Chinese VALORANT Teams Impress at Champions 2023 Playoffs
In the run-up to Champions 2023, Chinese VALORANT teams are gaining recognition after the success of EDward Gaming at Masters Tokyo. This victory marks the region’s first international win and solidifies their spot as top contenders. Just one year after making their international debut, Chinese squads are now emerging as championship contenders.
Bilibili Gaming’s surprising upset over NRG secured their place in the Champions 2023 playoffs, making them one of two Chinese teams in the playoffs. This achievement signifies a major milestone for the region, proving that it has transitioned from a developing scene to a competitive force. Chinese teams are ready to compete for titles in 2023 and beyond.
EDward Gaming’s Journey
EDG was the first Chinese team to compete internationally in VALORANT. They secured their spot through the East Asia LCQ in 2022, showcasing their region’s top talent on a global stage. With only one roster change, EDG faced tough competition in the group stage, ultimately getting eliminated without a win against Paper Rex and Team Liquid.
Their first international performance was challenging but understandable considering the game’s official release in July 2023. Despite this, EDG had the opportunity to practice with other Chinese teams and top Pacific talents, building their skills. LOCK//IN showcased both their strengths and weaknesses.
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In the pre-season tournament, EDG pushed 100 Thieves to their limits, taking the series to a decisive third map. Players like ZmjjKK and CHICHOO impressed with their skills against a renowned 100T roster. EDG’s unexpected success continued at Masters Tokyo, where they not only secured their region’s first series win but made a remarkable run.
EDG’s successes have earned them respect and recognition as a talented team. This has shifted the perspective on the Chinese region from “in development” to a formidable force. Furthermore, Bilibili Gaming’s victory over NRG proves that China has more than one competitive team, adding another Chinese roster to the playoffs.
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While EDG has established themselves as contenders, BLG remains the wild card in Champions 2023. This underdog Chinese roster has also secured a spot in the playoffs.
Looking at the remaining teams in the Champions 2023 playoffs, each region is represented by two teams. Considering China’s recent entry into international play, this speaks volumes about their growth as a region and the individual players within it.
EDG will face Evil Geniuses, while BLG takes on DRX in their upcoming matches on Aug. 17. Both teams have room for one loss, but regardless of the tournament outcome, 2023 has been a pivotal year for China in proving themselves as fierce competitors in VALORANT.
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