Complexity leave Counter-Strike scene: ‘The esports economy has really been challenging for us’
- 글쓴이 : 경기도e스포츠협회
- 날짜 : 2025.08.21 18:07
- 조회 수 : 6
This marks the end of an era for NA CS.
Image viaBLAST.tv
Complexity Gaming, one of the most iconic names in North American esports, have officially exited the Counter-Strike scene.
Complexity Founder and CEO Jason Lake made the announcement on Aug. 20, marking the end of a historic chapter for one of esports’ most recognized brands. For many fans, this move signals the close of an era that helped shape the competitive CS landscape in NA.
“(In) 2025, the esports economy has really been challenging for us. Quite simply, we have not been able to drive enough revenue to afford to properly support a tier one team” Lake explained. “We could’ve probably draw things out a little longer but we want to make sure that we do right by our players in the division, and this was the right thing for us to do at this time.”
This statement echoed the sentiments of many industry leaders facing tightening sponsorship budgets, volatile viewership patterns, and increasing team operating costs. Despite repeated efforts to adapt, Complexity ultimately determined that sustaining a world-class Counter-Strike operation was no longer financially viable under current conditions.
Lake added that they have “no immediate plans” to return to the competitive CS scene until the economic challenges are resolved.
Fortunately, four players from the CS2 roster—hallzerk, JT, nicx, and Grim—won’t be disappearing from competition, while czxi is now a free agent. The talented quartet has already been signed by Passion UA, a rising organization eager to make its mark.
Hallzerk, Grim, JT, and nicx will be teaming up with Kvem on the new Passion UA CS2 roster. Image via Passion UA
For the players, the transition has been relatively seamless thanks to Passion UA’s quick move to acquire the roster. The lineup, which previously carried the Complexity banner, is already gearing up for international tournaments. Fans are eager to see how the squad will perform in this new chapter, with hopes high that the group can build on its past synergy and success.
While Complexity’s Counter-Strike era has come to a close, its story remains a lasting reminder of the highs and lows of modern esports. The industry is as unpredictable as ever, but one thing is clear: passion and raw talent continue to push the strongest competitors forward.
