After a few quiet years away from the big stage, one of China’s most legendary Dota 2 organisations, Vici Gaming, is officially back. The team has revealed a brand-new roster and is set to make its long-awaited comeback at FISSURE Playground 2, running from October 23 to November 2, 2025, in Belgrade, Serbia.
The Return of a Chinese Powerhouse
Once considered one of China’s strongest and most consistent Dota 2 teams, Vici Gaming’s re-entry marks a major moment for the scene. The organisation last competed in 2022, formally stepping away a year later as the Chinese region went through major changes. Now, with a revitalised lineup, VG is aiming to reclaim its place among the region’s elite.
The announcement came through Vici Gaming’s official Weibo account on October 6, unveiling a mixture of veterans and fresh faces that reflect both experience and ambition.
Image via Vici Gaming Weibo
The new Vici Gaming roster includes:
- Lou “Lou” Zhen – Carry
- Guo “Xm” Hongcheng – Midlane
- Chung “Ws” Wei Shen – Offlane
- Xiong “Pyw” Jiahan – Support
- Ding “Dy” Cong – Support
- Wang “Maps” Yutian – Coach
The team will, however, start their journey with a temporary change. Due to Pyw’s wedding, Lin “planet” Hao will step in as a stand-in for the opening event.
Familiar Faces, Familiar Chemistry
Fans of the Chinese Dota 2 scene will recognise much of this lineup. Pyw and Dy are reuniting for the first time since their championship runs at EPICENTER Major 2019 and DreamLeague Season 11, where their synergy helped cement VG’s dominance.
Dy’s return is especially noteworthy, marking his comeback after announcing retirement in late 2024. Meanwhile, Xm joins after a stellar performance with Xtreme Gaming, where he reached the Grand Final of The International 2025, finishing second. Malaysian offlaner Ws also joins the roster after leaving Talon Esports, while Lou re-emerges in competitive Dota 2 following a brief hiatus since September.
With Maps stepping into the coaching role, the squad brings together multiple former Xtreme Gaming members under one banner, signalling a strong and cohesive foundation.
A Legacy Worth Reviving
Founded back in 2012, Vici Gaming has long been a cornerstone of Chinese Dota 2. The team’s rise began with a runner-up finish at The International 2014, losing to fellow Chinese squad Newbee in the Grand Final.
From 2018 to 2019, VG became one of the most dominant forces in the world, clinching major titles like ESL One Hamburg, EPICENTER Major, and the ONE Esports Invitational. But after the Dota Pro Circuit shake-up in 2022, their results faltered, and they eventually dropped from the top division in 2023.
Earlier this year, the organisation quietly reappeared during The International 2025 qualifiers, finishing in the top six before vanishing again, until now.
What’s Next for Vici Gaming
The return of Vici Gaming couldn’t come at a better time. With The International 2026 confirmed to take place in Shanghai, China, the nation’s competitive Dota 2 scene is gearing up for a resurgence. VG’s comeback adds another heavyweight name to the growing list of contenders alongside PSG Quest, Azure Ray, and Xtreme Gaming.
Fans will get their first look at the new lineup later this month at FISSURE Playground 2, where the team aims to make a strong first impression and rekindle the glory of old.