Magisk: “My goal for this season is to try and become a better version of myself, a stronger player”Exclusive

Emil “Magisk” Reif has made his competitive comeback with Astralis following nearly three months of inactivity. During FISSURE Playground #2, we gained exclusive insights into his transition back to professional play and team dynamics.

— In the groups you lost only to Aurora and paiN, both reached playoffs. Can you say that currently you are a bit behind those teams who made the playoffs earlier?

— Our roster configuration is fundamentally new, with minimal preparation time together. We’re essentially starting from scratch compared to established teams. Each match provides crucial learning opportunities as we adapt to new dynamics. I’m particularly challenged by unfamiliar CT positions requiring complete adaptation of my playstyle.

The learning curve involves mastering numerous tactical nuances and timing windows. We’re accumulating substantial match data that informs our development path. While our current Counter-Strike execution shows promise, significant refinement opportunities remain. The process involves smoothing out execution and improving coordination efficiency.

From an individual perspective, returning after extended absence presents substantial hurdles. Adapting to new defensive setups while rebuilding individual form demands concentrated effort. My focus centers on incremental improvement through each competitive outing. The approach emphasizes systematic progression rather than immediate results.

— Do you think it is even better for you personally to play five series of officials after the break instead of just three?

— Current priorities emphasize data collection over perfect records. Competitive matches reveal strategic weaknesses and decision-making flaws that practice cannot simulate. These hard lessons drive meaningful improvement and tactical refinement.

Tournament progression, while physically demanding, accelerates team development. The fatigue from extended play represents a calculated trade-off for experience gains. As a developing unit, match exposure provides irreplaceable growth opportunities.

— Considering the amount of tournaments CS teams are facing nowadays, do you believe that breaks like you had can be a good idea? You get the time when you can really reset, while active players can’t afford this.

— Extended breaks present dual advantages and disadvantages. The opportunity for comprehensive self-assessment and strategic reevaluation proves valuable. I’m currently focused on personal reinvention and enhanced performance methodologies.

Extended absence from structured team environments creates significant adaptation challenges. While platforms like FACEIT maintain mechanical skills, they cannot replicate coordinated team practice dynamics. Missing three months of systematic team development presents substantial reintegration hurdles.

Returning to Astralis provides a platform for implementing renewed approaches. The seasonal objective centers on substantial personal and professional evolution.

— How did you spend your break?

— Similar to most professionals, I prioritized recovery and personal time. Quality time with loved ones and home life provided necessary balance. Maintaining competitive edge required disciplined individual practice, though it cannot substitute for team coordination development.

— What was the biggest period you spend without playing CS?

— Honestly, precise duration remains unclear in memory. Approximately four to six weeks represented the maximum continuous break from the game. However, maintaining competitive readiness necessitated returning to structured practice routines.

The balance involved sufficient recovery while preventing skill deterioration. This period marked the first substantial break in nearly a decade of professional play. While bench situations are undesirable, effective downtime management can yield performance benefits.

For aspiring professionals, understanding that strategic breaks, when managed correctly, can enhance long-term career sustainability. The key lies in balancing recovery with maintained readiness through structured individual practice routines.

No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Magisk: “My goal for this season is to try and become a better version of myself, a stronger player”Exclusive Professional CS:GO player Magisk shares insights on returning from bench, team development, and personal growth strategies