Why look beyond OG
OG has established itself as a prominent esports organization, particularly through its unprecedented back-to-back victories at The International in Dota 2 in 2018 and 2019 (Liquipedia OG achievements). While their legacy in Dota 2 is significant, and they maintain a competitive CS2 division, fans, sponsors, or players might seek alternatives for several reasons. An alternative could offer a stronger focus on different game titles, such as League of Legends or Valorant, where OG does not currently field top-tier teams. Organizations might also be evaluated based on their regional dominance; for example, a team focused on North American or Asian markets might be preferred over OG's European base. Furthermore, some might look for teams with more consistent top placements across all their fielded games, or those with a different organizational philosophy, such as a strong emphasis on player development or content creation. The competitive landscape of esports is dynamic, and while OG remains a respected entity, other organizations offer diverse strengths and strategic focuses.
Top alternatives ranked
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1. Natus Vincere (NAVI) — Multi-game powerhouse with strong CS2 and Dota 2 presence
Natus Vincere, commonly known as NAVI, is an esports organization with a long history of competitive success across multiple titles. Founded in 2009, NAVI has achieved significant prominence in Counter-Strike, notably winning the PGL Major Stockholm 2021 in CS:GO (NAVI HLTV team profile). They also maintain competitive rosters in Dota 2 and Valorant. NAVI's appeal as an alternative to OG stems from its consistent presence at the top tiers of CS2 and its historical success in Dota 2, mirroring OG's primary game focus but with a broader championship portfolio in CS. Their brand is recognized globally, and they are known for fielding rosters with individual star players, such as s1mple in CS:GO, who contributed to their legacy. For those seeking an organization with a strong track record in both CS2 and Dota 2, and a broader footprint in other popular esports titles, NAVI presents a compelling option.
- Best for: Fans of top-tier CS2 and Dota 2, organizations seeking a globally recognized brand with multi-game success.
- Explore the official Natus Vincere website: NAVI Official Site
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2. T1 — Dominant force in League of Legends, expanding into other titles
T1 is a South Korean esports organization primarily renowned for its unparalleled success in League of Legends, holding multiple World Championship titles (T1 Liquipedia LoL achievements). While OG's core strength lies in Dota 2, T1 offers an alternative for those interested in a team with a dominant legacy in a different major esport. T1 has also expanded into other titles, including Valorant, though their League of Legends division, spearheaded by legendary player Faker, remains their most iconic. Choosing T1 as an alternative means prioritizing success in League of Legends and associating with a brand that embodies sustained excellence and a dedicated fanbase in the Asian esports market. Their rigorous training methodologies and strategic approach to roster building have made them a benchmark in competitive gaming.
- Best for: League of Legends enthusiasts, those looking for an organization with a strong Asian market presence and a history of sustained dominance.
- Visit the official T1 Esports website: T1 Official Site
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3. G2 Esports — European powerhouse with diverse top-tier rosters
G2 Esports is a European organization known for its competitive rosters across a wide array of esports titles, including League of Legends, CS2, Valorant, and Rocket League (G2 Esports About Us). While OG’s primary focus is Dota 2 and CS2, G2 offers a broader spectrum of top-tier performance, particularly in League of Legends where they have consistently been a strong contender in the LEC. Their CS2 team also frequently competes at the highest level, making them a direct competitor to OG in that title. G2 is recognized for its strong brand identity, engaging content creation, and a history of challenging for championships across various games. For those seeking an organization with a strong European identity and a diverse portfolio of successful teams beyond Dota 2, G2 Esports presents a viable and exciting alternative.
- Best for: Fans of multi-game European teams, those interested in a strong brand with a significant presence in League of Legends and CS2.
- Discover more on the G2 Esports official site: G2 Esports Official Site
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4. Team Vitality — French organization with a focus on CS2 and Rocket League
Team Vitality is a prominent French esports organization with a significant presence in CS2 and Rocket League, among other titles. Their CS2 team, featuring star player ZywOo, has achieved major success, including winning the BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023 (Team Vitality Paris Major win). As an alternative to OG, Team Vitality offers a strong focus on CS2 with a championship-winning roster, providing a direct comparison in a shared game title. While OG has a Dota 2 legacy, Vitality's strong performance in CS2 and their established presence in the European scene make them an attractive option for fans prioritizing success in Counter-Strike. Their commitment to player development and a strong French fanbase also differentiate them within the competitive landscape.
- Best for: CS2 enthusiasts, those looking for a European team with a strong national identity and recent Major championship success.
- Learn more about Team Vitality: Team Vitality Official Site
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5. FaZe Clan — North American lifestyle and esports brand with top-tier CS2
FaZe Clan is a North American organization known for its origins in content creation and its expansion into competitive esports, particularly in CS2. Their CS2 team has consistently been a top contender, winning numerous international tournaments, including the IEM Katowice 2022 and the PGL Major Antwerp 2022 (FaZe Clan HLTV trophies). As an alternative to OG, FaZe Clan offers a strong CS2 presence with a different brand identity, blending esports competition with a significant lifestyle and entertainment component. While OG is primarily known for its competitive achievements, FaZe Clan appeals to an audience that values both top-tier play and broader cultural influence. Their global fanbase and consistent performance in CS2 make them a strong choice for those prioritizing that specific game title and a more expansive brand.
- Best for: CS2 fans, those interested in an organization with a strong North American presence and a blend of esports and lifestyle branding.
- Visit the official FaZe Clan website: FaZe Clan Official Site
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6. Team Liquid — Long-standing multi-game organization with diverse rosters
Team Liquid is one of the oldest and most established esports organizations, founded in 2000. They field competitive teams across a vast array of titles, including Dota 2, League of Legends, CS2, and Valorant (Team Liquid Liquipedia achievements). For those considering an alternative to OG, Team Liquid offers a similar multi-game approach but with a longer history and often a broader spread of top-tier rosters. Their Dota 2 team won The International 2017, demonstrating their capability in the same game where OG found its greatest success. Team Liquid is known for its professional infrastructure, extensive content creation, and consistent presence in major tournaments across multiple esports. They provide a comprehensive alternative for fans who appreciate a long-standing organization with sustained competitiveness in numerous popular titles.
- Best for: Fans of diverse esports titles, those seeking a well-established organization with a long history of competitive success across many games.
- Explore the official Team Liquid website: Team Liquid Official Site
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7. Fnatic — European esports pioneer with strong CS2 and League of Legends legacy
Fnatic is a pioneering European esports organization, founded in 2004, with a rich history of success in games like CS2 and League of Legends. Their CS2 team has won multiple Major championships, including the inaugural CS:GO Major at DreamHack Winter 2013 (Fnatic HLTV trophies). In League of Legends, Fnatic was the winner of the first-ever World Championship in 2011. As an alternative to OG, Fnatic offers a strong legacy in CS2, directly competing in one of OG's key titles, and also provides a significant presence in League of Legends, a game where OG does not currently compete at the highest level. Fnatic is known for its strong European identity, passionate fanbase, and a consistent drive to remain competitive across different eras of esports. They represent a robust alternative for those valuing historical success and consistent performance in foundational esports titles.
- Best for: Fans of historic European esports teams, those prioritizing success in CS2 and League of Legends.
- Visit the official Fnatic website: Fnatic Official Site
Side-by-side
| Feature | OG | Natus Vincere (NAVI) | T1 | G2 Esports | Team Vitality | FaZe Clan | Team Liquid | Fnatic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 | 2009 | 2012 | 2015 | 2013 | 2010 | 2000 | 2004 |
| Primary Game Focus | Dota 2 | CS2, Dota 2, Valorant | League of Legends | LoL, CS2, Valorant | CS2, Rocket League | CS2 | Dota 2, LoL, CS2 | CS2, League of Legends |
| Headquarters | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Kyiv, Ukraine | Seoul, South Korea | Berlin, Germany | Paris, France | Los Angeles, USA | Utrecht, Netherlands | London, UK |
| Notable Titles/Achievements | TI 2018, 2019 (Dota 2) | PGL Major Stockholm 2021 (CS:GO) | LoL Worlds (multiple) | LoL LEC, CS2 top finishes | BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023 (CS2) | IEM Katowice 2022 (CS2) | TI 2017 (Dota 2) | CS Majors, LoL Worlds 2011 |
| Regional Strength | Europe | Europe/CIS | Asia (Korea) | Europe | Europe (France) | North America | Global | Europe |
| Brand Identity | Champion legacy, Dota 2 focus | Competitive excellence, star players | Dominance, Faker's legacy | Entertainment, strong content | French pride, CS2 focus | Lifestyle, content creation | Professionalism, multi-game | Pioneer, consistent contender |
How to pick
Choosing an esports organization as an alternative to OG depends heavily on specific interests and priorities. Consider the following factors:
Game Focus
- If your primary interest is Dota 2: While OG has a storied history, Team Liquid also boasts a Major championship in Dota 2 and maintains a competitive roster. NAVI also has a historical presence in Dota 2, offering a strong multi-game portfolio that includes the title. Evaluate which team's current roster and recent performance align best with your expectations.
- If you prioritize CS2: Several organizations provide strong alternatives. NAVI, Team Vitality, FaZe Clan, G2 Esports, and Fnatic all have championship-winning or consistently top-tier CS2 teams. Compare their recent tournament results, roster stability, and individual player talent. For instance, if you value a team with a dominant star player, Team Vitality with ZywOo might be a strong contender. If you prefer a team with a broader championship history in CS2, FaZe Clan or Fnatic could be more appealing.
- If you are looking for other game titles: If your interest extends beyond Dota 2 and CS2, organizations like T1 (League of Legends), G2 Esports (League of Legends, Valorant), and Team Liquid (League of Legends, Valorant) offer strong alternatives. T1 is the undisputed leader in League of Legends, while G2 Esports provides competitive rosters across multiple popular titles, including Valorant.
Regional Preference
- European Teams: OG is based in Europe. If you prefer a European organization, NAVI, G2 Esports, Team Vitality, Team Liquid, and Fnatic are all strong choices with established presences in the region. Each offers a distinct national or regional flavor, such as Team Vitality's French identity or Fnatic's UK roots.
- North American Teams: FaZe Clan stands out as a prominent North American alternative, offering a blend of competitive esports and a strong lifestyle brand that resonates with a North American audience.
- Asian Teams: T1 is the leading choice for those interested in the Asian esports market, particularly given its dominance in League of Legends and its strong Korean identity.
Organizational Legacy and Brand
- History of Championships: If a long history of championship wins is crucial, organizations like NAVI, T1, Team Liquid, and Fnatic have extensive trophy cabinets across various titles and eras of esports. OG's unique back-to-back Dota 2 International wins are a specific type of legacy, and other teams offer different kinds of sustained success.
- Brand Identity: Consider the overall branding and content creation. Some organizations, like FaZe Clan and G2 Esports, have a strong emphasis on content, player personalities, and a broader lifestyle appeal. Others, like T1 and Team Liquid, might be seen as more traditional esports powerhouses with a focus purely on competitive performance and infrastructure.
- Player Development: Some organizations are known for their ability to nurture talent and develop new stars, which might appeal to fans interested in the long-term growth of a team.
By carefully weighing these factors against your specific interests, you can identify an alternative that best aligns with what you seek in an esports organization.