Team Tidebound

Tidebound is a Chinese professional Dota 2 organization founded in late 2024 and officially launched for the 2025 competitive season. Despite its short history, Tidebound quickly established itself as one of the strongest teams in China, building a roster around experienced veterans and internationally recognized stars. The organization became known for helping revive the Chinese Dota scene during a period when the region was searching for new contenders.

Formation and Early Success

Team Tidebound was formed following the roster reshuffles that took place after The International 2024. The original lineup featured notable Chinese players including Shiro, NothingToSay, Faith_bian, planet, and Y, while veteran coach Yao guided the team from the sidelines. The roster immediately attracted attention due to its mixture of championship-winning experience and established Chinese talent.

Tidebound quickly became a regular participant at international events, qualifying for competitions such as PGL Wallachia Season 3, PGL Wallachia Season 4, ESL One Raleigh 2025, and FISSURE Universe Episode 4. Their consistent results made them one of the highest-ranked teams in China throughout 2025.

Breakthrough in 2025

The team's biggest achievement came during the 2025 season when Tidebound won Clavision Masters 2025: Snow-Ruyi, defeating several top international opponents and securing the first premier championship in the organization's history. They also reached the final of the Asian Champions League 2025, finishing as runners-up and further establishing themselves as China's leading contender.

Tidebound later qualified for The International 2025, where they reached the playoff stage and finished in the top eight, an impressive result for an organization in its first competitive year.

Organizational Changes and Hiatus

In May 2025, the roster was briefly acquired by All Gamers Global, although the team never competed under that tag and soon returned to the Tidebound identity. The organization continued competing throughout the remainder of the season and remained one of the most prominent Chinese representatives on the international stage.

Following TI 2025, Tidebound announced that it would enter an inactive period, citing challenges within the Chinese competitive ecosystem. Most of the roster moved on to other organizations while retaining their status as some of the region's most respected players.

Return for the 2026–27 Season

In October 2026, Tidebound returned to professional Dota 2 after nearly ten months of inactivity. The organization rebuilt around four former TI 2025 players, bringing back Shiro, NothingToSay, plAnet, and y`, while veteran offlaner Yang joined the roster. Legendary Chinese captain and coach xiao8 took over leadership duties.

The return instantly made Tidebound one of the most recognizable Chinese teams, combining experienced veterans with players who had already proven themselves on the TI stage.

Playstyle and Reputation

Tidebound is known for disciplined macro play, strong late-game decision making, and a traditional Chinese team-fighting approach. The roster has consistently relied on the carry performances of Shiro and the stability provided by veterans such as NothingToSay, y`, and plAnet. Throughout its existence, the team has been regarded as one of the key organizations helping maintain China's relevance on the international Dota 2 scene.

Fun Facts

Tidebound was formed by several former PSG.LGD stars, including Faith_bian and NothingToSay.

The organization won its first major title at Clavision Masters 2025: Snow-Ruyi.

Tidebound reached the playoffs of The International 2025 during its debut competitive season.

The team briefly became All Gamers Global in 2025 before returning to the Tidebound name without playing an official match under the new banner.

In October 2026, Tidebound returned from hiatus with legendary Chinese coach xiao8 leading the roster.