(Updated: January 2025)
Invictus Gaming, an acclaimed name in the esports world, is one of China’s most revered organizations in competitive gaming. Established in 2011, Invictus Gaming (iG) has carved an impressive legacy across multiple titles, particularly in League of Legends. Known for its history of fielding iconic rosters, its strategic gameplay, and its moments of glory on the global stage, Invictus Gaming remains a beacon of competitive excellence in the League of Legends community. Below, we delve into the history, illustrious achievements, and notable milestones of Invictus Gaming’s League of Legends journey.
Origins and Foundation – The Birth of Invictus Gaming
Invictus Gaming was founded in 2011 by Wang Sicong, the son of billionaire Wang Jianlin, chairman of the Dalian Wanda Group. Wang Sicong acquired an esports team previously known as Catastrophic Cruel Memory (CCM). With a purchase price of approximately $6 million, this acquisition included divisions for StarCraft II, DotA, and League of Legends. The move not only rebranded the team as Invictus Gaming but also marked a pivotal moment for professional gaming in China, as it highlighted the growing importance of esports as a global competitive landscape.
Building a Legacy – Player Evolution and Team Rosters
Current Roster
Invictus Gaming’s League of Legends division has had its fair share of roster changes throughout the years, with each new lineup bringing fresh potential and excitement. As of December 2024, the current roster includes:
- TheShy (Kang Seung-lok) – Top laner
- Jiejie (Zhao Lijie) – Jungler
- Rookie (Song Eui-jin) – Mid laner
- GALA (Chen Wei) – Bot laner
- Meiko (Tian Ye) – Support
Notable Former Players
Invictus Gaming’s history is filled with extraordinary talent that has contributed to its international fame. Some of the notable former players include:
- Khan (Kim Dong-ha)
- Ning (Gao Zhen-ning)
- Baolan (Wang Liu-yi)
- JackeyLove (Yu Wen-bo)
- Duke (Lee Ho-seok)
Achievements and Successes – Invictus Gaming on the Global Stage
The Pinnacle of Success – 2018 World Championship Win
Invictus Gaming etched its name in esports history when it triumphed at the 2018 League of Legends World Championship. This victory was a watershed moment, as it marked the first time a team from China secured the prestigious Summoner’s Cup. Invictus Gaming defeated Fnatic in a sharp 3-0 series in the finals, earning widespread acclaim and a prize of $2,418,750. The team’s dominant gameplay and strategic precision resonated with fans worldwide and solidified its presence on the global stage.
Domestic Glory – Success in the LPL
Competing in the League of Legends Pro League (LPL), Invictus Gaming showcased consistent performances over the years. Some of its most notable results include:
- LPL Spring 2019: Champions, defeating JD Gaming 3-1 to claim $224,006.
- LPL Summer 2018: Runners-up, narrowly losing to Royal Never Give Up in the finals.
- LPL Regional Finals 2019: Champions, defeating FunPlus Phoenix 3-2 for a monumental victory.
International Performances
Invictus Gaming also made its mark in international tournaments:
- Mid-Season Invitational 2019: Achieved a top-four finish, losing to G2 Esports in the semifinals.
- IEM Season VIII – Singapore (2013): Champions, defeating KT Rolster Bullets 2-0.
- NEST 2017: Champions, overcoming Snake Esports in a 2-0 series.
Notable Matches – Chronicling Key Performances
Invictus Gaming has been involved in numerous iconic matches over the years. Among the most memorable is their historic win against Fnatic in the 2018 World Championship finals. Similarly, their fierce contest with JD Gaming in the LPL Spring 2019 finals, which culminated in a decisive 3-1 victory, showcased their ability to perform under pressure at the domestic level. Another key moment was their clash with G2 Esports at the Mid-Season Invitational 2019, which, despite ending in defeat, remains a testament to their resilience and skill on the international stage.
Challenges and Fluctuations – Recent Years
More recently, Invictus Gaming has experienced mixed results. These fluctuations underline the competitive nature of the LPL and the constant need for adaptation in the ever-evolving meta of League of Legends. Some of their recent finishes include:
- LPL Summer 2024: Finished 13th.
- LPL Spring 2024: Finished 9th-10th.
- Demacia Cup 2023: Placed 9th-12th.
- NEST 2023: Ranked 13th-16th.
- Esports Shanghai Masters 2023: Secured 3rd place by defeating OMG 2-0.
Invictus Gaming in Domestic Competitions
Beyond the global stage, Invictus Gaming continues to be a formidable force in Chinese esports. The team has often found success in domestic tournaments, fostering a loyal fan base and contributing to the dynamic growth of esports in China. Among their many domestic triumphs are wins at the NEST competitions in 2016 and 2017, where they emerged victorious against renowned teams like Royal Never Give Up and Snake Esports.
Invictus Gaming – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Invictus Gaming?
Invictus Gaming (iG) is a Chinese esports organization that fields teams across multiple games, including League of Legends, StarCraft II, and DotA.
Who owns Invictus Gaming?
Invictus Gaming was founded by Wang Sicong in 2011. Wang Sicong is the son of Wang Jianlin, one of China’s wealthiest businessmen and chairman of the Dalian Wanda Group.
When was Invictus Gaming founded?
Invictus Gaming was officially established in 2011 following the acquisition and rebranding of the esports team Catastrophic Cruel Memory (CCM).
What is Invictus Gaming’s biggest achievement in League of Legends?
Invictus Gaming’s most significant achievement is winning the 2018 League of Legends World Championship, defeating Fnatic 3-0 in the finals.
What is the current roster for Invictus Gaming’s League of Legends team?
The current roster consists of TheShy (Top), Jiejie (Jungle), Rookie (Mid), GALA (Bot), and Meiko (Support).
Which legendary players have played for Invictus Gaming?
Some iconic players include JackeyLove, Ning, Baolan, and Duke, all of whom contributed to their 2018 World Championship win.
Has Invictus Gaming won any domestic tournaments?
Yes, Invictus Gaming has won numerous domestic tournaments, including the LPL Spring 2019 and the NEST 2017 and 2016 titles.
How did Invictus Gaming perform in the Mid-Season Invitational 2019?
Invictus Gaming achieved a third-to-fourth-place finish in the Mid-Season Invitational 2019, losing to G2 Esports in the semifinals.
What was the original name of Invictus Gaming?
Before being renamed Invictus Gaming, the organization was known as Catastrophic Cruel Memory (CCM).
What makes Invictus Gaming a prominent team in League of Legends?
Invictus Gaming’s rich history, iconic rosters, international victories like the 2018 World Championship, and its enduring reputation in the Chinese esports scene highlight its prominence in League of Legends.
