scene.
FPX's Domination (Worlds 2019)
FunPlus Phoenix's (FPX) dominating performance at the 2019 League of Legends World Championship is a prime example of a team firing on all cylinders. With a unique and aggressive playstyle, FPX took the tournament by storm, defeating favorites like Fnatic and G2 Esports on their way to the grand finals. In the finals, FPX dismantled European powerhouse G2 Esports in a decisive 3-0 victory, securing their place as world champions and setting the bar for future competitors.
Conclusion:
These unforgettable moments have shaped the history of League of Legends esports and continue to inspire players and fans alike. From jaw-dropping plays to epic comebacks, the passion and skill displayed by these competitors prove that anything is possible on the Rift. As the game continues to evolve, we can expect many more memorable moments to emerge, showcasing the limitless potential of esports and the human spirit.
Read about the changes of the meta over the years in League of Legends: https://handleveled.net/blog/the-evolution-of-the-meta-a-journey-through-the-years