LoL Worlds Group B: Too close to call?

As the groups were determined for the second stage of the tournament, surprisingly enough, the Group Stage, many had their eye on group B while thinking of the endless possibilities to come from it. With the largest League of Legends event beginning shortly, we’ll soon find out who’ll be moving on and who simply won’t. Read on as we breakdown this pool of teams.

At the moment, it’s not so much of a pool, if you could call three teams such. Namely, these are Longzhu Gaming from the LCK region, Immortals from North America and Gigabyte Marines from the GPL alongside a team which is yet to be determined. This last team is a possible spot for all 16 teams battling it out in the Play-in tournament that will act as the preliminary action before the main event.

Longzhu Gaming hasn’t been the most prominent name in the LoL competitive scene, often being known for their disappointing performances which busted expectations considerably. Just last Spring Split, the team was still recycling their habit of simply prioritising individual performance over joint chemistry and effort. That’s when it was shockingly revealed that coaches and players weren’t getting paid, giving more reason to their lacklustre appearances. Luckily, they got taken over by KeSPA and everyone knows what happened then. Longzhu Gaming found a new drive, passion, something which made them play a totally different game and of course, inevitably leading to a victory at the LCK Summer Split and slaying the giants of SK Telecom T1. Such a triumph has made them favourites for the upcoming tournament, probably alongside their wounded foes of SKT. Thus, they are also the predicted team to take first seed when all the dust settles in the group stage period.  The roster of “Khan”, “Cuzz”, “BDD”, “Pray” and “Gorilla” along with their respective roles will be doing their utmost to verify this. 

However, although first seed may seem a little certain, second place is the last thing from a sure bet.  What else do you expect when Immortals and Gigabyte Marines are primed for eachother’s necks? Immortals from North America have been consistently improving over the year, making a name for themselves in their region, being the NA LCS of course.  As the season went by, only TSM could stop them in their tracks making them quite mortal, if we fancy being a little cheesy.  Probably their most prolific player, “Flame”, an LCK legend who dominates the top lane, could unite them to face a challenge which they haven’t yet met as a team. Performing in Worlds this year is essential for the roster, if they fancy sticking together and progressing as we move forward. Hopefully, they won’t replicate their underwhelming performance at the NA LCS Spring Split, where they didn’t even make the playoffs.  Immortal’s journey through the competition hangs in the balance as they have to beat out Gigabyte Marines to do so. I’ve got a feeling that it’s slightly easier said than done.

Reinforcing my thought, is a brief bio of the Marines from the GPL. Fearless is a suitable word which captures the mentality on this roster. So much so that the opposing team’s name means little to them, as they will quickly disrespect anybody. TSM felt this when they received one hell of a test from them in the MSI play-in to everyone’s surprise. GM gave a sizeable spanking in the same event in the group stage too. Many enthusiasts who’ve followed the League of Legends scene can taste a familiar story; that of Albus NoX Luna. This was another GPL squad who had a reputable arrogance across all opposition.  Gigabyte Marines find themselves in the group after establishing themselves as the top dogs from their region, kicking Ascension Gaming off their throne. They are one to watch this event, not just because of their wide potential but due to their aggressive playstyle which makes for an intriguing show.  “Archie”, “Levi”, “Optimus”, “Noway” and “SYA” all have a big part in the success of this team.

To top of the briefing, we should have a little think on who could stir up the most trouble in the empty slot. Maybe a stranger from a different region with little history against these teams could create an upset. I think that if a team like Cloud9 falls into this group, it could make things that much more interesting. Of course, all we can do for now is wait and see, possibly even betting if one wishes to go big. May the odds be in your favour.