Questions Raised Over Match Integrity at The International 2022
Fans of The International 2022 are now questioning the integrity of the matches currently being played, as PGL has implemented a temporary solution for the soundproofing issues that have arisen during the tournament.
Unlike previous tournaments, TI11 did not include soundproof booths, which are considered essential for maintaining fair gameplay. Instead, headsets were used to address sound insulation. However, after the first day of matches on the main stage, teams complained to PGL about being able to hear the casters too clearly. PGL has not provided public updates on this issue, leaving non-English speaking teams to learn specific keywords from the casters in order to gain an advantage.
The casters not only guide viewers through the matches but also discuss important in-game developments and strategic decisions. This means that anyone who can hear the casters while playing the game has an unfair advantage. With day two of the tournament beginning, players expected PGL to resolve the soundproofing issues overnight. However, the organizer’s solution involved sacrificing the in-person viewer experience.
Attendees at The International 2022 have informed the Dota 2 community that PGL’s attempt to address the soundproofing issues involved reducing the overall volume of the casters in the arena. While this may have made it more difficult for players to hear the casters, it had a negative impact on the enjoyment of on-site viewers. Austin “Cap” Walsh, a Dota 2 caster at TI11, assured the fans that he was passing along their feedback to PGL in order to find a compromise that prevents players from hearing while still allowing the fans to enjoy the event.
While PGL may have to go back to square one to resolve the soundproofing controversy at TI11, the organizer will also need to address hygiene complaints. Zeng “Ori” Jiaoyang from Team Aster mentioned that there was ear wax left on the earplugs provided by PGL on the stage. Given that players typically enter the stage with minimal items or simply a handkerchief for their glasses, this is a concerning sight, especially considering the high stakes of each series.
The International 2022, PGL, soundproofing issues, match integrity, fans, casters, headsets, advantage, Dota 2 community, compromise, hygiene complaints, Team Aster.