Austin Shin, better known by his gaming alias "Link," was born on May 11, 1984 in the vibrant state of California. Growing up in North Hills in southern California, Austin discovered his passion for gaming at a young age. From console games to arcade classics, he was drawn to the world of virtual competition.
In early 2012, Austin made his first foray into the world of professional gaming when he joined Orbit Gaming. This marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming a renowned player in the competitive gaming scene. After a brief stint at CLG Black, he caught the attention of Counter Logic Gaming and joined the team in December 2012 as a mid laner.
As "Link," Austin quickly made a name for himself as a formidable mid laner for Counter Logic Gaming. Known for his strategic gameplay and quick reflexes, he was a key player in the team's success. Throughout his career, he faced off against some of the top players in the League of Legends scene, showcasing his skills and dedication to the game.
In 2014, Austin had the opportunity to play as a substitute for Cloud9, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and talented player. Despite the challenges that came with being a professional gamer, Austin continued to push himself to new heights and strive for excellence in every match he played.
Alongside his gaming career, Austin also pursued higher education and enrolled at the University of California, Berkley. Balancing his academic responsibilities with his gaming commitments, he showcased his ability to excel in multiple areas and demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and development.
In May 2015, Austin made the decision to retire from professional gaming, marking the end of an era in his career. His retirement was met with mixed emotions, as fans and fellow players alike reflected on his contributions to the League of Legends community.
His departure was accompanied by a controversial 18-page open letter, in which he detailed his frustrations with the competitive gaming scene and his experiences with teammates, including a notable mention of Yiliang "Doublelift" Peng. Despite the challenges he faced, Austin's legacy as a skilled and dedicated player continues to inspire aspiring gamers around the world.
As Austin Shin transitioned into a new chapter of his life, he left behind a lasting impact on the eSports industry and a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.