İsmailcan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş is a Turkish professional Counter-Strike 2 player recognized for his mechanical skills and aggressive playstyle. Known for his high-level precision and rapid reaction times, XANTARES has established himself as a premier entry fragger. Over his career, he has represented Space Soldiers, BIG Clan, Eternal Fire, and currently Aurora Gaming. This profile details his career trajectory, key tournament results, and impact on the competitive Counter-Strike circuit.
Early life and entry into esports
Born on August 7, 1995, in Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey, XANTARES holds both Turkish and North Macedonian citizenship. He entered the competitive scene during the early years of Counter-Strike’s regional growth. Unlike players who received immediate family support, he relied on his future teammates to convince his parents to allow him to sign his first professional contract with Space Soldiers. That decision marked the formal start of his esports career.
Precision and aggressive execution
XANTARES has built a reputation as a mechanically gifted player. His natural flick accuracy and rapid spray transfers provide an advantage in duels, making him a highly effective entry fragger. His aggressive approach consistently forces opponents into unfavorable situations, creating map control for his teammates.
Professional career: Teams and major accomplishments
The rise of a Turkish talent with Space Soldiers (2015 to 2018)
XANTARES gained international recognition after joining Space Soldiers in January 2015. This roster made history by becoming the first all-Turkish squad to qualify for a Major at the ELEAGUE Major: Boston 2018. During his tenure, the team also secured victory at the World Championship 2016 and finished second at the WESG 2017 World Finals. His individual statistics were a driving factor in these results.
Dominating European competition in BIG (2018 to 2021)
In December 2018, XANTARES transitioned to the German organization BIG Clan. This move marked his first experience in an international lineup. His contributions helped BIG secure multiple tournament victories, including DreamHack Masters Spring 2020 Europe, where he was awarded the MVP. The team also won cs_summit 6 Europe and the ELEAGUE Invitational 2019. In July 2020, BIG reached the number one position on the HLTV world ranking.
Building a Turkish superteam with Eternal Fire (2021 to 2025)
XANTARES returned to a Turkish project in August 2021 by forming Eternal Fire. The organization aimed to elevate national talent to the international stage. Despite early struggles, the team qualified for the PGL Major Antwerp 2022 and eventually reached the quarterfinals of the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024. Under his firepower, the roster also secured second-place finishes at ESL Pro League Season 20 and BetBoom Dacha Belgrade 2024.
A new era at Aurora Gaming (2025 to present)
In April 2025, following financial issues within the Eternal Fire organization, XANTARES and his Turkish teammates transferred to Aurora Gaming. This acquisition immediately turned Aurora into a top-tier contender. The roster secured a victory at the PGL Masters Bucharest 2025, where XANTARES was named MVP, and finished second at the Esports World Cup 2025. In 2026, the team recorded a top-four finish at the IEM Cologne Major, further solidifying their position in the global rankings.
Major achievements and awards
XANTARES has consistently appeared in the HLTV Top 20 player rankings. In 2024, he ranked #15, becoming the oldest player to debut on the list at 29 years old. He followed this by placing #14 in 2025. He holds MVP medals from DreamHack Open Summer 2020 and PGL Masters Bucharest 2025. He also won the Esports Play of the Year award in 2020.
Best tournament results
- PGL Masters Bucharest 2025: 1st place
- CCT Season 1 Global Finals: 1st place
- DreamHack Masters Spring 2020 Europe: 1st place
- Esports World Cup 2025: 2nd place
- ESL Pro League Season 20: 2nd place
- World Electronic Sports Games 2017: 2nd place
- IEM Cologne Major 2026: 3rd to 4th place
Trivia and unique facts
XANTARES maintains a strong presence on Twitch with a large following. He underwent hand surgery in 2021 to prevent excessive sweating that interfered with his mouse grip. He speaks Turkish and English, and he spent time learning German during his stint with BIG. In-game, he favors red weapon skins, particularly the Karambit Doppler Ruby.
Frequently asked questions about XANTARES
What teams has XANTARES played for?
He has played for Space Soldiers, BIG Clan, Eternal Fire, and currently competes for Aurora Gaming.
What is XANTARES known for in Counter-Strike?
He is recognized for his exceptional aim, aggressive entry fragging style, and highly precise headshots.
Has XANTARES ever been ranked in HLTV’s Top 20 players?
Yes, he was ranked #15 in 2024 and #14 in 2025.
Why did XANTARES leave Eternal Fire?
In April 2025, XANTARES and the rest of the Eternal Fire roster transferred to Aurora Gaming following reported financial and sponsorship issues within the Eternal Fire organization.
Did XANTARES undergo surgery?
Yes, in 2021, he had hand surgery to prevent sweating that could interfere with his grip during gameplay.
Team Members in Aurora Gaming
News about XANTARES
