Thousands of gaming enthusiasts in the Philippine Arena and millions watching
on television at home were awed and impressed at the thrilling and
action-packed conclusion of Galaxy Battles II: Emerging Worlds. In the end,
Chinese powerhouse team VGJ.Thunder proved to be the most dominant force in the
competition defeating Evil Geniuses by a sweep in a best-of-five finals series
and winning the grand cash prize of US$80,000.
The journey of VGJ.Thunder was a story of perseverance, dominating fashion
and revenge. The Chinese team has been undefeated in the first two rounds of the
DOTA 2 tournament only to have its streak broken by Evil Geniuses in the third
round sending VGJ to the loser's bracket. Fueled by drive and aspiration, VGJ stormed
the loser's bracket and made it all the way to the Finals against Evil Geniuses.
In the end, VGJ has avenged their loss though the first and second rounds were
really tight between the two teams.
On the other hand, local favorite TNC Pro Gaming ended its journey on
Galaxy Battles placing between 5th and 6th in the competition and bringing home
US$35,000 in cash, but it proved itself to be ones to watch out for in the
international pro gaming scene. With that in mind, it feels like Galaxy Battles
II has gained triumph on its own because of its overwhelming reception and
resiliency amidst challenges.
Galaxy Battles 2018 was supposed to be the first DOTA 2 Major event of
the year, but Valve has officially withdrawn the event's Major status due to
concerns on the Philippine government's regulations on eSports leading to the withdrawal
of several favorites from the competition. In spite of this, Purpose Win
Entertainment Limited and Fallout Gaming have reiterated that the event are
bound by these regulations and is considered the beginning of a fresh start for
the Philippine pro gaming scene.
