Since joining MPL PH in 2024, the Northern Lights of Aurora Gaming have built a formidable reputation—regularly making the top four, securing two runner-up titles, and eventually adding an M-Series crown to their growing legacy. Central to that success were veteran champions Edward and Demonkite. But after a difficult campaign last season, and with Demonkite moving on and Edward hanging up his jersey, that legendary chapter is officially in the past.
The Start of a New Journey
On Thursday, Aurora Gaming PH officially ushered in their next era by revealing the two players tasked with filling those massive shoes: Kyle Shawn “Koyl” Reyes and Nathanael “Nathzz” Estrologo.
EXP laner Nathzz is no stranger to the local MLBB scene, bringing with him a five-year veteran résumé forged during his glory days with RSG PH. Alongside Demonkite and his now-reunited teammate Dylan “Light” Catipon, Nathzz conquered MPL PH Season 9 before carrying that momentum onto the international stage at MSC 2022. Following RSG’s disbandment, he took his talents to North America and made his mark there as well—headlined by a runner-up finish at MCT Amer 2026.
Jungler Koyl, on the other hand, makes his return to the domestic circuit following a dominant run in Cambodia. In just a single season with PRO Esports, he elevated the roster from mid-table contenders to MPL champions, eventually steering them to a respectable quarterfinal finish at MSC.
Aurora Gaming’s Road Back to the Top
There is one clear goal for Aurora Gaming right now: to return to championship form and defend their M-Series title. But doing so without two of their foundational superstars will be anything but simple—especially on the heels of last season’s unexpected slump.
Still, they have the pieces to make it work. M7 Finals MVP Light continues to anchor the squad as the roamer and captain, Jan “Domeng” Del Mundo remains one of the premier gold laners in the league, and Kenneth Carl “Yue” Tadeo provides a steady, proven presence in the mid lane. Combine that with the prowess of their new reinforcements, and they still have a team that can stand out in the league.
The challenge now for Aurora is to find their identity quickly. They need to build immediate team synergy and unleash their new duo’s full potential. While Koyl and Nathzz adapt, the rest of the squad will need to stay consistent.
Fortunately, both newcomers bring heavy firepower: Koyl has proven himself as a star on the international stage, and with the current meta fitting his style, he should be ready to shine brighter. Meanwhile, Nathzz adds championship pedigree, veteran maturity, and invaluable international experience. He should give the team a reliable frontline asset—making them even more dangerous.
