With professional season 2018 in full swing, the world of Dota 2 has become quite exciting recently. However, today, it seems things have taken a turn for the worst, as one of the most popular Dota 2 casters has officially come out with an announcement regarding his retirement. It is a sad day for all Dota 2 fans. Ben “Merlini” Wu has stepped down from his role as Dota 2 caster and analyst.

Merlini has been one of the most famous Dota 2 casters. With him also having a career in the professional Dota 2 with teams like SK Gaming and EG, the North American caster had quite the support in the community. Merlini has had incredible plays with some Dota 2 heroes during his professional career. However, his Zeus is still remembered to this day. It is because of that he is sometimes referred to as the M-God.

I have no further intents to cast/analyze Dota 2. I have decided that at this juncture in my life, casting does not align with what I want from my future. I am a bit sad, but we must keep forward facing. Big thanks to all who have supported me, especially when times were tough! — Ben Wu (@MerliniDota) February 13, 2018

However, it is time to bid farewell to the North American caster as he no longer wishes to continue his casting career for Dota 2. According to the announcement, Merlini states that the Dota 2 casting scene is quite unpredictable which can cause problems for his future. Though he still loves Dota 2, and the entire community, the uncertainty of the career was something that he did not like. Hence, to put it short, Merlini has officially resigned from the casting role and is in search of something more permanent.

“What if talent starts undercutting other talent and I get paid less, despite Dota 2 increasing in popularity and mounting prize pools? What if organizers start saying, “hey, we’re going to cut your rates in half.” What power do I have to say no? I *can* say no, but then I’m not making any money. The opportunity cost of me not going is huge. I can maybe stream in the meantime, or do some amateur casts, but that’s only a temporary solution for a paltry paycheck. And this is tier 1 talent, mind you.”

However, those of you who think this is just a cover-up for something, we have some more news for you. In a tweet, Merlini mentions about a couple of things, including the details on him rescinding from GESC and Streaming. Plus, he takes one step further to tell his fans that he does not have a job at Valve. So, it is clear. M-God is out!

There is a little more to the story regarding Merlini and his future prospects. Check out Ben Wu’s official Reddit post. That is it for now. Before we sign off, we have one more thing to say.

Farewell M-God. You Will Be Missed :’(