As a Diamond 2 player with over 1,000 hours in Valorant, I’ve always been fascinated by the distinctive playstyles that emerge from different regions. Among the many organizations competing in the Pacific region, ZETA DIVISION stands out as Japan’s premier Valorant team, combining technical precision with the creative flair that has become a hallmark of Japanese tactical shooters. Their journey from domestic dominance to international contention represents one of the most compelling narratives in competitive Valorant.
ZETA DIVISION’s story is more than just competitive results—it embodies Japan’s growing presence in the global Valorant ecosystem. With a passionate fanbase, a distinctive tactical approach, and a commitment to developing domestic talent, ZETA has become a standard-bearer for Japanese esports on the international stage. Their evolution from regional competitors to Pacific powerhouse illustrates both the growth of Valorant in Japan and the organization’s strategic vision for sustained competitive success.
In this comprehensive analysis, I’ll take you through ZETA DIVISION’s Valorant journey—from their organizational history and roster evolution to their tactical approach and current competitive standing. I’ll also examine their recent roster change with TenTen stepping in for the injured Dep, and what this means for their immediate future in the VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1 competition. Whether you’re a dedicated ZETA fan, an enthusiast of Pacific Valorant, or simply curious about one of the scene’s most distinctive organizations, this deep dive will provide valuable insights into what makes ZETA DIVISION such a compelling competitive force.
The History of ZETA DIVISION

To understand ZETA’s current position in the Valorant landscape, we must first examine their organizational origins and competitive evolution.
ZETA DIVISION Organizational Foundations
ZETA DIVISION was established in 2020 as a Japanese esports organization with a vision to develop domestic talent across multiple competitive titles. The organization quickly identified Valorant as a strategic priority, recognizing the game’s potential to elevate Japanese esports on the global stage.
Key milestones in their early development included:
- Initial Formation: Establishing their Valorant division with promising Japanese talent
- Domestic Focus: Building a foundation through Japanese tournaments
- Brand Development: Creating a distinctive identity that resonated with Japanese fans
- Infrastructure Investment: Developing coaching and support staff to maximize player potential
This foundation provided the stability and resources needed for ZETA to evolve from a domestic competitor to an international contender.
ZETA DIVISION Pre-Franchise Era (2021-2022)
Before the establishment of the VCT Pacific partnership league, ZETA DIVISION competed in various regional and international tournaments:
- VCT 2021 Stage 1 Japan: Early domestic competition establishing regional presence
- VCT 2021 Stage 2 Japan: Continued development of team identity and tactical approach
- VCT 2021 Stage 3 APAC Playoffs: First significant international experience
- VCT 2022 Stage 1 APAC Challengers: Breakthrough performance qualifying for Masters Reykjavík
- VCT 2022 Masters Reykjavík: Historic international run reaching the semifinals
Their semifinal appearance at Masters Reykjavík 2022 represented a watershed moment for Japanese Valorant, demonstrating that the region could compete at the highest international level. This performance elevated ZETA’s profile and established them as Japan’s premier Valorant organization.
ZETA DIVISION VCT Pacific Partnership (2023-Present)
ZETA DIVISION’s acceptance into the VCT Pacific partnership program marked a significant milestone in the organization’s Valorant journey. This franchised league placement provided:
- Guaranteed top-tier competition: Regular matches against the best teams in the Asia-Pacific region
- Enhanced organizational stability: Long-term partnership benefits
- Increased resources: Greater investment in player development and support staff
- International pathway: Direct qualification routes to Masters and Champions events
The transition to franchise partnership brought both opportunities and challenges, as ZETA worked to maintain their position as Japan’s top team while competing against the Pacific region’s established powerhouses.
ZETA’s Roster Evolution

ZETA DIVISION’s roster has undergone several iterations throughout their competitive history, each reflecting the organization’s evolving strategic vision.
ZETA DIVISION The Foundation Roster
ZETA’s early roster centered around:
- Laz: Veteran tactical FPS player providing leadership and experience
- Dep: Mechanically gifted duelist creating space and securing entry frags
- crow: Flexible player adapting to team needs across multiple agents
- TENNN: Strategic support providing utility and team coordination
- Reita: Reliable anchor maintaining site control and trading effectively
This core established ZETA’s fundamental identity, combining mechanical skill with tactical discipline in a way that would define their approach to Valorant.
ZETA DIVISION, The International Breakthrough
The roster that achieved ZETA’s historic Masters Reykjavík semifinal run featured:
- Laz: Continued leadership with expanded agent pool
- Dep: Star duelist performance on the international stage
- crow: Tactical flexibility adapting to international meta
- SugarZ3ro: Enhanced firepower and aggressive playmaking
- TENNN: Supportive play enabling star performers
This lineup demonstrated ZETA’s ability to compete internationally while maintaining their distinctive Japanese identity and tactical approach.
ZETA DIVISION, Current Roster Evolution
ZETA’s roster has continued to evolve through the franchise era, with their current lineup featuring:
- SugarZ3ro: Veteran presence providing experience and consistency
- CLZ: Mechanical talent and playmaking ability
- SyouTa: Strategic support and utility maximization
- Xdll: Flexible player adapting to team needs
- Dep: Star duelist creating space and securing key frags (currently injured)
- TenTen: Temporary replacement for Dep bringing fresh duelist potential
This roster represents ZETA’s balanced approach to team building, combining veteran experience with emerging talent to create a competitive force in the Pacific region.
ZETA DIVISION, The TenTen Signing
ZETA’s recent signing of T1 Academy’s Kim “TenTen” Tae-young represents a significant development in their roster evolution:
- Injury Response: Addressing Dep’s shoulder impingement requiring recovery time
- Strategic Fit: Acquiring a dedicated duelist to maintain team balance
- Future Potential: Bringing in a promising talent with long-term upside
- Korean Connection: Adding a Korean player to their predominantly Japanese roster
TenTen’s background includes:
- T1 Academy Experience: Developing within one of Korea’s premier organizations
- Japanese Competitive History: Previous experience with NORTHEPTION and FAV gaming
- Family Pedigree: Younger brother of T1 star and Masters Bangkok MVP Meteor
- Duelist Specialization: Primary focus on aggressive entry agents like Jett, Raze, Yoru, and Neon
This signing demonstrates ZETA’s commitment to maintaining competitive strength while Dep recovers, with TenTen’s first appearance scheduled against TALON in a crucial VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1 match.
ZETA’s Tactical Identity and Playstyle
Throughout their Valorant journey, ZETA DIVISION has developed a distinctive tactical approach that blends Japanese creativity with fundamental tactical discipline.
Strategic Foundations
ZETA’s core strategic identity centers around:
- Coordinated Aggression: Synchronized pushes with precise utility usage
- Mid-Round Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to opponent responses
- Strong Trading Patterns: Disciplined refragging to maintain numerical advantage
- Creative Utility Usage: Unexpected ability combinations creating advantages
- Structured Post-Plant: Well-developed positions maximizing round conversion
This balanced approach has allowed ZETA to maintain competitive relevance through multiple meta shifts and roster iterations.
Agent Composition Preferences
ZETA has shown distinct preferences in their agent selections:
- Duelist Choices: Heavy reliance on Jett and Raze for entry, with Dep as the primary operator
- Controller Flexibility: Adaptable controller selections based on map and opponent
- Initiator Emphasis: Strong focus on information-gathering initiators
- Sentinel Utilization: Map-dependent sentinel selection including Sage on certain maps
With TenTen temporarily replacing Dep, we may see evolution in these preferences, potentially incorporating more Yoru and Neon compositions based on TenTen’s agent pool.
ZETA DIVISION Map Pool Strengths
ZETA has demonstrated varying levels of comfort across the map pool:
- Split Proficiency: Historically strong performance on the vertical-focused map
- Haven Comfort: Well-developed strategies for the three-site map
- Ascent Consistency: Reliable performance on the classic-styled map
- Sunset Development: Adapting to the newer map with mixed results
- Abyss Integration: Incorporating the underwater map into their pool
As the map pool continues to evolve, ZETA’s adaptability to new environments will be crucial for their competitive success.
Expected Tactical Evolution With TenTen
With TenTen stepping in for Dep, several tactical shifts may emerge:
- Duelist Approach: Potentially more diverse duelist agent selection
- Entry Patterns: Slightly different timing and positioning on initial engagements
- Ultimate Usage: Adaptation to different duelist ultimate abilities
- Team Communication: Adjustments to incorporate a Korean player into their system
The team’s ability to quickly integrate TenTen will be critical for maintaining competitive momentum during Dep’s absence.
ZETA in the Pacific Competitive Landscape
To fully understand ZETA’s position, we must consider them within the broader context of VCT Pacific competition.
Pacific Region Hierarchy
The VCT Pacific region has established a competitive hierarchy:
- Top Tier: Teams like T1, DRX, and Paper Rex consistently competing internationally
- Upper-Mid Tier: Organizations like ZETA DIVISION and Gen.G regularly challenging the top teams
- Mid Tier: Teams showing flashes of potential but lacking consistency
- Developing Tier: Newer franchise partners still building competitive foundations
ZETA has established themselves as a solid upper-mid tier team with the potential to challenge the region’s elite, though they’ve struggled to maintain the consistency needed for regular international qualification.
Comparative Roster Building Approaches
Different Pacific organizations have employed varying team-building philosophies:
- National Identity Focus: Teams like ZETA maintaining predominantly Japanese rosters
- Regional Blend: Organizations like Paper Rex combining talents from multiple Southeast Asian countries
- Korean Dominance: Teams like T1 and DRX leveraging Korea’s deep talent pool
- International Imports: Some teams incorporating talents from outside the Pacific region
ZETA’s approach has primarily emphasized Japanese talent development, though the TenTen signing suggests potential openness to strategic imports when necessary.
Competitive Ceiling and Limitations
Based on their historical performance and current roster, ZETA’s competitive outlook includes:
- Upset Potential: Demonstrated ability to defeat top teams on their best days
- Consistency Challenges: Difficulty maintaining peak performance across a full season
- International Experience: Valuable history of performing on global stages
- Regional Depth: Competing in one of Valorant’s most competitive regions
For context on how the Pacific region compares to other major regions, our analyses of VCT EMEA 2025 Stage 1 and VCT China 2025 Stage 1 provide valuable perspective on the global competitive landscape.
Key Players and Their Impact
Understanding ZETA requires examining the individual players who comprise the roster and their unique contributions to the team.
SugarZ3ro: The Veteran Anchor
As one of ZETA’s longest-standing members, SugarZ3ro brings valuable experience:
- Competitive History: Extensive experience including international tournaments
- Agent Proficiency: Mastery of multiple agent types adapting to team needs
- Clutch Capability: Strong performance in high-pressure situations
- Leadership Presence: Veteran guidance for younger teammates
SugarZ3ro’s stability provides ZETA with a reliable foundation, particularly valuable during roster transitions like the current TenTen integration.
CLZ: The Rising Star
CLZ represents ZETA’s new generation of talent:
- Mechanical Prowess: Exceptional aim and movement fundamentals
- Playmaking Ability: Creating high-impact moments that swing rounds
- Agent Flexibility: Adapting to multiple roles based on team needs
- Growth Trajectory: Continuing development into a potential star player
His recent performances have shown significant promise, suggesting he could develop into one of the region’s premier players with continued growth.
SyouTa: The Strategic Support
SyouTa provides crucial supportive elements to ZETA’s system:
- Utility Maximization: Creative and effective ability usage
- Information Gathering: Providing crucial intel for decision-making
- Space Creation: Enabling duelists through supportive utility
- Positional Discipline: Reliable positioning and trading
His contributions, while sometimes less visible on the scoreboard, are essential to ZETA’s tactical execution and team coordination.
Dep: The Sidelined Star
Though currently recovering from injury, Dep remains ZETA’s primary star:
- Duelist Excellence: Exceptional performance on entry agents
- Mechanical Ceiling: Among the highest individual skill levels in the region
- Clutch Factor: Delivering in high-pressure situations
- Team Identity: Central figure in ZETA’s competitive identity
His temporary absence due to shoulder impingement represents a significant challenge for ZETA’s immediate competitive prospects.
TenTen: The New Addition
As ZETA’s newest member, TenTen brings intriguing potential:
- Duelist Specialization: Primary focus on aggressive entry agents
- Agent Pool: Experience with Jett, Raze, Yoru, and Neon
- T1 Academy Development: Training within one of Korea’s premier organizations
- Japanese Experience: Previous competition with NORTHEPTION and FAV gaming
His successful integration will be crucial for ZETA’s performance during Dep’s recovery period, with his debut against TALON representing a significant test.
ZETA’s Coaching and Support Infrastructure

Beyond the players, ZETA’s competitive success is supported by a comprehensive coaching and support structure.
Coaching Staff
ZETA’s current coaching team includes:
- XQQ (Motoyama Hibiki): Head coach providing overall strategic direction
- Carlao (Carlos Mohn): Assistant coach supporting tactical development
- gya9: Analyst providing data-driven insights and opponent research
This multilayered approach provides players with comprehensive support for both individual development and team strategy.
Training Methodology
ZETA’s approach to player and team development includes:
- Structured Practice: Organized scrimmage schedules against quality opposition
- Individual Skill Development: Personalized training regimens addressing specific needs
- VOD Review: Detailed analysis of both team performance and opponent tendencies
- Mental Conditioning: Psychological preparation for high-pressure competitive situations
This holistic development system has enabled ZETA to consistently produce competitive rosters despite roster changes and meta shifts.
Player Wellness
ZETA’s handling of Dep’s injury demonstrates their commitment to player health:
- Medical Support: Providing proper treatment for his shoulder impingement
- Recovery Prioritization: Allowing appropriate time for healing and rehabilitation
- Transparent Communication: Clearly sharing information about the situation
- Competitive Continuity: Securing a suitable temporary replacement
This player-first approach reflects ZETA’s understanding that long-term success requires maintaining player health and wellbeing.
ZETA’s Fan Culture and Brand
Beyond competitive results, ZETA has built one of the most passionate fan communities in Pacific Valorant.
Japanese Fan Support
ZETA enjoys exceptional support from Japanese Valorant fans:
- Domestic Popularity: Status as Japan’s premier Valorant organization
- Cultural Connection: Representing Japanese competitive spirit internationally
- Player Accessibility: Fostering connections between players and supporters
- Content Engagement: Strong following across streaming and social platforms
This domestic support provides valuable momentum during both victories and challenges.
International Recognition
ZETA has also developed significant international following:
- Distinctive Identity: Unique tactical approach attracting global interest
- Reykjavík Legacy: Historic semifinal run creating lasting impressions
- Player Personalities: Charismatic team members connecting with global audiences
- Underdog Appeal: Representing a region historically underrepresented in FPS esports
This international recognition has established ZETA as one of the Pacific region’s most recognizable brands.
Content and Media
ZETA supports their competitive team with comprehensive content strategies:
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: Providing fans with glimpses into team operations
- Player Spotlights: Highlighting individual personalities and journeys
- Match Highlights: Celebrating competitive moments and achievements
- Strategic Insights: Sharing tactical concepts and approaches
For fans looking to connect with other ZETA supporters, Valorant Discord communities provide valuable platforms for discussion and engagement.
Current Competitive Standing and Future Prospects
ZETA DIVISION’s immediate focus is navigating VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1 during Dep’s absence, with long-term goals centered around international qualification and competitive growth.
VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1 Position
ZETA’s current standing in VCT Pacific includes:
- Mixed Results: Competitive performances with both victories and defeats
- Playoff Potential: Fighting for a Stage 1 playoff position
- Adaptation Challenge: Integrating TenTen while maintaining competitive form
- Crucial Upcoming Matches: High-stakes competition determining their Stage 1 fate
Their match against TALON represents a pivotal moment in their Stage 1 journey, with playoff implications and the added complexity of debuting a new player.
Short-Term Adaptation
ZETA’s immediate focus will be adjusting to Dep’s absence:
- TenTen Integration: Developing chemistry with their temporary duelist
- Strategic Adjustments: Adapting tactics to accommodate different playstyles
- Communication Development: Building effective in-game communication with a Korean player
- Role Refinement: Potentially adjusting other players’ responsibilities to support the transition
This adaptation period will be crucial for maintaining competitive momentum during Dep’s recovery.
Medium-Term Goals
Looking at the remainder of the 2025 VCT season, realistic objectives for ZETA include:
- Stage 1 Playoff Qualification: Securing a playoff berth despite roster challenges
- International Qualification: Competing for a Masters appearance once Dep returns
- Regional Standing: Establishing themselves among the top Pacific teams
- Tactical Evolution: Developing distinctive strategic approaches to the current meta
Achieving these goals would represent significant progress for an organization navigating unexpected roster challenges.
Long-Term Vision
ZETA’s broader organizational vision likely includes:
- International Contention: Establishing themselves as regular global competitors
- Japanese Valorant Development: Elevating the region’s competitive standing
- Brand Expansion: Growing their global fanbase through competitive success
- Legacy Building: Creating a lasting impact on Valorant’s competitive history
For organizations like ZETA, the franchise partnership represents not just current competitive opportunities but a platform for long-term esports development.
Comparative Analysis: ZETA vs. Other Pacific Organizations
Examining ZETA alongside other Pacific organizations provides valuable context for understanding their position and approach.
ZETA vs. DRX
Comparing ZETA to Korean powerhouse DRX:
- Tactical Approach: DRX’s methodical precision contrasts with ZETA’s more creative style
- Regional Talent: DRX’s all-Korean roster versus ZETA’s predominantly Japanese lineup
- International Results: DRX’s consistent global presence represents ZETA’s aspiration
- Organizational History: Both have established esports legacies across multiple titles
The gap between these organizations highlights the competitive hierarchy within Pacific Valorant and the challenges ZETA faces in their ascension.
ZETA vs. Paper Rex
Comparing ZETA to Southeast Asian powerhouse Paper Rex:
- Playstyle Contrast: Paper Rex’s aggressive, freestyle approach versus ZETA’s more structured play
- Regional Representation: Both organizations emphasizing domestic/regional talent
- International Success: Paper Rex’s global achievements represent a target for ZETA
- Fan Engagement: Both have built passionate fan communities with distinctive identities
These organizations represent different approaches to regional identity and tactical philosophy while both pursuing international recognition.
ZETA vs. T1
Comparing ZETA to Masters Bangkok champions T1:
- Competitive Standing: T1’s championship pedigree versus ZETA’s aspirational position
- Roster Philosophy: T1’s star-studded Korean lineup versus ZETA’s development approach
- Organizational Resources: Both backed by significant esports infrastructure
- International Ceiling: T1’s proven championship capability versus ZETA’s semifinal potential
This comparison illustrates the current gap between Pacific’s elite and ZETA’s competitive position, while TenTen’s connection to T1 (as Meteor’s brother) adds an interesting narrative dimension.
ZETA vs. MIBR
Comparing ZETA to MIBR Valorant Roster from the Americas region:
- Regional Representation: Both represent countries passionate about esports (Japan and Brazil)
- National Identity: Strong emphasis on domestic talent and cultural connection
- Competitive Standing: Similar positions within their respective regional hierarchies
- International Aspirations: Both working to translate domestic popularity into global results
This cross-regional comparison illustrates similar organizational positions despite geographic separation, with both teams balancing national identity with competitive ambitions.
Technical Analysis: ZETA’s In-Game Approach
Beyond roster moves and results, understanding ZETA requires examining their technical approach to Valorant.
Attack Strategies
ZETA’s offensive approach typically features:
- Information-Based Defaults: Methodical map control before commitments
- Coordinated Utility Sequences: Precisely timed ability combinations
- Mid-Round Adaptability: Willingness to pivot based on information
- Post-Plant Discipline: Well-organized positions after spike placement
With TenTen replacing Dep, we might see adjustments to their entry patterns and duelist utility usage based on his different agent preferences and playstyle.
Defensive Setups
On the defensive side, ZETA generally employs:
- Flexible Site Setups: Adaptable positioning based on opponent tendencies
- Information-Gathering Priority: Strong focus on early round intelligence
- Retake Coordination: Structured approaches to site retakes
- Ultimate Economy: Strategic usage of ultimate abilities for high-impact rounds
Their defensive approach has shown both strengths and occasional vulnerabilities, with coordination and trading being particular focuses for improvement.
Map-Specific Tendencies
ZETA’s approach varies across the map pool:
- Split: Strong vertical control and coordinated site hits
- Haven: Comfort with the three-site layout and mid control
- Ascent: Mid-focused control with disciplined site executes
- Sunset: Developing strategies with mixed results
- Abyss: Adapting to the underwater map’s unique dynamics
As the map pool continues to evolve, ZETA’s adaptability will be crucial for competitive success.
The Impact of Dep’s Injury and TenTen’s Integration
Dep’s shoulder impingement and TenTen’s signing represent a significant moment in ZETA’s competitive journey.
Understanding Dep’s Injury
Shoulder impingement represents a serious concern for professional players:
- Medical Implications: Inflammation and pain when raising the arm
- Gaming Impact: Significant hindrance to mouse movement and precision
- Recovery Timeline: General Manager PangTong’s estimate of two weeks before returning to work
- Competitive Return: Potentially longer before returning to stage competition
This injury highlights the physical demands of professional gaming and the importance of player health management.
TenTen’s Background and Potential
TenTen brings an intriguing profile to ZETA:
- T1 Academy Development: Training within one of Korea’s premier organizations
- Japanese Competitive Experience: Previous time with NORTHEPTION and FAV gaming
- Agent Versatility: Experience across multiple duelists including Jett, Raze, Yoru, and Neon
- Familial Connection: Brother of T1 star Meteor, suggesting strong gaming genetics
These factors suggest potential for successful integration, though competitive pressure and communication challenges remain significant considerations.
Short-Term Adaptation Challenges
ZETA faces several immediate hurdles:
- Communication Adjustment: Incorporating a Korean player into their system
- Playstyle Differences: Adapting to TenTen’s entry patterns and positioning
- Strategic Familiarity: Ensuring TenTen understands ZETA’s tactical approach
- Team Chemistry: Building rapport and trust under competitive pressure
How quickly these challenges can be addressed will significantly impact ZETA’s performance during Dep’s absence.
Long-Term Implications
Beyond the immediate situation, this development could have lasting effects:
- Injury Management Protocol: Establishing better prevention and treatment processes
- Roster Flexibility Consideration: Potential value of maintaining a six-player roster
- International Roster Openness: Possibly greater willingness to consider non-Japanese players
- TenTen’s Future Prospects: Opportunity to showcase skills on a bigger stage
These broader implications could influence ZETA’s approach to roster construction and player management moving forward.
Conclusion: ZETA’s Ongoing Evolution
ZETA DIVISION stands at a fascinating crossroads in their Valorant journey. With Dep’s temporary absence and TenTen’s integration, the organization faces immediate competitive challenges while maintaining their long-term vision of establishing Japan as a significant force in global Valorant. Their predominantly Japanese identity, distinctive tactical approach, and passionate fan support have made them one of the Pacific region’s most compelling teams, regardless of results.
The coming weeks will test ZETA’s adaptability and resilience as they navigate VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1 with a modified roster. TenTen’s debut against TALON represents not just an important match for their playoff aspirations but a crucial moment in their seasonal narrative. His successful integration could provide valuable roster depth and tactical flexibility, while struggles could create significant competitive challenges during Dep’s recovery.
Looking beyond this immediate situation, ZETA’s commitment to Japanese Valorant development and their established international pedigree suggest continued relevance in the Pacific competitive landscape. Their historic Masters Reykjavík semifinal run demonstrated their ceiling on the global stage, while their consistent presence in Pacific competition has established them as regional mainstays.
For fans of Pacific Valorant, ZETA remains one of the region’s most distinctive and engaging teams—a blend of Japanese esports tradition, creative tactical approaches, and international ambition. Their journey embodies the broader narrative of Japanese Valorant: growing infrastructure, increasing competitive relevance, and the persistent pursuit of global recognition.
As a Diamond 2 player who’s studied professional Valorant extensively, I believe ZETA has the organizational foundation and competitive potential to weather this temporary challenge and emerge stronger. Their balanced roster, experienced coaching staff, and established tactical identity provide a strong foundation for adaptation and growth. Whether they can translate these assets into consistent international qualification remains one of the most compelling storylines in Pacific Valorant.
The road ahead for ZETA is neither certain nor easy, but the organization’s resilience and commitment to excellence suggest they’ll remain a significant force in Pacific Valorant regardless of immediate results. For Japanese Valorant fans and neutral observers alike, ZETA’s evolution will be one of the most fascinating narratives to follow in the coming months.
– Jackober, Diamond 2 Valorant Player