Category Archives: Interviews

Sgamer interviews LongDD after his DK to TongFu transition

Dotaland note: Heartfelt responses from LongDD. Some insight into DK as they went from invincible to merely great over the past year and a half. He puts team and friendship first… And some questions on him and his new team, TongFu.

Original: http://dota.sgamer.com/201210/news-detail-151908.html

SG: Thank you to LongDD for doing this exclusive interview with SGamer.com. Let’s talk first about what happened with DK, when did you learn that you had been taken off the team?

LongDD: After Seattle, about half a month into my break time back at home I received notice from the team lead.

SG: After Seattle, there had always been talk that DK would make roster changes, but it always only involved Zippo, were you a bit surprised when you got the notice?

LongDD: Before it happened I had no idea at all that I’d be taken off the team, so after I got the notice I was really sad and disappointed.

SG: At the time were there any thoughts of giving up on professional play?

LongDD: Yes there were, but they were gone in an instant.

SG: Then what is your reasoning for continuing on professionally?

LongDD: It’s hard to put into words a lot of the reasons, but regardless, I will go on playing professionally, unless I one day feel that my ability can no longer keep up.

SG: In the past you were once said to be one of China’s best Dota players, what do you think is your level of ability now in the domestic scene?

LongDD: In Dota2 I feel that I still have a lot of room for growth, and also I feel that I can be pretty satisfied with my performances at TI2, I don’t feel I made any major mistakes; at LAN events the most important things are experience and consistency.

SG: At the end of 2011, DK had been undisputed kings of China for over half a year, yet recently have dropped consecutive championships, is this because problems have cropped up within the team, or is it because of playing different versions of the game?

LongDD: I think it’s because last year’s accomplishments affected the team, there’s a missing sense of urgency and desire.

SG: Even a 1 million dollar prize isn’t enough to ignite your desire?

LongDD: No, this was only previously. More recently, everyone was putting a lot of work in for the 1 million dollars, but there wasn’t enough time. During our time in Beijing, our internet wasn’t ideal for a time, and it was only after we returned to our Yunnan team base that things got better.

SG: We heard that in the ACE Pro League, DK’s poor performances came from the fact that you purposely lost so you could head back to your Yunnan base earlier, is this real?

LongDD: No, we took it very seriously, it was only because our training conditions etc in Beijing were really not ideal, so our form was really poor.

SG: After winning Season 2 of G-league in 2011, you said your goal for the future was to win a competition Grand Slam (win each major tournament) alongside BurNing, do you have any regrets about not being able to do that now?

LongDD: I am pretty sad about that, I hope BurNing can continue his glory with DK, and I will focus on doing my best with TongFu.

SG: What is the deepest memory you have from DK?

LongDD: In my career, DK has been a team that I’ve had an enjoyable time with, in my heart it’s like a big family, and outside of training things are very lively too.

SG: Why isn’t it a memory of winning a certain championship? Because it’s been nearly 2 years since you have won anything.

LongDD: My first reaction was what I responded with, last year winning a lot certainly made me very satisfied, I was very happy. Thank you to my friends at DK, these were the accomplishments of everyone’s hard work. But, [in the end] I care more about those things that I might not have with other teams.

SG: In the end how did you come to choose TongFu?

LongDD: I was already pretty familiar with some of TongFu’s members, and we all get along well.

SG: Now there’s a question, who plays the 3 position?

LongDD: This hasn’t been decided yet, we’ll adjust based on training, it could be me, previously in DK I had filled in in that role before too.

SG: Have you trained together yet? How were the results?

LongDD: Not yet, the team base has just been settled today, training has to wait until tomorrow to begin.

SG: By your current understanding of your new teammates, how long will it be until you produce results?

LongDD: This is something that will depend on the degree of familiarity we achieve, it might be until the next interview with you that I can give you an answer.

SG: Do you think you’ll achieve what you want?

LongDD: I hope for a championship this year, or to make it into the finals of two competitions.

SG: How about you say some things to cap off this interview?

LongDD: Thank you to everyone for your continuous support, I will continue to do my best!

Sgamer’s interview with Tobi post TI2

Dotaland note: I did not do this translation, this is a repost of English version text direct from Sgamer’s interview with Tobi —  so readers who are interested but can’t navigate Sgamer effectively can check it out now! Their English text isn’t the absolute best, but it saves me a little bit of work, which helps because I got my wisdom teeth out a few days ago and have been recovering. 🙂

Original English interview here: http://dota2.sgamer.com/news/201210/147347_4.html

Original Chinese interview here: http://dota2.sgamer.com/news/201210/147347.html

Q：Hi, Tobi Wan. Thanks for accepting the SGamer-DOTA2’s exclusive interview. First, please say hello to our fans.
Tobi：Greetings to all from Berlin

Q：We planed to make an interview with you in TI2. But on the last day, you had made commentaries for all matches before finals. So we decide to make a text interview with you.You must have seen the “Long live the international”,can you share your TI2 experience with us?
Tobi：My International experience was as always enjoyable. Had a very different feel to last years TI2, was alot more professional, the quality of play was higher and overal it was just a better event. For me I always love LAN events because I get to meet up with all the people I talk so much to online and meeting them in person for the first time.

Q：Although Chinese teams start DOTA2 later than EU, But the first six are all Chinese except Na’Vi, how do you thlnk of it?
Tobi：I have a large respect for the chinese scene and focus that comes from the players in it, it is alot more intense and professional that europe and america and alot of parts of south east asia. If I was expecting China to be that strong, in a way I was and in a way I hoped that europe and the US would perform alot better than they did as my hope at all events and in all casts is for close games that are entertaining to cast.

Q：The great finals between Na’Vi and iG is very impressive,can you comment the great finals and the two teams’ preformance and stratagy for us?
Tobi：I would like to say the strategy did not revolve around Naga and Morphling but it is sad to say that it did as both heroes cause a very passive game style that brings a level of secruity (which is obviously why the strategy was so popular during such a big event) that does really let alot of players skills shine in the heat of combat.
iG for me was always a favourite going into this competition and luckily there were some places the recording my prediction for the Grand Final teams, where I said iG would get into the finals as they are such a dynamic team that can adapt when pushed, and their opponent would be Na’Vi as alot of teams couldn’t adapt to their ‘randomness’, the only question around Na’Vi was if their random style would work and if they would synergise enough as a team to pull off the strat. Which they did against iG and LGD, but the power of iG and their ability to read Na’Vi (also with the help of the safe draft) made it their Grand Final to loose, which they did not obviously.

Q：Puppey picked NA in the last tournment, do yo know the reasons for his choice?
Tobi：We talked to puppey after TI2 about it and his reasoning was to use the ‘Spiked Carapace’  to counter the harrassment of KOTL in the lane.

Q：If you can build a allstar ream, which players(five) would you choose?
Tobi：There are just so many amazing players out there it is impossible for me to assemble a team that I would be happy with as there would be so many people I just could not choose between. Hence I never really have an answer when I am asked this question.

Q：Many EU teams changed the list or rebuilded their team after TI2,such as M5, AL, Darer, Mouz.Which one do you think is more promising？
Tobi：It is difficult to say who is the strongest team atm in EU and well as the US mainly because alot of the top teams as you said have rebuilt so they are having issues finding what works as a squad and the squads which have stayed together are on holidays or just burnt out after the Interntional.
The teams which have got back on their feet fast are Empire and Moscow 5 for Europe, there are only a few teams that are coming close to them atm and that would be the newly designed Quantic and Evil Geniuses. We will see over the next few weeks alot more teams reveal themselves and then all of this will change.

Q：Well, our community fans have some questions to ask you, some of then are very funny, are you ready to answer?
Tobi：Always ready for the community 🙂

Q：You commentary is full of passion, could you tell us how do you protect your throat?
Tobi：Since I was a young boy I have been singing, on stage and off and through that I learnt a thing or two about how my voice functions and have found ways to express my excitement without destroying my voice. There is of course the times when the excitement is too much and you push yourself too far, but I am happy when that happens because it means I am casting amazing games.

Q：You always make commentary stay up late. Do you drink sports drinks? If so, which one?
Tobi：I used to live on redbull for a while and realised it was actually harder to get through the night if I drank it early so I found the best thing you can drink is NesTea and Powerade and when you start to drop too far then you crack open the redbull.

Q：You always have dark circles, is it your girlfriend’s masterpiece?:D
I am catching up on sleep for the 4yrs I wasn’t paid to cast, and even now I don’t get alot of sleep mainly because my brain is so wired after I cast that it is impossible to just lay down in bed and fall asleep. As for the girlfriend, no I don’t have one and if I did maybe I would have a reason to go to sleep earlier.

12.The music you played before matchs are all very awosome, can you tell us these music’s names?

Alot of people ask me for my playlists and all of my music comes from youtube, I normally just type in ‘dance mix’ or ‘epic music’ and find alot of my stuff. The other pieces of music are just favourite songs from my teenage years like ‘blink182’, ‘Infected Mushroom’ and ‘Regurgitator’ to name just a few. Oh, and there is always space for some Kpop.

13.Who do you like most to make commentary together??

syndereN is always going to be one of my favourite choices but I have enjoyed casting recently with Wagamama and Draskyl. I like casting with anyone that is capable of adding more depth to my broadcast but can also have fun while doing so.

14.Do you like Chinese girls? If you have chance, do you want to make commentaries in China?

I actually got to travel around China last year and really China is next to Singapore for the most beautiful girls in the world is just a shame they don’t live here in Berlin with myself. I would love to travel to china to commentate but I fear my english would be lost on the crowd.

15.How many wins do you have on DOTA2 so far? Which hero are you most good at?

I am on my way to 400 wins in DOTA2, but really I haven’t played that many games as I cast most of the time. I actually have clocked 2100 hours in the game and when I wasn’t casting I was spending most of that time playing my well known ‘Crit natures prophet’.

16.Thanks for your time. Any shoutouts you would like to make before we conclude the interview?

Would like to say hello to everyone who watches my stream in China, for all those people who come up to me at LAN events and say hello, to all the boys who work behind the scenes at http://www.joinDOTA.com and to everyone who loves the game we play.

Interview with LGD.xiao8 post TI2

Original: http://dota.replays.net/page/20120929/1731493.html

Short interview with xiao8, gives a bit of insight into LGD, etc.

Interviewer: Hello xiao8, thank you for doing this interview. LGD has a lot of fans, go ahead and say hi to everyone.

xiao8: Hello everyone, I am LGD team’s xiao8.

Interviewer: Lately you haven’t had much in terms of competition, is LGD as a whole on break? What have you been busy with?

xiao8: Yes, after ACE everyone’s been on break, probably all spending time with friends, girlfriends, and family.

Interviewer: TI2 has just ended recently, and after going undefeated in the group stages, LGD ended up losing to iG, and then shortly after that lost to iG again in the ACE finals. For LGD, this must have been quite sad, what kind of analysis or reflection did LGD do as a team afterwards?

xiao8: We failed to maintain our own form, so our execution ended up being worse than the other team.

Interviewer: What gave you the biggest impression in TI2, did you meet IceFrog, and was he as tall and handsome as legend has it?

xiao8: I did meet him, he is indeed pretty good looking

Interviewer: This time at TI2, matches were very clustered together in the loser’s bracket, resulting in many teams needing to play a lot of games each day, is this something you feel needs to change?

xiao8: The organizers must have their reasons for this arrangement, and I don’t feel changes are needed, though it certainly challenges the players.

Interviewer: Do you have any hopes for the next International, or anything to say to your opponents for next time?

xiao8: Do my best to play well, so there is no reason to feel regret.

Interviewer: According to rumor, G-league will be picking up Dota2 officially very soon, and it looks like there will be more and more Dota2 competitions coming up. Will you guys be focusing more on Dota2? Talk a bit about differences between Dota 1 and Dota 2.

xiao8: We’ll look at which version has more competitions here in China, and we’ll focus training on that. As for Dota2, it’s relatively easier to new players to learn. For professional players, it feels like it’s a game with faster pace.

Interviewer: Before, as a Three Kingdoms (a Dota-clone based on Chinese Three Kingdoms lore) player you had already achieved fame, then what was it that brought you to Dota and ultimately become a professional Dota player?

xiao8: Because originally there were some top Three Kingdoms players that switched to Dota, and got some good results, so I also wanted to give it a try and see if I could do it.

Interviewer: Since joining LGD, Sylar has made big strides forward, and now is ranked amongst the top three big carries alongside Zhou and Burning. What do you think are his relative strengths and weaknesses compared to the other two?

xiao8: In terms of strengths, he’s younger, and has very good mechanics. In terms of weakness, he needs to continue working on mentality.

Interviewer: After ZSMJ retired, how was it that you came across Sylar and ultimately invited him to join LGD?

xiao8: Back when ZSMJ retired, we were just about to recruit as well. Sylar also was interested in joining, so we eventually came to an agreement.

Interviewer: In LGD, who ladders the most on 11 (Dota1 matchmaking service)? Who has the most ladder points? What does LGD do for fun in their spare time?

xiao8: I can’t recall… everyone’s about the same… I have over 2300 points. Because of training, I often need to quit halfway through a ladder match… the points loss is hard. As for stuff in spare time, there’s KTV, gym, basketball, etc, a bit of everything…

Interviewer: What is your favorite hero in Dota, why?

xiao8: Sniper… he looks simple, but to play him well is quite hard.

Interviewer: From Three Kingdoms to Dota, xiao8 can be considered an old player, have you ever considered retirement?

xiao8: Not yet, at least until after next year’s International.

Interviewer: Has playing professionally brought added pressure from friends and family, do you get much time every year with family?

xiao8: There’s not much time with family, but they’re all very supportive of me, and will even watch some of my matches… though they don’t know what’s going on..

Interviewer: Who do you think is most good looking in LGD, who is the best solo player?

xiao8: This is really hard to say, we each have our own style… there’s all kinds (I’m the kind that tries to act cool). As for best solo, it’s whomever is playing solo more at the time, I think.

Interviewer: Apparently Captain 8 you already have a girlfriend, what kind of girl do you prefer?

xiao8: Yes, and I like girls a little chubbier!!!

Interviewer: Thank you to xiao8 for the interview. We hope LGD will continue posting good results. Do you have any words for your fans?

xiao8: Thank you for all the continued support for LGD, thank you to our sponsors LGD, Taobao, and Razer. We will work even harder to repay all of you.

Replays.net interviews MIK, PLU commentator

Original: http://dota2.replays.net/news/page/20120926/1730999.html

Chinese caster, vod maker, MIK answers some questions. She talks a bit about Dendi, a life of Dota, Dota2 vs Dota1, and more.

Replays.net (RN): Hello MIK, very glad that you could do this interview with us. Why don’t you introduce yourself a bit, surely you have many fans who want to get to know more about you.

MIK: Hello everyone, I am that lively and cheery Mik, I am also just a normal Dota player, and in the future I will certainly see everyone plenty, so I hope that you all can support me.

RN: Cheerful gals are just what everyone likes! Okay, let’s talk about your Dota and Dota2 experiences. A girl this cute must have lots to talk about in Dota experiences. (Dota, Dota2 happenings, interesting bits, etc)

MIK: I feel that, to me, Dota is very important. I remember there once was a saying, “Lonely women wear stockings, lonely men play Dota”… well what am I if I both wear stockings and play Dota?! Haha, playing Dota has let me meet a lot of friends, such as Xiaojian (caster, vod maker), such as Dendi. I’m sure many people have similar experiences, playing full pre-made games with friends having a lot of fun. In the past playing on VS, I didn’t really care about levels, didn’t really level up to get into higher ranked rooms. Instead we made countless smurf accounts to continuously beat on newbs (speaking of this, suddenly I realize how evil I was). So all along, there have been too many precious memories, and this is why I am so dedicated to Dota.

RN: “Let’s be lifelong friends, and play a life of Dota!” – this is MIK’s motto. The girl who says this phrase, by my view, must be someone who has made a lot of friends through Dota, and must have considerable love for the game. So how about MIK you give your own understanding of this phrase for us?

MIK: I’m sure this phrase reflects the hearts of many Dota players as well. Dota brings to us not only fun and excitement, or the joy of playing with a full pre-made team of friends; moreso, as a team game, it brings a type of emotion, no matter win or lose many people will have their own little teams that they go through everything with, and this is a process that is irreplaceable. So when I found that more and more players are leaving Dota, it was quite a bitter feeling. This phrase, then, is also a call to all players past and present, hopefully we all stand together with MIK, and continue our Dota beliefs.

RN: Yeah, we definitely will continue on. This is our generation’s great mission! I think, then, that MIK’s choice to do casting and vods for Dota2, Dota1’s official successor, reflects your desire for Dota to reach more people. Talk a bit about your thoughts on Dota2, what are some differences from Dota1?

MIK: Dota2 is still closed to the public here in China. So my work in doing vods is targeted towards exposing more players to Dota2, and of course the hope is that more people see it and as a result gain more interest in Dota2. At the same time, I also hope to gain some recognition and support from everyone, and this way I can create even more value.

RN: Indeed as MIK says, Dota2 is not very widespread right now, yet players have unmistakeable fervor for this legendary status sequel, and Seattle’s International has pushed this even higher. We’d like to know, how does MIK rate Dota2, and what are your thoughts on its future?

MIK: The International in Seattle, whenever it’s brought up I’m sure people will think immediately to the million-dollar prize. This time with five Chinese teams making the trip across the Pacific Ocean, it was a very heart-lifting sight to see. From the group stages to the loser and winner brackets, it let us fans thoroughly enjoy ourselves. This time in Seattle has also promoted Dota2 very well, I truly believe that Dota2 will create a huge market for itself in China. Dota2’s graphics and attention to detail are touching, and IceFrog’s has put a lot of dedication into it and has improved the game over and over for players. As a Dota player I’ve personally undergone the transition to Dota2, so my hope is that everyone also continues to patiently wait for Dota2 to go open, it will absolutely not let you all down. Today, we can only hope that all of us stay put and wait, those of you that have left we hope you sometimes come back home to visit. Here, this is real esports!

RN: Now you’re doing first person vods for Dota2, and as your contribution to Dota2 promotion, we’re sure that many players will come back home because of you! Tell us your favorite team, and your favorite player.

MIK: There isn’t a single favorite, because in my eyes, all players are really the same. Including professional players. I do have a liking for PCT (former EHOME) because he will always play with me, and not avoid me because I’m bad, and often gives me helpful tips, so I’m very thankful to him. Apart from that, NaVi’s Dendi and LightofHeaven, they’re both very friendly and warm, and in the future if there’s a chance I’d like to collaborate with them in putting out some vods.

RN: Wow! These are all big players! I’m envious and jealous! Surely with the help of these players, your vods will continue improving. We look forward to the collaboration!

MIK: Yeah, to have everyone’s recognition and support is my biggest motivation

RN: For sure! You will not lack for motivation! I remember your last Windrunner vod, MIK you said that this is your favorite hero, can you say why you like her so much?

MIK: Haha. When I first played Dota, my friends would all have me play heroes that wouldn’t die easily, such as Windrunner’s Windrun, Morphling’s Wave, Anti-mage’s Blink, and over time, I took a liking to Windrunner, and slowly gained my own understanding of her. When I first came to Dota2, to make the transition easier with a familiar model, I picked Windrunner and played her endlessly. -.- And then afterwards, playing other heroes became much easier, so Windrunner is truly my goddess.

RN: So that’s how it is. I really like Windrunner as well, when there’s time you must let me tag along and learn from you. Haha~~~ oh right, then does MIK have a boyfriend? I believe many male fans of yours will want to know the answer to this question, because you are their goddess. And also, can you reveal your ideal boyfriend… I thank you on behalf of all our fans!

MIK: This, yes. People that know me, all know that Dota is my boyfriend. Haha, so I feel that in the future if I really actually want to find a match for myself, they have to support my playing Dota, and play Dota with me. Otherwise, there’s no way, haha

RN: Alrighty! All you hungry fans, MIK’s requirements can’t be more suitable for you all! Add oil, I will wait for your wedding candy! At the last, MIK can you please say a few words to end our interview today?

MIK: Ok. “Let’s be lifelong friends, and play a life of Dota!” My heart is Dota. Add oil!

RN: Thank you to MIK for doing this interview. We wish MIK more beauty, more skill in Dota2, even better vods, and more and more fans. Everyone give your support to MIK…

UUU9 interviews big-time Chinese commentator DC, thoughts on TI2, ACE, Chinese esports, and more!

Very interesting and lively interview by Chinese site uuu9.com with big-name Chinese commentator and host, DC. Insight on TI2, Chinese esports, and more. Click on to read on!

Original: http://dota2.uuu9.com/201209/91550.shtml

UUU9 (U9): Hello Professor DC, thank you for doing this interview with UUU9.com. Can you outline a bit of what your life and work looks like right now?

DC (DC): Hi everyone, I am DC of the GTV Esports Channel. My current work is pretty much comprehensively moving towards becoming a host of a TV channel, not focusing on any single game anymore. In terms of everyday life, I’m still all over the place as is my old habit, gaming, anime, reading are all patterns in my life~~~

U9: Hm, then that means you’ll need to come into contact with many other types of games. What do you mainly play right now personally? Apart from Dota games with fans and Dota recordings for shows, do you still play Dota on your own?

DC: Right now I don’t play that much Dota outside of work, earlier I was really into OMG mode, and recently I’ve gotten better internet so I’ve been playing Dota2. Mainly I’ve been touching upon mainstream Dota-type games, and apart from that my personal interest is largely in single-player games.

U9: Then, if you don’t play that much Dota, is there any concern that you won’t be able to keep up with what’s going on in matches? If you really do have this concern then how do you address it and ensure you can maintain a good understanding of situations in matches?

DC: I think there will be some inadequacies. Mainly I maintain a level of familiarity through keeping up with the professional scene and tournament scenes, this is a process in gradually transforming from a Dota player to a television show environment, some growing pains are challenges for myself.

U9: TI2 has just ended, and iG took the $1M prize. Currently professional players’ benefits, wages, and prizes are all much higher than before, are there any thoughts about making a comeback as a player, or just lament at being born at the wrong time?

DC: There’s certainly some envy over the profit potential of current players, I often wonder how great it would be if the scene was this comfortable back then. As for making a comeback as a player, that would purely be lying to myself, that is out of the question. Right now the big prizes should be greatly appreciated, and the only hope is that players don’t lose themselves. We can’t ignore the reality of needing money, but we also can’t focus only on the money.

U9: Do you have any interesting stories from your trip to Seattle? What impression did Valve give you?

DC: Valve seriously was too awesome, not only have they got strong financial backing, they also had great accommodations for players, and there is no doubt the competition itself was excellent as well. In summary, once Valve goes open with Dota, other competitions are going to have a big challenge~~~

U9: During the competition, while other commentator teams were at work we thought we could hear your cheering, and from your hoarse voice we could feel Professor DC’s love for esports. So, as a commentator, is it necessary to have a certain level of love and devotion? Does Professor DC support all Chinese teams unconditionally or does he have more love for certain teams?

DC: Of course, if a commentator is not a passionate participant in the game itself, how can he infect and lead viewers in enjoying the match? Supporting Chinese teams is a basic premise, but during the Chinese vs Chinese matches I have always been a fanboy of Burning, so I was a big supporter of DK. But too bad lately fate hasn’t listened to my wishes.

U9: If I recall correctly, Professor DC also commentated for last year’s Dota2 International, what are the differences between this year and last and what improvements have been made?

DC: Last year was in Cologne, Germany, so a lot of things were limited by the surrounding environment. This time was not only held in Valve’s own backyard, it was held in a carefully selected and prepared music hall in addition to an entire team’s excellent dedicated support and execution. TI2 can be said to be a perfect representation of Valve’s true strength and ability, as well as a reflection of true gaming competition excellence.

U9: In regards to Dota2’s Chinese partner, you should have heard something in Seattle right? Is it basically confirmed?

DC: The Chinese partner is pretty much confirmed, but because the actual parties have made no announcement, then I won’t be the gossiping relative either~

U9: Okay, then let’s talk some matches. NaVi struggled in the group stages to get into the winner’s bracket, yet in the elimination stages frustrated many Chinese teams, and ultimately took second place. Can you give an overall analysis of this team, what do you think was key to their result?

DC: Without question the first thing is that they have superhuman ability in their team. NaVi’s resilience exceeded predictions from before the competition, so they are deserving of their second place result. In truth it can be said that NaVi lost standing alone against all the Chinese teams, it was only after iG put down their own burdens in the Grand Finals and played to their own style that they finally countered NaVi.

NaVi’s strategic system is very distinctive, they accurately control rhythm, either it was Anti-mage mass farming for late game, or Leshrac Juggernaut pushing early game. These two seemingly simple go-to weapons sufficed to shred all challengers before them. Of course, NaVi’s nearly invincible on-stage mentality was also key. They always lost the first game, sometimes even being stomped in the first game, yet it almost never affected their performance in the following games, this point is something I think the Chinese teams can learn from.

U9: In the end, NaVi’ certainly had Chinese fans concerned. As last year’s overlords on the scene, this year’s DK hasn’t performed as well despite having made no roster changes at all. They didn’t make it into the ACE Pro-league playoffs, got 4th in TI2, what is their main issue right now?

DC: I think DK’s team mentality was at one point pretty unstable, and their competition results haven’t been ideal this year, so to a degree that has affected their once royal confidence and momentum. And DK’s strategy is relatively unchanging, so after a year of winning 9 different championships many big teams have analyzed their weaknesses. Their preference for forcing teamfights is something that, in this version, is pretty easy to counter once it’s been figured out.

U9: Rumors say that DK will have roster changes in the coming days. Nowadays the first consideration when results are subpar is to make roster changes, what are your thoughts on this?

DC: Making roster changes is definitely a risk, but when a team has been together for a long time and has a high level of familiarity, then unless it’s an impulsive move, I think there must be other reasons behind the change that we don’t know about. DK club’s management has gone through quite a bit in the past two years so I think they’re up to the task, they don’t really have a habit of making rash roster changes, and even though the rumors are flying around this time, I say we just wait for an official statement.

U9: As for the rest of this year’s Chinese competitions, what are your thoughts, will it be iG all the way? Why?

DC: We can’t really make a logical prediction of the remaining competitions. iG certainly has a huge amount of momentum and confidence over everyone else, but after big victories in big competitions, they enter into a long break period, and whether players who historically have lacked self control can maintain this momentum and competitive form, I have concerns. Esports clubs typically not allowing long breaks before the end of the year is generally because of this.

Also, whether LGD can regain their composure and find their form, this is another variable. In terms of both overall ability, as well as their own attitudes, I think if they really end up being the “forever 2nd” team, I don’t think they will accept that easily.

U9: The ACE Pro-league has come to a close, and from broadcast quality to the quality of matches, it’s pretty much one of the best competitions so far in the Chinese scene. However, ACE takes up a large chunk of time, and also requires teams to go to Beijing to compete, will this cause other Chinese competitions to have scheduling problems? How can this issue be addressed?

DC: During the peak of Warcraft 3, it could be said that there were big and small competitions all over the country, but under all that sunshine, there was the reality of a giant esports bubble created by the rush to get in. Our hope is that, through ACE’s model we can improve and even increase the longevity of certain other competitions, and we’re willing to work with high-quality competitions. In actuality, weren’t there quite a few competitions going on between ACE’s schedule? I also believe that blindly organizing and holding events is not going to fundamentally help this industry. For a slightly inappropriate metaphor, if we want to at least achieve the level of Korean Starcraft leagues, we can’t possibly also be making concessions for small competitions such as local internet cafe tournaments?

U9: Will ACE be making plans for the 2nd season this year, what is the ETA? Will there be changes from the 1st season?

DC: ACE does have plans for a 2nd season, but they can’t be announced yet. There will definitely be new things, and improvements to the details.

U9: As a former EHOME player and coach, it need not be mentioned your feelings for EHOME. But ever since EHOME re-formed, they’ve seemed to have faced a lot of problems, such as the dispute with the ACE Alliance, only getting 5/6th at TI2, what do you think EHOME desperately needs right now?

DC: On the topic of EHOME I have no words to speak, and from a personal perspective I have failed to meet certain promises made to players and club, for this I am very sorry.

U9: Professor DC what are you feelings towards Dota2? Talk a bit about some things you think it does well.

DC: Apart from the overall graphic style not really fitting my tastes, everything else is very good. After getting away from the Warcraft 3 engine’s limitations, Dota2 has given it a big upgrade, so I think there’s no point in nitpicking certain small things, because Dota 2 is inherently a big improvement. Especially the improvements in overall experience and interface, so I really look forward to it officially going live on the Chinese market.

U9: It seems that a lot of old Dota players are uncomfortable with Dota2’s graphics and mechanics, yet Dota2’s beautiful effects has also drawn in some new players. After Dota2 goes open, what percentage do you predict will remain with Dota1?

DC: This isn’t really easy to predict, Chinese gamers’ opinions really aren’t easy to analyze. But I believe that staying with Dota1 will be a truly strange thing, if in ten years I am still playing the same games as today, then I can only conclude that either society is not making enough progress, or I am not making enough progress.

U9: Every industry has limits, and now more and more retired players are going and doing first person vods, what do you think about this? Additionally, the market for new commentators is getting close to saturated, so do you have any advice for retired players?

DC: Make preparations a bit earlier in advance, widen your horizons a bit, focus a bit more on being a person of society as opposed to a player with professional skills. However, in reality most of the people I’ve worked with in eports have varying degrees of interconnectivity with the scene.

U9: Nowadays a lot of young esports fans have dreams of playing professionally, and I’m sure you’ve met quite a few of them as GTV’s host. Do you have any words or advice for them?

DC: Stay calm, and think about whether you truly love playing games, or you just want to go professional? Is it to escape your studies, escape society, or is it to chase your dreams? A lot of people focus only on those in the spotlight on stage, thinking and planning their own futures on the same stages, but what they fail to see is, in the corners beyond the spotlight, the shadows of those who failed. Everyone believes they can be the ones up there, but the truth is that the stage is very small.

U9: Let’s ask another personal question. Does Professor DC have a girlfriend currently, have you thought about starting a family?

DC: Still have not acquired a girl, this comrade must continue to strive. In this regard I am a bad example for everyone, you should all take me as a caution, and work hard to become a winner in many ways in life!

U9: What kind of girl do you like? Mature or girly?

DC: More mature for sure!

U9: Have any female fans expressed love to you before?

DC: As for this question, I can only say I have no success to report. Of course, on this issue, I personally encourage this~~~

U9: Between Miss and MuMu (Chinese female commentators) who do you think is prettier? Yuchen and Guangmo (Chinese male commentators), who is more handsome?

DC: Of course MuMu is prettier, as for our Miss that’s called classy, we share similar tastes! Yuchen with his little pale face is so careful in his looks, as for Guangmo what does he have to do with the term ‘handsome’?

U9: Is your body weight a burden on you?

DC: It’s frustrating, but I will carry its sorrow, because this is the fate of a born-fatty like me.

U9: Dota1 or Dota2?

DC: Dota2

U9: Is there anyone you want to beat up badly?

DC: Yes, many amongst the players! Those more handsome, those skinnier, those making more money, especially those that don’t know to appreciate what they have.

U9: Alright, thank you to Professor DC for this interview with UUU9.com. We wish you success in all life and work. Are there any last comments you’d like to make to everyone, or anyone you’d like to specially thank?

DC: Have to remember to thank Guo Jia (Chinese player of a game similar to Dota, called 3-kingdoms), that bitch~~~ And lastly I want to say: Taitai I like you!

After making national TV, Dota 2 and iG make it onto China’s biggest sports newspaper as well!

Note: Check it out! Includes brief comments by Zhou and YYF on Chinese Dota’s place in the world, etc.

Original: http://dota2.replays.net/page/20120905/1725081.html

iG winning The International 2 has stirred quite a bit of excitement in the international eSports scene, and after they made it onto CCTV, now China’s biggest sports paper, TITAN DAILY has coverage of them too.

Translation of article: Beijing time September 3 2012, 11:30AM, at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall the second iteration of the Dota2 International competition’s Grand Finals began: Ukraine’s Team NaVi versus China’s Team iG. Over the next three hours of fierce fighting, iG defeated NaVi by a score of 3 to 1 to win the championship, and a record-breaking 1 million US dollars grand prize.

In 2011, the first Dota2 International had already set the record for prize money. Last year, NaVi won the championship, and Chinese team EHOME sadly placed second.

This year, of 16 of the world’s top Dota2 teams, 5 hailed from China, and over 7 days of competition a Chinese team successfully took the top place, with all 5 Chinese teams making it into the top 8, thus defending China’s glory and honor in this competition.

IG’s star player Zhou had this to say: “In Dota, China is best in the world, and Dota2 is merely an upgrade of Dota, so we face our matches with only one idea, that is to defend China’s reputation and place at the top of the world.”

Over the course of the competition, as long as a match was a non-Chinese team versus a Chinese team, the crowd in Benaroya Hall would gravitate towards automatically supporting the non-Chinese team. “Competing in foreign countries, I feel like we’re playing against the world, the good thing is that we were successful!” another of iG’s stars, YYF, described.

Electronic sports in China has more than ten years of history and development now, and Dota is currently China’s most popular game as well as the game in which Chinese players are strongest. In addition, there is Starcraft, Warcraft, Counterstrike, and FIFA, etc.

Early TI2 interview with LGD.DDC

Note: This is from midway through the preliminaries. But it has some random interesting questions too. Part of my catchup translation coverage of TI2 from the past few days!

Source: http://dota2.replays.net/page/20120829/1722638.html

BBC (interviewer, Chinese commentator): Congrats on going undefeated so far in three days, let’s talk a bit about your last match vs Mouz.

DDC: Before the match, we already felt that Mouz only knew how to use Anti-mage, so we thought it should be easy to counter, give him no farm and we basically win. In the actual match they did in fact use Anti-mage, and then they did indeed lose to us.

BBC: Summarize your performances for us.

DDC: I give the team full marks on performance, and I’m pretty happy with my own as well.

Continue reading →