"Play every game like it's your last and never fear defeat." This iconic line from Zhang Ning (aka xiao8), coach of Xtreme Gaming (XG), first fired up the squad during a tense break in 2021. Fast-forward to the electric arena at The International (TI) Finals, and that same mantra echoed through the stands, setting the stage for a do-or-die showdown.
For many SEA gamers, TI is like the Super Bowl of DOTA2 – think big crowds, epic chants, and that pulse-racing vibe in places from Bangkok's gaming cafes to Mumbai's LAN parties. When XG huddled backstage, xiao8's words weren't just pep talk; they were a call to channel fearless energy, whether you're landing a clutch Black King Bar or clutching your first ever Roshan pit fight.
The pressure was real. This final match would decide if XG's journey ended in heartbreak or glory. But with the mantra in their veins, the players threw caution aside. Mid-laner sharpshot arrows like a seasoned archer, while the carry crunched creeps with relentless fury. Each team fight became a statement: we're here to seize the moment.
In the end, whether XG raised the Aegis or bowed out, the true victory lay in playing without fear. For young gamers across South Asia and Southeast Asia, this story isn't just about pro esports. It's a reminder: approach every challenge like it's your last shot, and don't let the fear of failure hold you back. After all, every match—online or off—deserves that same fearless spirit. 🏆✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
