“A New Year”
GSL 2011 Preview
By the GSL Writing Staff
After a holiday hiatus, the GSL returns tonight in full force. Group A of Code S kicks off the action, with the remaining groups and the Code A match-ups in the following days. All-in-all, it's eight days of SC2 insanity, and we're here to preview it all.
You might not've known, but while you were toasting the new year, eating delicious food, and spreading the good feelings to your loved ones, there was no rest in the TL newsroom. While people around the world wore silly hats and counted down, the writers were hard at work setting type and cleaning out the presses. While fireworks exploded and large glittery balls slowly moved down a stupid pole, we gulped down our special ration of campaign and made last minute edits. At long last, the newspost is done, and we
In this report, enjoy comprehensive coverage of each of the Code S players by group, a detailed listing of links which explain the GSL format better than we could, a rundown of the best teams and how they stack up, and some predictions for the upcoming season. All of this to begin the best season of coverage for any GSL yet.
Code S; In Depth
Group A
By Xxio
+ Show Spoiler [Group A Players and Analysis] +
IMNesTea
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Champion, GSL3 Quarter Finalist
Notable Victories: SlayerS_BoxeR (4-0), MarineKingPrime.WE (4-1), oGsMC (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_Rain (2-3)
NesTea is one of, if not the best Zerg player in the world. The GSL Season 2 champion will be starting, what some may call, the first 'real' GSL 7-0 in ZvZ (versus Zenio, TheWind, and Sen), 3-3 in ZvP, and 18-11 in ZvT. It should be noted that it was NesTea who knocked MC, the GSL Season 3 champion and player who many professionals have called the best Protoss and/or player in the world, out of Season 2, in the round of 32, 2-0. NesTea was a favourite to win the last GSL of 2010 but was stopped short in the semifinals in his controversial series against Rain, albeit absolutely crushing in the late game.
Verdict: Advance. NesTea won over 60 thousand dollars in 2010 – I predict that he will win far more in 2011. His management skills are some of the best and he is becoming known for solid, consistent play. This gimmick-free approach makes him a very dangerous opponent. Having lived as a professional Brood War player, in composure, practising, and rts experience, NesTea is a veteran. We could have easily seen a NesTea vs. MC finals in Season 3. I can only hope it will happen in 2011.
MakaPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Ro16, Brainbox All-Kill of TSL, Blizzcon Qualifiers Runner-Up.
Notable Victories: oGsZenio (2-1), oGsJookTo (2-0) SlayerS_LegalMind (2-0), oGsInCa (2-1)
Notable Defeats: NsP.Genius (0-2) (2-3), oGsTheWinD (0-2) (1-2), IMNesTea (1-2)
Maka is one of the few players who became famous in beta and continued to be successful past retail. Maka was one of the first 'high level' starcraft 2 players featured on a Day9 Daily and feared by the masses. The name behind the 'Maka Rax' build, he has become famous for all-killing TSL in the Brainbox Team Invitational and notorious for his devastatingly patient bunker pushes. If Maka has a rival, it would certainly be TheWind, the player who knocked Maka out of Season 2 and the GSTAR tournament.
Verdict: Advance. I wouldn't call Maka the best Terran in the world by any means; his late game management and transitions can be shaky. However, he is a very wily player who has won many games through crisp execution. If he works on his TvT and transitions Maka could suddenly become the new sheriff in town.
TheBestfOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: anyproPrime.WE (2-0)
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (1-2)
TheBest is a player with little experience in the GSL. He lost to NesTea in the round of 64 in Season 2, then HongUn in the quarter finals of Season 3. Though TheBest took out our hero Ret in Season 3, he is still the weakest link in this group. His late game can not stand up to the vast majority of other code S players. What TheBest does have is a huge variety of builds that he can scare his opponent with. It would be a big improvement if TheBest polished his builds and learned to smoothly switch from an aggressive to defensive 'powering' position.
Verdict: Code A. TheBest is good, but not as good as July, TOP, Ret, or LittleBoy. I predict that TheBest will be one of the first players to be knocked down to Code A. Judging from his skill level as of his end in Season 3, I think Code A will be the right competitive environment for him, with players like GuineaPig, cOre, Junwi, and Golden.
PoltPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: oGsMC (2-0), SlayerS_BoxeR (2-1),
Notable Defeats: TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (0-2)
As it is with TheBest, Polt qualified for Code S by making it to the round of 16 in Season 3. Also similar to TheBest, Polt strong-armed his way through, winning games with builds focused on early aggression or because his opponent made a grievous mistake. Most of Polt's late game appearances have ended with his defeat. TvT was Boxer's favourite matchup and Polt did beat him in Season 3 but his Jinroll showed that he is by no means a TvT sniper.
Verdict: Code S. Polt is an average Terran would do well in Code A; right now I do not think his strengths are enough to keep him in Code S against so many safe, macro players. However, unlike TheBest, Polt actually has talent, and is on a very good team with many players above his skill level, like Check, Maka, and MarineKing, whom he can practice and learn from. That means he'll probably escape the hammer this round, as only one player from each group can face demotion.
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Champion, GSL3 Quarter Finalist
Notable Victories: SlayerS_BoxeR (4-0), MarineKingPrime.WE (4-1), oGsMC (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_Rain (2-3)
NesTea is one of, if not the best Zerg player in the world. The GSL Season 2 champion will be starting, what some may call, the first 'real' GSL 7-0 in ZvZ (versus Zenio, TheWind, and Sen), 3-3 in ZvP, and 18-11 in ZvT. It should be noted that it was NesTea who knocked MC, the GSL Season 3 champion and player who many professionals have called the best Protoss and/or player in the world, out of Season 2, in the round of 32, 2-0. NesTea was a favourite to win the last GSL of 2010 but was stopped short in the semifinals in his controversial series against Rain, albeit absolutely crushing in the late game.
Verdict: Advance. NesTea won over 60 thousand dollars in 2010 – I predict that he will win far more in 2011. His management skills are some of the best and he is becoming known for solid, consistent play. This gimmick-free approach makes him a very dangerous opponent. Having lived as a professional Brood War player, in composure, practising, and rts experience, NesTea is a veteran. We could have easily seen a NesTea vs. MC finals in Season 3. I can only hope it will happen in 2011.
MakaPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Ro16, Brainbox All-Kill of TSL, Blizzcon Qualifiers Runner-Up.
Notable Victories: oGsZenio (2-1), oGsJookTo (2-0) SlayerS_LegalMind (2-0), oGsInCa (2-1)
Notable Defeats: NsP.Genius (0-2) (2-3), oGsTheWinD (0-2) (1-2), IMNesTea (1-2)
Maka is one of the few players who became famous in beta and continued to be successful past retail. Maka was one of the first 'high level' starcraft 2 players featured on a Day9 Daily and feared by the masses. The name behind the 'Maka Rax' build, he has become famous for all-killing TSL in the Brainbox Team Invitational and notorious for his devastatingly patient bunker pushes. If Maka has a rival, it would certainly be TheWind, the player who knocked Maka out of Season 2 and the GSTAR tournament.
Verdict: Advance. I wouldn't call Maka the best Terran in the world by any means; his late game management and transitions can be shaky. However, he is a very wily player who has won many games through crisp execution. If he works on his TvT and transitions Maka could suddenly become the new sheriff in town.
TheBestfOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: anyproPrime.WE (2-0)
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (1-2)
TheBest is a player with little experience in the GSL. He lost to NesTea in the round of 64 in Season 2, then HongUn in the quarter finals of Season 3. Though TheBest took out our hero Ret in Season 3, he is still the weakest link in this group. His late game can not stand up to the vast majority of other code S players. What TheBest does have is a huge variety of builds that he can scare his opponent with. It would be a big improvement if TheBest polished his builds and learned to smoothly switch from an aggressive to defensive 'powering' position.
Verdict: Code A. TheBest is good, but not as good as July, TOP, Ret, or LittleBoy. I predict that TheBest will be one of the first players to be knocked down to Code A. Judging from his skill level as of his end in Season 3, I think Code A will be the right competitive environment for him, with players like GuineaPig, cOre, Junwi, and Golden.
PoltPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: oGsMC (2-0), SlayerS_BoxeR (2-1),
Notable Defeats: TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (0-2)
As it is with TheBest, Polt qualified for Code S by making it to the round of 16 in Season 3. Also similar to TheBest, Polt strong-armed his way through, winning games with builds focused on early aggression or because his opponent made a grievous mistake. Most of Polt's late game appearances have ended with his defeat. TvT was Boxer's favourite matchup and Polt did beat him in Season 3 but his Jinroll showed that he is by no means a TvT sniper.
Verdict: Code S. Polt is an average Terran would do well in Code A; right now I do not think his strengths are enough to keep him in Code S against so many safe, macro players. However, unlike TheBest, Polt actually has talent, and is on a very good team with many players above his skill level, like Check, Maka, and MarineKing, whom he can practice and learn from. That means he'll probably escape the hammer this round, as only one player from each group can face demotion.
Group B
By Xxio
+ Show Spoiler [Group B Players and Analysis] +
TSL_FruitDealer
Achievements: GSL1 Champion, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Quarter Finals
Notable Victories: ST_RainBOw (4-1), LiveForeverZeNex (3-0), oGsInCa (2-0), HongUnPrime.WE (2-0),
Notable Defeats: MarineKingPrime.WE (0-2) (1-2), HongUnPrime.WE (2-3),
Along with NesTea, FruitDealer is the most successful Zerg player in the world, and certainly one of the most skilled. The dark horse champion of Season 1, he showed everyone what Zerg is capable of , giving hope to the swarm across the globe when he dropped only 2 games in Season 1. Unlike some other players in Season 1 who shall not be named, FruitDealer has improved and continued to stay at the head of the pack. With a healthy mix of builds and few weaknesses, it is debated as to whether he or NesTea is the best Zerg.
Verdict: Advance. Unless FruitDealers tries something akin to his Season 3 quarterfinal performance, he should easily advance. Though most known for his management and clever tactics (baneling bombs, anyone?), FruitDealer still possesses the ability and balls to all-in his opponent or mix in some cheese. Remember the 6 pool? Of course you do.
oGsZenio
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Quarter Finalist, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: EGIdrA (2-0), IMmvp (2-1)
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (0-2), MakaPrime.WE (1-2) MarineKingPrime.WE (1-2), oGsTheWinD (0-2), IMNesTea (0-3)
Zenio is known to most for his backhand ceremony in Season 2. This is not a good thing. Besides knocking out Idra and MVP in Season 2, he has no big wins. These wins, however, were impressive and quite entertaining. Doom drops, hidden expansions, random burrowed banelings, and fearless expansions are what you can expect from Zenio. He is an exciting player with strong timings and transitions, but perhaps lacking in execution and micro.
Verdict. Code S. Zenio was unlucky to be grouped with FruitDealer and mvp. He is definitely skilled and versatile enough to stay in Code S and even beat FruitDealer, but I have to give the Season 1 champion the edge. If Zenio had been put in Group D, G, or E he would probably advance.
IMmvp
Achievements: GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: EGIdrA (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsZenio (1-2), choyafOu (0-2)
MVP was an A-teamer in Brood War and the best Terran on Woongjin Stars. It is a bit frustrating that MVP's team, Incredible Miracle, lacks strong players for him to practice with. Besides NesTea, there really isn't anyone to bring out MVP's potential. This is not an excuse for his 8-7 record in SC2, but it does mean that he will not reach his potential as quickly or fully had he joined, say, oGs. I hope MVP has been practising like a slave because I am dying to see him at full strength.
Verdict: Advance. MVP's early game aggression is deadly, but he does not rely on it or over commit. His transitions are very fluid. His expertise in Brood War has already shown itself in all the fundamentals. Once he gets going, MVP is going to be unstoppable. He is the most skilled contemporary Brood War player playing StarCraft 2. In 2010 he beat BaBy, Best, Stork, and Jangbi. He beat Flash in a TvT. I'm just saying.
oGsJookTo
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code-S competition.
Notable Defeats: MakaPrime (0-2)
One of the more unknown players on oGs, JookTo is ranked 32 out of the players in the GSL; he was the last to qualify for Code S. Consistent performance through the offline preliminaries qualified him for all three Seasons of the GSL, but got him no farther than the round of 32. Yet, this consistency was still enough to get 248 points more than the rank 33, Tankboy, and the many other Code A players who, despite strong broadcast performances, only qualified for 1 or 2 GSLs. Um... yeah. That's about it.
Verdict: Code A. JookTo qualified 3 times in a row but his 3-7 record in broadcast games is foreboding. Hopefully he will find a place in Code A where he can learn and improve, but it won't be easy amidst cutthroat competition.
Achievements: GSL1 Champion, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Quarter Finals
Notable Victories: ST_RainBOw (4-1), LiveForeverZeNex (3-0), oGsInCa (2-0), HongUnPrime.WE (2-0),
Notable Defeats: MarineKingPrime.WE (0-2) (1-2), HongUnPrime.WE (2-3),
Along with NesTea, FruitDealer is the most successful Zerg player in the world, and certainly one of the most skilled. The dark horse champion of Season 1, he showed everyone what Zerg is capable of , giving hope to the swarm across the globe when he dropped only 2 games in Season 1. Unlike some other players in Season 1 who shall not be named, FruitDealer has improved and continued to stay at the head of the pack. With a healthy mix of builds and few weaknesses, it is debated as to whether he or NesTea is the best Zerg.
Verdict: Advance. Unless FruitDealers tries something akin to his Season 3 quarterfinal performance, he should easily advance. Though most known for his management and clever tactics (baneling bombs, anyone?), FruitDealer still possesses the ability and balls to all-in his opponent or mix in some cheese. Remember the 6 pool? Of course you do.
oGsZenio
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Quarter Finalist, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: EGIdrA (2-0), IMmvp (2-1)
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (0-2), MakaPrime.WE (1-2) MarineKingPrime.WE (1-2), oGsTheWinD (0-2), IMNesTea (0-3)
Zenio is known to most for his backhand ceremony in Season 2. This is not a good thing. Besides knocking out Idra and MVP in Season 2, he has no big wins. These wins, however, were impressive and quite entertaining. Doom drops, hidden expansions, random burrowed banelings, and fearless expansions are what you can expect from Zenio. He is an exciting player with strong timings and transitions, but perhaps lacking in execution and micro.
Verdict. Code S. Zenio was unlucky to be grouped with FruitDealer and mvp. He is definitely skilled and versatile enough to stay in Code S and even beat FruitDealer, but I have to give the Season 1 champion the edge. If Zenio had been put in Group D, G, or E he would probably advance.
IMmvp
Achievements: GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: EGIdrA (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsZenio (1-2), choyafOu (0-2)
MVP was an A-teamer in Brood War and the best Terran on Woongjin Stars. It is a bit frustrating that MVP's team, Incredible Miracle, lacks strong players for him to practice with. Besides NesTea, there really isn't anyone to bring out MVP's potential. This is not an excuse for his 8-7 record in SC2, but it does mean that he will not reach his potential as quickly or fully had he joined, say, oGs. I hope MVP has been practising like a slave because I am dying to see him at full strength.
Verdict: Advance. MVP's early game aggression is deadly, but he does not rely on it or over commit. His transitions are very fluid. His expertise in Brood War has already shown itself in all the fundamentals. Once he gets going, MVP is going to be unstoppable. He is the most skilled contemporary Brood War player playing StarCraft 2. In 2010 he beat BaBy, Best, Stork, and Jangbi. He beat Flash in a TvT. I'm just saying.
oGsJookTo
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code-S competition.
Notable Defeats: MakaPrime (0-2)
One of the more unknown players on oGs, JookTo is ranked 32 out of the players in the GSL; he was the last to qualify for Code S. Consistent performance through the offline preliminaries qualified him for all three Seasons of the GSL, but got him no farther than the round of 32. Yet, this consistency was still enough to get 248 points more than the rank 33, Tankboy, and the many other Code A players who, despite strong broadcast performances, only qualified for 1 or 2 GSLs. Um... yeah. That's about it.
Verdict: Code A. JookTo qualified 3 times in a row but his 3-7 record in broadcast games is foreboding. Hopefully he will find a place in Code A where he can learn and improve, but it won't be easy amidst cutthroat competition.
Group C
By Xxio
+ Show Spoiler [Group C Players and Analysis] +
HongUnPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro4
Notable Victories: oGsZenio (2-0), TSL_Clide (2-1), TheBestfOu (2-1), TSL_FruitDealer (3-2),
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2), TSL_FruitDealer (0-2), TSL_Rain (2-4)
Love him or hate him, HongUn has one of the most impressive Protoss records to date. Season 1 quarter finalist, Season 2 qualifier, and Season 3 semi finalist, HongUn has become a household name on TeamLiquid and is the most consistent Protoss player in the world in terms of GSL performance. HongUn is innovative and, as we all know, solid under pressure. What he lacks is stable, fluid strategies, and perhaps mechanics, that can keep him alive in the late game.
Verdict: Code S. HongUn still has to develop robust strategies. With 3 Seasons finished and players quickly improving, it's getting close to crunch time for HongUn if he wants to keep his spot in Code S.
SlayerS_`BoxeR`
Achievements: GSL2 Semi Finalist, GSL3 Ro32, The Emperor of Starcraft.
Notable Victories: oGsNada (3-1)
Notable Defeats: IMNesTea (0-4), KyrixZeNex (0-2), PoltPrime.WE (1-2)
Boxer started his StarCraft 2 career in Season 2 with a 6 game win streak, sweeping 2 Terrans and a Protoss 2-0, then fellow Brood War legend NaDa 3-1 in one of the most anticipated StarCraft 2 matches. Boxer's rts experience, savvy, and dedication are undoubted, and mechanically, StarCraft 2 should not be problematic. What Boxer seems to be lacking is game sense, and apparently practise in TvZ, which he is 0-6 in. Another cause for concern is his new clan, Slayers, which has yet to become a powerhouse and offers little in terms of top tier players.
Verdict: Advance. This is a hard group to call. To me, the players are all fairly even compared to the other groups. Boxer gets the edge on this one. Once he figures out the more subtle things like when and when not to engage, Boxer will get scary. For now, his innovation, cleverness and overall experience should push him through to the next round.
oGsTheWinD
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3, Ro64
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-1), oGsZenio (2-0), MakaPrime.WE (2-0) (2-1), ST_RainBOw (2-1)
Notable Defeats: NsP.Genius (0-2), anyproPrime.WE (1-2), KyrixZeNex (0-2), TSL_sSKS (1-2), IMNesTea (0-2)
TheWind is part of why oGs is one of the best teams. Manager and player, this guy breathes StarCraft. TheWind is also an old-school progamer from Brood War, and when I say old, I mean 2000 old, Hot-Forever and Nal_ra old. Busy managing a team of top level players and dealing with rowdy foreigners, TheWind has found time to become a top player himself, getting so far as the round of 16 in Season 2, 2-0ing Maka along the way before losing to the future champion NesTea, who is currently undefeated in ZvZ.
Verdict: Advance. TheWind may not be rated as high as HongUn, but when you factor in his Blizzcon Qualifier games, adaptability, timings, and management skills, he begins to stand out. TheWind's experience and practise partners will tip the games in his favor.
oGsHyperdub
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro32
Notable Victories: TLAF-Liquid'TLO (2-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_sSKS (0-2), sanZeNex (1-2)
Hyperdub gained infamy in Season 1 for cheesing out TLO in game 3 of a very exciting series, then losing definitively to sSKS. Since then then his name, and performance has faded. Some have called his play gimmicky, saying that he won't last long. Indeed, rushes, cheese, and strong-arming seem to be his forte, yet, so far, this has been enough for him to consistently break through the qualifiers and players with weaker defences.
Verdict: Code A. Hyperdub has shown hardly anything but shortsighted, abusive strategies that will not get him far (and have not gotten him far) against players like MC, MVP, and sSKS, let alone Boxer, HongUn, and TheWind. Even staying in Code A might prove to be a challenge.
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro4
Notable Victories: oGsZenio (2-0), TSL_Clide (2-1), TheBestfOu (2-1), TSL_FruitDealer (3-2),
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2), TSL_FruitDealer (0-2), TSL_Rain (2-4)
Love him or hate him, HongUn has one of the most impressive Protoss records to date. Season 1 quarter finalist, Season 2 qualifier, and Season 3 semi finalist, HongUn has become a household name on TeamLiquid and is the most consistent Protoss player in the world in terms of GSL performance. HongUn is innovative and, as we all know, solid under pressure. What he lacks is stable, fluid strategies, and perhaps mechanics, that can keep him alive in the late game.
Verdict: Code S. HongUn still has to develop robust strategies. With 3 Seasons finished and players quickly improving, it's getting close to crunch time for HongUn if he wants to keep his spot in Code S.
SlayerS_`BoxeR`
Achievements: GSL2 Semi Finalist, GSL3 Ro32, The Emperor of Starcraft.
Notable Victories: oGsNada (3-1)
Notable Defeats: IMNesTea (0-4), KyrixZeNex (0-2), PoltPrime.WE (1-2)
Boxer started his StarCraft 2 career in Season 2 with a 6 game win streak, sweeping 2 Terrans and a Protoss 2-0, then fellow Brood War legend NaDa 3-1 in one of the most anticipated StarCraft 2 matches. Boxer's rts experience, savvy, and dedication are undoubted, and mechanically, StarCraft 2 should not be problematic. What Boxer seems to be lacking is game sense, and apparently practise in TvZ, which he is 0-6 in. Another cause for concern is his new clan, Slayers, which has yet to become a powerhouse and offers little in terms of top tier players.
Verdict: Advance. This is a hard group to call. To me, the players are all fairly even compared to the other groups. Boxer gets the edge on this one. Once he figures out the more subtle things like when and when not to engage, Boxer will get scary. For now, his innovation, cleverness and overall experience should push him through to the next round.
oGsTheWinD
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3, Ro64
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-1), oGsZenio (2-0), MakaPrime.WE (2-0) (2-1), ST_RainBOw (2-1)
Notable Defeats: NsP.Genius (0-2), anyproPrime.WE (1-2), KyrixZeNex (0-2), TSL_sSKS (1-2), IMNesTea (0-2)
TheWind is part of why oGs is one of the best teams. Manager and player, this guy breathes StarCraft. TheWind is also an old-school progamer from Brood War, and when I say old, I mean 2000 old, Hot-Forever and Nal_ra old. Busy managing a team of top level players and dealing with rowdy foreigners, TheWind has found time to become a top player himself, getting so far as the round of 16 in Season 2, 2-0ing Maka along the way before losing to the future champion NesTea, who is currently undefeated in ZvZ.
Verdict: Advance. TheWind may not be rated as high as HongUn, but when you factor in his Blizzcon Qualifier games, adaptability, timings, and management skills, he begins to stand out. TheWind's experience and practise partners will tip the games in his favor.
oGsHyperdub
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro32
Notable Victories: TLAF-Liquid'TLO (2-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_sSKS (0-2), sanZeNex (1-2)
Hyperdub gained infamy in Season 1 for cheesing out TLO in game 3 of a very exciting series, then losing definitively to sSKS. Since then then his name, and performance has faded. Some have called his play gimmicky, saying that he won't last long. Indeed, rushes, cheese, and strong-arming seem to be his forte, yet, so far, this has been enough for him to consistently break through the qualifiers and players with weaker defences.
Verdict: Code A. Hyperdub has shown hardly anything but shortsighted, abusive strategies that will not get him far (and have not gotten him far) against players like MC, MVP, and sSKS, let alone Boxer, HongUn, and TheWind. Even staying in Code A might prove to be a challenge.
Group D
By Treehugger
+ Show Spoiler [Group D Players and Analysis] +
TSL_Rain
Achievements: GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Runner Up
Notable Victories: choyafOu (2-1), NsP.Genius (2-0), IMNesTea (3-2), HongUnPrime.WE (4-2)
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2), oGsMC (1-4)
The surprise finalist of GSL3, Rain has yet to receive his due for his accomplishments. This is mostly because of Rain's cheesey victory over an in-form NesTea, for which was widely condemned and cited as one of the tournament's lowest points. Yet to Rain's eternal credit, he met the criticism brilliantly, apologizing for his play, yet making no apologies for his victory. In the semi-finals against HongUn, Rain put forth a yeoman's effort to prove the naysayers wrong, dispatching the protoss with macro-oriented play. And yet, Rain may have lost as much ground as he gained in the finals, as MC brought the hammer and won comfortably 4-1. Yet Rain has faced more S-Class players than almost anyone else, and has persevered remarkably. To ignore his record of success is ignorant at best.
Verdict: Advance. Rain enters the 2011 GSL season as a strong contender, but not a favorite. His fundamentals are quite solid, but not exceptional. His game sense and decision-making is also strong, but not exemplary. Throughout Rain's run, he demonstrated proficiency in all his match-ups, but the most comfort in TvP. Fortunately for him, his group contains two protoss, including one whom he has already beaten. This should give him an edge in his group, and make him a favorite to advance.
KyrixZeNex
Achievements: GSL2 Ro8, GSTAR All-stars Winner, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: HongUnPrime.WE (2-0), oGsEnsnare (2-1)
Notable Defeats: MarineKingPrime.WE (2-3)
Kyrix was one of the most fun players to watch in GSL2, using and abusing mass banelings at every opportunity. This style of play was extremely effective, and still can be, but it's limitations have since been exposed twice; by gosu marine splitting against MK, and by prepared timing attacks against teammate JSL in the third season. This means that Kyrix will need to prove that he has finesse to match his wanton aggression. In the GSTAR All-Stars event, he showed some of this, but being sniped in GSL3 raised the same issues. Kyrix's fundamentals are impressive, but his decision-making is what will take center stage in this tournament.
Verdict: Code S. To advance in this tournament, Kyrix will need to show a versatility that he has yet to demonstrate. He has the fundamentals to easily play different styles, but his level of confidence in different types of play will be essential in determining how far Kyrix can go. His group is a tough one and none of his opponents will easily be overwhelmed, which makes Kyrix an underdog to advance here. If he falls in his group however, he should not fall much further, and a Code-S designation for next season seems extremely likely.
choyafOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro8
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-1), IMmvp (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_Rain (1-2), TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (2-3)
After an underwhelming defeat in the second GSL, choya broke through in a big way in GSL3. Indeed, of the tournament's unknown players, choya was among the most impressive. With solid and creative play, he gutted and scraped his way into the round of 8, where a single mental snafu (forgetting colossi range) might've been the only thing that prevented him from an even deeper run. Nonetheless, against a series of tough opponents, choya showed poise, toughness, and also passion. His return from 0-2 down against Jinro showed that he will be hard to eliminate, his stomping of pre-tournament favorite mvp showed that he can play with the best of them.
Verdict: Advance. choya was impressive in GSL3 in a way that few other protosses were. Most noticeably, his sense of timing was excellent in much of his tournament run. He was never exclusively aggressive or defensive, instead he demonstrated an adeptness at changing his mindset between games. That'll be a key skill in this tournament, with a varied pallet of opponents and maps. choya clearly has the mechanics to compete here, but his game sense is the best in the group.
TSL_sSKS (TesteR)
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSTAR All-stars Third Place
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-0), oGsTheWinD (2-1), NsP.Genius (2-1), oGsNada (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (0-2), MarineKingPrime.WE (0-2)
One of the champions of the beta, TesteR came into GSL1 as one of the favorites and made the round of 8. We've heard almost nothing from him since, except for a third place finish in the GSTAR All-stars, in which he seemed to take out half of oGs in the process. That was impressive, but not enough to excuse or explain TesteR's failure to qualify for GSL2 and GSL3. Now that he's past the qualifiers and in the main event automatically, this is his chance to solidify his position and put the two missed qualifications away as flukes.
Verdict: Code S. But were they? It's hard to tell. In GSL1, TesteR's play was among the best in the tournament, but the competition is much stiffer now, and without any recent results to examine, it's simply impossible to say where he'll end up. I'm inclined to split the difference here. TesteR simply has to be the underdog to advance here, although he certainly could. If he doesn't, however, he'll almost definitely keep his Code S ranking.
Achievements: GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Runner Up
Notable Victories: choyafOu (2-1), NsP.Genius (2-0), IMNesTea (3-2), HongUnPrime.WE (4-2)
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2), oGsMC (1-4)
The surprise finalist of GSL3, Rain has yet to receive his due for his accomplishments. This is mostly because of Rain's cheesey victory over an in-form NesTea, for which was widely condemned and cited as one of the tournament's lowest points. Yet to Rain's eternal credit, he met the criticism brilliantly, apologizing for his play, yet making no apologies for his victory. In the semi-finals against HongUn, Rain put forth a yeoman's effort to prove the naysayers wrong, dispatching the protoss with macro-oriented play. And yet, Rain may have lost as much ground as he gained in the finals, as MC brought the hammer and won comfortably 4-1. Yet Rain has faced more S-Class players than almost anyone else, and has persevered remarkably. To ignore his record of success is ignorant at best.
Verdict: Advance. Rain enters the 2011 GSL season as a strong contender, but not a favorite. His fundamentals are quite solid, but not exceptional. His game sense and decision-making is also strong, but not exemplary. Throughout Rain's run, he demonstrated proficiency in all his match-ups, but the most comfort in TvP. Fortunately for him, his group contains two protoss, including one whom he has already beaten. This should give him an edge in his group, and make him a favorite to advance.
KyrixZeNex
Achievements: GSL2 Ro8, GSTAR All-stars Winner, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: HongUnPrime.WE (2-0), oGsEnsnare (2-1)
Notable Defeats: MarineKingPrime.WE (2-3)
Kyrix was one of the most fun players to watch in GSL2, using and abusing mass banelings at every opportunity. This style of play was extremely effective, and still can be, but it's limitations have since been exposed twice; by gosu marine splitting against MK, and by prepared timing attacks against teammate JSL in the third season. This means that Kyrix will need to prove that he has finesse to match his wanton aggression. In the GSTAR All-Stars event, he showed some of this, but being sniped in GSL3 raised the same issues. Kyrix's fundamentals are impressive, but his decision-making is what will take center stage in this tournament.
Verdict: Code S. To advance in this tournament, Kyrix will need to show a versatility that he has yet to demonstrate. He has the fundamentals to easily play different styles, but his level of confidence in different types of play will be essential in determining how far Kyrix can go. His group is a tough one and none of his opponents will easily be overwhelmed, which makes Kyrix an underdog to advance here. If he falls in his group however, he should not fall much further, and a Code-S designation for next season seems extremely likely.
choyafOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro8
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-1), IMmvp (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_Rain (1-2), TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (2-3)
After an underwhelming defeat in the second GSL, choya broke through in a big way in GSL3. Indeed, of the tournament's unknown players, choya was among the most impressive. With solid and creative play, he gutted and scraped his way into the round of 8, where a single mental snafu (forgetting colossi range) might've been the only thing that prevented him from an even deeper run. Nonetheless, against a series of tough opponents, choya showed poise, toughness, and also passion. His return from 0-2 down against Jinro showed that he will be hard to eliminate, his stomping of pre-tournament favorite mvp showed that he can play with the best of them.
Verdict: Advance. choya was impressive in GSL3 in a way that few other protosses were. Most noticeably, his sense of timing was excellent in much of his tournament run. He was never exclusively aggressive or defensive, instead he demonstrated an adeptness at changing his mindset between games. That'll be a key skill in this tournament, with a varied pallet of opponents and maps. choya clearly has the mechanics to compete here, but his game sense is the best in the group.
TSL_sSKS (TesteR)
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSTAR All-stars Third Place
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-0), oGsTheWinD (2-1), NsP.Genius (2-1), oGsNada (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (0-2), MarineKingPrime.WE (0-2)
One of the champions of the beta, TesteR came into GSL1 as one of the favorites and made the round of 8. We've heard almost nothing from him since, except for a third place finish in the GSTAR All-stars, in which he seemed to take out half of oGs in the process. That was impressive, but not enough to excuse or explain TesteR's failure to qualify for GSL2 and GSL3. Now that he's past the qualifiers and in the main event automatically, this is his chance to solidify his position and put the two missed qualifications away as flukes.
Verdict: Code S. But were they? It's hard to tell. In GSL1, TesteR's play was among the best in the tournament, but the competition is much stiffer now, and without any recent results to examine, it's simply impossible to say where he'll end up. I'm inclined to split the difference here. TesteR simply has to be the underdog to advance here, although he certainly could. If he doesn't, however, he'll almost definitely keep his Code S ranking.
Group E
By Treehugger
+ Show Spoiler [Group E Players and Analysis] +
ST_RainBOw
Achievements: GSL1 Runner Up, GSL2 Ro4, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-0) (2-0), TSL_sSKS (2-0), oGsEnsnare (3-1), NsP.Genius (3-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (1-4), MarineKingPrime.WE (1-4)
The most consistent performer in the first two GSL's, RainBOw turned in two limp-wristed cheeses in GSL3, becoming the most notable casualty of timing-attack-TvZ until NesTea. This horrendous performance almost single-handedly took RainBOw out of the picture when it came to the game's elite players. This GSL ought to prove whether or not that demotion was deserved.
Verdict: Advance. Luckily for RainBOw, his group includes only one zerg, which should give RainBOw a chance to play a match-up he presumably has more confidence in. Indeed, his 9-2 record in the match-up, and previous defeat of Genius should give him the edge in this group, and propel him to the next round, although where he progresses from there, is far from certain.
LeenockfOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: LegalMindZeNex (2-0), TSL_Clide (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsNada (1-2), MarineKingPrime.WE (1-2)
In his two appearances in the GSL, Leenock has put forth a string of strong performances. After cruising into the Round of 16 in GSL2, Leenock six pooled NaDa, then was completely worked on the next two maps. In GSL3, Leenock killed off half of TSL before getting beaten by MarineKing in a close series. For all of his inability to progress into the tournament's final rounds, Leenock has been one of the most impressive players of the whole three seasons. His series against Clide is fairly uncontroversially regarded as one of the best of the year, and he has logged strong games even in the series he's lost.
Verdict: Advance. Leenock's fundamentals are strong, but his most impressive trait is probably his ability to improve and learn from his mistakes. Most notably, after he was outmacroed by NaDa on Shakuras, Leenock thrashed Clide in the same situation a season later. Overall, his improvement between GSL appearances was greater than anyone else. For this GSL season, Leenock will certainly be stronger and more solid than ever. In a group of unknown commodities, Leenock is the surest thing here.
NsP.Genius
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Ro8, GSL3 Ro32, Blizzcon Winner
Notable Victories: oGsTheWinD (2-0), oGsEnsnare (2-1), MakaPrime.WE (2-0) (3-2), oGsInCa (2-1), IMNesTea (2-1)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (1-3), TSL_sSKS (1-2), TSL_Rain (0-2)
With an impressive Ro8 run and a decisive Blizzcon victory, Genius is one of the most accomplished Sc2 players to date, but he is still teamless to this writer's knowledge, and was fairly unimpressive in GSL3 against Rain. To add insult to injury, Genius's omission of MC as the game's best protoss in the Ro64 interview completely blew up in his face, as MC called him out on it, then went on to win. Like quite a few players then, Genius comes into GSL4 with something to prove.
Verdict: Code S. I'm not sure he'll do it. There could've been much easier groups for Genius. He is the heavy underdog in his weakest match-up against Leenock, and he has been beaten on this stage by RainBOw before. If Genius wants to qualify for the Round of 16, it'll be an uphill battle for him. But without the support of a team, his task is significantly harder. It wouldn't be a huge surprise to Genius get to the next round, but the odds seem somewhat against it.
anyproPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: oGsTheWinD (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2)
In qualifying for GSL3, anypro edged into his Code S position. That's a pity too, because his run in that tournament ended with a thrashing from TheBest that earned anypro the first newspost F grade of the season. Yet anypro returns to this tournament and will hope to recapture his decent form in GSL1, along with a substantial bit of luck.
Verdict: Code A. In one of the most accomplished groups of the tournament, there's no room for anypro at this table. There's really not a lot to say here, in GSL1, anypro defended two awful terran attacks in the Ro64, then four gated TheWind twice in the Ro32. That's apparently what it takes to get to Code S, but my money says it's not enough to stay.
Achievements: GSL1 Runner Up, GSL2 Ro4, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: CheckPrime.WE (2-0) (2-0), TSL_sSKS (2-0), oGsEnsnare (3-1), NsP.Genius (3-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (1-4), MarineKingPrime.WE (1-4)
The most consistent performer in the first two GSL's, RainBOw turned in two limp-wristed cheeses in GSL3, becoming the most notable casualty of timing-attack-TvZ until NesTea. This horrendous performance almost single-handedly took RainBOw out of the picture when it came to the game's elite players. This GSL ought to prove whether or not that demotion was deserved.
Verdict: Advance. Luckily for RainBOw, his group includes only one zerg, which should give RainBOw a chance to play a match-up he presumably has more confidence in. Indeed, his 9-2 record in the match-up, and previous defeat of Genius should give him the edge in this group, and propel him to the next round, although where he progresses from there, is far from certain.
LeenockfOu
Achievements: GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: LegalMindZeNex (2-0), TSL_Clide (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsNada (1-2), MarineKingPrime.WE (1-2)
In his two appearances in the GSL, Leenock has put forth a string of strong performances. After cruising into the Round of 16 in GSL2, Leenock six pooled NaDa, then was completely worked on the next two maps. In GSL3, Leenock killed off half of TSL before getting beaten by MarineKing in a close series. For all of his inability to progress into the tournament's final rounds, Leenock has been one of the most impressive players of the whole three seasons. His series against Clide is fairly uncontroversially regarded as one of the best of the year, and he has logged strong games even in the series he's lost.
Verdict: Advance. Leenock's fundamentals are strong, but his most impressive trait is probably his ability to improve and learn from his mistakes. Most notably, after he was outmacroed by NaDa on Shakuras, Leenock thrashed Clide in the same situation a season later. Overall, his improvement between GSL appearances was greater than anyone else. For this GSL season, Leenock will certainly be stronger and more solid than ever. In a group of unknown commodities, Leenock is the surest thing here.
NsP.Genius
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Ro8, GSL3 Ro32, Blizzcon Winner
Notable Victories: oGsTheWinD (2-0), oGsEnsnare (2-1), MakaPrime.WE (2-0) (3-2), oGsInCa (2-1), IMNesTea (2-1)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (1-3), TSL_sSKS (1-2), TSL_Rain (0-2)
With an impressive Ro8 run and a decisive Blizzcon victory, Genius is one of the most accomplished Sc2 players to date, but he is still teamless to this writer's knowledge, and was fairly unimpressive in GSL3 against Rain. To add insult to injury, Genius's omission of MC as the game's best protoss in the Ro64 interview completely blew up in his face, as MC called him out on it, then went on to win. Like quite a few players then, Genius comes into GSL4 with something to prove.
Verdict: Code S. I'm not sure he'll do it. There could've been much easier groups for Genius. He is the heavy underdog in his weakest match-up against Leenock, and he has been beaten on this stage by RainBOw before. If Genius wants to qualify for the Round of 16, it'll be an uphill battle for him. But without the support of a team, his task is significantly harder. It wouldn't be a huge surprise to Genius get to the next round, but the odds seem somewhat against it.
anyproPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: oGsTheWinD (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsEnsnare (0-2)
In qualifying for GSL3, anypro edged into his Code S position. That's a pity too, because his run in that tournament ended with a thrashing from TheBest that earned anypro the first newspost F grade of the season. Yet anypro returns to this tournament and will hope to recapture his decent form in GSL1, along with a substantial bit of luck.
Verdict: Code A. In one of the most accomplished groups of the tournament, there's no room for anypro at this table. There's really not a lot to say here, in GSL1, anypro defended two awful terran attacks in the Ro64, then four gated TheWind twice in the Ro32. That's apparently what it takes to get to Code S, but my money says it's not enough to stay.
Group F
By TrueRedemption
+ Show Spoiler [Group F Players and Analysis] +
oGsMC
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Champion
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-0), ST_July (2-1), MarineKingPrime.WE (3-1), TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (4-0), TSL_Rain (4-1)
Notable Defeats: PoltPrime.WE (0-2), IMNesTea (0-2)
With nerves no longer holding him back, MC is a force to be reckoned with and then some. Winning the most recent GSL should speak for itself, but if his 4-1 finals domination and the prevelance of all in play gave the impression this wasn't the highest skilled season let me remind you MC took out veteran Hyperdub, the mighty JulyZerg, the previous season's runner up, and the mighty Jinro along the way. Although MC may have been in the shadows of Tester and Genius initially, it was only a matter of time before his confident attitude and rumored skill won fans and titles.
Verdict: Advance. MinChul belongs in the top SC2 player discussion, and fittingly enters the tournament as a favorite. The question is whether this new type of pressure will re-awaken the vicious nerves he just recently tamed.
oGsInCa
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro16
Notable Victories: SanZeNex (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (0-2), NsPGenius (1-2), MakaPrime.WE (1-2)
Always considered very good, but rarely great, Inca has found himself hovering near, but distinctly outside the top protoss player discussion for months now. New and somewhat outshined by Tester in GSL1, Inca's Ro8 finish brought him into the picture. As he gained steam in season 2 he continued to garner attention, but a brutal 1-2 series with the Genius who won Blizzcon shortly after insured Inca remained in the picture, but stuck in the background. Even at Dreamhack after missing GSL3, Liquid'Tyler won a critical group game that put Inca in an elimination match with his teammate TOP the first round of the bracket, which lead to an earlier exit than expected.
Verdict: Code S. If the first couple GSLs are any indication, Inca should feel comfortable in this protoss heavy group having defeated SanZenith and two other from Aiur in his impressive season 1 run. Additionally his tense series with Genius season 2 could have gone either way, but having good PvP and PvT experience is hardly a comfort when you have to prepare against your teammates. You can be sure that the oGs house will have no shortage of tension as this group plays out. Being in a group with MC and Nada means one mistake is likely one too many for anyone, including Inca, so although anything can happen between teammates in a single game, Inca once again looks like he'll be left in the background, waiting for his chance to break through.
oGsNada
Achievements: GSL2 Ro8
Notable Victories: LeenockfOu (2-0)
Notable Defeats: SlayerSBoxeR (1-3), TSL_sSKS (0-2)
The genius terran needs no introduction, but even if the new game argument is to be believed Nada still has shown himself as a strong contender. Having only joined the SC2 party in September, his GSL2 play was fearsome and ahead of its time, particularly his series against Leenock. After his fan-boy dream match exit at the hands of the Emperor however, Nada has been quiet, narrowly missing a spot in GSL3. Whether he has been training hard or simply basking in the glow of his own glorious body for the past 8 weeks is anyone's guess, but we're sure to find out soon.
Verdict: Advance. There isn't a player in Code S who didn't know of and respect Nada since long before SC2 was even released, but its difficult to guess how strong he is now, but this smokescreen will hardly prove useful against his teammates and SanZenith, who is in no position to underestimate anyone. A double edged sword however, I feel the talent Nada has shown combined with his familiarity with MC and Inca makes him a safe choice to make it out of the group. Oh that and the fact that he is the statistically best player in BW history.
SanZenith
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro32
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsInCa (0-2), CheckPrime.WE (0-2)
SanZenith was no doubt relieved to slip into Code S, at least until the groups were announced. He certainly didn't make friends around TL after his match with Torch in GSL1, but he continued on to beat Maru (who missed qualifying for Code A) until Inca stopped him in his tracks. San isn't all bad however, he navigated the qualifier minefield yet again and slipped by Hyperdub before losing to Check in the Ro32.
Verdict: Code A. Other than his loss to Inca we haven't seen San's PvP, but in a matchup rife with build order victories and a best of one format, anything could happen in this group. He has yet to show much impressive play however, and considering some of the talent looking to move up after this round, San will have needed a good bit of improvement to keep his spot in Code S. Having not seen much of his play lately this feels like theres a definite chance of me being caught with my foot in my mouth, but with 3 difficult games ahead San may as well be showing up as a no name.
Achievements: GSL1 Ro64, GSL2 Ro32, GSL3 Champion
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-0), ST_July (2-1), MarineKingPrime.WE (3-1), TLAF-Liquid'Jinro (4-0), TSL_Rain (4-1)
Notable Defeats: PoltPrime.WE (0-2), IMNesTea (0-2)
With nerves no longer holding him back, MC is a force to be reckoned with and then some. Winning the most recent GSL should speak for itself, but if his 4-1 finals domination and the prevelance of all in play gave the impression this wasn't the highest skilled season let me remind you MC took out veteran Hyperdub, the mighty JulyZerg, the previous season's runner up, and the mighty Jinro along the way. Although MC may have been in the shadows of Tester and Genius initially, it was only a matter of time before his confident attitude and rumored skill won fans and titles.
Verdict: Advance. MinChul belongs in the top SC2 player discussion, and fittingly enters the tournament as a favorite. The question is whether this new type of pressure will re-awaken the vicious nerves he just recently tamed.
oGsInCa
Achievements: GSL1 Ro8, GSL2 Ro16
Notable Victories: SanZeNex (2-0)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (0-2), NsPGenius (1-2), MakaPrime.WE (1-2)
Always considered very good, but rarely great, Inca has found himself hovering near, but distinctly outside the top protoss player discussion for months now. New and somewhat outshined by Tester in GSL1, Inca's Ro8 finish brought him into the picture. As he gained steam in season 2 he continued to garner attention, but a brutal 1-2 series with the Genius who won Blizzcon shortly after insured Inca remained in the picture, but stuck in the background. Even at Dreamhack after missing GSL3, Liquid'Tyler won a critical group game that put Inca in an elimination match with his teammate TOP the first round of the bracket, which lead to an earlier exit than expected.
Verdict: Code S. If the first couple GSLs are any indication, Inca should feel comfortable in this protoss heavy group having defeated SanZenith and two other from Aiur in his impressive season 1 run. Additionally his tense series with Genius season 2 could have gone either way, but having good PvP and PvT experience is hardly a comfort when you have to prepare against your teammates. You can be sure that the oGs house will have no shortage of tension as this group plays out. Being in a group with MC and Nada means one mistake is likely one too many for anyone, including Inca, so although anything can happen between teammates in a single game, Inca once again looks like he'll be left in the background, waiting for his chance to break through.
oGsNada
Achievements: GSL2 Ro8
Notable Victories: LeenockfOu (2-0)
Notable Defeats: SlayerSBoxeR (1-3), TSL_sSKS (0-2)
The genius terran needs no introduction, but even if the new game argument is to be believed Nada still has shown himself as a strong contender. Having only joined the SC2 party in September, his GSL2 play was fearsome and ahead of its time, particularly his series against Leenock. After his fan-boy dream match exit at the hands of the Emperor however, Nada has been quiet, narrowly missing a spot in GSL3. Whether he has been training hard or simply basking in the glow of his own glorious body for the past 8 weeks is anyone's guess, but we're sure to find out soon.
Verdict: Advance. There isn't a player in Code S who didn't know of and respect Nada since long before SC2 was even released, but its difficult to guess how strong he is now, but this smokescreen will hardly prove useful against his teammates and SanZenith, who is in no position to underestimate anyone. A double edged sword however, I feel the talent Nada has shown combined with his familiarity with MC and Inca makes him a safe choice to make it out of the group. Oh that and the fact that he is the statistically best player in BW history.
SanZenith
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro32
Notable Victories: oGsHyperdub (2-1)
Notable Defeats: oGsInCa (0-2), CheckPrime.WE (0-2)
SanZenith was no doubt relieved to slip into Code S, at least until the groups were announced. He certainly didn't make friends around TL after his match with Torch in GSL1, but he continued on to beat Maru (who missed qualifying for Code A) until Inca stopped him in his tracks. San isn't all bad however, he navigated the qualifier minefield yet again and slipped by Hyperdub before losing to Check in the Ro32.
Verdict: Code A. Other than his loss to Inca we haven't seen San's PvP, but in a matchup rife with build order victories and a best of one format, anything could happen in this group. He has yet to show much impressive play however, and considering some of the talent looking to move up after this round, San will have needed a good bit of improvement to keep his spot in Code S. Having not seen much of his play lately this feels like theres a definite chance of me being caught with my foot in my mouth, but with 3 difficult games ahead San may as well be showing up as a no name.
Group G
By TrueRedemption
+ Show Spoiler [Group G Players and Analysis] +
MarineKingPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL2 Runner Up, GSTAR All-stars Runner Up, GSL3 Ro8
Notable Victories: TSL_FruitDealer (2-0) (2-1), TSL_Killer (2-0), KyrixZeNex (3-2), ST_RainBOw (4-1), TSL_sSKS (2-1), LeenockfOu (2-1)
Notable Defeats: IMNesTea (4-3), KyrixZeNex (0-2), oGsMC (3-1)
Starcraft 2's development over the past months has really been remarkable, so much so that each GSL has had its own distinct feel and style. From each major event new ideas, strategies, and builds emerge, but few players have left quite as big an impression on the game as MarineKing did in GSL2. Although he may not be directly responsible for the 2 rax builds currently haunting every zerg's dreams, his aggressive marine heavy style quickly evolved into the standard for the matchup so prevalent in GSL3 and still today. MarineKing took his vision a different direction however, still finding the Ro8 despite largely abandoning his early aggression for mid-game marine play, his control carrying much of the weight. With a 2nd place and Ro8 theres no denying he is one of the most talented players in the pro scene currently, but as his December struggles showed he is going to need to learn to use more of the terran options if he hopes to remain competitive.
Verdict: Advance. While MarineKing may certainly need to vary up his play against a top level opponent, he simply has too much talent to not be a favorite in this group. While best of 1 can and often does have surprising results, if Foxer is serious about this tournament we will most likely see early marine based aggression intended to disrupt any non standard strategy, and his micro carries him through the group.
LiveForeverZeNex
Achievements: GSL1 Ro4
Notable Victories: MakaPrime.WE (2-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (0-3)
LiveForever might even be more of a wildcard than Clide, with a Semis finish in GSL1 and then disappearing off the radar for academic reasons. Taking Maka down in any Ro8 is something to be noted, but that was a long time ago. We all know what overbearing parents can do to one's gaming, but we will simply have to wait and see whether he was actually studying or not.
Verdict: Code A. I'm not a fan of one hit wonders, and while I'd love for him to prove me wrong, LiveForever's absence in the past 2 GSLs makes me skeptical he could stay in shape, especially if he had schoolwork. With players like Ret and GuineaPig waiting in the wings I fear LiveForever won't be able to put in the effort to protect his S rank.
TSL_Clide
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code S competition.
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (1-2), LeenockfOu (1-2)
The adopted son of Tastosis, Clide has kept things interesting every time he enters a booth. His impressive play GSL1 caught everyones attention but was sharply contrasted by his poor GSL2 performance later attributed to family issues. To insure he wasn't mislabeled as a season 1 hero who couldn't keep up, Clide promptly all killed Zenith in the Brainbox team invite and qualified for GSL3. Again he found himself exiting in the first round, but not before offering one of the highest entertainment value series of the tournament in his epic showdown with Leenock. Is Clide a top pro in need of a break through or just a fool with contagious delusions of grandeur? Either way one things for sure, he'll make it interesting.
Verdict: Advance. It seems stupid to bet against Tastosis's favoritism curse, and I don't necessarily think this is going to be Clide's breakout GSL, but he shown skill beyond what I expect LiveForever and LegalMind can match. He's already impressed, depressed, and wow'd us, so the next logical step is to be completely uninteresting; Clide takes care of business in group stage and goes out in a boring Ro32 game.
SlayerS_LegalMind
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code S competition.
Notable Defeats: MakaPrime.WE (0-2), LeenockfOu (0-2)
LegalMind managed to slip into Code S with the lowest score of qualifiers who didn't play in GSL3, his first round exit from GSL2 helping just past the likes of JulyZerg, Squirtle and BitByBit with single Ro16 finishes. In GSL1 he did better a couple of Code A players in Junwi and Tankboy before falling 0-2 to Maka and Leenock. He has since joined the SlayerS clan, but thats all the info there is LegalMind. The poor guy doesn't even have a Liquipedia page! (YOU should make one!) *hint hint*
Verdict: Code A. Two Code A in a group seems a little harsh, but this looks like one of the easier groups in the tournament. This is somewhat biased by a lack of data on two of the players, but with both having done best in GSL1 and then trailing off, I can't help but feel the lack of knowledge about these players is for a reason, and I don't expect the their trends to change. Hopefully it does so I can be a complete turncoat and hype them up as the fairy tale of the tournament, but a little stability at the top might be a good thing.
Achievements: GSL2 Runner Up, GSTAR All-stars Runner Up, GSL3 Ro8
Notable Victories: TSL_FruitDealer (2-0) (2-1), TSL_Killer (2-0), KyrixZeNex (3-2), ST_RainBOw (4-1), TSL_sSKS (2-1), LeenockfOu (2-1)
Notable Defeats: IMNesTea (4-3), KyrixZeNex (0-2), oGsMC (3-1)
Starcraft 2's development over the past months has really been remarkable, so much so that each GSL has had its own distinct feel and style. From each major event new ideas, strategies, and builds emerge, but few players have left quite as big an impression on the game as MarineKing did in GSL2. Although he may not be directly responsible for the 2 rax builds currently haunting every zerg's dreams, his aggressive marine heavy style quickly evolved into the standard for the matchup so prevalent in GSL3 and still today. MarineKing took his vision a different direction however, still finding the Ro8 despite largely abandoning his early aggression for mid-game marine play, his control carrying much of the weight. With a 2nd place and Ro8 theres no denying he is one of the most talented players in the pro scene currently, but as his December struggles showed he is going to need to learn to use more of the terran options if he hopes to remain competitive.
Verdict: Advance. While MarineKing may certainly need to vary up his play against a top level opponent, he simply has too much talent to not be a favorite in this group. While best of 1 can and often does have surprising results, if Foxer is serious about this tournament we will most likely see early marine based aggression intended to disrupt any non standard strategy, and his micro carries him through the group.
LiveForeverZeNex
Achievements: GSL1 Ro4
Notable Victories: MakaPrime.WE (2-1)
Notable Defeats: TSL_FruitDealer (0-3)
LiveForever might even be more of a wildcard than Clide, with a Semis finish in GSL1 and then disappearing off the radar for academic reasons. Taking Maka down in any Ro8 is something to be noted, but that was a long time ago. We all know what overbearing parents can do to one's gaming, but we will simply have to wait and see whether he was actually studying or not.
Verdict: Code A. I'm not a fan of one hit wonders, and while I'd love for him to prove me wrong, LiveForever's absence in the past 2 GSLs makes me skeptical he could stay in shape, especially if he had schoolwork. With players like Ret and GuineaPig waiting in the wings I fear LiveForever won't be able to put in the effort to protect his S rank.
TSL_Clide
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64, GSL3 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code S competition.
Notable Defeats: HongUnPrime.WE (1-2), LeenockfOu (1-2)
The adopted son of Tastosis, Clide has kept things interesting every time he enters a booth. His impressive play GSL1 caught everyones attention but was sharply contrasted by his poor GSL2 performance later attributed to family issues. To insure he wasn't mislabeled as a season 1 hero who couldn't keep up, Clide promptly all killed Zenith in the Brainbox team invite and qualified for GSL3. Again he found himself exiting in the first round, but not before offering one of the highest entertainment value series of the tournament in his epic showdown with Leenock. Is Clide a top pro in need of a break through or just a fool with contagious delusions of grandeur? Either way one things for sure, he'll make it interesting.
Verdict: Advance. It seems stupid to bet against Tastosis's favoritism curse, and I don't necessarily think this is going to be Clide's breakout GSL, but he shown skill beyond what I expect LiveForever and LegalMind can match. He's already impressed, depressed, and wow'd us, so the next logical step is to be completely uninteresting; Clide takes care of business in group stage and goes out in a boring Ro32 game.
SlayerS_LegalMind
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro64
Notable Victories: None against Code S competition.
Notable Defeats: MakaPrime.WE (0-2), LeenockfOu (0-2)
LegalMind managed to slip into Code S with the lowest score of qualifiers who didn't play in GSL3, his first round exit from GSL2 helping just past the likes of JulyZerg, Squirtle and BitByBit with single Ro16 finishes. In GSL1 he did better a couple of Code A players in Junwi and Tankboy before falling 0-2 to Maka and Leenock. He has since joined the SlayerS clan, but thats all the info there is LegalMind. The poor guy doesn't even have a Liquipedia page! (YOU should make one!) *hint hint*
Verdict: Code A. Two Code A in a group seems a little harsh, but this looks like one of the easier groups in the tournament. This is somewhat biased by a lack of data on two of the players, but with both having done best in GSL1 and then trailing off, I can't help but feel the lack of knowledge about these players is for a reason, and I don't expect the their trends to change. Hopefully it does so I can be a complete turncoat and hype them up as the fairy tale of the tournament, but a little stability at the top might be a good thing.
Group H
By TrueRedemption
+ Show Spoiler [Group H Players and Analysis] +
oGsEnsnare
Achievements: GSL1 Ro4, GSL2 Ro16
Notable Victories: anyproPrime.WE (2-0), HongUnPrime.WE (2-0), TSL_Rain (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (1-3), KyrixZeNex (0-2) (1-2)
Yet another strong player who couldn't navigate the random seed qualifiers in GSL3, Ensnare's solid results in GSL1 and 2 bode well for this coming season. He and FruitDealer were the only two able to take a game off IntoTheRainbow in GSL1, and the popular Kyrix style zerg was first showcased in their close 1-2 series.
Verdict: Code S. While Ensnare has consistently offered great all around play, the only player of significance he's really beaten in the GSL is Rain and HongUnPrime prior to their GSL3 runs. While I do not doubt his skill, with only one chance to wrestle with each of these giants Ensnare will likely need more than his all around solid play to get through.
TLAF-Liquid'Jinro
Achievements: GSL3 Ro4
Notable Victories: FOXLiberty (2-0), PoltPrime.WE (2-0), choyafOu (3-2)
Notable Defeats: oGsMC (0-4)
In one fell swoop the Gorilla Terran jinrolled his way into Code S and right into one of the closest groups in this stage. Jinro's dominating displays in GSL3 were not without hiccups though, and a dropped game in this group might be more than he and his beanie can weather. His last TvZ performance against Moon seemed as brilliant as it was entertaining, but Idra and Check are on another level. Round it out with a house-mate mirror match and our Swedish super hero has quite the adventure ahead.
Verdict: Advance Riding on the confidence of his MLG win and GSL3 breakout Jinro should definitely control his fate in this group. His struggle to qualify for GSL1 and 2 may be of concern here without having a guaranteed game 2 to rely on but that should be equally concerning for Idra and Ensnare. Ultimately I believe Jinro's got this though, a favorable first map and being one of the best terran out there certainly counts for something.
CheckPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro32
Notable Victories: sanZeNex (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (0-2) (0-2), choyafOu (1-2)
No GSL is complete without Check, though he is definitely going to need to work hard if he wants to continue his Ro32 and better streak. Like Ensnare Check has benefited from good draws in the first 3 GSLs, but group G is anything but a cake walk. Without any notable wins Check has something to prove, and this group is as good a place as any to make a statement, but I'm curious if he has what it takes. The good news is Rainbow can't possibly knock Check out until at least the Ro32.
Verdict: Code S. Check needs to prepare something special to make it out of the group. Although seemingly immune to most kinds of all-ins in the past, this skill will offer Check little help against his macro oriented opponents. I expect Check to play the role of spoiler, stealing an all important game in unexpected fashion but I'm not sure who from, it might even be from himself.
EGIdrA
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: oGsGon (2-0)
Notable Defeats: LotzePrime.WE (1-2), oGsZenio (0-2), IMmvp (2-1)
Much like Check Idra has never finished outside the top 32 in every GSL, and similarly his first round each season was so one sided the Gracken often appeared bored. His 1-2 loss to MVP meant an early exit after what could've been a quarterfinal or higher level match, but it more than secured his Code S position. Dead set on a better result than past GSLs, the infamous bad boy of starcraft will no doubt approach his group well prepared and the confidence bordering on superiority his fans know and love.
Verdict: Advance. Although potentially faced with ZvT on Jungle Basin twice in a row, Idra has shown a frightening ZvT time and time again including his domination of oGsGon on JB a season ago. We have never seen Check's ZvZ, but if Idra's ZvT is as sharp as ever he might be the closest thing to a favorite in this incredibly tense group.
Achievements: GSL1 Ro4, GSL2 Ro16
Notable Victories: anyproPrime.WE (2-0), HongUnPrime.WE (2-0), TSL_Rain (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (1-3), KyrixZeNex (0-2) (1-2)
Yet another strong player who couldn't navigate the random seed qualifiers in GSL3, Ensnare's solid results in GSL1 and 2 bode well for this coming season. He and FruitDealer were the only two able to take a game off IntoTheRainbow in GSL1, and the popular Kyrix style zerg was first showcased in their close 1-2 series.
Verdict: Code S. While Ensnare has consistently offered great all around play, the only player of significance he's really beaten in the GSL is Rain and HongUnPrime prior to their GSL3 runs. While I do not doubt his skill, with only one chance to wrestle with each of these giants Ensnare will likely need more than his all around solid play to get through.
TLAF-Liquid'Jinro
Achievements: GSL3 Ro4
Notable Victories: FOXLiberty (2-0), PoltPrime.WE (2-0), choyafOu (3-2)
Notable Defeats: oGsMC (0-4)
In one fell swoop the Gorilla Terran jinrolled his way into Code S and right into one of the closest groups in this stage. Jinro's dominating displays in GSL3 were not without hiccups though, and a dropped game in this group might be more than he and his beanie can weather. His last TvZ performance against Moon seemed as brilliant as it was entertaining, but Idra and Check are on another level. Round it out with a house-mate mirror match and our Swedish super hero has quite the adventure ahead.
Verdict: Advance Riding on the confidence of his MLG win and GSL3 breakout Jinro should definitely control his fate in this group. His struggle to qualify for GSL1 and 2 may be of concern here without having a guaranteed game 2 to rely on but that should be equally concerning for Idra and Ensnare. Ultimately I believe Jinro's got this though, a favorable first map and being one of the best terran out there certainly counts for something.
CheckPrime.WE
Achievements: GSL1 Ro16, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro32
Notable Victories: sanZeNex (2-0)
Notable Defeats: ST_RainBOw (0-2) (0-2), choyafOu (1-2)
No GSL is complete without Check, though he is definitely going to need to work hard if he wants to continue his Ro32 and better streak. Like Ensnare Check has benefited from good draws in the first 3 GSLs, but group G is anything but a cake walk. Without any notable wins Check has something to prove, and this group is as good a place as any to make a statement, but I'm curious if he has what it takes. The good news is Rainbow can't possibly knock Check out until at least the Ro32.
Verdict: Code S. Check needs to prepare something special to make it out of the group. Although seemingly immune to most kinds of all-ins in the past, this skill will offer Check little help against his macro oriented opponents. I expect Check to play the role of spoiler, stealing an all important game in unexpected fashion but I'm not sure who from, it might even be from himself.
EGIdrA
Achievements: GSL1 Ro32, GSL2 Ro16, GSL3 Ro16
Notable Victories: oGsGon (2-0)
Notable Defeats: LotzePrime.WE (1-2), oGsZenio (0-2), IMmvp (2-1)
Much like Check Idra has never finished outside the top 32 in every GSL, and similarly his first round each season was so one sided the Gracken often appeared bored. His 1-2 loss to MVP meant an early exit after what could've been a quarterfinal or higher level match, but it more than secured his Code S position. Dead set on a better result than past GSLs, the infamous bad boy of starcraft will no doubt approach his group well prepared and the confidence bordering on superiority his fans know and love.
Verdict: Advance. Although potentially faced with ZvT on Jungle Basin twice in a row, Idra has shown a frightening ZvT time and time again including his domination of oGsGon on JB a season ago. We have never seen Check's ZvZ, but if Idra's ZvT is as sharp as ever he might be the closest thing to a favorite in this incredibly tense group.
The first of the thirty two players will begin their journey through the GSL tonight. But what will their journey entail? Tests of intellect? Trials of strength? We're pretty sure it's not any of those things. But how exactly will this GSL work? TL's best and brightest have gotten to work on the problem, and this is what they've been able to figure out.
How the Hell Does this Work Again? The GSL Format Explained
By some very dedicated people
By some very dedicated people
Alright, so imagine a really big tree. It's a strong tree, with some weight to its branches. It's early fall, and the leaves are changing color at the edges, but haven't started to fall off yet. Except it's not a tree, but it's the GSL. The tree is in Korea. So there are three levels of branches. I know most trees have branches all over the place, but bear with me here, this one does. The top level of branches is Code S, the next level is Code A, and the third level is the qualifiers, which we'll call Code B. The branches at the top are the nice branches, where your nest can have a good view. But they're also very unstable branches, so you might fall out of your nest. Oh, I forgot to mention that there are there are a bunch of birds on the tree. There are thirty two birds on the top...
You know what? Screw it.
43% of TeamLiquidians don't understand the GSL format. Luckily, a cohort of extremely patient people have endeavored to put the GSL format in simple graphical form. Some succeeded. Some failed. Here's a small selection of the best.
If you've made it through so far, congratulations. You're a member of our "Loyal Reader" demographic. As such, we felt you're entitled to a reward!
We would've loved to provide a detail breakdown of the best players in Sc2, but upon reflection, we're not sure anyone really knows who the best players in Sc2 even are. So we've settled for something we can rank. The top Sc2 teams, carefully parsed and detailed for your convenience!
Ranking the Teams
By Treehugger
By Treehugger
#1: oGs-Liquid'
With the best player in the world, and more Code-S players (9) in-house than any other team, it's simply not possible to put oGs-Liquid' anywhere but first. From the very beginning, oGs has reigned supreme over the Korean scene, gathering the best and brightest of the ex-progamer community and putting them to work in the service of Sc2 dominance. The culmination of that effort, of course, was MC's championship in GSL3, but oGs' win in the Brainbox Team Tournament was also huge, and their prolific appearances in the Code S tournament are perhaps the greatest achievement of all. Beyond Min Chul, oGs boasts deep lines in all three races, with NaDa, Liquid'Jinro, Ensnare, and TOP leading the terran, Zenio, TheWind, and Liquid'Ret leading the zerg, and InCa, and Hero rounding out the protoss line.
Yet this position is tenuous. oGs no longer holds the stranglehold on Sc2 talent that it did several months ago, and most other teams have their own BW pros to fall back on. Furthermore, this GSL bracket works somewhat against oGs, pitting housemates together in four of the eight groups. It seems almost certain that oGs will never again hold the absurd share of Code-S spots that it holds now. But for the moment at least, oGs is on top.
#2: TSL
In a close second position, TSL doesn't have the gaudy Code-S numbers of its main rival (just 4), but it has more GSL finalists (2) than any other team, and an extremely potent and dangerous line-up that figures to only increase it's Code-S share in the future. So while TSL doesn't boast the mass of players that other teams may have on tap, the overall level of quality is extremely high. There simply is not a bad player on TSL, and there are plenty of great ones. Fruitdealer, TesteR, Clide, and Happiness are the team's leaders, with the first three having a good deal of success in the GSL already, while Happiness impressed, but lost in the GSL2 Ro64 against Boxer. The team's later recruits are no less dangerous. Rain leads the bunch, plowing his way through a grueling bracket to make a finals appearance in GSL3. Killer (SangHo) is arguably the second best player to have made the switch to Sc2, and delivered a strong Ro16 run in GSL2. Finally, the previously unheralded GuineaPig was absolutely stunning in the opening rounds of GSL3, but showed strong play dating back to the Brainbox Invitational tournament. Both Killer and GP ought to be strong favorites for promotion, Happiness should make Code A easily, and as the other four do not figure to drop down, it would be unsurprising to see the number of Code-S positions for TSL rise significantly by the next GSL.
#3: Prime
Prime has also long been a force in Korean Sc2, dating back to the beta when it boasted the strength of a number of ex-WC3 pros who wholeheartedly made the switch. It's influence has waned slightly as the scene has grown, a trend which places it behind the two other Code-S-heavy teams. However, Prime an extremely deep stable of impressive players, and is unquestionably still one of the best teams in the business. MarineKing is Prime's best player at the moment, having gone on deep runs in GSL2 and GSL3, and having set off a virtual revolution in TvZ thanks to his marine splitting. Yet there is plenty of talent to back him up. HongUn built upon strong results in the first GSL and made the Ro4 in GSL3, becoming the first protoss in GSL history to do so. Maka remains the team's stalwart, displaying extremely solid if unspectacular play season after season. Check has been mostly frustrated in GSL's so far, but has secured a Code-S berth nonetheless, and cannot be overlooked as a dangerous opponent. Polt has been a welcome surprise as well for the team, making a strong run in GSL3 to secure Code S, and thanks to a solid GSL1. Finally, anypro is the team's sixth Code-S player, although this writer does not think he is long for that position.
Prime's biggest strength is it's depth, with a line of promising terrans waiting in the wings. Tankboy has a good chance at making Code-S, and Hannibal should get into Code A this season, and likely Code S the next. With a long and talented line-up, Prime's future looks increasingly secure. Now if only they could win something.
#4: ST
Saddled with the worst name and tag of the top teams, ST players have struggled at times, but a few have recently come into their own, finally showcasing a top tier line-up that can threaten the later stages of tournaments. Ironically, RainBOw, one of the best players in the first two GSL's is the only ST player who has not performed well lately, having a miserable GSL3. Yet the terran still has one of the most impressive resumes of any player in the game, and is comfortably ensconced as ST's lone Code-S player. The biggest addition to ST (in more ways than one, ho ho ho) was that of July, and the god of war wasted little time in GSL3 making his presence known. He should make light work of Code A. Squirtle, highlighted by Genius as the best protoss in the game is also seemingly headed for a Code-S berth.
ST could also conceivably gain ground if Max, Monster, Silent_Control, or Ace make large gains in their play. But by far the most convincing and hopeful card in ST's future is the presence of Bomber, formerly NsP.Fancy of eSTRO, who has caused huge waves in the offseason tournaments, making the finals of the YGosu event, and navigating the tricky prelims for the Gainward tournament. He should have no trouble entering Code A next season, and looks to be a sure bet for eventual Code S placement, and beyond.
#5: IM
More than any other team, IM's potential is enormous. With a line-up stocked with former BW progamers, many of whom actually accomplished something, IM seems poised to go on a run at any moment now, and cement a powerful position for themselves in the Sc2 scene. Problem is, they haven't done it yet. The lone exception is NesTea, the winner of GSL2 who is in top form, and only fell out of GSL3 to scv all-ins. However, mvp, consistently regarded as one of the most frightening players in the tournament only has Ro32 and Ro16 appearances to his name. Losira, a perennial #1 on the KR ladder failed to qualify for the last two GSL's, and could not even secure Code-A, although he has performed well lately. Junwi, a longtime BW pro made GSL1 and GSL3, only to get completely rolled in both. GanZi, a BW player who once took a game off of Jaedong with firebats has not been a presence at all. Same for ChRh and TT. Indeed, IM's third most accomplished player is Pippijung, a strong macro protoss who took out Cezanne in GSL2, lost a close series to RainBOw, but failed to qualify for GSL3. This is a difficult state of affairs for a team with so many strong players. And while it's quite probable that they have more success in the future, how that success will come will be a huge issue to watch for. For now, IM must content themselves to sit in the unremarkable middle of this rankings.
#6: fOu
The darlings of GSL3, it's hard to gauge exactly where fOu stands at this moment in time. After tearing through the first round, a few fOu players found choppy seas in the round of 32, and eventually three qualified for Code-S. That's not bad at all, but it's not enough to vault them much higher than this in these rankings. But of course, there's room to grow, and fOu has a number of talented players, and a number of players... period. Leenock is the best of the bunch, having shown brilliant play over two GSL's, and looking very much like a title contender. choyafOu is the team's hyung, and a Code-S threat in his own right. Beyond these two, however, the talent is much more suspect. TheBest is the third Code-S player, but is somewhat cheesy, and does not figure to stick around the top division for very long. aLive played wonderfully in the GSL3 Ro64, only to lose it completely in the Ro32. Terious and sC also made Code A, but neither has ever played at a Code-S level. And while GuMiho is awesome, he's not there either.
So while fOu has plenty of raw talent stockpiled, they have only a few players who are anywhere near the top level of play. Their Code A players, and some new qualifiers are going to have to come into the picture if the status of fOu is to rise any further.
#7: ZeNex
Since the first GSL, NEX and Zenith tags have been everywhere. The merger of both teams in mid-October created the most prolific line-up in the game, at least as far as qualifying goes. However qualification does not equal winning, and as ZeNex players have racked up 30 qualifications across the three GSLs, they have recorded only 3 visits to the Ro16 or above. That's a poor rate of success, and belies a general lack of star-quality for ZeNex players, even if a good number of them are solid enough to win in the qualifiers. ZeNex's line-up is a lengthy list, but a few players nonetheless deserve mention. Kyrix is the most frightening and accomplished player on the team, having won the GSTAR All-stars event, and overwhelming a series of opponents in GSL2. LiveForever has gone the farthest of ZeNex players, making the GSL1 Ro4, but he has been studying and not heard from since. san is also a Code-S qualifier for some reason, but is in the group of oGs death, and is widely expected to fall out of Code-S quickly. That leaves a host of players like JSL, Suhoshin (Line), cOre, and Flint who have all shown promise, but nothing more than that. Then there's players like BanBanSsu, and ButterflyEffect, who keep qualifying for reasons unknown to anyone. Then there's the horrifically named "NEXExcrement" who is tearing up the ladder.
Quite frankly, it's a paltry list. Unfortunately, ZeNex seems well on its way to establishing itself as the eSTRO of Sc2 (ironically, if you were on eSTRO in BW, you're one of the elite in Sc2). Luring a BW pro over would go a long way too boosting ZeNex's credibility, but so far all that's happening is that other players (Genius, LegalMind) are being lured away. That's not particularly inspiring for this young team.
#8: SlayerS
The newest of the teams, and the only one yet to test its teeth in the GSL proper, the Emperor's army probably has a long way to go. It can get off to a good start in this upcoming GSL as Boxer and LegalMind try to make a dent in the tournament. However the odds are against the latter, as LegalMind earned his Code-S ranking with a fairly pedestrian performance in GSL1 and a qualification in GSL2. That's a pretty underwhelming. Boxer made a Ro4 appearance of course, but his quick defeat at the hands of Polt raised some questions, and his reported discomfort with non-TvT match-ups may hamper his run. There are growing players for SlayerS, but they'll be some time in the coming. NewDawn is the best hope, having played quite well to get into Code A. He could threaten for Code S, but he's probably not there yet. Golden is a recruitment from fOu, and could also get places, but has ways to go before he reaches Code S. The rest of the line-up is generally untested and unknown. With the Emperor as a talent evaluator, there are no doubt some diamonds in the rough, but we'll have to wait to uncover these. For the moment, that's all there is to say about this new team. We'll just have to wait and see.
Finally, to wrap up, we've got a healthy dose of prophesy from your faithful writers team. What would New Years be without predictions anyway? Keep these in mind throughout the season as the writer with the best predictions gets an automatic berth into TSL3, while the writer with the worst predictions has to explain the GSL format to a classroom of third graders.
Oh fine, these predictions don't mean anything.
Predictions for GSL 4
Favorite to Win?
Hot_Bid: oGsMC
Lovedrop: oGsMC
Treehugger: oGsMC
TrueRedemption: oGsMC
Xxio: IMmvp
Dark Horse?
Hot_Bid: TSL_sSKS
Lovedrop: IMmvp
Treehugger: LeenockfOu
TrueRedemption: LiveForeverZeNex
Xxio: oGsNada
Probable Disappointment?
Hot_Bid: TSL_FruitDealer
Lovedrop: CheckPrime.WE
Treehugger: SlayerS_BoxeR
TrueRedemption: oGsEnsnare
Xxio: NsP.Genius
Guaranteed demotion to Code A?
Hot_Bid: choyafOu
Lovedrop: oGsJookTo
Treehugger: anyproPrime.WE
TrueRedemption: SlayerS_LegalMind
Xxio: TheBestfOu
Guaranteed promotion to Code S?
Hot_Bid: ST_July
Lovedrop: ST_July
Treehugger: GuineaPig
TrueRedemption: TLAF-Liquid'Ret
Xxio: TLAF-Liquid'Ret
Next: GSL4 Group Stage Recaps and Reviews!
The Sony Ericsson GSL comes back tonight. At the end of the week, so will we, with a piping-hot, fresh-out-of-the-oven recap of the past round. In the meantime, the GSL writing staff would like to thank you, the readers for plowing through yet another GSL newspost, and hope you'll keep reading!