The world of esports has been historically male-dominated, but initiatives like Riot Games’ VCT Game Changers are working to change that narrative. This program aims to promote inclusivity for women and other marginalized genders within the gaming community. As we reflect on the journey of female Valorant teams in VCT Game Changers, it becomes evident that these players are not just competing; they are making history and inspiring a new generation of gamers.
A competitive ruling has been issued against Madelyn ‘Malibu’ Campos and James ‘Summertime’ Edwards.
Read the full ruling:
— VALORANT Esports NA (@valesports_na) January 16, 2024
Evolution of Game Changers
VCT Game Changers, a unique initiative by Riot Games, provides a dedicated platform for women and marginalized genders in the gaming world. Unlike the open Champions Tour, Game Changers is segmented into six regions: North America, EMEA, LATAM, Brazil, Asia-Pacific, and East Asia. The following list recognizes the top six female Valorant teams that have left an indelible mark on the Game Changers scene.
1. G2 Gozen – EMEA
Notable Achievements:
- Winner of VCT 2022: Game Changers Championship
- Four-Time EMEA Game Changers Winner
G2 Gozen, the female Valorant team representing G2 Esports, stands as a testament to excellence. Leading the charge is Michaela “mimi” Lintrup, the in-game leader (IGL) guiding the team to numerous victories. G2 Gozen’s success extends beyond regional dominance, with four EMEA Game Changers titles under their belt. However, their crowning achievement came in the form of winning the VCT 2022: Game Changers Championship.
The team’s journey into the world of competitive Valorant has not been without its challenges. In 2023, G2 Gozen underwent several roster changes, with key players departing. Mary left competitive gaming to focus on studies, and Juliano returned to Counter-Strike. These changes seemed to have impacted the team’s performance as they failed to reach the finals in the last two GC events of the year, including the Game Changers Championship, where they were the defending champions.
Current Roster:
- Michaela “mimi” Lintrup (IGL)
- Vivian “roxi” Schilling
- Petra “Petra” Stoker
- Sarah “sarah” Ahmed
- TBA
2. Cloud9 White – NA
Notable Achievements:
- First team to win 6 NA Game Changers events consecutively
- Four consecutive GC event wins between 2021-22 without dropping a map
Cloud9 White, often abbreviated as C9W, is synonymous with dominance in the female Valorant scene. The team’s journey began when they were signed by Cloud9 to compete as their female roster in early 2021. From that point onwards, C9W became an unstoppable force, securing the title of the first 6X Game Changers Champion.
Their dominance was exemplified by four consecutive Game Changers event wins between 2021 and 2022, accomplishing the feat without dropping a single map. This undefeated streak, however, came to an end in the 2022 Game Changers Championship, where they faced their first elimination in a GC event, losing to fellow NA team Shopify Rebellion.
On December 20, 2022, the most dominating team in the GC scene parted ways with its roster. The team’s five players went their separate ways, with key players joining other organizations and reshaping the competitive landscape.
Roster (Disbanded in 2022):
- Bob “Bob” Tran
- Alexis “alexis” Guarrasi
- Jasmine “Jazzyk1ns” Manankil
- Katja “katsumi” Pfahnl
- Melanie “meL” Capone
3. Team Liquid Brazil
Notable Achievements:
- Highest Game Changers regional events win (13) between 2021-2023
- Podium finishes in VCT 2022 and 2023 Game Changers Championships
Team Liquid Brazil has emerged as a powerhouse in the female Valorant scene, boasting a near-flawless record at the regional level. With an incredible 13 regional Game Changers event wins between 2021 and 2023, TL Brazil is undoubtedly the best-ever Game Changers team from Brazil. Led by IGL Natália “daiki” Vilela and key player Paula “bstrdd” Naguil, the team has been a consistent performer, both regionally and internationally.
After a revamp in January 2022, the roster underwent a few changes over the past two years. However, the two constants, daiki and bstrdd, have been top performers for Team Liquid Brazil. Despite their regional dominance, an international title has eluded them, but podium finishes in both editions of the Game Changers Championship showcase their competitive prowess.
Current Roster:
- Natalia “daiki” Vilela
- Vitoria “Bizerra” Vieira
- Letícia “Joojina” Paiva
- Isabeli “isaa” Esser
- Paula “bstrdd” Naguil
4. Shopify Rebellion – NA
Notable Achievements:
- Grand finalist in VCT 2022: Game Changers Championship
- Winner in VCT 2023: Game Changers Championship
Shopify Rebellion, a prominent name in the NA female Valorant scene, spent a considerable time in the shadows of Cloud9 White. However, their persistence and skill came to fruition when they secured revenge on their arch-rivals in the lower bracket semi-final of the 2022 Game Changers Championship. While they suffered a heartbreaking loss against G2 Gozen in the grand final, this defeat was redeemed in 2023.
The roster of 2022 was disbanded after failing to qualify for the 2023 Game Changers Championship. Later, Shopify Rebellion signed the Version1 roster, which had already qualified for the year-end Championship event in Sao Paolo. With this renewed roster featuring former V1 players, SR became the first North American team to win the GC Championship.
Current Roster:
- Melanie “meL” Capone (IGL)
- Ava “florescent” Eugene
- Sarah “sarahcat” Simpson
- Nicole “Noia” Tierce
- Alexis “alexis” Guarrasi
5. Team SMG GC – APAC
Notable Achievements:
- 35-match win streak
- Won four APAC GC events in a row without a loss
- 4th Place in VCT 2023: Game Changers Championship
Team SMG GC, based in the Asia-Pacific region, showcased exceptional dominance in 2023. Before the 2023 Game Changers Championship, they accumulated an impressive 34-match win streak. The team, comprising top players from the APAC circuit, built a super team that seemed practically unbeatable at one point.
Their success extended to the international stage, although they couldn’t replicate the same level of dominance showcased at the regional stages. Despite standout performances, Team SMG GC exited the 2023 Game Changers Championship after losses to G2 Gozen and Team Liquid Brazil.
Current Roster:
- Abigail “Kohaibi” Kong (IGL)
- Alexandria “Alexy” Francisco
- Camille “Kamiyu” Enriquez
- Kelly “shirazi” Jaudian
- Odella “enerii” Abraham
6. KRÜ Blaze – LATAM
Notable Achievements:
- Only team to win 8 straight Game Changers Series in a row
KRÜ Blaze, representing the GC team of the franchised organization KRÜ Esports, is a force to be reckoned with in the LATAM region. Similar to their male counterparts, KRÜ Blaze stands as the best Latin-American Valorant team. In the LATAM region, which has seen eight regional GC series so far, KRÜ has emerged victorious in every single one.
Their success at the regional level, however, contrasts with their performances on the international stage. While they qualified for both the 2022 and 2023 Game Changers Championships, their displays in both events were underwhelming. KRÜ Blaze struggled to make a significant impact when competing against teams from more prominent regions.
Current Roster:
- Constanza “conir” Reyes
- Romina “romi” Alvarez
- Micaela “micaela” Ferreyra
- Keila “kalita” Nava (Inactive)
- TBA
Conclusion
The journey of female Valorant teams in VCT Game Changers reflects the evolving landscape of inclusivity in esports. These teams are not just competing; they are rewriting history and breaking barriers. As the best female Valorant teams continue to redefine success, their impact extends beyond victories. They inspire a new generation of gamers globally, proving that the world of esports is for everyone.
The success of these teams highlights the importance of dedicated platforms like VCT GC in fostering diversity and providing equal opportunities. As we look to the future, the continued growth of women and marginalized genders in esports is a testament to the positive changes happening within the gaming community. VCT GC serves as a beacon, illuminating the path towards a more inclusive and diverse esports landscape.
