Nightfall: “There’s no point in trying to play perfectly”
Aurora Gaming carry Yegor “Nightfall” Grigorenko spoke to OFFSTAGE about comments from haters and explained how he stopped obsessing over his mistakes.
On the difference between Tundra Esports and Aurora Gaming
I think the biggest difference, even for me, is that here at Aurora, I play more of a captain-leader role, similar to what 33 was in the Tundra team. That, I’d say, is the main difference. Well, if we’re talking specifically about the current Aurora Gaming and Tundra Esports, I’d say they’re pretty similar teams in terms of atmosphere, vibe, and so on. Both are European teams, everyone gets along, they have a good time, and so on.
On whether he wanted to play a different role on the pro scene
No, I just came to the conclusion for myself that... Well, it was, I’d say, more of an unsuccessful experience—not so much in terms of personal growth, but specifically in terms of results and, frankly, my gameplay. Over that whole period, I just came to the conclusion that you shouldn’t stray, so to speak, from your identity and should do what you do best. And I think, in that regard, both as a player and as a person, the role of a carry suits my playing style best. To score goals, so to speak.
On whether he reads comments from haters
Well, to the point of paying attention to it or letting it affect me, I don’t think so. Do I read them? Well, sometimes, maybe, when things are going really well or, on the contrary, when they’re not going so well. [Is there any recent comment that stuck with you?] Yeah, to be honest, people usually write pretty similar, superficial stuff, so not really.
On how I stopped obsessing over mistakes
It’s a pretty tough question, but I think I’m just less afraid of making mistakes now, so I’m doing what needs to be done and taking more risks. And the natural consequence of that is that you’ll make more mistakes. Because there’s no point in trying to play perfectly and just focus on KDA or always stick to your own playstyle. Dota these days is more dynamic, and every player needs to look for opportunities, in my opinion.
Earlier, Nightfall discussed the reasons behind his move to Aurora Gaming after leaving Tundra Esports. According to the player, he had virtually no alternatives, and joining the new roster allowed him to continue competing on the Tier 1 scene and fight for top spots in tournaments.
