This week we’re counting down the Top 50 players during season 2 of the NA RCS circuit. For more information about the methodology and how rankings were decided, check out the S2 Top 50 Introduction post. To enter free Rivals of Aether events online and play in season 3 of the circuit yourself, head over to smash.gg and register.
Other Articles in the Series
- S2 Top 50: Introduction
- S2 Top 50: Honorable Mentions
- S2 Top 50: #50 – 41
- S2 Top 50: #40 – 31
- S2 Top 50: #30 – 21
- S2 Top 50: #20 – 11
- S2 Top 50: #10 – 1 (you are here)
#10 – AZCards
Mentality’s AZCards had a strong showing last season, with 9 top 8s or higher and a finish just outside at Genesis 5. This kind of consistency is something that only a first-class player could achieve, netting AZCards the 10th spot on our top 50 list.
Though his rock solid fundamentals have carried him this far there are still a few players that he has yet to beat. If he can improve that this season (maybe with the help of his new secondary) he can further solidify his Rivals legacy.
#9 – Penguin
Even though Penguin clocks in at #9 on the list, he might be one of the most dangerous players on it. The undisputed best Absa player has multiple wins over almost every player above him, and it seems like it’s only a matter of time before he ascends. The only thing holding him back right now is his slightly lower than expected results at offline events.
Playing on stage is a skill in itself and once Penguin masters that he’ll become even more of a serious threat. We don’t expect him to have too much trouble getting to finals day this season, so he should get plenty of practice.
#8 – Kaos
For the second year in a row, Kaos is the only player on our top 50 list from outside North America. His legacy as the #1 player in Europe has stood up to the test once again with wins over some of NA’s best like Dunk, AZCards, Penguin, DolphinBrick and more. His results are based off of just two tournaments (Shine and Genesis 5) but his performance gave our panelists enough confidence to rank him as one of the top threats who played in the circuit.
#7 – Windows
Arctic Fury’s own Windows has been on an absolute tear this year. Known as just a solid player at the beginning of the circuit, he’s fought his way all the way to the top 10 with consistent stellar performances. His patience combined with his preference for a scarcely used character gives him an edge over his opponents, and it’s rare to see a game where he doesn’t seem to be in control.
His rise was rudely interrupted by the end of season 2, and his offseason results at Frostbite have shown that he’s ready to continue the climb to the top in season 3.
#6 – MSB
Some players are so good at a character that they become synonymous with its name. MSB is one of those players, and THE Kragg player who’s helped pioneer the Rival to where he sits today. His insane recovery, edgeguards, and just all around consistent performances have brought him to a great spot in the rankings.
In addition to his high placings, MSB is also a fan favorite who’s willing to travel often and bring the hype. Recently he’s started to help lead a local scene (make sure you check out First Impact!) in addition to his Academy involvement. He’s a competitor who won’t be satisfied until he’s the best, so we’re looking forward to seeing him in season 3.
#5 – DolphinBrick
Tuxedo’s DolphinBrick is easily the best solo Orcane main in the game. He plays the character to perfection, mixing killer combos with tricky plays to defeat his opponents. He’s grown throughout the season and has taken wins over Ralph, MSB, FullStream, and more to confidently secure himself a spot among the greats.
In addition to his strong finishes this year, he’s also started to travel for more events which has certainly helped contribute to his growth and top 5 finish at Genesis 5. DolphinBrick is already booked for some of the biggest events this summer where he’s planning to go for the gold.
#4 – LBO
LBO is an explosive player with fast combos, exciting edgeguards, and a dominant playstyle. We mentioned players who are synonymous with a character earlier, and LBO should be the first on your mind when you think of Zetterburn.
Aside from being the coolest Zetterburn in the game (your Zetterburn probably wants to be LBO when he grows up) he’s also one of the co-founders of Tuxedo Esports. This team started with Rivals as their foundation and is continuing to grow within the FGC and other 1v1 games. LBO had a fantastic performance this year, overcoming some of his hurdles at live events to take himself to his highest heights yet.
#3 – MrLz
MrLz has a way with platform fighters, known far and wide in the PM, Melee, and Rivals of Aether communities. He doesn’t have many losses and his fundamentals combined with Maypul’s speed and punish game make it clear that he’s playing the game on a completely different level than most. His 3rd place at Genesis 5 this year along with his history have cemented his place among Rivals’ greats.
#2 – CakeAssault
Season one saw T2Esports’ CakeAssault prove that he had what it takes to compete with the best, and this year he brought his game to a whole new level. His first place finish at Shine and losers side win over FullStream at Genesis 5 have catapulted the young prodigy almost to the top of the competitive scene. CakeAssault’s mastery of Forsburn is unparalleled, and his playstyle makes any stock from almost any set look like something from a combo video. We can’t wait to see more of him in season 3!
#1 – FullStream
FullStream secures himself #1 for the second year in a row. With an insane amount of first place finishes around the country, he’s shown his dominance in almost every region and done it with multiple characters. His smart, optimal playstyle seeks to take advantage of his opponents and the game itself.
FullStream’s passion and skill have also landed him a spot on Panda Global where he plans to continue his Rivals dominance. We’ll have to wait and see where season 3 takes us since this is the first time he’s had people so closely at his heels!