Complexity Gaming, also known simply as Complexity or CoL, stands as one of the pioneering and enduring esports organizations in Counter-Strike’s history. Founded in 2003, Complexity has consistently demonstrated a commitment to competitive excellence across various iterations of the Counter-Strike franchise. Over two decades, the organization has experienced numerous roster changes, significant tournament runs, and a legacy of resilience in the ever-evolving world of esports. This article delves into the history, key rosters, achievements, standout tournament performances, and interesting trivia surrounding Complexity Gaming’s Counter-Strike journey.
History of Complexity Gaming – From Early Days to the Present
Foundation and Early Counter-Strike 1.6 Roster
Complexity Gaming was established in 2003 and quickly became a prominent team in the Counter-Strike 1.6 scene. The founding roster included Bullseya, fRoD, tr1p, warden, and Storm. However, shortly after the formation, Bullseya was replaced by sunman, marking one of the first in a long line of roster changes for the organization. These shifts were reflective of the era, where contractual obligations were rare, and players often sought better opportunities.
During Counter-Strike 1.6’s prominence, Complexity Gaming cemented its reputation in North America. The team became known for its dynamic strategies and the consistent individual performances of players like fRoD, who earned widespread recognition as one of the best AWP players of his time.
Transition to Brazilian Roster in 2010
In 2010, Complexity’s journey took a significant turn when the organization signed the roster of FireGamers, a leading Brazilian Counter-Strike team. This roster featured prominent players such as bruno, nak, BIT, fnx, and FalleN, all of whom would later become iconic figures in the Counter-Strike ecosystem. The team achieved several notable victories during this period:
- Victory at the Mouses Cup CS:S in September 2010
- 4th place at the World Cyber Games 2010
- 1st place at the IEM V American Championship Finals
Unfortunately, this iteration of Complexity ceased operations in 2011 after placing 5th-6th at the Intel Extreme Masters V World Championship and winning the TEAMPLAY Summer Cup 2011.
Emergence in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
After a brief hiatus from Counter-Strike, Complexity Gaming re-entered the competitive scene in 2013 by signing the roster of Quantic Gaming. The roster included North American stars like Hiko, n0thing, swag, sgares, and Semphis. The team swiftly established itself in the newly released Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), achieving the following:
- 2nd place at the ESEA Global Finals Season 14
- 1st place at the MSI Beat IT 2013 – North American Qualifier Finals
- 3rd-4th place at DreamHack Winter 2013, showcasing their ability to compete internationally
Their DreamHack Winter 2013 campaign was particularly notable as it included memorable performances against some of the strongest European teams. This tournament established Complexity as a legitimate competitor on the global stage.
Roster Evolution Post-2013
Following their strong showing in 2013, Complexity underwent several transformations. Their post-2013 rosters consistently featured up-and-coming talent alongside experienced leaders. Notable lineups include:
- dephh, ANDROID, yay, Stanislaw, and ShahZam, who secured a 5th-8th place finish at the FACEIT Major: London 2018.
- oBo, blameF, RUSH, K0nfig, and poizon, who represented the organization during later campaigns, including participation in the Intel Extreme Masters XIII – Katowice Major 2019.
Current roster:
- Johnny “JT” Theodosiou
- Michael “Grim” Wince
- Håkon “hallzerk” Fjærli
- Danny “cxzi” Strzelczyk
- Nicholas “nicx” Lee
Top results by Complexity through the years
- BLAST Premier: Spring 2020 European Finals ($335,000)
- ESL Challenger at DreamHack Summer 2024 ($50,000)
- Championship Gaming Invitational 2006 ($50,000)
- ESL Pro League Season 19 (3-4th) ($45,000)
- Intel Extreme Masters Sydney 2023 (2nd) ($42,000)
- BLAST Premier: Fall Final 2023 (3-4th) ($40,000)
- Spring Sweet Spring #3 ($40,000)
Notable Achievements
FACEIT Major – London 2018
One of Complexity’s most memorable moments in CS:GO came with their performance at the FACEIT Major: London 2018. At this prestigious Major Championship, the team reached the 5th-8th place finish, proving their caliber against the world’s best teams. This lineup consisted of dephh, ANDROID, yay, Stanislaw, and ShahZam. The unexpected result solidified Complexity’s place in the international Counter-Strike scene.
DreamHack Winter 2013
During the early days of CS:GO, Complexity’s run at DreamHack Winter 2013 was another standout moment. The team secured a 3rd-4th place finish, marking one of Complexity’s finest international performances to date. Their success at this tournament further validated their transition from Counter-Strike 1.6 to CS:GO.
IEM Katowice and Other Tournaments
Over the years, Complexity Gaming participated in several additional landmark tournaments:
- Participation in the Intel Extreme Masters XIII – Katowice Major 2019
- 2nd place at the MSI Gaming Arena 2018
- Victory at the Americas Minor Championship – London 2018, ensuring their qualification for the FACEIT Major.
Behind the Organization – Ownership and Headquarters
Ownership Changes
In 2017, Complexity Gaming was acquired by a majority stake held by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and real estate investor John Goff. The organization’s stature rose considerably with this backing. In 2021, Complexity Gaming became part of GameSquare Esports, further solidifying the team’s presence in modern esports.
GameStop Performance Center
In 2019, Complexity unveiled an innovative esports headquarters, the GameStop Performance Center, located in Frisco, Texas, at The Star – the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters. This facility was designed to provide players with state-of-the-art training infrastructure and marked a pivotal moment in professional esports facility development.
Trivia About Complexity Gaming
- Complexity was one of the first North American teams to make a significant impact on international Counter-Strike.
- Complexity’s GameStop Performance Center was among the first esports-specific training facilities in the United States.
- Jason Lake, the founder of Complexity, is considered a visionary in esports organization management.
FAQ About Complexity Gaming
What is Complexity Gaming?
Complexity Gaming is a North American esports organization founded in 2003. It is one of the oldest active organizations in the Counter-Strike scene.
Who owns Complexity Gaming?
As of 2024, Complexity Gaming is owned by an investor group led by Jason Lake, who reacquired the organization from GameSquare Esports for $10.36 million.
What is their current roster in Counter-Strike 2?
As per the latest information, Complexity’s current roster includes players like dephh, ANDROID, yay, Stanislaw, and ShahZam. However, roster changes may have occurred recently.
Where is Complexity Gaming headquartered?
Complexity operates out of the GameStop Performance Center located in Frisco, Texas, within The Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters.
What was the team’s best Major performance?
Their most notable Major performance was at the FACEIT Major: London 2018, where they achieved a commendable 5th-8th place finish.
Who is Jason Lake?
Jason Lake is the founder and CEO of Complexity Gaming. He is widely regarded as a pioneer and visionary in the esports industry.
What notable players have played for Complexity?
Players like fRoD, FalleN, n0thing, blameF, and oBo are among the many notable players who have been part of Complexity’s rosters over the years.
What major tournaments has Complexity won?
Complexity’s most significant victories include the IEM V American Championship Finals and various North American online and offline tournaments.
How does Complexity contribute to esports innovation?
Complexity was one of the first organizations to build an esports-specific training facility, the GameStop Performance Center, which has set a benchmark for other esports organizations.
