In Spring 2023, if there is one name that has been heavily criticized on the GAM side, it is certainly Sty1e. Although he may not have the “stunning” visuals like Levi or cause any current controversies, Sty1e is still the player who gets mentioned even when GAM is winning. In fact, he has been called to be replaced every time GAM has 1 or 2 poor matches. However, all current statistics indicate that the ADC of GAM is performing effectively.
But in reality, GAM and the VCS audience still have every reason to trust their ADC at the upcoming MSI 2023.
Fits GAM’s Playstyle
This is something that everyone has clearly seen: Sty1e fits GAM’s playstyle, which is why he was recruited. At that time, this deal sparked endless debate in the VCS community. In fact, many GAM fans even “turned their backs” after hearing the news. The reason was completely unrelated to professional matters and was just a misunderstanding involving Faker. After that, Sty1e’s successes with GAM are the clearest proof of the vision of the black-and-yellow team.
Sty1e does not need a team to “take care” of him throughout the match like many colleagues in other teams. Moreover, even when he faces disadvantages in the laning phase, Sty1e still knows how to shine in the late game. Although sometimes his performances in team fights are not enough to turn the tide, Sty1e always shows that he picks great positions to deal damage. For opponents to catch Sty1e, they often have to use all their skills and summoner spells. This is the foundation that if he is taken down, his teammates can still fight well.
Handles Pressure Well
Perhaps there are few transfers in the VCS that have generated as much controversy and debate as Sty1e’s move to GAM. One could say that he has lived with pressure since he started wearing the black-and-yellow jersey. But until now, Sty1e has still been performing his duties well.
Not many players can face such pressures and still perform well, as even superstars from the LCK and LPL struggle when involved in controversies. But Sty1e continues to play like that, even though his journey has always been full of criticism. This is exactly the quality that a great team like GAM needs in their key player.
Development Potential
Sty1e has been competing for many years, but in reality, he is only 21 years old (the same age as young stars like Gumayusi, Keria…) and thus, Sty1e still has a lot of potential. Not to mention, he has the huge advantage of continuously competing internationally with GAM. These experiences will undoubtedly provide the ADC born in 2002 with valuable insights.
Sty1e may still make mistakes or be taken down frequently due to opponents focusing their attacks on him, but so far, Sty1e has always known how to play in a way that secures victories for GAM. And for the VCS champions, that’s more than enough for a position that has always been viewed as their weak point.