GAM Implements Macro Play at Worlds 2024
At Worlds 2024, it can be said that the skill gap between teams from the Minors or wildcard groups has surpassed the weak level and has reached a stage where they can cause surprises, even posing significant challenges for top teams. Except for PaiN Gaming, which was “toyed with” by G2 Esports, both GAM Esports and PSG Talon have left their marks to some extent. However, there is a clear reality, especially when observing the match between GAM and FlyQuest: if the smaller teams also play macro, the skill gap will be even deeper between the Minors and the Majors.
Recently, GAM has shifted away from the style of tower diving and constant skirmishing. They play macro carefully, forcing opponents to change objectives. However, even against their first so-called “stiff” opponent at Worlds 2024, GAM exposed numerous issues. VCS fans might argue that GAM maintained a balance in the early game. But it cannot be denied that this was only because FlyQuest was not ready to accelerate.
GAM and Smaller Teams Can Play Macro, But Shouldn’t Rush
Constant skirmishing is still a necessary aspect, but a scientific and careful macro play is on the rise, especially in short-duration tournaments like Worlds. However, GAM specifically and teams from smaller regions and wildcards in general lack players with the capability to execute this meta effectively. Even if PSG or PNG have players from the LCK, these are players who couldn’t find a spot in the LCK. Comparing them to names from Gen.G, T1, or BLG, TES is quite a stretch.
Meanwhile, even teams not from the LCK or LPL, like those from Europe and North America (G2, FNC, TL…) are names that are very familiar with the international arena. Even if they don’t play macro, the individual skill level of these players is still very high, allowing them to win through superior skill. A prime example is FlyQuest. In their match against GAM, they simply banned and picked champions that countered GAM’s champions, winning with their superior skill.
The renowned macro play of the LCK is not something that can be achieved overnight but is a process, where players are honed from Korean ranks, then through the academy environment, and later battling in the Challengers League before being promoted to the main team. GAM and other teams can learn macro play, but it would be a severe “self-destruct” if they compete against the Majors this way.
No one forbids smaller teams from playing macro as this is also the trend in professional League of Legends today. But for smaller teams in general and GAM in particular, they likely need more experience, learning, and improvement before considering countering top teams from the Majors with a playstyle they are too familiar with.