FaZe had an interesting year in 2024. The team achieved some notable milestones, like winning IEM Chengdu and reaching two Major finals. But their overall performance didn’t match the high standards FaZe set in 2022-2023. After the domination and consistent results 2024 was beneath the set the level.
Heading into 2025, FaZe finds themselves in an uncertain condition. There is a report from the French insider neL about the first roster change, most notably the potential departure of star player ropz. With these changes looming, FaZe faces the challenge of rebuilding their roster while maintaining their competitive edge.
Challenges FaZe Faced in 2024
A significant issue for FaZe was the clash of roles between ropz and frozen. Both players are exceptional talents, but their similar playstyles and overlapping roles led to inefficiencies in the team. Neither could fully showcase their potential without stepping on the other’s toes, and this imbalance impacted FaZe’s overall performance.
The team also struggled with consistency throughout the year. While players like rain delivered strong performances in critical matches, they lacked the stability to maintain a high level across the entire season. FaZe’s reliance on their core players’ experience carried them through many games, but the gaps in synergy and adaptability became apparent against top-tier opponents.
ropz’s Departure
Ropz has been a cornerstone of FaZe since joining the team. His ability to lock down key positions, deliver clutch moments, and provide consistent fragging power made him one of their most reliable players. However, his rumored departure to Vitality signals the end of an era for FaZe.
Ropz’s move presents a significant challenge for FaZe. His unique skill set and game sense are hard to replace. Losing such a vital player not only creates a gap in their lineup but also raises questions about team chemistry moving forward. At the same time this change could provide an opportunity for FaZe to address the role overlap issues with frozen and build a more balanced roster.
If the rumors are true, FaZe will need to carefully consider their next steps. Bringing in the right replacement for ropz will be crucial to maintaining their competitiveness in 2025.
READ MORE: Ropz may join Vitality: An epoch-making move
Potential Replacements for ropz
Replacing a player like ropz is no easy task. FaZe needs someone who can handle his roles effectively while complementing frozen’s strengths. Here are some potential candidates:
Jimpphat (MOUZ)
Jimpphat, a rising star from MOUZ, is one of the top choices. At just 18 years old, he has shown incredible potential as a rifler and anchor. His ability to adapt and develop makes him a perfect fit for FaZe’s lineup. However, convincing MOUZ to part with their young talent could be costly, and Jimpphat might prefer staying in a stable environment where he’s already thriving.
Krimbo (BIG)
Krimbo is another strong contender. The German rifler has proven his capabilities as an anchor and support player for BIG. At 22, he brings both experience and a hunger to grow. Krimbo’s contract with BIG ends in late 2025, which might make him a more affordable option. His balanced playstyle could help FaZe rebuild without disrupting frozen’s game.
Zyphon (TSM)
Zyphon is a wildcard choice. The Danish player has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn’t found a stable home since his time with Copenhagen Flames. While he lacks the consistency of other options, Zyphon’s raw talent and potential could make him an intriguing pick. With karrigan’s experience working with Danish players, FaZe might be able to unlock his full potential.
Each of these players offers unique strengths, but the decision will ultimately depend on FaZe’s vision for 2025. Whether they choose to invest in a young star or go for a more experienced hand, this change will shape their future trajectory.
Secondary Changes and the Future of FaZe’s Roster
Beyond the departure of ropz, FaZe may need to consider additional roster adjustments to stay competitive in 2025. While FaZe is unlikely to make more than two changes to avoid losing their tournament invites and rankings, there are key areas that could benefit from reinforcement.
Rain’s Role in the Team
Rain, FaZe’s longest-serving player, has shown a couple highlights, especially in important matches like Majors. However, his inconsistency throughout the year has raised questions about whether he can maintain his level over a full season. If FaZe decides to replace him, they will likely look for a younger, aggressive rifler who can bring fresh energy to the team.
Potential candidates include xertioN from MOUZ, who has proven himself as an effective entry fragger, or EliGE, a veteran known for his star power and ability to carry games. Both players could bring different strengths to FaZe’s lineup, with xertioN offering youthful aggression and EliGE providing experience and leadership.
Karrigan’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Karrigan has been the heart and soul of FaZe for years, leading the team through both triumphs and struggles. However, with the team’s recent inconsistency, there is speculation about whether a new in-game leader might be needed to inject fresh ideas and energy.
If FaZe were to replace karrigan, possible options include kyxsan from HEROIC, who has demonstrated strong leadership and adaptability, or siuhy from MOUZ, a young but highly capable IGL with experience leading teams to Major finals. While replacing karrigan would be a significant gamble, it might be necessary to ensure FaZe’s continued success in a rapidly evolving CS2 landscape.
Broky’s Position as AWPer
Broky has been a solid presence as FaZe’s AWPer, delivering clutch performances and providing stability. However, his high-risk, explosive style can sometimes lead to inconsistencies. If FaZe feels the need for a more stable AWPer, they might consider alternatives like SunPayus, who is currently benched in Falcons, or a younger talent like sl3nd from GamerLegion.
Rejin’s take
Former TSM and MOUZ coach Rejin believes FaZe should consider changes to stay competitive. He suggests looking for a new AWPer to bring more consistency and possibly replacing rain with a younger rifler who can step up as a second star. With experienced players like karrigan, ropz, and Frozen, Rejin sees an opportunity to blend their leadership with fresh talent.
Yeah, I think I would, it's hard, but I, but I think you have to kind of look into a new AWPer. I really think broky is doing a good job compared to how his play style is. But I think you have to go in and look at a new AWPer. And then I think you also like I love rain, but I mean he is like what, 29-30 years old now? Why not get a young rifler who can fulfil that role as a second star kind of thing, right? Or like this guy who can pop off, right? Because the experience is there from karrigan, from ropz. I would even say Frozen has the experience now, like even though he's super young, like he's been to so many events, grand finals, etcetera, right. So yeah, for me, I would, I would probably look at changing those two or at least one of them.
READ MORE: CS2’s Biggest Surprises Of 2024
FaZe’s Prospects in 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, FaZe faces a pivotal year. The team’s performance will largely depend on the success of their roster changes and how quickly they can adapt to new dynamics. If they manage to bring in players who complement their existing core and address their weaknesses, FaZe could once again become a dominant force in the Tier 1 scene.
The key to FaZe’s success will be maintaining a balance between experience and youth. Players like frozen and broky provide a strong foundation, but the team needs fresh energy to keep up with the ever-evolving meta. Additionally, karrigan’s leadership will play a crucial role in integrating new players and building a cohesive unit.
By making thoughtful decisions about their roster and leveraging the strengths of their core players, FaZe has the potential to reclaim their spot at the top of the CS2 scene. Whether they choose to rebuild around rising stars or reinforce their lineup with proven veterans, 2025 could be the year FaZe redefines itself and rises to new heights.
Comments