And as he tries to merge with the Swedish gaming culture, the differences are even more striking.
Photo: Kalaspuff for GosuGamers
- "I have been to so many different tournaments. Several in my own city, others in Kiev and Moscow. But DreamHack is very different", says Strelok.
Strelok believes his biggest challenge is to overcome his inner obstacles. Instead of focusing on his opponents, he realizes that the only real obstacle he has is within himself. His ambition is to drop any fears or body tension and bring forth the warship from the inside out.
It's certainly a strategy that he will have to use here.
It is his first 'bring your own computer' (BYOC) event and he mentions that he already has a headache and the constant high volume music is seriously disturbing.
"Its a very big crowd and the music is very loud", Strelok says.
Another barrier is the language. A2, with whom Strelok at least could speak a combination of Russian and English in order to be understood, couldn't make it. "I'm not happy at all, its easier to speak with someone in Russian and English, than just in English", Strelok says.
Another mate who dropped out was Gentleman. He had the flight and hotel booked but turned ill this Wednesday and couldn't make it.
Nevertheless, Strelok is ranked 4th in the Rankings and none of his competitors is even mentioned in the top 30 of the rankings. Names such as TreK, HayprO and Crow don't scare him.
- "I honestly dont care which players are here. I never fear who to play, I just play them."
He is also satisfied with the map pool and mentions that there is room for creativity letting players choose the map they like the best, without adding unfair advantage on any particular map.
If the Warship manages to bring forth the inner navigation to help him get through the Swedish waters, it might be impossible to stop him from reaching his destination: victory.
Links
DHS08 SC Tournament - See Strelok's results as the tournament progresses
