Over the past three years, dominant teams like NAVI, FaZe, and then Vitality have each taken turns at the top of the rankings, consistently winning trophies. Yet, none have firmly established themselves as the world's best team.
Even FaZe, despite their deep tournament runs often halted in the grand finals, have failed to convince many that they are the ultimate champions, especially with Spirit winning two out of four major events this year.
With Spirit, FaZe, G2, MOUZ, and NAVI all claiming major victories, alongside surprises from teams like Eternal Fire and The MongolZ in smaller events, the Counter-Strike landscape is fiercely competitive and set to become even more so. Which teams will rise to join the elite ranks?
Vitality
Vitality dominated CS in 2023, winning five trophies including the BLAST.tv Paris Major, with ZywOo solidifying his status as one of the greatest of all time. Despite ongoing roster changes in 2023, they ended the year with a trophy, though they are yet to add to their cabinet in 2024.
The MongolZ
According to launders on BLAST.tv, The MongolZ are on track to break into the top five—and it's easy to see why.
This Mongolian squad has consistently been challenged as underdogs at international LAN events for nearly two years, and their experience is paying off. Victories at MESA Nomadic Masters 2024 and YaLLa Compass 2024 have cemented their status as a top-tier team, defeating strong opponents like NIP and Astralis.
NIP
Speaking of NIP, their new squad seems poised to restore the Swedish organisation's prominence.
R1nkle has impressed on the AWP, proving the decision to replace headtr1ck was well-calculated. Initial doubts about alex's leadership have been dispelled with a second-place and top-four finish, showcasing some of NIP's best CS in years.
Complexity
Complexity has frequently flirted with the top ranks, but their recent win at ESL Challenger Jonkoping could mark a turning point in their consistency.
Despite their limited playoff experience, adding EliGE has bolstered their lineup. The trophy win not only boosts their experience but also their confidence against tough competition.
Falcons
Falcons have faced challenges in 2024, but their success seems inevitable given their financial backing and talented roster.
SunPayus and Snappi are key players in their resurgence, with the potential to reclaim their former glory on the international stage.
Liquid
Finally, Team Liquid, despite recent roster changes, still boasts considerable talent.
NAF, Twistzz, and YEKINDAR remain formidable players, and with strategic roster decisions and time, they are poised to regain their elite status.
All it takes is smart planning and patience for Liquid to achieve the success expected of them.