Hu “SwordArT” Shuo-chieh Announces Retirement
Taiwanese League of Legends player Hu “SwordArT” Shuo-chieh has officially announced his retirement from professional esports through a heartfelt post on Weibo. At 28, SwordArT reflects on a remarkable career that has significantly shaped the landscape of competitive gaming, particularly in the League of Legends arena.
A Stellar Beginning
SwordArT embarked on his professional journey in 2013 with Gamania Bears. This initial team would eventually join forces to form the renowned Taiwanese outfit, Flash Wolves. With his aggressive support play style, SwordArT quickly established himself as a formidable player, instrumental in securing multiple domestic championships.
Dominance in the LMS
Between 2016 and 2018, SwordArT contributed to Flash Wolves’ unparalleled success, culminating in six consecutive League of Legends Master Series (LMS) titles. His performances led the team to impressive runs in international tournaments, showcasing not just his skill but also his strategic acumen.
A Key Contributor to International Triumphs
Following his tenure with Flash Wolves, SwordArT moved to Suning in the LoL Pro League (LPL). Here, he achieved what many consider the pinnacle of his career by guiding a relatively inexperienced squad to the grand finals of the 2020 League of Legends World Championship. This remarkable feat positioned Suning as a formidable contender on the global stage, and SwordArT’s role was pivotal in that achievement.
High-Profile Transition to North America
In a historic move, SwordArT transitioned to North America’s TSM, signing a record-breaking contract worth US$6 million, which at the time made him the highest-paid support player in the region. However, this new chapter proved challenging, with TSM unable to qualify for any major international events during his stay.
Later Career and Final Seasons
Following a disappointing season in North America, SwordArT returned to China, joining Weibo Gaming and later undertaking short stints with Anyone’s Legend and Ultra Prime. Despite these opportunities, he struggled to make a significant impact.
His final full season was spent with CTBC Flying Oyster, after which he helped Vikings Esports secure a commendable third-place finish in the League of Legends Championship Pacific (LCP) 2025 Season Kickoff.
Legacy and Impact
While the latter stages of SwordArT’s career may not have mirrored the success of his earlier years, his contributions to the esports community will not be forgotten. He is poised to be remembered as one of the greats in the support role, leaving an indelible mark on the League of Legends scene. His journey epitomizes the highs and lows of a competitive career, inspiring future generations of players to pursue excellence in esports.
