Fall esports wraps up with playoff successes

The esports playoffs began on Nov. 20 featuring teams from games such as Super Smash Bros., Mario Kart, Valorant, and Fortnite.

Out of 33 students, 11 participated in the playoffs with advancements from Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros. The Mario Kart team consisting of Louis Miller, Carson West, Isaac Funk and Samuel Herrea advanced past the first round and then lost. Freshman Smash Bros player Kenneth Biggs advanced to the top eight of the central region.

Coach Brian Unruh was really pleased with how everybody did this season, showing interest in one specific player.

“I was really pleased with how many teams and individuals made the playoffs. That is a good indication of how well people were playing this season. We did have a couple of teams also advance a few rounds into the playoffs, which is great. Kenny (Biggs) was able to qualify for the Premier League for Smash Brothers in the spring, so that is a good accomplishment too. There is a lot to celebrate from the season and also the playoffs from the fall.”

Biggs and Miller shared their experiences competing in the playoffs. Both players have been playing their respective games since they were young. Miller reflected on his early beginnings.

“I’ve been playing since I was a little kid on the Wii, and then I just continued to get better,” Miller said.

Neither player typically prepares mentally for their matches. They prefer to go with the flow. Biggs explained his approach.

“I don’t really prepare; I just figure it out when I get there,” Biggs said.

Biggs encountered a significant challenge in his final match that may have cost him the game and prevented him from advancing.

“I was playing against a character that I haven’t been able to play against very often,” Biggs said.

Despite this setback, Biggs went into Game 7 with a 3-4 deficit.

Miller, on the other hand, is dedicated to improving his game. He spends his free time watching videos on game tricks and practicing them.

“I watch videos on tricks to do in the game, and after that, I practice and try to execute those tricks the best I can,” Miller said.

Biggs also had something to add to how he is going to prepare for the next season.

“During Christmas break, I’m going to be practicing Smash as much as possible, practicing all the complex combos and things like that.”

Finally, Biggs expressed his gratitude to many people who have helped him, including coaches and other esports players. However, one group stood out to him.

“The Iowa Smash Scene has been so accepting and helpful. Very few players are toxic, and everyone wants to see your improvement and will give you advice if you ask,” Biggs said.

You can sign up by filling out the Google form when Coach Unruh releases it. In addition to the ones mentioned before, you can sign up for Rocket league, Halo Infinite, and Apex Legends.

The next season begins on Jan. 13.