The mid lane has always been one of the most crucial positions for a team in high-stakes matches. At any given moment, teams that can claim the most prestigious awards typically possess incredibly talented midlaners. Notable names include Faker (SKT T1/T1), Doinb (FunPlus Phoenix), Rookie (Invictus Gaming), ShowMaker (Damwon Gaming/DWG KIA)…
The 2021 World Championship, set to take place in Iceland, will gather many of the world’s top midlaners. In addition to those who have previously reached the championship, there are also players like Chovy (Hanwha Life Esports), Humanoid (MAD Lions), Scout (EDward Gaming)… Recently, international media provided analyses, evaluations, and rankings of the midlaners for this year’s Worlds.
Rank 1: Doinb (FPX)
In the top position, Doinb is rated the highest based on his performance from the start of 2021 until now, even though FPX has not claimed any titles this year. Doinb’s strength lies in his understanding of the game and his knowledge of how to operate diverse strategies based on his extensive champion pool. Although other FPX players may have fluctuating performances, Doinb remains the brightest star of Phoenix throughout the match. Moreover, he is an experienced and seasoned player, consistently trying hard to maintain his peak form. Overall, Doinb is considered one of the most well-rounded midlaners at this time.
Rank 2: ShowMaker (DK)
Standing in second place, according to the media, is ShowMaker. At just 21 years old, the midlaner for DK represents the most exemplary figure of the new midlaner generation, not only in the LCK but also worldwide. ShowMaker’s playstyle heavily relies on individual skill, with stunning performances in matches where DK can completely turn the tide in their favor or regain control even in tough laning phases. Additionally, despite being young, ShowMaker is already a familiar face at the Worlds, marking his third consecutive appearance in the highest League of Legends tournament. As the reigning champion, ShowMaker is undoubtedly one of the most notable challengers for all teams, especially those representing LPL.
Rank 3: Scout (EDG)
In third place is not Faker or anyone else but Scout, who just helped EDG claim the LPL Summer 2021 title. It is a fact that EDG’s performance throughout the season has been inconsistent; however, Scout and Viper (and occasionally Flandre) have always been the most stable performers. Scout often struggles in lane primarily due to excessive ganking, leading to the failure of EDG’s 2 ADC strategy, and subsequently, they cannot recover. However, once unleashed and playing according to their planned strategy, Scout can entirely take down a confident and peak-performing Doinb, as seen in the most recent LPL finals.
Rank 4: Chovy (HLE)
Chovy – a player considered the key to unlocking the door to Worlds 2021 for HLE, is ranked fourth. Deservedly earning the title of “golden spine” of the LCK, Chovy had a truly brilliant Summer split, and many HLE fans lament that if Deft had performed as well in the group stage as he did in the Regional Qualifiers, HLE might not have faced as many difficulties. Chovy’s performances can be described as consistently outstanding, even in matches where HLE had poor results, to the extent that many fans hope Chovy will find a new home with more talented teammates to compete for titles. At Worlds 2021, Chovy will be one of the most anticipated players, especially if he has the opportunity to face former teammates from Griffin like Tarzan and Viper (EDG).
Rank 5: Humanoid (MAD)
In the top 5 list, the surprising absence of Faker is replaced by Humanoid, the midlaner for MAD Lions. However, looking at what he and his teammates have displayed in the LEC during 2021 and at MSI 2021, it can be said that Humanoid is currently the most promising midlaner in Europe, rather than anyone else. Although he has not had good results at Worlds, ShowMaker himself shared: “Apart from Doinb, I am most impressed with Chovy and Humanoid, especially Humanoid. He has things that other European midlaners lack. If I didn’t know his name, I might mistake him for an LCK midlaner. Sometimes he may overdo it, but he is a great player. The mid lane is always a dangerous lane.”
Rank 6: Faker (T1)
In sixth place is Faker from T1. The fact that Faker will compete at Worlds 2021 this year is one of the most anticipated events by League of Legends fans worldwide. Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that his performance has declined in recent seasons, but when T1 needs him, Faker always gives his best in the best way possible. For Worlds 2021, Faker is synonymous with the word “legend” and records. And surely, many people are looking forward to this return, hoping the Demon King will re-emerge and fulfill his unfinished dream.
The names ranked from 7th to 10th are Bdd (Gen.G Esports), Maple (PSG Talon), Nisqy (Fnatic), and icon (LNG Esports). These players are all expected to deliver outstanding performances, and in a tournament filled with surprises, fans can certainly look forward to upsets or spectacular dethronements, bringing even more excitement to the upcoming Worlds 2021.