In one of the most unexpected roster moves of the season, s1mple has officially signed with BC.Game Esports, a team far from the limelight of tier-one CS2 and currently ranked 66th in the Valve Regional Standings (VRS).
BC Game announced the permanent transfer of the widely regarded Counter-Strike GOAT across their social media platforms on July 28, shortly after Natus Vincere confirmed s1mple’s departure.
It was a shocking move for the Ukrainian superstar, who was expected to land with FaZe Clan or another top-tier team, especially after loan spell with FaZe wherein he helped the team reach the playoffs at the Austin Major 2025. But those hopes faded when FaZe chose to bring back Latvian AWPer broky, closing the door on a full-time s1mple acquisition.
But instead of waiting out his contract or sitting on the bench, s1mple chose to return to consistent play, even if it meant taking a step back in competition level.
“Dobby is free. I just want to play. BC Game Esports gave me the chance, and they’re serious about building a top-tier team,” he said via X (formerly Twitter).
The 27-year-old pro also seemed to have referenced the advice from his former NAVI coach, B1ad3, who suggested that starting fresh with a tier-three team could help him rediscover the spark he had in CS:GO and translate that into CS2.
“One wise man said: ‘If you want to come back on tier 1 scene, you need to join tier 3 team. I haven’t done anything for two years. It’s time to change that. (I) can’t waste/lose game time sitting on bench.”
This transfer marks a significant pivot in s1mple’s career following a nearly decade with NAVI, where he won 17 titles, including the PGL Major Stockholm 2021 and an Intel Grand Slam, all while racking up 21 MVP medals. He previously stepped down from the active roster in October 2023, citing personal priorities.
Following two forgettable loan stints with Team Falcons in 2024, and a more impactful loan period with FaZe during IEM Dallas and the Austin Major, s1mple now finds himself embracing an underdog role. His decision to leave NAVI before his contract expired was driven by a desire to play full-time again.
S1mple now joins fellow veteran nexa along with up-and-comer pr1metapz on a roster that’s still being finalized. The Belizian organization is eyeing new signings to build a competitive unit around their new centerpiece. BC Game is expected to make its official debut with s1mple at the ESL Challenger League Season 50 Europe, which kicks off on August 11.
Whether this is the beginning of a grand comeback or a wild detour in s1mple’s legendary career, one thing is clear: he’s not done playing yet.
Published: Jul 28, 2025 10:14 pm