Esports has grown exponentially over the past decade, with millions of fans tuning in to watch their favorite players and teams compete in games like League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and more. Throughout this time, there have been numerous plays that have left viewers astounded and competitors humbled. These iconic moments have not only shaped the history of esports but also set precedents for future generations.
Perhaps one of the most unforgettable plays came from Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok during the League of Legends World Championships in 2013. Playing as Zed against Jeong “Ryu” Sang-wook’s Zed, Faker managed an awe-inspiring outplay that stunned spectators worldwide. With precise timing and swift execution, Faker dodged Ryu’s abilities while landing his own – a feat that cemented his status as one of the best players in League history.
In Dota 2’s International 2013 grand finals between Alliance and Na’Vi, Henrik “AdmiralBulldog” Ahnberg made an incredible play that ultimately won Alliance the championship title. In what is now known as ‘The Million Dollar Dream Coil,’ AdmiralBulldog used Puck’s ultimate ability to stun three members of Na’Vi at a critical moment in their base defense. This allowed his team to secure victory in what was arguably one of the most intense matches ever witnessed in esports history.
Meanwhile, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has its fair share of memorable moments too. One such moment arrived during ESL One Cologne 2014 when Olof “olofmeister” Kajbjer Gustafsson defused a bomb while being engulfed by flames from an incendiary grenade thrown by Team LDLC.com. Despite having only six health points remaining after extinguishing it under fire (literally), olofmeister successfully defused it—earning him the nickname “boostmeister” and a place in CS:GO history.
Overwatch, though relatively new to the esports scene, has also seen some iconic plays. During the Overwatch League’s inaugural season in 2018, Philadelphia Fusion’s Jae-Hyeok “Carpe” Lee pulled off an impressive Widowmaker play on Volskaya Industries that left spectators in awe. With his team down two players, Carpe managed to eliminate four members of Boston Uprising single-handedly, turning the tide of the match and securing victory for his team.
These moments have become legendary within their respective communities and continue to inspire players around the world. They showcase not only individual skill but also teamwork, strategy, and determination—qualities that are integral to esports success. As esports continues its meteoric rise in popularity and prominence worldwide, there is no doubt we will witness more such iconic plays that will leave us breathless with excitement.
