This is the latest in a series of articles profiling the 18 teams attending The International 8, which kicks off on Aug. 15.
From ancient times
Those who have been following the rapid growth of the esports industry know all about OpTic Gaming, one of the most storied pro gaming organizations in history. From the days of Call of Duty, the Green Wall has always been a massive favorite over in America, and OpTic fans are famous (or notorious, depending on who you ask) for supporting each and every OpTic roster no matter what title they play.
When their Dota 2 lineup was formed in 2017—11 years after OpTic was founded—fans and esports spectators in general wondered if they would get the very same treatment. After all, the organization is known more for its first-person shooter teams than anything else—a fact that even they allude to on their Dota 2 team page. For the first time, the Green Wall stepped out of the comfort zone that it had been a huge part of for more than a decade; a great risk indeed considering how Europe and China usually dominate the Dota 2 scene.
By most accounts, however, the risk has paid off. OpTic are now one of the biggest threats from the North American region, having recently unlocked their potential and latent power after nearly a year of floating between competitive tiers. As an organization, this will be OpTic’s first foray into the most lucrative event in the industry—and so far, we’re liking their chances in spite of their clear status as underdogs.
The true evil genius
One look at OpTic Gaming’s lineup will tell you exactly what sets them apart from the rest: The presence of TI5 champion and consummate mad scientist Peter “ppd” Dager. Once the fearless leader and CEO of Evil Geniuses, ppd is without a shadow of a doubt one of the greatest minds to ever play Dota 2. His drafting prowess is frequently compared to that of TI1 winner Clement “Puppey” Ivanov—though many would argue that ppd surpassed the captain of Team Secret in this aspect long ago.
The ingenuity of their captain is the reason that one can never truly count OpTic out, even knowing that they don’t rank among the absolute best teams in the world. They say that a game of Dota 2 can be won or lost at the draft screen, and no one knows this more than ppd himself.
A recent example of his brilliance was seen at the China Supermajor last month, where ppd outdrafted TNC Predator with a Huskar pick that decided the second game before the creeps even spawned. The draft was a Peter Dager classic, and we can expect more of the same at TI8.
Of course, ppd isn’t the only player on the team—and an evil genius needs his henchmen, too. Ludwig “zai” Wahlberg is a fantastic partner to ppd in the utility support slot, and hopefully we’ll get to see his signature heroes Enigma and Tusk make appearances in Vancouver. Quinn “CC&C” Callahan has really come into his own this year, as well. Per Olsson “Pajkatt” Lille is a veteran with plenty of big stage experience, and Neta “33” Shapira is the explosive offlaner they’ve always wanted.
Locked and loaded
On paper, there are many other teams in the field at TI8 that both analysts and spectators would favor over OpTic Gaming. These teams have a lot more going for them in terms of results over the course of the Pro Circuit season, while a few like Team Liquid are just at the top of the Dota 2 food chain.
But make no mistake: Teams shouldn’t allow OpTic to fly under the radar at TI8. They have the talent and leadership to make an unexpected run through the tournament, as seen at the Supermajor where they finished just below the top four. Of course, the stakes will be much higher in Canada—but all in all, we think their rivals might be in for a few surprises.
Player to watch
33 is a monster in the offlane, especially on heroes that set up teamfights. Playing against his Sand King is a harrowing experience for anyone, and the same goes for his Clockwerk. OpTic fans should pay close attention to him right before large-scale engagements take place.
Biggest challenge
The sky’s the limit with OpTic when it comes to potential, but they’ll have to stay laser-focused and keep their wits about them if they’re to succeed like they did at the Supermajor. They need to ensure that they don’t outplay themselves, and keep it tight through each round.
Team grade
We give OpTic Gaming a B- for showing us that they’re capable of greater things than what their portfolio this season (sans their victory at StarLadder Season 5) would imply. Even the top teams should take notice and prepare accordingly, or risk getting blindsided.
