- My name is Tyler Wasieleski, I’m 22, and I’ve been playing StarCraft off and on for about 6 years now.
When did you decide to take StarCraft seriously? How long after that did you decide to model your play specifically upon pro gamers?
- I’ve taken StarCraft seriously for WCG USA in 2006 and 2007 but I did not aspire to become a pro gamer until early 2008. I immediately studied pro gamers’ play to understand what it takes to be a successful pro gamer. I have always practiced with the long term in mind. I want to build all my skills and become a complete player.
Speaking of WCG, what are your predictions for the event?
- I’m pretty confident in myself. I think IdrA and I will have some great games against each other and one of us will claim first. There will be several other great players there that are capable of taking wins from anyone, but it’s impossible to predict. WCG USA can’t occur without a few upsets.
You just made it to the finals of the Spirit tournament to find potential pro gamers to come to Korea. The other semi-final has ClouD vs. Machine. Who do you think will win this match to meet u in the finals?
- I think ClouD will win. But I think Machine will play well and have a good showing.
What do you predict as the outcome of a potential NonY vs. ClouD finals?
- I will win. I’m eager to win in a very convincing fashion, but I’ll settle for a win either way.
The Korea pro gaming scene has evolved to a point where very young players dominate. Teams always choose the youngest talent they can find. At 22, you would be considered somewhat old. What makes you a better choice than a younger player?
- I am not old to the point where my mind or hands have slowed down -- far from it of course. So the younger players have no advantage there. But with my age and experience in the world, I am better prepared mentally for the journey of becoming a pro gamer. Younger players are more likely to burn out or be unable to handle pro gaming emotionally, or perhaps their opinions on pro gaming will change as they become adults. But I am solid.
If chosen to go to Korea, all joking aside, would you be prepared to scrub toilets?
- I would be prepared to commit to whatever lifestyle my experienced coaches and managers decide is best. If I’m asked to do chores, of course I am prepared to do them.
eSTRO cleaning time takes place from about 9:30am to 10:30am. Artosis sleeping time doesn’t end until 11:30am. Do you have what it takes to sneak into my room and sweep the floors/fold the blankets without waking me up?
- Hahaha I heard Artosis works very hard, so he must sleep heavily, and thus it would be easy.
Good answer. I’ll put in a good word for you. If you got to live the dream as a pro gamer, what would be your immediate and long-term goals?
- My immediate goal would be to pass Courage and get my pro gamer license. My long term goal would be to win a Pro League match. I’ve had a lot of experience with team sports and the satisfaction of contributing to the team is amazing.
Any thoughts on SC2?
- I just hope it’s good for e-Sports. But the game is going to change SO much through beta, and through its first few years of release when there are balance patches going on, that it makes no sense for me to worry about it now.
Well thanks for the interview. GL in your upcoming events!
