Controversial Pause in Cloud9's Game Strategy
In the fast-paced game of League of Legends, numerous scenarios can lead to an abrupt halt. Technical glitches, player errors, or unexpected in-game surprises may necessitate a pause. However, when Cloud9 strategically implemented a pause during a critical point in their match against LNG at the 2023 World Championship, it stirred controversy that provoked a reaction from LNG's mid laner, Scout, who voiced his displeasure through his Instagram account.
Pausing is an inherent feature in competitive gaming to maintain integrity. Still, it can change the course of the game. A timely pause can give a team just enough room to regroup and strategize to outmanoeuvre their opponents, which can lead to heated debates.
Worlds 2023 officials acknowledged Cloud9's pause as a defining juncture of the game, which necessitated a 'chronobreak,' leading to a lengthy pause. While LNG eventually emerged victorious, the pause left a sour note, leading to Scout throwing a playful yet pointed jab at his opponents.
The pause was not the only one called by Cloud9 during the match; in fact, there were three pauses, each called by Cloud9. The first pause happened early during the game due to reported in-game FPS issues. Fortunately, this pause did not spark much controversy as it happened before any significant game event.
The Controversy Intensifies
Cloud9's second pause was initiated by player Zven due to peripheral issues. The third pause, however, raised eyebrows. Just as the second pause ended and LNG was about to execute a strategic move against Cloud9's players, Zven indicated continued keyboard malfunctioning. This led to replacing the entire keyboard, thus requesting another pause.
With Zven's appeal for a pause deemed valid, the game had to be chronobroken to a point before where LNG initiated a favourable action against C9 around Baron. This chronobreak led to the pause that stirred up much controversy despite its legitimate grounds. Scout did not hold back from voicing his opinion about his opponents on social media following the match.
On his Instagram story, Scout humorously stated, 'nice tactical pause lol,' following the match. This pause resulted in a 20-minute delay as game officials had to chronobreak the game, leaving both teams idle on stage. This delay had commentators and the analyst desk scrambling to fill the void.
Despite the unwanted delay, LNG, unaffected by the pause, emerged victorious. Although LNG wouldn’t necessarily dispute the game's outcome due to their win, Scout's humorous yet pointed remark signalled their displeasure about the extended stoppage.
The Aftermath of the Match
With the win, LNG became the first team in the Swiss stage to secure a 2-0, making them one of the four undefeated teams in the Swiss Stage. Meanwhile, Cloud9 faced a daunting task with the setting of their match against T1 following their encounter with LNG.
Scout's social media comment sparked a flurry of conversations across the gaming community. However, it underscored the tense atmosphere and adrenaline-rush moments these high-stake matches offer. As the Worlds 2023 continues, fans eagerly await how future games will unfold and controversies they may or may not bring.
Although the pause may have left a bitter taste for some, it certainly added another layer of excitement to the Worlds 2023. The incident will no doubt be an added chapter in the history of Cloud9 and LNG, a story that fans and players alike will recall in the years to come.
Controversies like these add an extra spice to the competition, keeping everyone on their toes. As we move forward into the tournament, it will be interesting to see how Cloud9 moves past this incident and what other surprises are in store for us in Worlds 2023.