The landscape of South American Dota 2 is on the brink of a significant transformation in 2024, driven by a series of developments that have left Evil Geniuses (EG) and its entire Dota 2 roster in a state of uncertainty.
Following a disappointing performance at The International 2023 and amidst an atmosphere of organizational instability due to layoffs, EG’s SA social media manager confirmed that the entire Dota 2 roster has entered free agency as of November 1.
This means that all five players EG signed when the organization expanded its Dota operations to South America in November of the previous year – Pakazs, Chris Luck, Wisper, Matthew, and Panda – are now actively seeking new opportunities. However, it remains uncertain whether they intend to continue as a team or pursue individual paths.
This significant announcement coincides with a wave of layoffs at EG, affecting key figures such as global creative director Antonia Bonello and vice president of operations John Jung. These developments follow closely on the heels of EG’s separation from various individual players, including SonicFox, and the controversy surrounding a former creator’s Rocket League event.
Former manager Guashineen shed light on the Dota split, expressing uncertainty about EG’s Dota 2 future. She remarked that it is “very unlikely” for the organization to acquire a new roster, especially in the wake of the layoffs. As for the players she formerly managed, she confirmed that they are all “parting ways with the organization in pursuit of a new future.”
The recent release of beastcoast’s Dota lineup on October 29 means that both of the top-performing South American rosters from the 2023 Dota Pro Circuit are now free agents.
Notably, beastcoast has committed to remaining active in the South American Dota scene following the departure of its players, while EG has yet to provide an official statement regarding its apparent exit from Dota – a scene they have been active in since 2011, winning The International 5 (TI5). Dot Esports has reached out to EG for additional comments on the situation.
These developments cast a shadow of uncertainty over EG’s future in Dota, echoing the sentiments of the organization’s former NA captain, Fly. He noted that EG had undergone significant changes with new ownership over the years, with the Dota team seemingly standing as the last remnant of the old EG.
Furthermore, EG faces a looming trial regarding claims that the organization “took advantage of a young, naïve and vulnerable” Syed “SumaiL” Hassan during and after the Dota star’s tenure. The court date is set for November 6 and could involve appearances from numerous current and former EG employees, executives, and Dota players.
In light of these developments, it remains unclear whether Evil Geniuses G will continue its operations in the Dota 2 scene, and the upcoming South American post-TI roster shuffle promises to be a tumultuous affair, with a wealth of superstar talent now entering free agency. The future of EG in Dota 2 hangs in the balance, awaiting further clarification in the coming months.
