Semmler becomes latest to leave Overwatch League 2020

Prominent caster Semmler revealed on Twitter he wouldn’t return for the upcoming season of the Overwatch League, paying thanks to his co-host Robert "Hexagrams" Kirkbirde.  

Taking to Twitter, Semmler wrote: “I will not be returning to cast full-time at @overwatchleague. The hard part is putting a 2 year partnership on hold.  

“Thanks to @hexagrams for having my back in all things. Too many in the crew to thank, you know who you are. Best of luck with the homestands! Time to GET AFTER IT.” 

Semmler has commented matches in the Overwatch League since its first season in 2018, having grown a significant following in the CS:GO scene. 

While he doesn’t state where he’s moving to next, Semmler was a commentator for the Blast Pro Series late last year, indicating he could be moving back to cast CS:GO full-time. 

A number of Overwatch League casters have departed ahead of the 2020 season, with some citing the management of the league as their reason for leaving.  

Erik "DoA" Lonnquist announced he wouldn’t return earlier this month, explaining: “Due to some of the League’s decisions over the last year in terms of creative direction, management, and resistance to input from veteran esports personal, I felt it was time for change.” 

His casting partner Christopher "Montecristo" Mykles was the first to confirm he wouldn’t return, followed by Chris Puckett who decided to go freelance after moving to New York.

Could Semmler return to the CS: GO scene? (Picture: Blizzard) 

So who is casting this year’s league? Brennon "Bren" Hook and Josh "Sideshow" Wilkinson have confirmed they will be stepping up, along with former pro Jake "JAKE" Lyon and Andrew "ZP" Rush.

The swift exit of many top casters however does raise concerns around the Overwatch League's future, but we’ll have to see if developer Blizzard can steady the ship once the action gets underway. 

The Overwatch League’s third season begins on 8 February.