Actions speak louder than words -- shoutcraft.com/shoutcraft-ame… #esports
— Genna Bain (@GennaBain) April 24, 2013
A mix of disorganization, bad planning, and miscommunication, WCS America has been the source of much disillusionment. As the reality of the system's failures became more and more apparent, the voice against it became louder and louder, prompting MLG CEO Sundance DiGiovanni to release an apology shortly after the event.
Some, however, have taken an approach beyond vocal discord. In the words of Jean-Luc Goddard, if you want to criticize a movie, make a better movie. It is precisely that which Cynical Brit is attempting with SHOUTcraft America.
Organized by Genna Bain and to be casted by John "Totalbiscuit" Bain, eSports couple extraordinaire, the event will bring together 16 North and South American Grandmaster players in a "'GSL-Style' dual tournament" for a total prize of 10,000 dollars.
The Cynical Brit statement elaborates:
This would not only assist in developing their skills on a more level playing field, but also expand their fanbase, potential prize winnings, and sponsorship appeal. [...] This is an American tournament made exclusively for American players.
But who are "American players" exactly?
Participants are required to produce proof of citizenship or permanent residency in either North or South America. Players who are not citizens of a continental American country or hold a permanent residency status, such as a Greencard, will not be eligible to participate.
SHOUTcraft America looks like the first step in a larger project. Cynical Brit can't field the huge support staff and finances of, say, Major League Gaming, but it can pull of its own dedicated projects. Incentivizing ladder play is one of the side-goals of this competition.
With SHOUTcraft America, we are taking a step towards invigorating competition on the Grandmaster ladder. Our first tournament will allow players to qualify for a spot based on their Grandmaster ladder ranking at the end of the current season. In future, we hope to hold a longer qualification period to allow more players to participate. This would also encourage a period of intense competition on the Grandmaster ladder. [...] We feel that in legitimizing the Grandmaster ladder, it allows players to strive towards a very tangible goal. Rather than grinding ladder, players are fighting for guaranteed prize money.
The Prize Pool:
1st Place: $4,000
2nd Place: $2,000
3rd-4th Place: $1,000
5th-8th Place: $350
9th-16th Place: $75
Broadcasting will begin May 4th, 2013 at 2pm EDT on http://twitch.tv/totalbiscuit. Casting to be done by Totalbiscuit and a special guest. Streaming will be free and in 720p.
Shoutcraft America.
