We successfully held our first VALORANT AMA session on Bo3.gg! Fans had a unique opportunity to ask any questions to Natus Vincere player Kyrylo "ANGE1" Karasov. In this article, we’ve compiled the best answers from the Ukrainian esports player and summarized the event.

What’s the current atmosphere within the team?

The atmosphere is very positive. Everyone is working towards the same goals, and even if we have disagreements, it’s easy to find a middle ground. I can’t even remember the last time I felt such good vibes within a team.

What changes would you like to see in the upcoming VCT season?

I’d remove single-elimination from all parts of VCT, haha (if it’s even there, of course).

Will your roles change this season?

Considering I’ve played all roles over the past two years, it’s hard to define what "changes" mean, but I don’t think I’ll be playing as a smoker this season.

Top 3 VALORANT players of 2024?

Derke, ZmjjKK, Wo0t.

Who would you recommend supporting in Valorant aside from NaVi?

DRX — they’re great guys.

How hard is it to compete at your age with younger players who dominate the professional scene?

Honestly, it’s not as hard as it should be. I feel like shooting mechanics in Valorant are very casual. Youth gives you some advantages, but not as much as people think.

Have you considered switching to CS 2?

As a player, 100% no. After Valorant, CS would feel boring. Maybe as a coach in the distant future, but I doubt it.

What do you think were the main factors behind NAVI decline in 2024?

Without going into detail, the roster had simply reached the end of its lifespan. Everyone needed changes. I believe all the players from that roster are still amazing; we just needed a fresh start.

What made you transition from CS:GO to Valorant?

I felt that Valorant was a much more fun game to play and be an IGL in. I also needed that fresh start after 15 years of CS.

How do you assess the development of esports in Ukraine?

Like any development during wartime, it’s not good enough, but what can you do?

How do you evaluate the impact of new players on the team’s overall dynamics?

Very positive. I think we’ve signed insanely talented players and a great coach. Every time we have an event, I show up with a smile on my face.

Do you believe the current state of Tier 2 and Tier 3 scenes is terrible, and could it lead to a lack of talent for top teams in the future, as young players might choose CS 2 or other games instead?

Considering there are only 10-13 teams in the league, I don’t think this will ever be a problem.

What plans are in place to strengthen the roster for next season?

And how do you view the competition in the EMEA region in 2024?We’ve already signed incredible young players and an experienced coach. That was our plan, and we’ve executed it.

What goals has the team set for 2025?

We’re a new team, so we’re taking things step by step. First, we want to qualify for Masters Bangkok.

What changes would you like to see in Valorant in the future?

The introduction of a pick-and-ban phase.

The EMEA region won its last international title in 2023. What do European teams lack to reclaim dominance on the global stage?

Considering that almost every final features an EMEA team, it’s partly a matter of luck.

How do you cope with losses and setbacks?

Learn from them. First, take a break to avoid making emotional conclusions, then think about how to never lose that way again.

What is your relationship with former teammates?

We don’t talk much now, which is understandable given how bad things were for the past two years. I can even understand if someone’s upset about something. But I still consider them my friends.

How do you evaluate the current level of competition in Valorant?

This year is 100% going to be the most intense, especially in EMEA. I see at least seven teams that will be fighting for first place.

Who are your favorite agents in Valorant?

Yoru, KAY/O, Fade.

What are your plans after retiring from professional gaming?

I’d first like to try coaching, and then we’ll see.

1. What technologies and gadgets do you like the most? 2. How do you improve your reaction speed and decision-making? 3. What are your favorite memes and jokes from the gaming community?

Samsung Fold. My reaction time is on par with a 17-year-old, so no need to improve it. For decision-making: play more, solve in-game problems, and watch how others play. I enjoy memes and jokes, but none stand out at the moment.

In conclusion, Kyrylo "ANGE1" Karasov answered all the fans’ questions during the AMA session. Perhaps in the future, we’ll organize another event with this Ukrainian VALORANT legend, so you can ask even more questions.