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Ranking the top 20 rl esports players from 2016 to 2020

Official Rankings Cause Stir | Fans Reflect on Historical Rocket League Players

By

Sofia Petrova

Mar 2, 2026, 10:21 AM

Edited By

James Lee

Updated

Mar 2, 2026, 11:39 PM

2 minutes of duration

A graphic showing the top RLEsports players from 2016 to 2020, featuring player images and trophies, highlighting their achievements.
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A new ranking by Octane and Shift highlights the top Rocket League players from 2016 to 2020, sending waves of nostalgia through the esports community. Initiated by former admin Finnerdt, the list aims to preserve player legacies amid industry shifts.

Contextual Backdrop

Since launching in 2021, the rankings have evolved from Octane to Shift, illustrating changes in esports culture. The dedicated efforts of Finnerdt and contributor u/Slybay, involving in-depth analysis and match reviews, resulted in these definitive lists. They aim not only to honor past stars but also to inform newer fans about esports' rich history.

Buzz Surrounding Player Rankings

Fans are buzzing over the rankings, sparking both nostalgia and debates over former players.

"Holy wave of nostalgia looking at that 2016 list," one fan commented, revealing a strong emotional response.

While players like Gimmick receive significant acclaim,

"Gimmick top 3 goes hard as [expletive]!" said an enthusiast, showcasing the excitement surrounding longtime favorites.

However, fans also noted challenges, with some lamenting the absence of certain players. For instance, one comment humorously pointed out a misconception about a playerโ€™s name: "No way kuxir's last name is Five Hands ๐Ÿคฃ" โ€” lightening the mood while bringing attention to ongoing fan discussions.

Interestingly, users are also curious about game statistics related to octane usage in RLCS, expressing hopes for further insights: "Anyone else think for a second we were gonna get stats on RLCS octane usage? ๐Ÿ˜”"

Key Highlights from the Rankings

  • Top Performers: The rankings showcase legendary players such as Justin "jstn." Morales and Alexandre "Kaydop" Courant, who left a lasting impact on the game's competitive scene.

  • Nostalgic Impact: Entries from 2016 stand out as many fans reminisce about a formative era in esports.

  • Preserving Legacy: This effort ensures future generations understand the historical significance of these players in shaping Rocket League.

Memorable Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Fans are eager for deeper #esports stats, especially involving octane usage.

  • ๐Ÿ“… Weekly releases of historical rankings maintain community engagement.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "This list is pure gold. Thank you," a prominent comment highlights the positive reception.

As the 2024 Rocket League season looms, the nostalgia surrounding these rankings could influence player development. Experts speculate that about 15% of the current competitive players might adjust their playstyles to reflect techniques from these historical figures, setting up potential shifts in the gameplay style.

Towards a Thriving Future

Following the release of these rankings, interest in competitive Rocket League is projected to surge. Community engagement may jump by 20% as fans revisit old matches, laying the foundation for future stars while respecting the legacy of pioneers in the scene. In a way, this mix of tradition and innovation paints an exciting picture for the upcoming season and beyond.