In the VCS for many years now, GAM Esports has always been one of the strongest teams. They are also the most successful name in Vietnam’s top League of Legends tournament. Not to mention, as of now in the Spring 2024 VCS, GAM has maintained a perfect record. Even highly rated teams like Team Whales or those with many explosive players like Vikings Esports have yet to secure a victory against GAM. Notably, most of the reigning champion’s matches end with a dominating score of 2-0.
Despite changing their roster, GAM continues to achieve good results. According to many opinions, the Spring 2024 VCS will still be GAM’s playground. However, while winning the VCS title is prestigious, GAM fans and the audience of VCS expect much more than that. Over the past several seasons, GAM has consistently shown absolute dominance in the VCS. Yet, when stepping onto the international stage, perhaps only the recent 2023 World Championship somewhat satisfied fans. Previously, the 2022 World Championship and MSI 2023 were truly embarrassing, with only the victory against Top Esports being a glimmer of hope.
In reality, the current GAM star lineup only includes Kiaya and Levi, who have the most international competition experience. This is almost similar to their situation during the 2022 World Championship. Therefore, the audience’s concerns are justified. That year, Sty1e, Kati, and Bie performed excellently in the VCS. However, there was a significant “stage fright” when GAM began their first matches in the group stage. This was followed by a disappointing MSI 2023, where GAM’s stars lost even to the wildcard team Movistar R7.
But more than their poor results is the heavy pressure that the players wearing the yellow and black jersey have to bear. Everyone still remembers the shaky image of Kati, who became the most criticized name. And those criticisms will linger until the GAM players begin their next international tournament. Thus, joining GAM is a great opportunity but also full of challenges. The psychological burden could also affect the players’ performances during competitions.
GAM may be undefeated, but more importantly, the coaching staff needs to prepare the players as best as possible to maintain their form, especially after a long Tet holiday. Following this, mental preparation is crucial, especially for the young players if GAM can participate in the upcoming MSI.
On the international stage, after many explosive performances, VCS representatives are no longer an unknown. Foreign teams have paid much more attention and have thoroughly researched their opponents from the Vietnamese League of Legends scene. Moreover, wildcard regions like CBLOL are receiving significant investment, and surprises from them are entirely possible.