Here's another post-TI3 Community Q&A from Team Liquid, and for this one we've invited none other than your favourite anchor James "2GD" Harding. A man with a storied history in competitive gaming, James is founder of The GD Studio, and is Dota 2's de facto man about town. He was responsible for some of the funniest, and indeed, most awkward on-camera moments at TI3, and he is here today to answer some of our questions, and then some of yours.
Over the course of your career you have probably seen more sides of eSports than anyone else, from being a player, to team manager, then from eSports manager to caster/host and managing a studio, and you are even leading the production of Reborn. What have been some of your favourite experiences, and what can you see yourself doing in the future?
James: Favourite experiences; well it's been a lengthy journey, so let's go on an adventure!
Winning the biggest MechCommander tournament (entitled WW3 haha) at a young age of around 15. The tournament was a 3v3. It felt very cool to lead 2 medical students, who went on to become doctors, to victory. But the camaraderie and sharing in the moment was amazing. I still have them on Skype to this day. They're very good at telling me what kind of STD I might have.
Going to my first big LAN event, Insomnia by Multiplay in the UK. The excitement of meeting everyone was not containable, I was on a permanent high the whole event. I still remember that feeling, and my Grandparents even took me, bless them.
Being scouted as talent to play for UNR in Q3 by 'Rude'. I was pretty bad compared to Blokey and others at first, but having someone believe you were good at your passion and willing to give you the opportunity to be more. It really fueled me to see how far I could go.
My first UK Quake win. It was the 1v1 RA3 Covlan tournament. It wasn't so much the win, but instead having a crowd of people behind me watching, and hearing their comments between rounds on my Shaft. I don't get so many people commenting on that these days, but maybe that's a good thing.
Commentating an Unmatched (legendary German team) TDM game on Winamps Shoutcast plugin back in 2004. Only 20-40 people tuned in, but it felt exhilarating to do something I didn't know I could do or not. I seemed to pull it off, as I got a lot of encouraging messages via IRC.
Signing a contract to be a professional gamer with Dignitas back in 2004. ODEE even spoke to my parents before I signed. It felt nice just to look at the contract once I got it, It felt more like a ticket than a contract. A pass to do something I loved. I went to America for the first time because of team Dignitas, It was awesome.
Finally making it to the finals of a major event at Quakecon. I beat Jibo & Cooller to get there. It's always a great feeling when hard work pays off.
Encouraging Toxic to play better after losing his first Bo3 vs Fatal1ty in the finals of WSVG in NYC. The whole crowd was cheering for Fatal1ty. I thought Toxic needed a bit of encouragement or support from the crowd. He went on to destroy the series and was crowned the Quake 4 world champion. I selfishly felt I was a small part of that. But it was great to see a friend win something I felt he deserved. I'd been looking after Toxic throughout the event since his English was particularly poor. We even shared a hotel room which came with one bed. I slept on the floor since I figured he would need good rest for the finals.
Running Fnatic as GM. I'd like to think Sam Matthews is great at spotting talent. It was really enjoyable to be given the opportunity to assist in the running of his company. I learned a lot here, and got amazing opportunities to grow as a person. I was overly under qualified to do the job though
Hosting the eSport awards for ESL. I was really drunk throughout the show and made a lot of jokes. I didn't think I'd pull off a semi stand-up comedy show & hosting, but it seemed to work.
Meeting & working for Stunlock Studios on Bloodline Champions. I've never been surrounded on a day to day basis by such a talented and enjoyable group of people. Not to say the GD Studio guys aren't great, but Trance needs his regular happy meal to cheer him the fuck up
Hosting DreamHacks SC2 Invitational in 2011. It was my first time back hosting after 2 years, and to a new audience. It was a very enjoyable post event read on team liquid. Felt good to host again.
The ending of our first GD Studio show in March 2012. Was awesome sharing the evening with the very happy and talented team which are The GD Studio.
Playing the first Reborn demo. It was shit. Only jking
All the positive emails I get from the community. I remember a lot of them. I think the one that hit home with me was an email from a viewer, stating after watching us on The GD Studio he felt it was acceptable to play video games in his life, and generally was getting on with life with a more positive attitude towards who he is as a person.
You've now been the host of the previous two Internationals. What are your thoughts on how it has evolved, and what do you think can be improved for next year? Are there things other tournaments can learn from The International? Are there things Valve can learn from other tournaments?
James: Valve and the community have been learning from each other for a while now. I generally feel Valve make very calculated steps regarding improvement with the International, but I'm very sure they are aware of the communities efforts. The better we are outside of the international each year, the better the International will be. That's all I know for sure.
With the departure of SingSing to Kaipi, has there been any discussions on the future of QPAD Red Pandas?
James: QPAD will support the remaining players, which will give them time to build up a new team if they wish. QPAD are really good with players and understand team dynamics. A lot of the staff there have played in CS & Battlefield teams so they are very understanding of the situation
Korea's Dota 2 scene is starting to ramp up. Do you think the Korean eSports engine will be able to create top tier Dota 2 teams? If so, when do you think we will start to see them?
James: I'm certain Korea will produce top tier teams, the question is when. I guess I'd say sooner than we expect.
If you were Icefrog for a day, what is the one balance change you would make, and what is the one thing you would add to the game?
James: I'd improve Axe's late game presence, he's overly good early and mid game, but when you get to late game it doesn't matter how well you play, you feel somewhat under-powered. As for what change, I'd just make him more manly... if that's even possible!
2GD Community Q&A
James with the TI3 analyst team, just before the event.
2GD will be back tomorrow to do the Q&A! Starting at around Friday, Sep 06 5:00pm GMT (GMT+00:00) James will answer your questions right here in this thread.
I noticed that you do pissed a lot of people off in 2012 but 2013 not so much. My question is: How much do you love Reborn and how far are you willing to go to get the game done right?
This post is in the Dota forum but since 2GD isn't exactly a Dota-only guy I'll cross-tag this as SC2 for now as well. If for some reason you guys can't play nice I'll switch it back and you can all hang your heads in shame.
Q: Are you planning on publishing Reborn yourself or once you're further in the development process might you consider publishing through a company like Valve?
I want industry stories (the hilarious ones preferred).
Q. Do you keep an eye on online communities (TL, Reddit, etc) yourself or are you among the many personalities who disregard them as a bunch of angry/entitled children?
also Q. How did it really feel to kill Dendi? Was it erection-inducing?
Are there any shows or production improvements that you wanted to do or implement in the GD Studio, but couldn't due to time or budget issues? Basically, any cool ideas that you never got to do?
When things don't go as expected (as it did when Godz couldn't make it to cast TI3), how much does that affect you as a caster? Did you guys prepare material ahead of time that all had to be scrapped?
As a viewer the replacement of Godz with Merlini seemed flawless and the analysis desk was spot on, so I was just curious as to how it affected the team behind the scenes, thanks!
I feel like a lot of people (read: viewers, Twitch chat people, Reddit people) have made a lot of personal remarks about who they think you are (from insecure to egomaniac to "worst boyfriend ever"). Does it amuse you? Do you think the community is just fucked up and needs to stop?
Hello. First of all, thanks for doing a good hosting job at both TI2 and TI3
Then, some questions 1: In the preview of the GLaDOS announcer, "Dota" is apparently pronounced "ota". Will you start saying "ota" once the GLaDOS-announcer is released. 2: Outside of TI and tournaments that you run/cast, who do you like the most. 3: Why did the courier cross the river? 4: What's the name of the river in Dota?
Dota has managed to acquire a massive casual player base as well as a very huge and healthy competitive player base thanks to it's combination of a low mechanical skill requirement and a deep and complex metagame. Unfortunately, a player base such as this hasn't been seen in FPS games since Counter-Strike 1.5/1.6. FPS player bases these days are either casual (CoDBO2) or hardcore (Quake Live), but rarely a good mix of both. What is your take on this and how important do you think it is for a competitive game to have a huge casual following?
Q: Can Yames give us a final post-mortem on the QPad Red Pandas? What does he think went wrong? What he thinks will become of Wagamama and SingSing? Will he ever try to build another team again?
Will there be a The Meeting accompanying the restart of the GD Show to update us on the workings of the GD Studio? Has been a while now since last time.
Its kinda of funny hehe. His name is James "2GD" Harding. ever since i learned his name many years ago i think of it like a perfect description of his personality.
Harding -> Hårding=Badass basicly in swedish xD I bet others thought about his last name like that because he is
James Motherfucking Harding. Fun thing about 2GD is that he dont give one single fuck but he can still control himself. That is really hard to do especially on camera.
Q1. What's one line you've said in public that you regret and why?
Q2. What do you think it would take for more major esports events to reach Canada given the many notable players from here, and why or why not would it happen?
Q1: Is there anything you'd ask of the community that isn't already being asked?
Q2: How big do you think eSports can get? Will it, at some point, reach a level of popularity that surpasses football? Is it destined to be a more niche thing like Tennis, F1, or Golf?
(asking the question twice since I hope to get one serious "2GD has very deep insight of the industry" answer and one "2GD loves his jokes even when it might be better to keep quiet")
Q uestion - Do you get into alot of trouble in your personal or professional life by your "I dont care" kind of personality? I know that you can control it or can I ? :D
How would you recommend someone go about getting into the production/casting side of Dota2 professionally? is it just about putting yourself about until you get noticed? or providing alternate streams to matches currently being played? or something completely different?
Q: Matt Rider. Tell us everything. Is he coming to The GD Studio for eternity or a one timer? Can you rely on him keeping his nose and act clean? Also, could you tell us stories about you and Matt :3
I forgot a question, Will you ever cast with incontrol again? probably my favorite moment en esports so far was when you guys were on screen together :D
Do you think any game can currently compete with LoL and it's massive infrastructure and huge fanbase? Obvisouly the game is no. 1 and will be for quite some time now but if there is a game to compete would you say its DotA 2 ?
As much as I like him as a host and his humour, I think he's a bit of a twat, but I guess it's just his image. Still doesn't hurt to be a little bit humble every now and then.
Where is the line drawn for competitive games and player customization? Do you think Dota2 is beginning to overstep that line? Can a competitive fps game be (partially) sustained by an ingame store, if yes what would you be able to buy (reborn bait)?
For an example of what I mean: Polar opposites, Heroes of Newerth and Quake Live. In HoN you can change the model, animations and color of almost any hero provided you have bought said item - and other players will see that skin.
In Quake Live you can force enemy models, completely disregarding your opponents' customization.
I'm very sleepy and I'm not sure if this is coherent enough to understand, hf.
Q1: Did SingSing leave the team on good terms? Can we still expect appearances from him on the GD show? Q2: How are the red panda's doing? How's morale? Q3: Bruno is an awesome addition to the GD team, do you feel you want to expand the team even more or is it size-wise big enough for you? (until Reborn is released and you want an expert panel for that segment of course)
- Are you ever planing to grow back your lovely hair?
- What do you think about the recent TPL scandal? The way various parties handled things?
- For how long do you see yourself being involved in the dota scene?
-How does it feel to be one of the main reasons that eSports has made the push to get more established casting studios? After the 2GD studio really kicked into gear, it forced other studios, even including the at-the-time near monopolistic JoinDota team, to step up their game and add things like post-game commentary, in-game statistics, and overlays. I even think that 2GD studios was the reason spectator mode in the Dota 2 client has gotten upgrades like a Rosh timer and item indicators.
In my mind, you're undeniably a large reason for those changes. How does it feel to be such a large part of the way we experience Dota as viewers, and, even greater, how both outsiders and insiders perceive Dota and eSports as valid as regular sports?
- What's your advice for someone who's looking to get involved seriously with the esports scene?
- What do you think of the dota2 pro scene and their constant recycling of pro players? What do you think needs to happen to get more fresh blood in to the dota2 pro scene?
- As a UK Dota player, are you still involved much in the UK Scene? We need some proper tournaments.
- Dear James, we met at gamescom 2013 and you politely show your middle finger in the picture we took together. Were you upset that there wasnt any Dota 2 there? I was.
- How it feels to be loved by majority of the e-sport community(SC2,Dota2) despite having unconcerned/sarcastic personality.
P.S:You are a cool guy,though.
- Do you ever feel too old for gaming...
- Why are girls so difficult to talk to? Please respond.
On September 06 2013 22:18 nymfaw wrote: As much as I like him as a host and his humour, I think he's a bit of a twat, but I guess it's just his image. Still doesn't hurt to be a little bit humble every now and then.
I would probably call myself a 2GD fanboy, but I'm still pretty sure he's actually a bit of a twat and it's not just his image.
I remember fragging him a couple times in Quake 4, as well as other English men like Garpy or Hell (/Vizari). Those were fun times where anyone could play famous pros on public servers, because there weren't that many players.
I remember his funny line "it's quiet here in the studio" of the WSVG finals, though in my opinon the first bo3 between Toxic and Fatality was rigged. Just to make the finals more interresting and make it look less 1 sided.
Q : Do you regret that FPS games like Quake didn't get their gameplay modernized (like BW -> Starcraft 2 or Team Fortress Classic -> TF2) ? What expectations did you have about Shootmania even if it didn't succeed as an esports game, despite many pros having switched to it ?
I think I speak for many people when I say that I greatly enjoy your interviews, especially the ones where you actually have much time to talk. You're a really interesting person and aren't as reserved as many people in Esports. My question is: Have you considered doing a show where you talk to veterans of the industry and don't just interview them but rather have a discussion?
I REALLY want to see more of you than the average plain 5 minutes interview "Hey, what are you doing?" - "Casting" - "Nice and what will be next?" - "Casting" - "Thanks for the interview".
On September 06 2013 11:58 [DekAr] wrote: AWW YISS IT'S 2GD!
Now that teams are shuffled up a bit, what teams are you looking forward to watching with their new lineups?
@ [DekAr] - I'd have to say very obviously I'm looking forward to DK, they should be one of the most individually skilled teams around, I'm really looking forward to their matches
On September 06 2013 11:58 GranDGranT wrote: Love 2gd and everything he does.
Q: How do you balance your trolling/cussing/generally Rude but funny behaviour with still making people believe your serious about things?
Edit: Also it was nice to meet you not shit faced and yelling at you on the desk
@ GranDGranT - Hello GranDGranT, Yes it was nice to meet you when you were sober and less annoying . Well I guess people take me somewhat seriously because I've managed to produce products, from the twitch.tv lounge concept to features in BLC and the Studio in Sweden. I generally think it's fine to express yourself by cussing or being rude. but If I only went around the internet trolling, I doubt people would care much about me. Imagine athene if he didn't raise money for dem kids. what would he be?
On September 06 2013 12:04 Snorkle wrote: Question: What is the current status of Reborn?
@ Snorkle Reborn is alive, It hasn't been an easy project to get going due to funding it's still underdevelopment, and I'll have more to say on it when the time is right, It's odd for me to be so private about a project. and I haven't yet decided on how open I should be about information. being a very manic person, my view on Reborns public appearances change daily. so right now I just let the project mature behind closed doors. Hopefully I'll figure out soon how to address the community
Of all your jokes at TI3 which were you most proud of? My favorite was when Pyrion Flax was trying to trade plushies with teenagers and you said something like "Isn't that amazing. He's a grown man".
Also do you think Slardar needs and deserves a buff?
Due to how TL is working with flood protection, I will post in bulk. these bulk replies will be listed by page.
Page 1 replies
On September 06 2013 11:58 [DekAr] wrote: AWW YISS IT'S 2GD!
Now that teams are shuffled up a bit, what teams are you looking forward to watching with their new lineups?
@ [DekAr] - I'd have to say very obviously I'm looking forward to DK, they should be one of the most individually skilled teams around, I'm really looking forward to their matches
On September 06 2013 11:58 GranDGranT wrote: Love 2gd and everything he does.
Q: How do you balance your trolling/cussing/generally Rude but funny behaviour with still making people believe your serious about things?
Edit: Also it was nice to meet you not shit faced and yelling at you on the desk
@ GranDGranT - Hello GranDGranT, Yes it was nice to meet you when you were sober and less annoying . Well I guess people take me somewhat seriously because I've managed to produce products, from the twitch.tv lounge concept to features in BLC and the Studio in Sweden. I generally think it's fine to express yourself by cussing or being rude. but If I only went around the internet trolling, I doubt people would care much about me. Imagine athene if he didn't raise money for dem kids. what would he be?
On September 06 2013 12:04 Snorkle wrote: Question: What is the current status of Reborn?
@ Snorkle Reborn is alive, It hasn't been an easy project to get going due to funding it's still underdevelopment, and I'll have more to say on it when the time is right, It's odd for me to be so private about a project. and I haven't yet decided on how open I should be about information. being a very manic person, my view on Reborns public appearances change daily. so right now I just let the project mature behind closed doors. Hopefully I'll figure out soon how to address the community
On September 06 2013 12:05 daley wrote: Q: How is Reborn doing? Any updates?
@ daley ^^
On September 06 2013 12:08 KgKris wrote: Q: When is the GD Show coming back :D
@ KgKris We are meant to start off the studio again with a meeting, but soon we will be doing fragbite masters, which means Trance has rebuilt the studio. so I guess we will get the GD Show back around the same time (end of this month). Though we are still awaiting the return of Adebisi to Sweden. The meeting will hopefully reveal some interesting changes for the Studio and the viewers. Hopefully all contracts are in place by the time of the meeting or it will just continue as normal until we can change the broadcasting game
On September 06 2013 12:11 Iplaythings wrote: Hey James, have Bruno ever wingmanned you?
Also, favorite pokemon game?
And finally, preferred position in dota? (1,2,4 etc)
@ Iplaythings Bruno, Yes. he's very adept at this, you should see his magic tricks! Regarding pokemon games I never really played the ones of the GameBoy. My little brother did (only little by 1 year) but I didn't touch them. My favourite position in Dota is 4. It's nice to get to play a support hero who can control the map some, and make a big difference in team fights, my fav support is probably Rubick & SD.
On September 06 2013 12:12 NB wrote: I noticed that you do pissed a lot of people off in 2012 but 2013 not so much. My question is: How much do you love Reborn and how far are you willing to go to get the game done right?
I am watching you!
@NB - Reborn is probably the project which will allow me to be properly self sustainable in eSports and really boost the GD brand and allow for more exciting opportunities. I really want projects that impact the industry, so Reborn is currently the number 1 focus of my time. I've done a lot so far to try get the game done right, and will continue to do so. I'm pretty sure it will be a product that the eSport audience will enjoy. at least that's my goal
On September 06 2013 12:13 siMN- wrote: Q: Can you give any details regarding when people will see something of Reborn, or when a beta will be available?
Get it done, James. The FPS genre is just for people who want medals for sucking atm.
@ siMN- Hopefully some sneek peeks 'soon'. But I don't think we are more than 6-9 months away from really showing you what's up. but depends on the development now and also some funding
On September 06 2013 12:13 zev318 wrote: wow nice pic lol looks like he's about to cry
@ zev318 - I did cry zev318. I did.
On September 06 2013 12:19 Gaius Baltar wrote: Q: Are you planning on publishing Reborn yourself or once you're further in the development process might you consider publishing through a company like Valve?
@ Gaius Baltar - I really like the idea of Steam, since it reduces development time and gives the customer a very suitable launch product for the game, but no contracts are in place for distribution yet. but I defiantly won't be taking a mainstream publisher. the idea of working with anyone makes me a bit sickly, I'd rather the only outside influence with game development be from the community itself. I have friends who work at Ubisoft and blizzard, and I still think to myself wow.. that must suck.
On September 06 2013 12:19 fdoom wrote: Q: Favorite beer?
@ fdoom - hmmmmm, the kind that looks and taste like whisky. yup, whisky is my fav beer.
On September 06 2013 12:25 ReignSupreme. wrote: Damn I love me some 2GD content
I want industry stories (the hilarious ones preferred).
Q. Do you keep an eye on online communities (TL, Reddit, etc) yourself or are you among the many personalities who disregard them as a bunch of angry/entitled children?
also Q. How did it really feel to kill Dendi? Was it erection-inducing?
@ ReignSupreme. - Hey, yeah I read a lot of team liquid & reddits, If I load my webbrowser, from the 8 tabs there is, SC2 Reddit, Dota2 Reddit, GD Studio Reddit, Teamliquid and Twitch are the more gamer ones. I think it's important to read what people are saying. Even in feedback on our stuff or me directly, there is always some truth to what people say, even in the most negative comments. I always took pride in being part of the gaming community, and if I shied away from gaming or reading the forums, It would probably hurt my decision making within this industry. It's important to stay part of the community and experience the same things everyone else does as a viewer or user.
On September 06 2013 12:26 Verator wrote: If you could run a major event of any game in any place you wanted, DH/ MLG/ TI scale, what would it be and where?
@ Verator - I'd run a Quake/Reborn tournament in the style of TI in Prague. yes Prague.. think of the after party!?
On September 06 2013 12:30 TargA wrote: Q. Fuck Kill Marry: Trance, Semmler and your mom
@ TargA - damnit TargA, I'd kill you, then fuck you, then marry you! I know its sick right. sex before marriage and all...
On September 06 2013 12:34 evoli wrote: What caused the worst hangover of your life?
@ evoli - 2 bottles of Vodka (I carried one in each pocket of my trousers) at the age of 16 at a local carnival in Glastonbury. holy shit that turned me off vodka for a long time.
On September 06 2013 12:38 killerdog wrote: When does the gd show start again, I'm lost without it
Also that focus mode button is awesome, first time I've seen it. Is it new?
@ killerdog - at a similar time as the fragbite masters this month I guess.
On September 06 2013 12:43 dooshplayer wrote: how did you convince your parents to allow you to play video games for a living/working in the esport business?
@ dooshplayer - My parents were cool. they didn't want to tell me what I had to do or what I couldn't do. but instead would at least encourage me to think about what I'm doing. and I thought about it.. and decided I like video games . whenever I personally stressed as a young adult not being able to figure out what I was meant to do. I remember my Mum told me she knows 40 year olds who just enjoy getting high and listening to old records, but they're happy, and that's more important. Also my Grandad always had a rule that if I helped myself, he will help me. So If he saw me making efforts to be a great gamer, or try and get to France for my first ESWC. If I ever struggled or hit a hurdle, he would always be there to help me. I have a pretty amazing family.
@ acidviper - I'm not sure I didn't buy them, I had a girl pick them up on the way over. *brag*
On September 06 2013 12:46 wanghis wrote: Do u think axe needs a 2nd beard?
@ wanghis - No it would be manliness overload, he's perfect.
On September 06 2013 12:48 LiamBrady wrote: Are there any shows or production improvements that you wanted to do or implement in the GD Studio, but couldn't due to time or budget issues? Basically, any cool ideas that you never got to do?
@ LiamBrady - Yes, SF, CS:GO, more people, more event coverage (like espn cover DH or what not), we just don't have the budget and room sometimes
On September 06 2013 12:49 Lynkilen wrote: Q: Do you have any comments on Semmlers past career?
@ Lynkilen - I'm very proud and asking him for some contacts to start my porn career. (porn was actually an interest for me as a career when I was younger) though at the time I had spots on my back and was like naaah no one wants to see that. gaming it is! I wish I was jking
On September 06 2013 12:49 mnck wrote: I really love those stories from the past. His Quake days etc.
@ mnck - I love them too!
On September 06 2013 13:00 Confuse wrote: When things don't go as expected (as it did when Godz couldn't make it to cast TI3), how much does that affect you as a caster? Did you guys prepare material ahead of time that all had to be scrapped?
As a viewer the replacement of Godz with Merlini seemed flawless and the analysis desk was spot on, so I was just curious as to how it affected the team behind the scenes, thanks!
@ Confuse - Changing casters never effects me, cus the only thing I ever rehearse for a tournament is my intro line of welcome to the blah blah tournament. after that it's all freestyling.
On September 06 2013 13:00 Kleinmuuhg wrote: Still got an affair with Joe from your old ESL days? Those casts were the best
@ Kleinmuuhg - Yup, Joe is still my fav dude to do a cast with, it feels like we're just 2 mates hanging out.
On September 06 2013 13:21 Muyfeo wrote: You have to pick 1 pro player to be your wingman/drinking buddy, who is it and why?
@ Muyfeo - I'd go with Joe when he was single, cus he's great at drinking, talking plus he gets pretty drunk so he'd deffo take the fat chick home, so I'd get the fitty. Also when he gets overly drunk and rude, I look just look nicer by the minute!
On September 06 2013 13:39 Madbanana wrote: How do you feel about twitch parties. Do you love them or are you too old for that shit.
@ Madbanana - I like em, always down for a drinky!
On September 06 2013 13:39 popcornz79 wrote: How does the 2GD studio even make money?
@ popcornz79 - Hmm good question, I don't think we do haha. the first year was great, but the second year I didn't really care to work hard to renew sponsorships, I always found sponsorships in eSports a very overcompensating backbone to the companies. So I've constantly always been trying to build brands that the community support. though I'd never take donations. I believe people who pay money should get something for it. not just donate. Though this year I've dumped 60k euro of my own money to keep the GD Studio alive. I did consider selling it at one point, but I've almost managed to stop the bleeding. It's a shame though since If I had that money available Reborn would be so much more already. but I wanted to keep both projects under my bad influence
On September 06 2013 13:46 Zhek wrote: Will you give Semmler a raise now that he's been found out as a male pornstar?
@ Zhek - his past seemed to give him enough raises for one lifetime
On September 06 2013 13:56 Kraznaya wrote: whats ur issue with KP and NV in particular
@ Kraznaya - KP, just seem slightly unstable, no real issue there, just not something I'm interested in. and Na'Vi I like.
On September 06 2013 13:57 erby wrote: I feel like a lot of people (read: viewers, Twitch chat people, Reddit people) have made a lot of personal remarks about who they think you are (from insecure to egomaniac to "worst boyfriend ever"). Does it amuse you? Do you think the community is just fucked up and needs to stop?
@ erby - I'm a little of all those things maybe, and I'm fine being talked about. as Oscar Wild once said "There is only one thing in life worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about". Plus, it does amuse me
On September 06 2013 13:57 zagato19 wrote: Hey James! Jack Daniels or Johnnie Walker? How is Reborn developing going?
and please cast more dota on GD studio i really enjoyed West Quals for TI3! you rock man, i hope to see you more in the scene and Bruno too!
@ zagato19 - Jack Daniels, If I want a good whisky, I very rarely go for Johnnie Walker, unless its blue label. Jack Daniels gets the job done for a good price!
On September 06 2013 14:05 WindWolf wrote: Hello. First of all, thanks for doing a good hosting job at both TI2 and TI3
Then, some questions 1: In the preview of the GLaDOS announcer, "Dota" is apparently pronounced "ota". Will you start saying "ota" once the GLaDOS-announcer is released. 2: Outside of TI and tournaments that you run/cast, who do you like the most. 3: Why did the courier cross the river? 4: What's the name of the river in Dota?
@ WindWolf - 1. No. 2. Asus Rog/DH, cus they let me do as I please . 3. Because it was time to come out. 4. The river Fag
On September 06 2013 14:06 amazingxkcd wrote: Q: What's the progess on Reborn?
@ amazingxkcd - slow but steady. we have our own engine though, and it rocks
On September 06 2013 14:24 Tminus____ wrote: wow a q&a on TL for 2GD nice!
I got two questions
#1 What is your favorite color?
#2 Starcraft a real time strategy game has been turned into a sort of
where Koreans own white dudes. Can the DOTA2 or any competitive game be anything but Korean dominated in a few years time?
@ Tminus____ - 1. Blue... No Yel.. arrrrrghhhhooooooOOOOOOOO
2. Yeah other games will be fine, SC2 has become very dull for me lately :/ I think WCS was a huge mess, and still is. they need to really step up the SC2 eSport scene for 2014. or it might be its last decent year.
On September 06 2013 14:32 Mitchel DDoS wrote: When are we going to finally play again and when are you going to add me?
@ Mitchel DDoS - I haven't play much dota lately, its been refreshing to take some time off after TI, and get some good work hours in
On September 06 2013 14:33 LoLAdriankat wrote: Dota has managed to acquire a massive casual player base as well as a very huge and healthy competitive player base thanks to it's combination of a low mechanical skill requirement and a deep and complex metagame. Unfortunately, a player base such as this hasn't been seen in FPS games since Counter-Strike 1.5/1.6. FPS player bases these days are either casual (CoDBO2) or hardcore (Quake Live), but rarely a good mix of both. What is your take on this and how important do you think it is for a competitive game to have a huge casual following?
@ LoLAdriankat - I agree with your statement. I think it's very important to have a good casual base with a competitive game, Pro-Gamers want to be a pro in the games with the largest audience. It just feels better. that being said there is a place for just competitive games, but you have to be very smart with your budgets during development. But overall the best situation is having a healthy casual scene and a strong competitive. also F2P works best with eSports currently. due to events/tournaments do boost sales and sign ups quite a bit.
On September 06 2013 14:44 1Dhalism wrote: Q: how can i be as dreamy as 2gd.
@ 1Dhalism - Just Dream!
On September 06 2013 14:51 Dubzex wrote: 2gd what is your favorite cheese?
@ Dubzex - English Cheddar, mature.
On September 06 2013 14:52 KgKris wrote: Q: Can Yames give us a final post-mortem on the QPad Red Pandas? What does he think went wrong? What he thinks will become of Wagamama and SingSing? Will he ever try to build another team again?
@ KgKris - There really wasn't a leader in the team, that was the start of it all. SingSing will always be fine. Waga can build the team up again, he's learnt a lot from the Red Panda experience
On September 06 2013 15:00 Lathund wrote: Q: What is the current status of Victory Cat and the kittens? Tell us EVERYTHING
@ Lathund - Victory cat goes out a lot cus she doesn't like the kittens, Munchkin is going to Germany to live with Soe, hes also been kitted out with a secret spy cat cam. The 2 white ones need homes. They're the most friendly bunch of kittens we've had. It helps we are always with them
On September 06 2013 15:08 Boundz(DarKo) wrote: How drunk can you get?
@ Boundz(DarKo) - I'm one of the best drunks I know! I can do anything drunk. Dance better, Drive while rolling, Perform heart surgery, you name it. no matter how much I drink, still able to get the job done!
On September 06 2013 15:19 BlueFlames wrote: Q: What is your favorite stand-up comedian?
@ BlueFlames - Oh crap thats hard, Louis CK, Noel Fielding, Mitch Hedberg, Frankie Boyle, Eddie Izzard from his earlier days I say. to pick one, maybe Louis CK.
On September 06 2013 15:21 gostunv wrote: Q: Top 3 of your best drunken adventures
@ gostunv - I shouldn't
On September 06 2013 15:25 P_e_X wrote: when did you have your first threesome?
@ P_e_X - University, walking back from the 24 hour Tesco's slightly drunk eating a couple of pork-pies. when I met 2 cheeky ladies. Ladies love a bit of porking
On September 06 2013 15:27 Aiden1337 wrote: Q: How is it to live in Sweden(Stockholm) And what do you enjoy most staying there?
@ Aiden1337 - Swedens great, the country makes sense in regards to people and the government. it just feels nice. I really enjoy the internet and tap water the most
On September 06 2013 15:35 Geisterkarle wrote: Because 2GD played and commented for many years I would like to know if he is missing an "old" game in todays competitive/esport scene?
@ Geisterkarle easy missing Quake or a duel fps game. certainly not missing shootmania though, that game was as exspected. DOA
On September 06 2013 15:44 sumsaR wrote: Will there be a The Meeting accompanying the restart of the GD Show to update us on the workings of the GD Studio? Has been a while now since last time.
@ sumsaR - Yes there will be a meeting, I just hope everything I want to talk about in the meeting has been finalized
On September 06 2013 15:50 dmans wrote: Q When are you going to do a roadtrip in Sweden?
@ dmans - When the community invite me to enough college parties
On September 06 2013 16:01 Jinsho wrote: Hey James how are you doing? :D
@ Jinsho - Stop hitting on me! I'm good thanks
On September 06 2013 16:05 Pegas wrote: Q1: What do you think is the main ingredient for a game to succeed ?
Q2: If you could time travel only once and change your life what is the one thing that you would change and why?
@ Pegas - 1. Delivering features and game play the customer wants, 2. I'd go back to university, quit Uni earlier and take eSports more seriously from the get go.
Here's 2GD's answers for page 1with the questions before them: Someone's editing his posts already; guess I don't need to bother with the other pages :D
On September 06 2013 11:58 [DekAr] wrote: AWW YISS IT'S 2GD!
Now that teams are shuffled up a bit, what teams are you looking forward to watching with their new lineups?
@ [DekAr] - I'd have to say very obviously I'm looking forward to DK, they should be one of the most individually skilled teams around, I'm really looking forward to their matches
On September 06 2013 11:58 GranDGranT wrote: Love 2gd and everything he does.
Q: How do you balance your trolling/cussing/generally Rude but funny behaviour with still making people believe your serious about things?
Edit: Also it was nice to meet you not shit faced and yelling at you on the desk
@ GranDGranT - Hello GranDGranT, Yes it was nice to meet you when you were sober and less annoying . Well I guess people take me somewhat seriously because I've managed to produce products, from the twitch.tv lounge concept to features in BLC and the Studio in Sweden. I generally think it's fine to express yourself by cussing or being rude. but If I only went around the internet trolling, I doubt people would care much about me. Imagine athene if he didn't raise money for dem kids. what would he be?
On September 06 2013 12:04 Snorkle wrote: Question: What is the current status of Reborn?
@ Snorkle Reborn is alive, It hasn't been an easy project to get going due to funding it's still underdevelopment, and I'll have more to say on it when the time is right, It's odd for me to be so private about a project. and I haven't yet decided on how open I should be about information. being a very manic person, my view on Reborns public appearances change daily. so right now I just let the project mature behind closed doors. Hopefully I'll figure out soon how to address the community
On September 06 2013 12:08 KgKris wrote: Q: When is the GD Show coming back :D
@ KgKris We are meant to start off the studio again with a meeting, but soon we will be doing fragbite masters, which means Trance has rebuilt the studio. so I guess we will get the GD Show back around the same time (end of this month). Though we are still awaiting the return of Adebisi to Sweden. The meeting will hopefully reveal some interesting changes for the Studio and the viewers. Hopefully all contracts are in place by the time of the meeting or it will just continue as normal until we can change the broadcasting game
On September 06 2013 12:11 Iplaythings wrote: Hey James, have Bruno ever wingmanned you?
Also, favorite pokemon game?
And finally, preferred position in dota? (1,2,4 etc)
@ Iplaythings Bruno, Yes. he's very adept at this, you should see his magic tricks! Regarding pokemon games I never really played the ones of the GameBoy. My little brother did (only little by 1 year) but I didn't touch them. My favourite position in Dota is 4. It's nice to get to play a support hero who can control the map some, and make a big difference in team fights, my fav support is probably Rubick & SD.
On September 06 2013 12:12 NB wrote: I noticed that you do pissed a lot of people off in 2012 but 2013 not so much. My question is: How much do you love Reborn and how far are you willing to go to get the game done right?
I am watching you!
@NB - Reborn is probably the project which will allow me to be properly self sustainable in eSports and really boost the GD brand and allow for more exciting opportunities. I really want projects that impact the industry, so Reborn is currently the number 1 focus of my time. I've done a lot so far to try get the game done right, and will continue to do so. I'm pretty sure it will be a product that the eSport audience will enjoy. at least that's my goal
On September 06 2013 12:13 siMN- wrote: Q: Can you give any details regarding when people will see something of Reborn, or when a beta will be available?
Get it done, James. The FPS genre is just for people who want medals for sucking atm.
@ siMN- Hopefully some sneek peeks 'soon'. But I don't think we are more than 6-9 months away from really showing you what's up. but depends on the development now and also some funding
On September 06 2013 12:19 Gaius Baltar wrote: Q: Are you planning on publishing Reborn yourself or once you're further in the development process might you consider publishing through a company like Valve?
@ Gaius Baltar - I really like the idea of Steam, since it reduces development time and gives the customer a very suitable launch product for the game, but no contracts are in place for distribution yet. but I defiantly won't be taking a mainstream publisher. the idea of working with anyone makes me a bit sickly, I'd rather the only outside influence with game development be from the community itself. I have friends who work at Ubisoft and blizzard, and I still think to myself wow.. that must suck.
On September 06 2013 12:25 ReignSupreme. wrote: Damn I love me some 2GD content
I want industry stories (the hilarious ones preferred).
Q. Do you keep an eye on online communities (TL, Reddit, etc) yourself or are you among the many personalities who disregard them as a bunch of angry/entitled children?
also Q. How did it really feel to kill Dendi? Was it erection-inducing?
@ ReignSupreme. - Hey, yeah I read a lot of team liquid & reddits, If I load my webbrowser, from the 8 tabs there is, SC2 Reddit, Dota2 Reddit, GD Studio Reddit, Teamliquid and Twitch are the more gamer ones. I think it's important to read what people are saying. Even in feedback on our stuff or me directly, there is always some truth to what people say, even in the most negative comments. I always took pride in being part of the gaming community, and if I shied away from gaming or reading the forums, It would probably hurt my decision making within this industry. It's important to stay part of the community and experience the same things everyone else does as a viewer or user.
On September 06 2013 12:26 Verator wrote: If you could run a major event of any game in any place you wanted, DH/ MLG/ TI scale, what would it be and where?
@ Verator - I'd run a Quake/Reborn tournament in the style of TI in Prague. yes Prague.. think of the after party!?
On September 06 2013 12:34 evoli wrote: What caused the worst hangover of your life?
@ evoli - 2 bottles of Vodka (I carried one in each pocket of my trousers) at the age of 16 at a local carnival in Glastonbury. holy shit that turned me off vodka for a long time.
On September 06 2013 12:43 dooshplayer wrote: how did you convince your parents to allow you to play video games for a living/working in the esport business?
@ dooshplayer - My parents were cool. they didn't want to tell me what I had to do or what I couldn't do. but instead would at least encourage me to think about what I'm doing. and I thought about it.. and decided I like video games . whenever I personally stressed as a young adult not being able to figure out what I was meant to do. I remember my Mum told me she knows 40 year olds who just enjoy getting high and listening to old records, but they're happy, and that's more important. Also my Grandad always had a rule that if I helped myself, he will help me. So If he saw me making efforts to be a great gamer, or try and get to France for my first ESWC. If I ever struggled or hit a hurdle, he would always be there to help me. I have a pretty amazing family.
P.S. 2GD didn't answer Adebisi's question:
On September 06 2013 12:08 Adebisi wrote: Did you give away the kittens yet?
On September 06 2013 16:37 sd_andeh wrote: Question: how come you don't mention us Quakeworld players from Dreamhack in the best moments!?
@ sd_andeh - Hah, yeah the QW guys were awesome to hang with. really enjoyed commentating some QW despite I really suck at it.
On September 06 2013 16:43 Nus5 wrote: Q: Will you come back to casting/hosting starcraft 2 events?
@ Nus5 - I will probably never host a SC2 event again. but I guess you should never say never. *reads* *doh*
On September 06 2013 16:59 Taku wrote: Q1. What's one line you've said in public that you regret and why?
Q2. What do you think it would take for more major esports events to reach Canada given the many notable players from here, and why or why not would it happen?
@ Taku - 1 . Non, I don't have regrets, though I say the stupidest shit when im bored. to just entertain myself, hence DH Valencia
2. I love the idea of doing more eSports in Canada, I've been banging on to DH they should go there Adebisi could help set it up also. he's a local! I donno would DH coming to Canada be kinda cool? I think it would be
On September 06 2013 17:07 Re1nForce wrote: How many bottles of Laphroaig, pack of cigarettes and Vesuvio's am I close to become a member of TheGDStudio?
@ Re1nForce - anywhere between 1 more and 2000. so your maybe really close. maybe send more and I'll let you know
On September 06 2013 17:10 BlackPanther wrote: Q1: Is there anything you'd ask of the community that isn't already being asked?
Q2: How big do you think eSports can get? Will it, at some point, reach a level of popularity that surpasses football? Is it destined to be a more niche thing like Tennis, F1, or Golf?
@ BlackPanther - 1. Help, but I donno how, but all I do know is as many we can be quite powerful, with either starting a project, crowd funding. but right now we don't need some big community project. a lot of companies are handling eSports fine. but if it ever got dire. I think this community is more powerful and compassionate than we think
2. Good question, I think it will always be niche, mainly because you have to have experiences with the type of genre of video game to understand it as an eSport and want to be a part of the community. but we have a big advantage due to gaming is truly global. so sure we'll always stay niche, but we will be one of the biggest niches out there
On September 06 2013 17:10 xtfftc wrote: Any thoughts on Day9's game?
Any thoughts on Day9's game?
(asking the question twice since I hope to get one serious "2GD has very deep insight of the industry" answer and one "2GD loves his jokes even when it might be better to keep quiet")
@ xtfftc - I haven't read much about it, but I'm sure he'll probably do something successful on a small scale. ones thing's for sure, he probably has more funding to make video games than me
On September 06 2013 17:23 JayJay_90 wrote: Q: What's your favourite whiskey?
Q: I'm part of a team of Uni students developing an FPS game, what would say is the most important thing to make it fun to play?
Q: Can you give me an internship at the GD studio?
@ JayJay_90 1. Right now bowmore surf, 12 year. its amazing. 2. Movement 3. We lack physical room, or we would of had a lot of internships. but you're more than welcome to email - james@thegdstudio.com , any information you'd think I'd like to know.
On September 06 2013 17:26 Gammkrabb wrote: Q uestion - Do you get into alot of trouble in your personal or professional life by your "I dont care" kind of personality? I know that you can control it or can I ? :D
@ Gammkrabb - I don't get job offers or people contact me for collabs, cus they think I have this fuck the man attitude. but other than that there is no trouble really. Probably got in a few fights when I was younger cus of my mouth, but thats normal when you grow up in England. everyone's a gobby twat where I'm from.
On September 06 2013 17:48 xou wrote: Q: Have you tried militia ?
@ xou - no Xou I havent. also I miss your little French face.
On September 06 2013 18:10 Kergy wrote: cant believe he's older than totalbiscuit
@ Kergy - Don't get a real job, play video games, avoid stress, stay young looking .
On September 06 2013 18:18 bQttger wrote: Hello Good Sir.
Q: What hero is the best Dota hero, and why is it AXE?
@ bQttger - Hey BQ my fellow Axe brothering. My best hero is Axe yes, but One does not simply pick Axe, Axe picks you.
On September 06 2013 18:29 Nore wrote: Where is Matt Rider ?
@ Nore - In Germany working for game studios. He still looks like a lost puppy. I meet him at Gamescom. We were going to an afterparty, I told him we were going to slaughter house, but instead we all went to rose club, but I forgot to tell him. so by the time he got to Rose Club. we were leaving. oh god how the torment continues...
On September 06 2013 18:49 hifriend wrote: Cool interview. I love the focus mode thingy!
Q: What do you want to do next?
@ hifriend - Make the video game Reborn, and turn the GD Brand into a better company. it has a lot of potential. I have a good 5 year plan though, It involves more games, more GDness and more entertainment
On September 06 2013 18:53 Eshez wrote: Q: What's your issue with Day9?
@ Eshez - Don't have an issue, I just don't trust who he is on camera and off camera. It's too far apart for my liking. So I don't find him very believable or enjoyable. but I just let him do his shit and I do mine.
On September 06 2013 19:13 Latsom wrote: yaay :D
Q: I live in Oslo, can I come down to Sweden and be your Au Pair for a weekend or to? I have good references ^.^
@ Latsom - show me your references james@thegdstudio.com
On September 06 2013 19:16 zul wrote: Q: in what countries you got laid already?
@ zul - I don't see countries or race, I am a man of the world with a quest -
Semmler among others have hinted that the GD studio is going to be mostly focused on Dota 2 when it comes back, can you say how much SC2 will be a part of the show going on?
On September 06 2013 19:27 FSKi wrote: Why do you continuously post gay porn links making fun of Semmler on twitter with no NSFW warning? -_-
@ FSKi - what, Gay porn is NSFW? well fuck, I need to have some serious talks with skrff.
On September 06 2013 19:34 Teton wrote: James, how do I get all the ladies?
Also who scores the much at parties in the GD studios?
@ Teton - Confidence and sex panther. Not Semmler, unless he gets sloppy seconds. dirty American.
On September 06 2013 19:49 Dracolich70 wrote: - Was the "downfall" of QPAD due to rising too fast in popularity, thus creating too much pressure and unrealistic expectations?
- Could you list the errors made(if any) when building the QPAD team, and what has been learned from it(if at all)?
- Are the reshuffles post-TIs an overreaction?
- What is the best question, you were never asked?
- Do you prefer to wing it, or be well prepared(even if you mix it)?
- In your next incarnation, what would you like to be?
- If you were a car, which one do you think describes you best?
- Would you ever consider making and/or pulling strings for a "old timers league" for retired pros?
Thanks for everything. May good fortune be with you.
@ Dracolich70 - 1. No the popularity, just no in-game lady, Waga turned into a lady over night. I'm trying to get him his manhood back but preque won't fly to Sweden. 2. I don't think It had errors, was more about the team dynamic, I offered better preperation than any Western team in terms of setup to practice for TI3 Quals. 3. No, when on-site at TI3 we heard a lot of stories about the big reshuffle, there is still a lot more to come. 4. How can I help you. People don't think I need help, but I need a lot 5. always Wing it. I will of course come prepared on the knowledge of the tournament, but I prefer stuff to be live. I'm sure though I would benefit a lot if I prepare. but it's not my style. 6. Musician 7. Audi TT rs. ladies love it, but its prone to break down 8. Yes, I've had some idea for custom leagues under a project I'm trying to build.
On September 06 2013 19:52 Madlobster wrote: What team were you rooting for during TI3?
What hero would you like to see more of in competitive games? and is there a hero you think is picked too much?
And last, what is the manliest build to run on Axe?
@ Madlobster - 1. Fnatic, Alliance, Na'Vi 2. Axe & Necrolyte 3. Lifestealer/Gyro/LD 4. Bots, Force staff, Shadow Blade, Aghs, Euls and Shivas or blink. (it never wins games, but its fun!)
On September 06 2013 19:56 Clbull wrote: Q. Why are you so fucking handsome?
@ Clbull - My monitor has been modified to cleanse my skin.
On September 06 2013 20:00 robnroll wrote: How would you recommend someone go about getting into the production/casting side of Dota2 professionally? is it just about putting yourself about until you get noticed? or providing alternate streams to matches currently being played? or something completely different?
@ robnroll - Just do it (C). sheever and nathanias are extremely hard working and regular in their content, and it's paid off for them. Just start, and don't stop. cover everything you have time for people will appreciate it.
On September 06 2013 20:05 Boundz(DarKo) wrote: On TL we love horses, but yours is awfully high, ever thought of going a bit Icelandic?
@ Boundz(DarKo) - My horse sir is amazing. . plus Bjork and CCCP have Iceland under control.
On September 06 2013 20:30 teddyoojo wrote: u like hl3 so far
@ teddyoojo - plays too much like Mario Kart for my liking
On September 06 2013 20:35 torm3ntin wrote: Have you ever met ICEFROG? Who is he?
@ torm3ntin - Yeah, but he stood behind a white screen with back lighting and used a voice changer
On September 06 2013 20:48 Grettin wrote: Monthly "budget" for spirits each month? Favorite drink & favorite whiskey?
Thanks for doing the Q&A!
@ Grettin - Not much really, couple hundred. Jack n Coke for a mixer, and bowmore surf for straight
On September 06 2013 20:53 FueledUpAndReadyToGo wrote: Q: Do you still watch some Starcraft 2? What would you think be the key feature Blizzard needs to add to improve the game?
@ FueledUpAndReadyToGo - I don't watch too much SC2 atm, I think the game needs to exchange advantages thoughtout the game more with quicker ways to react and counter your opponent.
On September 06 2013 21:09 bracercrane wrote: Q: Matt Rider. Tell us everything. Is he coming to The GD Studio for eternity or a one timer? Can you rely on him keeping his nose and act clean? Also, could you tell us stories about you and Matt :3
@ bracercrane - Trance asked matt to come to the studio yes, he agreed on one condition, I don't mention his sisters. *shrugs*
On September 06 2013 21:22 Madlobster wrote: I forgot a question, Will you ever cast with incontrol again? probably my favorite moment en esports so far was when you guys were on screen together :D
@ Madlobster - Most likely, but nothing planned yet Georff is was of my fav guys on camera, I think he's hilarious. I also love his nickname list on 4chan, its enjoyably long.
On September 06 2013 21:48 Veriol wrote: Do you think any game can currently compete with LoL and it's massive infrastructure and huge fanbase? Obvisouly the game is no. 1 and will be for quite some time now but if there is a game to compete would you say its DotA 2 ?
@ Veriol - I don't think DotA 2 will overtake LoL naturally, but LoL is a social game, similar to how WoW was. There will be a game that takes that casual audience over to the next big hit. when it does. I think LoL will finish as an eSport. DotA 2 will continue.
On September 06 2013 21:51 nachtkap wrote: have you ever trolled to much/to little during an event? If yes what (kind of) troll did you miss/go over the top with?
@ nachtkap - I think insinuating TB's wife was a prostitute was little too far. she's a nice lady, even if you don't have to pay her.
On September 06 2013 21:59 tapes wrote: Do you ever regret being such a meanie?
What do you think went wrong with BLC? The game was pretty promising but it died almost immediately after the launch.
@ tapes - the game needed more depth in game play, and not from traits and stats. also the game was extremely fast past all the time, which caused quick fatigue on the player base.
On September 06 2013 22:12 DjHorsi wrote: Q: Why is GD-Studio so inactive on facebook and not reacting to questions asked on ur page.
@DjHorsi - I donno, I want to slap Metabie our lovely CM, but we don't pay him, so it's hard to slap him..... damnit give me money, I want to buy the right to violence!
On September 06 2013 22:18 nymfaw wrote: As much as I like him as a host and his humour, I think he's a bit of a twat, but I guess it's just his image. Still doesn't hurt to be a little bit humble every now and then.
On September 06 2013 22:20 halvorg wrote: Where is the line drawn for competitive games and player customization? Do you think Dota2 is beginning to overstep that line? Can a competitive fps game be (partially) sustained by an ingame store, if yes what would you be able to buy (reborn bait)?
For an example of what I mean: Polar opposites, Heroes of Newerth and Quake Live. In HoN you can change the model, animations and color of almost any hero provided you have bought said item - and other players will see that skin.
In Quake Live you can force enemy models, completely disregarding your opponents' customization.
I'm very sleepy and I'm not sure if this is coherent enough to understand, hf.
@ halvorg - As long as player customization doesn't give power or overly effect the game by aesthetically giving one player a advantage or another a disadvantage it seems fine to me. Yes Reborn could be somewhat sustained with an in-game store, but its trickier because models drastically effect game play in an FPS. it needs to be well done, but it a problem I have looked at within making an FPS Game.
On September 06 2013 22:46 TheSir wrote: Q: Are we ever going to see 'The GD couch' back at a event?
@ TheSir - Most likely but with more than just me hosting.
On September 06 2013 22:56 MavivaM wrote: Q: who's someone you admire and why? Esports related, clearly.
@ MavivaM - ODEE the owner of Team-Dignitas. He's always delivered what he promises, gives a fair deal and runs a tight ship.
On September 06 2013 23:16 Cutlery wrote: Q: Why are you so friggin handsome? Get outtt
@ Cutlery - But I'm trying to get in
On September 06 2013 23:22 pookums wrote: Has your "unprofessional" demeanor ever prevented you from getting some contract/gig/etc you really wanted?
@ pookums - No way, the jobs I want aren't the professional ones. TI3 is the most professional I've been, but they knew I could control myself. though I got a few stabs in :D I did tell Valve though I don't want to do TI4. to which EJ cheekily replied, 'Yes I will'.
On September 07 2013 00:04 Bloodash wrote: Q1: Did SingSing leave the team on good terms? Can we still expect appearances from him on the GD show? Q2: How are the red panda's doing? How's morale? Q3: Bruno is an awesome addition to the GD team, do you feel you want to expand the team even more or is it size-wise big enough for you? (until Reborn is released and you want an expert panel for that segment of course)
@ Bloodash - 1. Yeah hes fine, hes got some back payment owed also, so once he gets it all, I think hes happy and fine, I told him to do what he wishes I'm not sure how soon we will have him back, maybe in the future if we do a special event. 2. Moral is fine because they are stable, Waga gave up a lot to do this, but he's doing great with his stream and is starting to slowly look for team opportunities for him and Jrx. 3. I'd love to expand and offer more people an opportunity to grow their brand with the GD Studio, but unfortunately we don't have room or the budges right now. so we are a bit stunted!
On September 07 2013 00:26 Olex wrote: What's a lesson that working in eSports has taught you?
If you could write a book about anything, in any genre, what would you write?
How many languages do you speak?
Did you have a lot of friends growing up?
@ Olex - 1. Always follow your dreams, and do things that put you in almost uncomftable situations. you will grow as a person a lot faster if you challenge yourself. 2. A book about overcoming challenges, and the lessons life can teach. I was brought back to my college a few times to talk to students just finishing. Telling them about what the next steps of life could hold. the students seemed to enjoy my honesty on the situation. and always had some really great questions 3. multiple, or countless. there's English... then Irish... American... Scottish... Australian and even some South African. 4. No, I kept a small circle of close friends.
On September 07 2013 00:29 Burns wrote: Can you post pics/vids of your kittens?
@ Burns -
On September 07 2013 00:32 DucK- wrote: What happened with you and Soe
@ DucK- - Life
On September 07 2013 00:41 SilverStar wrote: Q: How did you feel like when after graduating and not following a traditional career path? Are there days that you wish you had a normal job?
Q: What drives you do what you do? Is the feeling of being free and living a careless live or is it something else?
Q: How many hours a week do you work?
All the best to you, I envy you for following your dream and "making it". Good luck James.
@ SilverStar - 1. I didn't graduate from university, I studied for 2 years then left I never wished I had a normal job, sometimes I wish I worked for a game studio and had some security in my life. but I'm a terrible employee. and being your own boss is awesome. today I woke up at 4pm and ate yogurt. and no one can take that away from me! 2. Passion for this industry and community, I want to make a mark. show the world what we do, create opportunities for others. It's a hard question to answer, but I want to ultimately help. but I'm also a bit of a dick, so I love proving a point 3. 4 hours a day on average. I end up reading a lot before or after that, and just casually answering emails. but 4 hours are spent in documents either designing or well.. documenting work. sometimes it's boring like tax returns. sometimes work is fun, sometimes a pain like any other job. but I only like to work 4 hours. I believe the more time you have to think the better your moves will be. So I don't over work until I know the solution to the task
On September 07 2013 01:08 tree.hugger wrote: Predictions for TI4?
@tree.hugger - Draskyl and the radiant bongo orchestra
On September 07 2013 01:21 steisjo wrote: who's your favorite admin ? ;D wink wink
@ steisjo - easy, Xou the Q3 admin, so nice, didn't drink on the job, didn't watch amateur porn at my house. what a guy.
On September 07 2013 01:21 Surprise.820 wrote: Axe is well good, isn't he?
@ Surprise.820 - He's swell
On September 07 2013 01:30 chuky500 wrote: I remember fragging him a couple times in Quake 4, as well as other English men like Garpy or Hell (/Vizari). Those were fun times where anyone could play famous pros on public servers, because there weren't that many players.
I remember his funny line "it's quiet here in the studio" of the WSVG finals, though in my opinon the first bo3 between Toxic and Fatality was rigged. Just to make the finals more interresting and make it look less 1 sided.
Q : Do you regret that FPS games like Quake didn't get their gameplay modernized (like BW -> Starcraft 2 or Team Fortress Classic -> TF2) ? What expectations did you have about Shootmania even if it didn't succeed as an esports game, despite many pros having switched to it ?
@ chuky500 - I agree match one was rigged, I also felt the rest could have been. unless Toxic changed his mind. I am sad Quake didn't get revamped, though I've heard rumours about some QL stuff. Also Shootmania, the developers didn't listen, so ultimately their game failed. GJ Nadeo, next time just give me your money to make the game.
On September 07 2013 01:42 3772 wrote: What's your favorite pickup line?
Your most hilarious fail?
@ 3772 - In Sweden, I say something like. du ar veldict vaker. then I point to my face with my index fingers and just say, 'James'. the Swedish girls seem to understand I am harmless with that opener and don't take myself too seriously Hilarious fail hmmmm. shit I donno man. I may be so egotistical I've managed to remove all bad memories...
On September 07 2013 00:32 DucK- wrote: What happened with you and Soe
Staff had a bet whether 20% or more of the questions would be about Soe. Somehow we've made it to the sixth page before she was mentioned.
Well he shared what he wanted to share, so most people that follow 2gd or the gd-studio already know.
Q: Who is your favorite female pornstar?
@ BlueFlames - ah crap this is tough! let's go old school so I don't have to give you my up to date list and say Gina Wild, mainly because A) her story as a person is fucking cool, plus she looked like this girl I used to date.
On September 07 2013 01:57 yawnoC wrote: What do you feel is still the biggest mistake made by teams/players/tournaments that hasn't been addressed ?
@ yawnoC - I'm tired this is my 6th page! I think the most saddening thing that people overlook is how did ESWC get so fucking shit, and why is Matt still in charge? thats fucking weird if you ask me.
On September 07 2013 02:02 Gendo wrote: Q: What happened to The GD Show?
@ Gendo - It's coming back!
On September 07 2013 02:06 Obmighting(AQ) wrote: 1) Who's your best 5 Dota 2 players personally?
2) Have you seen Korea Dota 2 players skills? then what do you think about Korea dota 2 players merits and demerits?
3) What is E-sports do you think?
p.s) noob english.
@ Obmighting(AQ) - 1. SingSing, Notail, Era, Puppy, Winter 2. They arn't thinking outside of the box yet, on the plus side they have huge potential 3. People playing video games competively
On September 07 2013 02:11 JayJay_90 wrote: Q: Did you know about Semmler's history in porn when you hired him?
@ JayJay_90 - Yes, it got him the job
On September 07 2013 02:21 crms wrote: Q: If I want to move to Sweden and invest a bunch of money into GD Studio, can I get a job? I don't need camera time, I'm a behind the scenes guy.
@ crms - How much money? james@thegdstudio.com - also I pick my partners based off the person. Trance for example is the only current partner in the GD Studio right now.
On September 07 2013 02:22 zdfgucker wrote: I think I speak for many people when I say that I greatly enjoy your interviews, especially the ones where you actually have much time to talk. You're a really interesting person and aren't as reserved as many people in Esports. My question is: Have you considered doing a show where you talk to veterans of the industry and don't just interview them but rather have a discussion?
I REALLY want to see more of you than the average plain 5 minutes interview "Hey, what are you doing?" - "Casting" - "Nice and what will be next?" - "Casting" - "Thanks for the interview".
@ zdfgucker - Yeah we had some show plans, but we'd want to fly people into the studio to do the feature. not over skype like real talk. maybe we'll get this going in the distant future.
On September 07 2013 02:36 Oakenshield wrote: Hey James/Mr. GD
Of all your jokes at TI3 which were you most proud of? My favorite was when Pyrion Flax was trying to trade plushies with teenagers and you said something like "Isn't that amazing. He's a grown man".
Also do you think Slardar needs and deserves a buff?
@ Oakenshield - I think it was when Kaci dropped the line 'I met a horse' and I kind of twisted it abit also yes Slarder needs a buff badly. I'd work on his sprint ability.
On September 07 2013 02:44 hadang wrote: Q: Are you planning to do more Hearthstone Arena streaming ? I really enjoyed the ones you have done so far.
@ hadang - Yes I'd love to stream more Hearthstone but I am very unfortunate because blizzard won't accept my money (a known bug according to CS) I also would love to set-up some tournaments. I love nerdy things and Hearthstone is right up my street, I used to be a pretty awesome battletech card player!
On September 06 2013 12:08 Adebisi wrote: Did you give away the kittens yet?
@ Adebisi - No Mike, we have them all!
On September 07 2013 03:02 TanGeng wrote: If you could play a matchmaker and get two other people to marry each other, who would you choose?
@ TanGeng - Adebisi & Livinpink, cus they would drive each other mad. or Semmler and MiaRose
On September 07 2013 03:02 fdoom wrote: Why does the UK produce so few players but so many commentators?
@ fdoom - We are good at talking shit. also the UK scene hasn't developed much, I think Multiplay could do so much more.
On September 07 2013 03:16 fbz_ wrote: What u think about HearthStone. Could you see it coming big eSports title?
@ fbz_ - I don't think a big eSport title, but certainly a fun one. eSport games don't need to be big, you can custom create an eSport program for games of all sizes. I wish developers would learn this.
On September 07 2013 03:19 TanGeng wrote: If you could convince one single person from any where to come work for you at the GDStudio, who would it be?
@ TanGeng - Lauren Elise. wait shes not single. damn
On September 07 2013 03:37 Oasx wrote: Semmler among others have hinted that the GD studio is going to be mostly focused on Dota 2 when it comes back, can you say how much SC2 will be a part of the show going on?
@ Oasx - We're still designing stuff for SC2, but we are ready to do DotA2 from return, this is why DotA 2 is more of the focus. Also Blizzard and WCS get in the way of us doing good online content.
On September 07 2013 03:41 Grettin wrote: Oh James, if you have a whiskey (or any spirit) collection, post a picture!
@ Grettin - Lost my phone in LA
On September 07 2013 04:22 grobo wrote: What is your music of choice when traveling? IF you listen to music.
@ grobo - I don't listen to music while I travel, but I do take a notepad and pen to write down ideas.
On September 07 2013 04:25 fdoom wrote: why do you always post "i miss my ex" on d2g?
@ fdoom - Shes not missing, I know exactly where she is... at alllll tiiiiiiimes
Okay! Since it's been about 3 hours we'll be wrapping this up. If you're really nice to 2gd maybe he will come back in a bit an answer the one or two straggling questions.
Thanks everyone for participating and thanks 2gd for making this awesome!
Q: Hey bud, serious time here, what do you think of competitive FPS these days ? How can developers compete with the huge ''casual era'' that has come up after the vcod, cod2 and cod4promode age ? By casual I mean console gaming in general, and the only games we get are pretty much ports. ( putting aside CS: GO for one second, shall we ? )
Q: What do you think of Shootmania Storm ? Thanks, keep on rockin'.
I don't know if 2GD is still answering questions but I'll give it a try.
If you had the funds to run the studio from anywhere in the world, would you stay in Sweden or is there somewhere else you would like to be? if you decided to stay, why?.
Thanks for answering so many questions, I really enjoyed reading your answers. Your sense of humor is just too good , I really enjoyed that horse joke as well lol.
EPT
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