The gaming community thrives on unique slang and terminology. While some phrases evoke immediate nostalgia (like "Leeroy Jenkins!"), others, such as "C9," remain shrouded in mystery for many. This article delves into the origins and meaning of this enigmatic expression.

Table of Contents

• How Did the Term "C9" Originate?
• What Does "C9" Mean in Overwatch?
• Disagreements on the Definition of "C9"
• What is the Reason for the Popularity of "C9"?

How Did the Term "C9" Originate?

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Although prevalent in various hero shooters, particularly Overwatch 2, "C9's" roots lie in the original Overwatch, specifically in 2017. During Apex Season 2, Cloud9, a dominant team, faced Afreeca Freecs Blue. Despite their superior skill, Cloud9 inexplicably prioritized eliminating opponents over securing the objective on the Lijiang Tower map – failing to hold the point for the required time.

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This shocking display, repeated twice across subsequent maps, stunned commentators and spectators alike. Afreeca Freecs Blue capitalized on Cloud9's strategic blunder, securing an unexpected victory. This legendary moment, shortened to "C9" (from Cloud9's name), continues to be referenced in streams and professional matches.

What Does "C9" Mean in Overwatch?

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In Overwatch chat, "C9" signifies a fundamental strategic error by a team. It harkens back to the 2017 incident, typically occurring when players become overly focused on combat, neglecting crucial map objectives. By the time they realize their mistake, it's often too late, prompting the sarcastic use of "C9."

Disagreements on the Definition of "C9"

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The gaming community remains divided on the precise definition of "C9." Some consider any objective abandonment a "C9," such as failing to hold a position due to an enemy Sigma's "Gravitic Flux."

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Others emphasize the human element: forgetting the match's objective. Given the original incident, this interpretation aligns more closely with the event's context, where Cloud9, arguably unnecessarily, abandoned point control.

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Finally, some use "C9" playfully or to taunt opponents. Variations like "K9" or "Z9" exist, with "Z9" potentially a meta-meme, mocking the misuse of "C9."

What is the Reason for the Popularity of "C9"?

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Understanding "C9's" popularity requires recalling the context of Overwatch Apex Season 2. Cloud9, a powerhouse organization with teams across various esports titles, possessed a top-tier Overwatch roster, considered one of the strongest Western teams.

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Their unexpected defeat against the less prominent Afreeca Freecs Blue, due to a series of elementary errors, shocked the community. This surprising upset, occurring at the highest level of competition, cemented "C9" in gaming lexicon, even if its precise meaning sometimes gets diluted.

We hope this clarifies the meaning of "C9" in Overwatch. Share this with your fellow gamers!