Los Angeles, August 7, 2023 – The highly anticipated Valorant Champions 2023 tournament has officially begun, with the first set of games taking place today. Before the intense battles on the battlefield commenced, Riot Games hosted a press conference that gathered representatives from each of the sixteen participating teams. Strafe, one of the esteemed media outlets, was present at the event to ask probing questions and gain insight into the minds of the competitors.
Valorant Champions: The Toll of a Grueling Season
The first question was directed towards Natus Vincere, whose strenuous journey through various Valorant tournaments this year earned them a reputation for being the hardest-working team. NaVi doombr0s openly acknowledged the toll that their packed schedule had taken on the team. « Of course it will affect our performance, » he admitted. « It has taken a toll on us, but you have to make the best out of the situation. »
Their journey began with participation in the LOCK//IN tournament, followed by the VCT EMEA regular season and playoffs, VCT Masters Tokyo, and finally the VCT EMEA LCQ, which secured their spot in Valorant Champions 2023. The sheer number of matches and tournaments undoubtedly presented challenges for the team.
Facing Tough Competition
NaVi doombr0s also shared his insights about the competition within their group, comprising DRX, Team Liquid, and LOUD. Despite the challenging lineup, he didn’t single out any specific team as the toughest opponent. « Every team’s goal coming into the tournament is to win the whole thing, so that means you have to beat every team in the tournament, » he asserted.
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He predicted that DRX would likely have a favorable path through the group stage, while expressing skepticism about Team Liquid’s prospects. However, his primary focus remained on NaVi’s own performance: « I don’t really fear anyone, I am not really sure who will go through, I just know we have to do our best and we have to win against anyone. »
Adapting to Familiar Rivals
The conference also provided an opportunity to address past rivalries. EDG AfteR of EDG shared his thoughts on facing Paper Rex once again, a team that had eliminated them from previous international tournaments. He revealed that their main focus was on improving their mentality and adapting their strategies to counter Paper Rex’s aggressive playstyle. This time, EDG hoped to leverage their own strengths to turn the tide in their favor.
Roles and Flexibility
For PRX f0rsaken of Paper Rex, the topic shifted to personal preference and versatility. He explained that he preferred the flex role because it suited his playstyle well and allowed him to adapt to various in-game situations. His flexibility enabled him to support his teammates effectively, which was crucial for the team’s overall success.
Valorant Champions: Facing Giants with A Different Playstyle
The Giants’ Nukkye fielded a question about the team’s approach to facing aggressive teams with a playstyle that deviates from the EMEA norm. He reassured that the team’s game plan was designed to handle precisely such opponents, demonstrating their adaptability and strategic preparation.
Valorant Challenger's Mentality and Learning
FPX BerLIN from FunPlus Phoenix offered insights into their approach as newcomers to international competition. He mentioned that they considered themselves learners, eager to gain knowledge from their experienced counterparts. The lack of excessive pressure allowed them to focus on improving their strategies and tactics to compete at the highest level.
Overcoming Fatigue and Stress
Natus Vincere’s ANGE1 addressed the issue of fatigue from their busy schedule, acknowledging that it could impact their performance. However, he expressed confidence that once they stepped onto the stage, the excitement of the competition would overshadow their weariness.
Newcomers Embrace the Stage
The press conference also featured a discussion with BLG whzy from Bilibili Gaming, one of the newcomers to the international scene. Whzy voiced their excitement to perform on the global stage and share victories with their fans. Their aspirations to succeed were clearly fueled by the enthusiasm of the crowd.
A Glimpse into Valorant Champions 2023
The Valorant Champions 2023 Pre-Event Press Conference provided a captivating look into the minds of the competitors, as they shared their thoughts on preparation, challenges, and expectations for the upcoming battles. With a variety of perspectives, strategies, and goals, the tournament promises an electrifying showcase of skill and determination as the teams vie for the coveted title of Valorant Champions.
