EPTBut it got me thinking about HotS and how deep I want to dive into the game this time around. I was never fully happy with the skill progress in WoL and only cracking diamond once during the two years I played. I am not a college student any more and I felt I was very limited in the amount of time I could put into the game. I love the game, but the ever shrinking variety of protoss openings and my limited free time really limited my ability to improve. The ladder is a rough place to try anything new. I clearly remember the crushing feeling when I was knocked down to Gold while trying to learn a new PvZ opening, only to rise slightly higher than before. That opening has been outdated since then, as well. Every time I recall that moment, I remember why none of my friends play SC2 on the ladder and kinda think I’m nuts.
I talked to a friend to has been playing competitive chess for years how he keeps motivated to become better at the game. He has been 2 masters players in his amateur career, so I assumed he would have had the same issues. He said practice games are critical and not caring about them is more critical, but also enjoying the time you play the game also key. He only plays live chess in coffee houses or places where there are non-chess things going on. He also had other pointers that worked for him, that music is a crutch, never play angry, don’t respond to rude players and always get coffee. He is also limited by what he can play, since he has been a poor student for longer than me, but his advice is still sound.
So for one of my resolutions this year, I am going to get better at HotS than I was in WoL. To this end I am going preparing the following:
• Upgrading my mechanical keyboard. The one I have is passable, but not great. The F-keys are to small and the escape key is super tiny.
• Enlarging my desk for a less cramped experience.
• Getting an electric teapot and kettle for brewing.
• Getting a better practice routine and partners for my skill level
• Looking into coaching for the sole reason of getting practice partners.
• Not buying other games. This is my secret downfall, that an playing LoL with my girlfriend, but I can’t really give up that second one.
• Playing during the week, after work, even if it is unranked. Keepings my skills up and the rust off is key to doing better.
The desk should be ordered later today and I am getting some other accessories as well. The keyboard will take some looking into. If folks have other ideas, I would love to hear them. If I make some reasonable progress in the upgrades to the room in the near future, I might post some photos.
