In the often-turbulent world of professional esports, stories of player contracts, salaries, and organizational support can vary wildly. Yet, a recent revelation from Dota 2 superstar Roman “RAMZES666” Kushnarev has cast a spotlight on an exceptionally player-centric approach, one that sets a benchmark many organizations might do well to emulate. During a recent Twitch stream, RAMZES666 openly praised his former team, Evil Geniuses (EG), for their unparalleled generosity and commitment to player welfare, even during his period of inactivity.
An Unprecedented Act of Support
RAMZES666 recounted his time with Evil Geniuses, specifically highlighting an approximate seven-month period during which he was listed as inactive. What surprised not only him but also resonated strongly with the esports community, was the organization`s decision to pay him his full salary throughout this time. This isn`t just a minor detail; it`s a significant departure from industry norms.
“When I was inactive [with Evil Geniuses] for about seven months, they paid me my full salary. Full. Not half, not 70% – full,” RAMZES666 stated, expressing genuine astonishment. “I genuinely thought, `Is this even real?` Usually, if you`re benched or not actively playing, you get half or maybe 70% of your salary, depending on what`s agreed upon.”
He clarified that this generous arrangement was, to his understanding, entirely EG`s initiative. The organization, he speculated, could have opted for a lesser payment, but chose not to. This act of good faith, he noted, garnered immense respect from him. For a top-tier player whose salary was “more than $20,000” (not rubles, as he emphatically clarified), this represented a substantial financial commitment from the organization.
Redefining Player Welfare in Esports
RAMZES666`s account serves as a fascinating case study in professional esports management. In an industry where player burnout, contract disputes, and roster changes are commonplace, the financial security offered by Evil Geniuses during an inactive period is a rare and commendable gesture. It speaks volumes about the organization`s ethos: prioritizing player stability and well-being, even when a player isn`t actively contributing to the competitive roster. While some might argue this is merely sound business practice for retaining top talent, its uncommon nature in esports makes it stand out as a beacon of progressive player support. A standard, one might wryly observe, that many players can only dream of.
Such policies foster a robust sense of loyalty and trust between players and organizations. When a team demonstrates such a high level of commitment, it not only attracts top-tier talent but also establishes a positive environment that can contribute to long-term success. It’s a delightful anomaly in a landscape where players often face uncertainty if they are not actively competing.
The Evil Geniuses Legacy
Beyond the financial aspect, RAMZES666`s praise for Evil Geniuses extended to their overall professionalism and brand. “Overall, EG was a super awesome organization. I really enjoyed playing there,” he commented, even reminiscing about their “awesome long-sleeved jerseys.” This holistic appreciation underscores EG`s reputation as a premier esports entity, known for its strong branding, robust infrastructure, and, as we now understand, exceptional player support.
RAMZES666 represented the main Dota 2 roster of Evil Geniuses from September 2019 to November 2020. Following his inactive period, he eventually moved on to join Natus Vincere (Na`Vi), continuing his illustrious career. His tenure with EG, however, clearly left an indelible positive mark.
A Call for Industry Evolution
The story of RAMZES666 and Evil Geniuses isn`t just a personal anecdote; it`s a powerful narrative about setting new standards in esports. As the industry matures, the spotlight on player welfare, fair contracts, and organizational ethics will only intensify. Evil Geniuses, through their actions, has demonstrated a proactive approach to these critical issues, offering a model that other esports organizations might do well to consider. In a rapidly evolving competitive landscape, ensuring the financial and professional stability of players, even during periods of non-competition, could be the differentiator that defines truly elite organizations.
Finley Holt