Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a grand celebration of competitive gaming`s history, the Esports Awards ceremony on August 24th delivered a resounding verdict: League of Legends has been officially recognized as the Esports Game of the Decade. This monumental accolade, announced during the event`s official broadcast, cemented Riot Games` flagship title as an unrivaled titan in the professional gaming landscape.
The competition for such a prestigious title was, as expected, fierce. League of Legends, a pioneer in the MOBA genre, found itself pitted against a pantheon of gaming giants. Its adversaries included the venerable Dota 2, the ever-popular Counter-Strike, the tactical newcomer Valorant, the blockbuster franchise Call of Duty, and the cultural phenomenon Fortnite, among other major titles that have graced the screens of millions over the past ten years. Yet, when the digital dust settled, League of Legends stood alone at the pinnacle, a testament to its enduring appeal, strategic depth, and a vibrant, passionate community.
A Dynasty Forged: The T1 Factor
The dominance of League of Legends wasn`t merely confined to a single category. The Esports Awards seemingly decided to dedicate an entire wing of their trophy cabinet to the game and its most iconic figures. South Korean powerhouse T1 was deservedly named the Esports Team of the Decade. Their consistent excellence, legendary rosters, and groundbreaking achievements have set the gold standard for team play in esports. One might even suggest their trophy room requires its own dedicated zip code.
Central to T1`s unparalleled success, and indeed to League of Legends` global recognition, is the legendary mid-laner Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok. Unsurprisingly, Faker, often hailed as the “Unkillable Demon King,” was honored as the Best PC Player of the Decade. His individual skill, incredible game sense, and unparalleled longevity at the highest level of competition have not only secured him multiple world championships but have also inspired generations of aspiring players. He is, to put it mildly, less a player and more a living legend, a phenomenon whose very presence elevates the game.
Behind every great team and player often stands a mastermind, and for T1, that figure is Kim “kkOma” Jeong-gyun. His strategic acumen and ability to cultivate champions earned him the well-deserved title of Best Coach of the Decade. kkOma`s influence has been instrumental in shaping T1`s dynasties, proving that even in the chaotic realm of competitive gaming, calculated leadership can pave the path to glory.
The Spectacle Unforgettable: 2017 World Championship
Beyond individual and team brilliance, the very events that showcase League of Legends have left an indelible mark. The 2017 League of Legends World Championship was crowned the Live Esports Event of the Decade. This recognition highlights the incredible production value, electrifying atmosphere, and sheer scale of LoL`s global tournaments. The 2017 Worlds, in particular, was a masterclass in spectacle, captivating millions worldwide and demonstrating the immense potential of esports as a mainstream entertainment phenomenon. From opening ceremonies to nail-biting finishes, it delivered an experience that transcended mere gaming, becoming a cultural touchstone.
More Than Just a Game: A Cultural Colossus
League of Legends is no stranger to the limelight, but these awards collectively underscore its extraordinary trajectory from a humble MOBA to a global cultural colossus. It hasn`t just survived the test of time; it has thrived, innovated, and continuously set benchmarks for what competitive gaming can achieve. While other titles have had their moments of glory, capturing fleeting attention with novel mechanics or trending genres, League of Legends has consistently refined its core, fostering a deep strategic meta and an ever-evolving narrative that keeps players and viewers invested year after year. It`s a game that has defined an era, shaping the very definition of “esports” for millions.
The Esports Awards ceremony, concluding the Esports World Cup 2025 festival in Riyadh, served as a powerful reminder of League of Legends` enduring legacy. These accolades are not just trophies; they are a historical record, acknowledging a decade where a single game, its players, its teams, and its events, elevated an entire industry and captivated a global audience. The “Decade of Legends” truly belongs to League of Legends, and its story, by all accounts, is far from over.
