Whispers from the bustling Chinese Dota 2 scene suggest a significant upheaval for Team Tidebound. Unconfirmed reports indicate that two of its core players, Faith_bian and pLAnet, may be on the verge of departure, potentially leaving the formidable squad in disarray.
A Brewing Storm: Faith_bian`s Uncertain Future
At the heart of the current speculation is Zhang “Faith_bian” Ruida, the team`s celebrated offlaner. According to sources from the “Chinese Muesli” Telegram channel, Faith_bian is contemplating a break from professional competition. More profoundly, in a recent interview, he hinted at the possibility of not returning to the professional circuit at all. For a player of Faith_bian`s caliber – a name synonymous with tactical prowess and game-winning plays – such a decision would send ripples far beyond Team Tidebound, impacting the entire competitive Dota 2 landscape.
pLAnet`s Potential Exit: A Double Blow
Adding to Tidebound`s woes, support player Lin “pLAnet” Hao, who occupies the crucial position four, is also rumored to be on his way out. The simultaneous departure of two experienced players, particularly a world-class offlaner and a veteran support, would create a gaping void in the team`s strategic core and synergy. Rebuilding such a foundational partnership often proves to be a protracted and challenging endeavor.
The Unusual Replacement: From Coach to Core Player?
Amidst the departures, an intriguing — and perhaps slightly ironic — rumor has emerged regarding Faith_bian`s potential replacement. Midlaner Zhou “Emo” Yi from Yakult Brothers suggests that Tidebound`s assistant coach, Li “niu” Kongbo, might step into the offlane role. While coaches transitioning into player roles isn`t entirely unprecedented in esports, it`s certainly an unconventional move for a team of Tidebound`s stature, especially in a position as pivotal as the offlane. One might ponder if this is a strategic masterstroke or a sign of desperation in a rapidly shifting roster landscape.
A Legacy Under Threat: Recent Successes and Prior Losses
Team Tidebound was formed in January 2025, quickly establishing itself as a force in the Dota 2 circuit. Their impressive run included appearances at major tournaments, notably The International 2025, and a championship title at the Clavision DOTA2 Masters 2025: Snow-Ruyi. These achievements painted a picture of a stable and ascending team.
However, the current rumors are not the first signs of instability. Back in October, midlaner Cheng “NothingToSay” Jin Xiang, a player of immense talent, departed to join Xtreme Gaming. To date, Team Tidebound has not announced a replacement for NothingToSay, leaving a critical position unfilled. Should Faith_bian and pLAnet indeed leave, only two players and the coach would remain from their initial successful lineup, reducing the team to a mere skeleton of its former self.
What Lies Ahead for Team Tidebound?
These unconfirmed reports, originating from the often-reliable grapevine of the Chinese esports community, paint a grim picture for Team Tidebound. The prospect of losing three key players, including a legendary offlaner possibly retiring, and being forced to promote an assistant coach into a core role, suggests a complete overhaul. The competitive Dota 2 season is unforgiving, and such extensive roster turmoil, even for a team with recent accolades, can be incredibly difficult to overcome.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching for official announcements. Until then, the future of Team Tidebound hangs precariously in the balance, a testament to the volatile nature of professional esports where tides can turn unexpectedly, even for the most accomplished teams.
