FlyQuest has undergone a significant evolution in the world of esports, particularly within the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS).
Initially, the club did not stand out for its sporting achievements, but it has made remarkable strides over the years. Let’s delve into this transformation and what has led to the club’s current success.
Beginnings and Challenges
FlyQuest entered the LCS in 2017 without major expectations or prior achievements. However, over time, it has established itself as a respected international competitor.
- Origin: The club acquired its spot in the LCS from Cloud9’s academy, forming a team with notable players like Jason “WildTurtle” Tran and Galen “Moon” Holgate. Though they started with ups and downs and didn’t reach the highest level, the team showed promise.
- Korean Project: To enhance their performance, FlyQuest incorporated players like Lee “Flame” Ho-jong, Lee “Shrimp” Byeong-hoon, and Song “Fly” Yong-jun. This change aimed to elevate the team’s level and improve synergies among the players.
Identity Transformation
FlyQuest not only focused on improving its sporting performance but also on developing a unique and positive identity within and beyond the game.
- Environmentalism: The club adopted an ecological cause, resonating with the viewer community. Through campaigns like TreeQuest, FlyQuest positioned itself as an environmentally conscious organization, earning public appreciation.
Sporting Success
Over time, FlyQuest optimized its strengths and minimized its weaknesses, achieving its best year in the club’s history.
- Lineup Improvement: The addition of players like Colin “Solo” Earnest, Tristan “PowerOfEvil” Scharge, and Lee “IgNar” Dong-geun strengthened the team. PowerOfEvil became a centerpiece of the team, backed by solid performances from other team members.
- Achievements: FlyQuest secured two runner-up finishes and its first appearance at Worlds, demonstrating its growth and consolidation as an international competitor.
New Direction with PapaSmithy
Recently, with Christopher “PapaSmithy” Smith joining as president, the club has undergone significant changes in its lineup and strategy.
- Key Additions: With PapaSmithy’s vision, the club incorporated international talent like Lee “VicLa” Dae-kwang and Lee “Prince” Chae-hwan. However, these changes did not yield the expected results.
- New Lineup Changes: In the Spring Split of 2024, FlyQuest made adjustments to its lineup, bringing in players like Gabriel “Bwipo” Räu, Kacper “Inspired” Sloma, and Nicolaj Jensen, aiming to optimize their performance.
Current Challenges
FlyQuest faces challenges on its path to continued success, including the need to improve its international performance.
- Mid-Season Invitational (MSI): Participation in MSI represents a crucial opportunity for the club. A successful performance in this tournament could keep the process of long-term improvement and evolution alive.
Though the #LCS season didn't go the way we wanted, we are proud of the work the team put in this split.
FlyFam, thank you for all of your support this year. It means everything to us. We will come back stronger next season and show you what we are made of.#TimeToCry pic.twitter.com/sFJKqpVt0U
— FlyQuest (@FlyQuest) July 22, 2023
Conclusion
FlyQuest is a club that has undergone a constant process of development and transformation in the world of esports. Its commitment to sporting excellence and distinctive identity distinguishes it as a significant competitor in the international League of Legends scene.