Stevie Case began playing Quake, a highly influential first-person shooter, in the late 1990s, quickly gaining skill and notoriety. This was the initial stage of her gaming career.

Case gained significant attention when she defeated John Romero, a renowned game designer at Ion Storm, in a Quake match. This event, often referred to as the 'Killcreek' incident (named after her in-game handle), significantly raised her profile within the gaming community. It became a defining moment, showcasing her skill and leading to wider recognition.

Following the 'Killcreek' event, Stevie Case leveraged her newfound fame and skill to pursue a professional gaming career. She began participating in tournaments and competitions.