Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC – Part 2

We’re continuing our effort to highlight Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC, and we’re back with part 2. As we mentioned previously, the FGC has its own stars and community leaders whose names are legendary in the scene. These figures, whether through their exceptional gaming skill, their extraordinary contributions to the community, or their tireless efforts in fostering growth and inclusivity, have helped shape the FGC into what it is today.

However, it's essential to note that while this list aims to honor some of the most remarkable individuals within the FGC, the inherent subjectivity of such rankings means that many other influential figures may not find themselves among these fifty names. The FGC is diverse and expansive, teeming with talent and dedication at every level, and influence often extends beyond the boundaries of a list. This compilation serves as a tribute to those who have undoubtedly played a significant role in the growth and evolution of the Fighting Game Community, but it's important to remember that the impact of countless others is equally valuable and deserving of recognition.

Today, we have an FGC veteran, a half-mythical figure, Alex Valle, a person who helped perch Street Fighter back on top, Yoshinori Ono, everyone’s beloved TO and host, Joe "LI Joe" Ciaramelli, a YouTuber who revolutionized the FGC content, Gerald Lee, and THE voice of Street Fighter, Jeremy “Vicious” Mitchell. Congratulations!

Jeremy "Vicious" Mitchell

Starting his journey all the way back in Street Fighter 2, Jeremy “Vicious” Mitchell made his first step towards becoming one of the most acclaimed and prolific commentators in the FGC. His background as a competitive player, and love for talking about the games, has naturally transitioned into some of the best commentary that you could ask for. His wit and game knowledge make Vicious a welcome addition to any event, and even Capcom had to recognize his talent, immortalizing his accomplishment through the in-game live commentator feature.

Joe "LI Joe" Ciaramelli

An avid player turned tournament organizer. Joe "LI Joe" Ciaramelli is a heartwarming example of how good parenting gave rise to one of the FGC’s most lovable community figures. From the early days, Bill Ciaramelli fostered his son’s passion for video games, backing him up every step of the way. This pure enthusiasm for fighting games only grew over the years, with Joe eventually playing an important role in fostering the NA competitive scene, where he continues to share the love for both the games and the people who play them.

Alex Valle

The legend of the North American scene, Alex Valle is one of the first to leave a mark in the history of fighting game competition, fighting among the greats like Daigo, Choiboy, and Mike Wattson. His long history of achievement has inspired countless new players to join the community and try their own hand in fighting game. Both as a competitor and tournament organizer, he had a monumental role in elevating and fostering the fighting game community.

Yoshinori Ono

As a producer, Yoshinori Ono worked on countless Capcom titles from their early days, and all the way until Street Fighter V. His efforts helped to promote the franchise on a global scale, and put Street Fighter on a pedestal after its graceful comeback in 2008. More than anything, he helped to establish a link between Capcom and the Street Fighter community through his constant presence at important events, where everyone got to see his unbridled passion and  pose with the now iconic Blanka-chan doll.

Gerald Lee (Core-A)

Gerald Lee’s efforts on his Core-A channel have redefined the fighting game content on YouTube. What started with uploading notable matches, soon led to Gerald creating some of the most celebrated fighting game video essays out there. Thanks to his ability to analyze and explain complex topics in a succinct and comprehensive manner, has allowed hundreds of thousands of people to understand and appreciate fighting games on a much deeper level. However, his involvement with the FGC doesn’t stop there. Gerald is also a good commentator as well as tournament organizer, making him a person who is truly worth looking up to.

This is just the second part of our project. We will keep highlighting these shining personalities for ten weeks until the Top 50 is complete. And also, feel free to mention people who you think deserve to be applauded for their achievements alongside these esteemed stars! See you next Monday!