Norwegian legendary rifler Håvard “rain” Nygaard is leaving FaZe’s active lineup after almost a decade with the club. The player confirmed that he does not plan to retire and is open to new challenges, including the possibility of becoming an in-game leader.
FROM SYMBOL OF THE ROSTER TO THE BENCH
Rain joined FaZe in January 2016, when the organization entered CS:GO by acquiring G2’s roster. Since then, he has become the team’s symbol: the only consistent pillar in ever-changing lineups, winner of PGL Major Antwerp 2022, MVP of the same tournament, and holder of 18 LAN trophies.
During 3,540 days with FaZe, the Norwegian built a reputation as one of the most reliable entry players on the scene.
— Håvard Nygaard (@FaZe_rainCS) September 29, 2025
DECLINE IN RESULTS AND THE RETURN OF TWISTZZ
The decision for rain to leave looks strategic: in recent months the team has been struggling with results — a top-10 exit at the Esports World Cup 2025, losses to Falcons and Liquid at FISSURE Playground, and a poor showing at BLAST Open London. Rain shared his thoughts on the organization’s decision:
After 10 unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to FaZe Clan. And although FaZe has decided to go another direction, I am beyond proud of what we have achieved the past decade.
With Twistzz returning, FaZe aim to refresh their playstyle and regain flexibility in attack. Rain, however, has recently shown inconsistency — a 1.05 rating over 374 CS2 maps, K/D below 1.0, and clutch struggles (41/100).
WHAT AWAITS THE LEGEND NEXT
For the 31-year-old veteran, this moment may become a restart. The market lacks experienced players ready to take on leadership duties. Rain hints at his readiness to become an IGL — which opens new opportunities for him, from top-20 projects to more ambitious lineups in need of experience and discipline.
My journey in CS2 is far from over. I’m not retiring. I will keep competing and growing as a player. I’m open to offers for any role, and while stepping into the IGL role would be a new challenge for me, it’s one I’m eager to embrace.
His flexibility and years of background could make the Norwegian a valuable asset even beyond Tier-1.
FAZE SEEK STABILITY AFTER CHANGES
The current FaZe roster now looks like this: karrigan, frozen, broky, jcobbb, and the returning Twistzz. The Canadian rifler is expected to add firepower and stability to the team, but at the same time rain’s departure has deprived FaZe of a player who was considered the face of the organization and the symbol of its style. Ahead lies a difficult adaptation period, as FaZe must find a balance between old foundations and new ideas, and regain stability after a series of poor results. For management and the coaching staff, the priority will be the fast integration of Twistzz and building team chemistry that will allow the squad to fight for titles again.
A NEW CHALLENGE FOR THE PLAYER, A NEW COURSE FOR THE TEAM
Rain’s departure marks the end of an entire era in FaZe’s history and at the same time opens a new stage in his own career. The Norwegian is not leaving CS2 and has already declared his readiness to take on any role, including in-game leader responsibilities. This makes him one of the most intriguing options on the market for teams seeking an experienced and versatile player. For FaZe, this moment is a chance to renew themselves and prove that their strength was not limited to the presence of “Mr. FaZe Clan.” Whether they can confirm their top-team status without rain remains the key question of the coming months.
