Challenges, Roster Changes, and New Hopes for Gaimin Gladiators After BLAST Slam I

The Western European team Gaimin Gladiators, renowned for their success on the international Dota 2 stage, concluded their run at BLAST Slam I in Copenhagen, finishing in 5th-6th place and earning $50,000. Their exit from the tournament marked the continuation of a challenging phase for the team as they navigate the aftermath of roster changes following their second-place finish at The International 2024 (TI13).

Forging a New Path: From BLAST Slam I to the 2025 Season

The team’s captain, Dutch player Melchior "Seleri" Hillenkamp, reflected on their loss to Xtreme Gaming:

"Competing in tough times is not easy. I’m doing everything I can, and I feel for my teammates that things aren’t going the way we’d like. But you can’t complain when you’re competing. Next year has to start off right, and I’ll do everything I can to make that happen!"

These words highlight the team’s ambition and their determination to improve despite current struggles. The team’s mid-laner, American player Quinn "Quinn" Callahan, acknowledged the inconsistency in their recent form:

"With the right mindset, we can beat anyone, but equally, we can lose to anyone in seconds. We’re lacking stability. It’s not where we want to be, but we’re working on it. Right now, there are definitely highs and lows."

Post-TI13 Changes: Causes and Consequences

Roster changes for Gaimin Gladiators began after TI13, where the team finished as runners-up. However, their success was overshadowed by internal issues, as explained by support player Erik "tOfu" Engel:

"The team’s atmosphere was far from ideal. We lacked key elements: communication, trust, motivation. Some players struggled to fulfil their responsibilities, which placed extra pressure on others. Before Riyadh Masters 2024, we were underperforming at tournaments, and the problems became increasingly evident. A roster change was unavoidable."

Carry player Anton "dyrachyo" Shkredov departed from the roster, replaced by Alimzhan "Watson" Islambekov, a top-ranked player by MMR. Engel explained the choice of their new teammate:

"Watson is a calm person and a high-calibre player who’s easy to work with. We had little time to make a decision, and he was the best option among the candidates."

Issues with Roster Shuffle Systems and Future Plans

Engel also criticised the professional scene’s approach to roster changes:

"The shuffle system is poorly designed. Teams eliminated early from TI start scouting for new players, while others are still focused on the final stages. Everything happens behind the scenes, and players, chasing better offers, often leave their teammates in the dark until the last minute."

Despite these challenges, Gaimin Gladiators remain focused on improving their results. The team’s new structure and the ambition of its leaders inspire hope that 2025 will be a year of resurgence for one of Dota 2’s brightest teams.

BLAST Slam I Results: Lessons for the Future

BLAST Slam I, held in Copenhagen from 26 November to 1 December, was another step in Gaimin Gladiators’ journey to rediscover their form. The $1,000,000 tournament ended in disappointment for the team but reaffirmed their resolve to compete at the highest level.

With renewed ambition, a restructured roster, and a commitment to stability, Gaimin Gladiators are heading into the new season ready to prove they can remain a formidable force on the Dota 2 stage.