The Rise and Evolution of Gen.G: From Samsung Galaxy Champions to Modern Day Powerhouse
League of Legends is a game with a rich tapestry of narratives, and the stories behind the professional teams that compete in it are no less fascinating. Among these, Gen.G’s journey stands as a compelling tale of transformation, adaptation, and perseverance. From the origins of its predecessor Samsung Galaxy to the triumphs in recent years, the story of Gen.G is one of calculated risks, legendary players, and a relentless pursuit of glory. This article will guide you through the evolution of Gen.G, from its initial formation to its present-day success, focusing on key transfers, internal changes, and strategic refinements.
From Samsung Galaxy to Gen.G: The Birth of a New Era
The story of Gen.G begins not with its creation but with a team that reached the highest highs in the League of Legends scene—Samsung Galaxy. Samsung Galaxy, which won the 2017 World Championship after defeating SK Telecom T1, was later acquired by KSV Esports in 2018. This acquisition led to the rebranding of the roster and organization into Gen.G, thus marking the beginning of a new era. The decision to move under the Gen.G banner signaled not just a change in ownership but a bold, new vision for the team’s future.
The first year for Gen.G after the rebranding was filled with both promise and challenges. The remnants of the championship-winning roster faced the daunting task of finding the chemistry and form that had brought them the ultimate prize in 2017. The core players—Ambition, Crown, Ruler, and CoreJJ—were established stars. However, the loss of Ambition’s leadership and Crown’s subsequent departure due to inconsistencies forced the organization to adapt quickly.
Ambition’s retirement in late 2018 was one of the earliest significant transitions for Gen.G. His departure marked the end of an era for Samsung Galaxy fans, as he was the voice of stability and strategy, helping the team excel even in difficult situations. The role of jungler was pivotal for the team, and replacing someone of Ambition’s caliber required strategic thinking. Gen.G brought in Haru and Peanut—talented players who represented a more aggressive approach in the jungle. However, the team struggled to find its footing in this transitional phase, especially in the hyper-competitive LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea).
In 2019, Gen.G initiated a substantial rebuild, striving to reassert themselves among the best in Korea. The acquisition of Life and Clid was particularly notable, as these young talents brought fresh energy and a dynamic playstyle that fit well within the evolving meta. Clid’s arrival was impactful, especially as he showcased excellent synergy with the mid-laner, Bdd, who also joined the team around that time. Despite these moves, Gen.G found themselves in a phase of identity exploration. They bounced between being a team capable of greatness and one that faltered in high-pressure situations. This inconsistency became a focal point for improvement in subsequent seasons.
The breakthrough came in 2020. Under the leadership of coach Edgar and with a roster of players who began to show consistent growth, Gen.G finally demonstrated their potential. They qualified for Worlds, ultimately finishing in the Top 8. While their Worlds run ended sooner than hoped, it provided a much-needed affirmation that they were heading in the right direction.
The Modern Gen.G: Player Transfers, Internal Changes, and the Road to Success
The transformation from a promising roster to a true powerhouse came in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Gen.G started investing heavily in top-tier talent, bringing in players who were not just skilled but also aligned with the team’s philosophy of calculated aggression and strong macro play. One of the most pivotal moments was the acquisition of Chovy in late 2021. Chovy, often regarded as one of the most talented mid-laners in the world, was known for his mechanically exceptional plays and ability to farm under pressure. With Chovy on board, Gen.G sent a clear message—they were no longer satisfied with being a good team; they wanted to be the best. Alongside Chovy, Gen.G retained Ruler, a world champion and one of the most reliable ADCs in the scene. Ruler’s journey with Gen.G has been one of perseverance and adaptation. From the Samsung Galaxy days, Ruler evolved into a player capable of not only carrying games through his mechanical prowess but also providing the consistency that the team needed during high-pressure matches. He was the rock around which Gen.G built their strategies, and his continued excellence was a crucial factor in Gen.G’s rise.
Another notable change was the introduction of Peanut as the starting jungler in 2022. Peanut’s career had been one of ups and downs, but his arrival at Gen.G was like a rebirth. He brought with him a wealth of experience and an aggressive edge that fit well with Gen.G’s style. Peanut’s presence allowed Chovy to shine, as the jungler’s ability to pressure the map gave Chovy the freedom to play his lane aggressively. This synergy between Peanut and Chovy became one of the defining features of Gen.G’s gameplay. The internal changes weren’t just about players. Gen.G also overhauled their coaching staff, bringing in Score as their head coach. Score, a legendary figure in the LCK with a storied playing career of his own, had a deep understanding of the game’s intricacies. Under his guidance, Gen.G adopted a more refined playstyle that emphasized strong early-game control, excellent vision management, and team fighting prowess. The impact of Score’s leadership was immediate, as Gen.G displayed a newfound confidence in their macro play and mid-to-late game decision-making.
The 2022 LCK Summer Split was a testament to Gen.G’s growth. They dominated the regular season, ending with a near-flawless record and going on to win the LCK title in commanding fashion. Their victory in the LCK signaled that they had finally reached the top echelon of Korean League of Legends—no longer a team searching for their identity but one that had forged their path with hard work and strategic excellence. Their performance at Worlds 2022 further highlighted their transformation. Although they fell short of winning the championship, they made it to the semifinals, proving that they were a legitimate contender on the international stage. It was here that the investments in players like Chovy and Peanut, combined with the consistency of Ruler and the coaching expertise of Score, bore fruit. The team’s cohesion, which had often been a point of weakness in previous years, was now one of their strengths. The improved coordination between lanes, crisp decision-making during crucial moments, and the ability to adapt mid-series all showcased how far Gen.G had come.
Ruler’s departure at the end of 2022 was an emotional moment for Gen.G fans. As one of the longest-standing members, his move to another region was the end of an era. Yet, this also marked the beginning of a new chapter for Gen.G. They acquired Peyz, a promising rookie ADC, and entrusted him to fill the massive shoes left by Ruler. The decision to promote a younger player rather than opt for an established star was indicative of Gen.G’s confidence in their developmental system—a sign that they were not only capable of buying top-tier talent but also of cultivating it. As the 2023 season began, Gen.G’s roster retained its core strengths, with Chovy and Peanut still leading the charge and a mix of young talent and experienced players rounding out the team. The integration of Peyz into the roster has been surprisingly smooth, with the rookie already showing flashes of brilliance. It’s clear that Gen.G’s approach now revolves around balancing the hunger and passion of young players with the stability provided by veterans. This blend of old and new has the potential to bring the organization even greater success.
Gen.G’s journey from its origins as Samsung Galaxy to becoming one of the most formidable teams in modern League of Legends is a story of transformation, adaptation, and resilience. The organization faced numerous challenges along the way—roster rebuilds, player departures, and the daunting pressure of the LCK. However, through smart player acquisitions, strong leadership, and a relentless pursuit of improvement, Gen.G has successfully evolv ed into a true powerhouse. The key to Gen.G’s transformation has been their ability to blend experience with youth, relying on the consistency of veterans like Ruler and Peanut, while also investing in future stars like Chovy and Peyz. Their continued evolution, backed by the strategic genius of coaches like Score, has positioned them as one of the most exciting teams to watch, capable of both domestic and international success. As the competitive landscape of League of Legends continues to change, Gen.G remains committed to adapting and thriving. Their journey is far from over, but one thing is certain—they have built a foundation strong enough to support future triumphs, and their transformation stands as an inspiration for teams aiming to reach the pinnacle of esports. The evolution of Gen.G has not just been about winning games; it’s about building a legacy that endures, and it seems they are well on their way to achieving that goal.
