The Rise and Fall of Griffin: LoL’s Biggest "What-If"
Griffin's story in the world of League of Legends (LoL) is one of the most captivating and tragic tales in esports history. Known for their meteoric rise and equally dramatic fall, Griffin's legacy left fans and analysts wondering what could have been. From dominating the LCK to an unexpected disbandment, the team's journey has everything—from astonishing victories to internal turmoil.
Griffin’s meteoric rise in the LCK
Griffin burst onto the League of Legends scene in 2018 after securing a spot in the prestigious LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea). Despite being a rookie team, Griffin quickly cemented their status as one of the strongest contenders. Their dominance was most notable during the 2019 Spring and Summer Splits, where they finished first in the regular season.
The 2019 success story
In 2019, Griffin was widely regarded as one of the best teams in the world. They secured top placements in both the Spring and Summer splits, solidifying their status as one of the LCK's powerhouses. Their aggressive playstyle and excellent coordination, led by players like Chovy and Tarzan, made them a formidable force.
At the 2019 World Championship, Griffin reached the quarterfinals, and though they were knocked out by Invictus Gaming, they had proven they could compete on the international stage.
The fall: internal issues and controversies
Despite their on-stage success, Griffin was dealing with significant behind-the-scenes issues. Much of the controversy surrounded their coach cvMax, who was accused of abusive behavior toward players. His departure from the team led to internal instability, and some of the core players began to leave as well. This was a turning point for Griffin.
Relegation and ultimate disbandment
Griffin’s decline became evident during the 2020 Spring Split. They finished last in the standings and were forced into the promotion tournament, where they were relegated from the LCK. After failing to secure a spot in the franchise-based LCK system for 2021, the team announced its disbandment in January 2021.
The impact on the players
Several players from Griffin went on to have successful careers after the disbandment. Chovy and Tarzan became top players in the LCK and other regions. However, for many fans, Griffin will always be remembered for its brief period of dominance and the what-ifs that surrounded their abrupt end.
Why Griffin’s story matters in esports
Griffin's rise and fall is not just a cautionary tale about internal management and coaching issues. It also highlights the volatility of esports, where even the most promising teams can collapse due to factors outside of gameplay. Fans still remember Griffin as one of the most talented rosters ever assembled, making their downfall even more tragic.
As we look back, it's clear that Griffin was not just a team that competed—it was a team that captured the imagination of LoL fans worldwide. Though they are gone, their legacy lives on in the players who continue to thrive and the memories of their incredible performances.
