In an exclusive interview with Players' Sofiia Pikhalo following the IEM Katowice 2024 finals, legendary NAVI player Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev shared insights into his break from professional play, rumors of team switches, and his views on the current state of Counter-Strike 2. The conversation also touched upon his new venture, ALL STARS Promotion, and his perspective on the evolving CS scene.
s1mple revealed that his hiatus was initially expected to last only three months, but extended due to the necessary paperwork to stay in Europe. The break from the pro scene was initially easy for him, but the challenge grew as he missed participating in official CS2 tournaments. "I really miss attending tournaments and the atmosphere...it's the saddest story," s1mple expressed, highlighting his longing for the competitive camaraderie.
No, I expected it to be at least 3 months, but I don't think it took too long because I had to do the paperwork to officially stay in Europe and I was doing it all this time.
At first, it was very easy, but after I saw the first official CS2 tournament in Australia, which I didn't attend, it became a little more difficult.Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev
Despite not playing competitively, s1mple has kept close to the game, clarifying misconceptions about his gaming habits and emphasizing the importance of team play in maintaining form. "The form is gained when you play with your team," he stated, dismissing rumors of frequent play in other games.
Addressing speculation about a potential move to Cloud9, s1mple firmly denied any such conversations, citing national loyalty as a decisive factor in his decision-making. He also discussed the improvements in CS2 following Valve's patches, noting significant enhancements in gameplay, particularly for AWP players. However, s1mple believes more can be done to enrich the game for casual players, suggesting additions like The International Pass from Dota 2 to add value for the community.
What can we compare it to? When we played with electroNic, Perfecto, or Boombl4, it was 50/50, but he's very positive. If we think only about the positive things in the team, it won't affect the result.
But, yes, good vibes come from him. He is still helping our country a lot. I've had this experience with several teammates. When you watch and you are angry, but his facial expression or two phrases completely change everything in your head. Emotions are like the weather, you can't control everything. When you look at a teammate and it supports you, everything changes automatically.Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev about jL
When asked about team dynamics and new members like w0nderful and jL, s1mple offered his candid views. He praised jL's positive impact on the team atmosphere but was reserved about considering anyone a direct replacement for himself. His focus remains on the broader contributions to the team's spirit and performance.
If we're talking about replacing me, then no, but this is my personal opinion. I was very impressed with the way he played. I understand that the problem with the losses is 100% not his fault.Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev about w0nderful
Beyond the competitive arena, s1mple and his brother have embarked on ALL STARS Promotion, aimed at elevating players' skills, whether they aspire to go pro or simply excel in casual play. This initiative, sparked by his brother, underscores s1mple's commitment to the growth of the Counter-Strike community.
As for founding his own esports organization, s1mple acknowledges the complexity and challenges of such an endeavor, expressing a desire to understand the intricacies involved while remaining cautious about taking that leap himself.
It is very difficult. I'm not talking about money but in general. I've been at NAVI for a long time, I know how it all works. I would like to see how it is done, but I understand that it is very difficult. I could not vouch for it all myself.Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev
This interview sheds light on s1mple's current priorities and perspectives, revealing a player deeply connected to the Counter-Strike world, both on and off the competitive stage. As he navigates his break, future career moves, and new projects, s1mple remains a pivotal figure in the esports community, influencing the game's evolution and the next generation of players.
Source:players.com.ua
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