Emil “Magisk” Reif is a Danish professional Counter-Strike player renowned for his contributions to multiple top-tier teams in the competitive scene. Since beginning his career in 2015, he has played a key role in several successful rosters, most notably with Astralis, where he helped secure multiple Major victories. Known for his rifling abilities and expertise in the anchor role, Magisk has remained a consistent presence in high-level Counter-Strike tournaments, earning recognition as one of the most effective players in the game’s history. His career has spanned numerous teams, and his achievements have cemented his legacy as a pivotal figure in Counter-Strike esports.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Emil Hoffmann Reif
- Nickname: Magisk (meaning “magical” in Danish)
- Born: March 5, 1998
- Nationality: Danish
- Role: Rifler (Anchor)
Career History
Early Career
Magisk started his professional career in 2015 at the age of 17, joining stfuNerd. His early promise led to a stint with SK Gaming as a stand-in before he was promoted to a permanent position. During his time with SK Gaming, he played alongside notable Danish players such as Andreas “MODDII” Fridh, Asger “AcilioN” Larsen, and Casper “cadiaN” Møller. Although his tenure with SK Gaming was brief, it provided him with crucial experience that would later benefit his career.
Team Dignitas and North
In 2016, Magisk transitioned to Team Dignitas, replacing Jesper “TENZKI” Plougmann. This move proved significant, as he found success with the team, winning EPICENTER 2016 by defeating Virtus.Pro in the grand final. His outstanding performance earned him an Exceptionally Valuable Player (EVP) award at the event. Furthermore, he was ranked 14th in HLTV’s top 20 players of the year in 2016. The Dignitas roster was eventually acquired by F.C. Copenhagen and rebranded as North, but Magisk’s time with the organization was short-lived due to team difficulties and role adjustments, leading to his departure in mid-2017.
OpTic Gaming
Following his exit from North, Magisk joined the European roster of OpTic Gaming in August 2017. However, the expectations surrounding the newly-formed lineup did not materialize into major successes. After a series of lackluster results, Magisk sought new opportunities, ultimately finding a home with Astralis in February 2018—a move that would define his career.
Astralis – The Golden Era
Magisk’s arrival at Astralis proved to be a turning point in both his career and CS:GO history. Integrating seamlessly into the team’s structure, he contributed significantly to Astralis establishing itself as one of the most dominant rosters ever assembled. Alongside Nicolai “dev1ce” Reedtz, Lukas “gla1ve” Rossander, Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen, and Andreas “Xyp9x” Højsleth, Magisk helped lead Astralis to an unprecedented series of victories.
Astralis’ dominance during this period redefined professional play, with Magisk playing a key role in their impeccable tactical approach, utility usage, and overall team synergy.
Team Vitality
In December 2021, Magisk, alongside longtime teammates Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen and coach Danny “zonic” Sørensen, transitioned to Team Vitality. The move was aimed at reinforcing Vitality’s roster to compete with the best teams in the world. While his time with Vitality saw solid performances, the organization did not replicate Astralis’ level of dominance. Magisk left the team in November 2023.
Team Falcons
Shortly after departing Vitality, Magisk joined Team Falcons on December 16, 2023. Falcons aimed to create a competitive international roster by bringing in proven talents such as Alvaro “SunPayus” Garcia and Pavle “Maden” Bošković. The move marked a new chapter in Magisk’s career as he continued competing at the highest level.
Notable Achievements and Awards
Major Championships
- 🏆 FACEIT Major: London 2018 – Champion
- 🏆 Intel Extreme Masters XIII – Katowice Major 2019 – Champion and MVP
- 🏆 StarLadder Berlin Major 2019 – Champion
- 🏆 BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023 – Champion
Other Notable Tournament Victories
- 🏆 ELEAGUE Premier 2018 – $500,000
- 🏆 Gamers8 2023 – $400,000
- 🏆 BLAST Pro Series: Global Final 2019 – $350,000
- 🏆 ESL Pro League Season 8 – Finals – $250,000
- 🏆 Esports Championship Series Season 6 – Finals – $250,000
- 🏆 Esports Championship Series Season 5 – Finals – $250,000
- 🏆 ESL Pro League Season 7 – Finals – $250,000
- 🏆 EPICENTER 2016 – $250,000
- 🏆 ESL Pro League Season 16 – $225,000
- 🏆 Intel Extreme Masters XV – Global Challenge – $200,000
HLTV Top 20 Player Rankings
- Ranked 14th in 2016
- Ranked 7th in 2018
- Ranked 5th in 2019
- Ranked 11th in 2020
- Ranked 17th in 2023
Trivia
- Magisk is considered one of the most valuable riflers in CS history due to his consistent form and adaptability.
- He became part of the first team to win three consecutive Majors.
- During Astralis’ dominance, the team revolutionized Counter-Strike strategy with their disciplined utility usage.
- He has competed with and against some of the biggest names in Counter-Strike esports.
FAQ About Magisk
What is Magisk’s real name?
Magisk’s full name is Emil Hoffmann Reif.
Which teams has Magisk played for?
Magisk has played for several teams, including SK Gaming, Team Dignitas, North, OpTic Gaming, Astralis, Team Vitality, and Team Falcons.
What role does Magisk play in Counter-Strike?
Magisk primarily plays as a rifler and specializes in the anchor role.
What are Magisk’s most notable achievements?
His biggest achievements include winning three Major championships with Astralis and securing multiple high placements in HLTV’s top 20 rankings.
Why did Magisk leave Astralis?
Magisk left Astralis in December 2021 to join Team Vitality alongside former teammates dupreeh and zonic.
What is Magisk best known for?
Magisk is renowned for his impact during Astralis’ dominant era and his consistent performances across multiple teams.
How many times has Magisk been ranked in HLTV’s top 20?
Magisk has been ranked in HLTV’s top 20 players list five times, with his highest being 5th in 2019.
What is Magisk’s biggest tournament win?
The most significant victories in Magisk’s career include his three Major titles with Astralis: FACEIT Major London 2018, IEM Katowice 2019, and StarLadder Berlin 2019.
What is Magisk’s contribution to Astralis’ success?
Magisk played a crucial role in Astralis’ strategy-driven gameplay, particularly with his effective rifling and versatile playstyle.
What team is Magisk on now?
As of his latest transition, Magisk plays for Team Falcons, having joined in December 2023.
