In a significant shift within the esports landscape, Evil Geniuses, a prominent name in competitive gaming, has exited the BLAST Premier league for Counter-Strike 2 (CS2). This move comes amidst a financial crisis, leading to a reshuffling of spots in the league.
Cloud9 Takes Over in BLAST Premier
Cloud9 will be taking over Evil Geniuses’ place in the BLAST Premier, following the latter’s economic challenges. This change reflects the ongoing budget adjustments that many esports teams are facing, as they prepare for the upcoming season across various games.
The Downscaling of Evil Geniuses
Evil Geniuses has been reducing its competitive presence, a trend highlighted by their recent withdrawal from the LCS and now the sale of their spot in the BLAST Premier for CS2. Facing economic difficulties, the organization has had to reassess its investments in the esports scene.
Cloud9 Joins Elite Ranks in CS2 Competition
With the update in BLAST Premier’s team memberships for 2024, Cloud9’s acquisition of Evil Geniuses’ spot has been confirmed. They join elite teams like Astralis, NIP, G2 Esports, OG, Team Vitality, NAVI, FaZe Clan, Complexity, Team Liquid, Heroic, and BIG in the CS2 competition.
Welcome to our newest partner team for 2024, @Cloud9 ☁️
Read more here 👉 https://t.co/vgZyFQy1dm#BLASTPremier pic.twitter.com/IZxeEhFlp4
— BLAST Premier 💥 (@BLASTPremier) December 17, 2023
EG’s Commitment to North American CS Scene
Despite their exit from the Premier league, EG’s CEO Chris DeAppolonio remarked on the organization’s support for BLAST Premier and its commitment to the North American CS scene. While they won’t compete in Premier in the future, EG remains grateful for the three years of competition and plans to support NA Counter-Strike talent from afar.
The Broader Impact on Evil Geniuses
Evil Geniuses’ departure from BLAST Premier is part of a broader scale-down, including shutting down their Latin Dota 2 project, exiting the LCS, and potentially selling their world champion Valorant team. Rumors suggest a complete withdrawal from esports by 2024.