G2’s decision to sign Artem “r1nkle” Moroz marked one of the most significant moves of the offseason. After a difficult end to his time with Ninjas in Pyjamas, the Ukrainian AWPer now has the opportunity to rebuild his career on one of Counter-Strike’s biggest stages.
Replacing SunPayus also brings immediate pressure, especially with fans questioning the change and G2 entering important events with limited preparation. In this interview, r1nkle speaks about his reaction to joining G2, what he learned from his time at NIP, the consistency he wants to develop and the role he expects to play alongside huNter-, NertZ and HeavyGod.
When G2 first contacted you, what was your first reaction?
My first reaction when G2 contacted me was that I didn’t really believe it. It wasn’t confirmed at first, but yeah, I just didn’t believe it.
You went from NIP’s bench to one of the biggest teams in the world. How do you process that turnaround?
I don’t know. When I got benched, I think I just didn’t really think about it. I just grinded, took care of myself and focused only on myself. I didn’t really think about the future. But yeah, it’s like a one chance in a million chance, I would say. It’s a really good feeling.
A lot of controversy sparked among fans with SunPayus leaving. Have you seen that reaction, and what do you make of it?
I’ve seen the reaction, but I don’t really care about it. I don’t read social media that much or the things people say about me. So yeah, I don’t really care.
What do you think you can bring to G2 that they did not have before?
I can bring firepower to G2, for sure, and good vibes. That’s it.
SunPayus was seen as a vocal and supportive AWPer. Do you expect to take on any of that responsibility, or will your role be different?
I will for sure take responsibility as an AWPer because it’s one of the most important roles in a team. I’ll for sure be vocal, and yeah, I will bring firepower.
Looking back at NIP, what did you learn from the period when things stopped working?
I actually learned a lot of things. It would be hard to mention them right now, but I think you have to have joy in the game. At the end of the day, it’s mostly about having fun. It’s not like you’re a robot and doing all things perfectly. You need to enjoy it.
Do you feel G2 signed you because they wanted a different style of AWPing or more firepower?
I can’t answer this question, but I think every team right now is looking for firepower. I think it’s really important in this shape of the game.
People have always seen your ceiling but questioned your consistency. Is that the main thing you want to prove now?
I don’t really want to prove anything to anyone. I agree that I wasn’t that consistent in the past, and that’s also the thing I have focused on since being benched and even before, when I was in NIP. So yeah, I will be more consistent, for sure.
What kind of system brings out the best version of you?
I think the best version of me will come when things are kind of set at the start, because at the start I feel like it’s hard to play with more freedom. With time, I think it will be nice to play with more freedom. But yeah, right now it’s a bit more set, I would say.
G2 will be banking on huNter- and sAw to help you develop. What have your early conversations with them been like?
My early conversations were really great. They are all amazing people with a lot of experience and ideas, I would say. But it’s not only them. Basically, everyone on the team. I enjoy spending time with them and I enjoy listening. I just want to gain a lot of information as soon as possible so I can improve really fast.
How do you fit around riflers like NertZ and HeavyGod, who also want space and impact?
I fit well. That’s my role, in a way. I need to be more supportive than the others, but in the late round I can shine.
Your debut is expected at BLAST Bounty Season 2, and then G2 go towards the Esports World Cup. How much time is enough to feel ready with a new team, and what are your expectations?
I don’t have expectations. I just want to go in the moment and enjoy basically everything. I’m not thinking about our preparation or stuff because, of course, it’s not a lot of time, but who cares? You need to show everyone right now what you are capable of. We can’t say we don’t have much time, especially in this team.
Do you have any last words for the fans?
Thank you for the support, guys. I can see it. Support G2 and believe in us.
