Buzz
(Homeland) - Media has pointed out the distinguishing factor that led to the failure of LPL teams at Worlds 2022.
Another season of the World Finals (Worlds) is approaching its end with many unexpected developments from teams and players. Particularly notable is the disappointment of LPL teams, marking the first time since Invictus Gaming (IG) claimed the throne in 2018 that no representative from this region has appeared in the Finals of a Worlds. The disappointment is even greater as before the tournament, many LPL fans considered them to be the strongest representatives of the region in recent years.
Media in the LPL region did not miss the opportunity to analyze the failure of all 4 representatives at Worlds 2022. Various reasons have been presented, from the health of the players to the evident superior performance of LCK teams. However, there are also some common opinions that have received widespread agreement.
Firstly, it is the fact that LPL representatives 'defeated themselves' in quite a few matches, especially when facing weaker opponents. A notable example of 'self-defeat' is TOP Esports. When facing Rogue and GAM Esports, TES made numerous mistakes that led them to an early exit after the Group Stage.
Another reason is the players' form not being truly top-notch, as seen with JD Gaming - highly rated but only putting up an average performance against DWG KIA - the team currently in outstanding form from LCK. Many opinions suggest that LPL players did not truly focus on maintaining their best form at this Worlds.
The primary factor leading to the difference between LPL and LCK is the conservative mindset in the playing style of LPL teams. While the LCK region boasts numerous team compositions, and the champion pools of players are broad enough to accommodate various playstyles, LPL teams lean towards all-out aggression. However, when this playing style is countered, LPL teams lack the necessary flexibility to adapt.
The playing style of LPL, known for its fiery nature and a preference for visually spectacular skirmishes, unintentionally becomes a weakness when facing formidable global opponents. Currently, all LPL teams have exited Worlds 2022. Still, if these weaknesses are not promptly addressed, they will face significant challenges in overcoming their arch-rivals from LCK in future seasons.
