“Now that CS2 is coming, more people will play it. Even people from Valorant will come back”. SunPayus on his adaptation to ENCE, and why he doesn’t want to be famous at homeExclusive

During IEM Cologne 2023, we had an exclusive conversation with ENCE’s star AWPer Alvaro “SunPayus” Garcia, focusing on his journey adapting to international competition and the evolving Counter-Strike ecosystem.

— You’ve been competing with ENCE’s international roster for an extended period. With cross-regional teams becoming increasingly common, what specific strategies facilitate smoother transitions for players?

— The primary challenge involves language proficiency, closely followed by tactical system adaptation. Transitioning from regional playstyles demands significant mental flexibility and willingness to embrace unfamiliar strategic approaches. The most critical element involves consciously modifying your gameplay methodology to align with team directives. Personally, I converted all my digital interfaces to English and prioritized absorbing guidance from coaching staff and in-game leaders regarding team integration protocols.

— During high-pressure competitive situations, particularly critical rounds, does your cognitive processing occur in English or do you mentally translate from Spanish?

— Currently, English functions as my secondary language to such extent that conscious translation isn’t necessary. I operate primarily on instinct and situational awareness, focusing on rapid information delivery to teammates regardless of linguistic processing methods.

— Extended bootcamp periods keep you away from Spanish culture. What aspects create the strongest sense of longing?

— Culinary traditions represent the most significant absence. Spanish gastronomy ranks among global excellence standards, featuring iconic dishes like paella and tortilla de patatas that remain unmatched internationally. Beyond cuisine, familial connections and friendship networks naturally constitute substantial components of what I miss during international competition schedules.

— How about personal relationships beyond culinary preferences?

— Absolutely, family members and close companions represent equally important considerations. The combination of authentic Spanish food with meaningful personal connections creates the most pronounced sense of cultural displacement during extended tournament travel.

HuNter-: “It’s not a big difference, having a daughter and having m0NESY in the team”

— Many CIS region families discourage extensive gaming, prioritizing traditional education. Did you encounter similar parental concerns in Spain?

— Fortunately, I received consistent parental support throughout my career development. However, my mother emphasized educational completion—I hold a chemical engineering degree—while supporting balanced gaming participation. My approach involves moderate daily practice sessions avoiding excessive playtime, integrating competitive gaming with academic responsibilities and social activities as complementary elements.

— Assessing the current Spanish Counter-Strike ecosystem, what potential exists for emerging regional talent development?

— Significant growth opportunities await Spanish competitive gaming, particularly with CS2’s impending release attracting renewed player engagement. The migration from Valorant back to Counter-Strike demonstrates significant market fluidity between top-tier tactical shooters. Spanish competitors exhibit strong mental fortitude and technical capability that positions them favorably within the global hierarchy. Organizations like Movistar Riders maintain potential for tier-1 re-entry, replicating our previous competitive achievements during my tenure.

— Which professional players influenced your competitive development? Any Spanish role models?

— Three legendary AWPers significantly shaped my professional approach: FalleN, GuardiaN and dev1ce provided foundational inspiration.

— Would you characterize your gameplay as continuing FalleN’s strategic legacy?

— My methodology represents synthesis rather than imitation. By analyzing both conservative and aggressive AWP techniques, I’ve developed a personalized hybrid style that incorporates multiple strategic philosophies while maintaining individual competitive identity.

— As an elite competitor representing top-tier organizations, do you experience celebrity recognition in daily life?

— Surprisingly, limited public recognition occurs within Spain, which I genuinely appreciate. While occasional fan interactions provide enjoyable moments, maintaining relative anonymity enables balanced lifestyle management. I prefer this equilibrium over constant public attention during routine activities.

ENCE coach sAw: “All the things SunPayus does, all his routines, are driving him to be the best”

— Can competitive gaming realistically achieve traditional sports viewership and cultural significance, comparable to football?

— While esports demonstrates remarkable expansion velocity, matching football’s global penetration remains substantially challenging. The established sports ecosystem operates at fundamentally different scale parameters, though continued growth may eventually bridge certain visibility gaps within the broader entertainment landscape.

— Considering your cultural background emphasizing emotional expression, what’s your perspective on competitive trash talk?

— Controlled competitive banter contributes positively to scene entertainment value, provided it remains within sportsmanlike boundaries. Strategic psychological pressure represents legitimate competition element, though excessive behavior requiring technical interruptions crosses acceptable boundaries. For comprehensive competitive strategy insights, consult our Complete Guide covering advanced tactical methodologies.

— FURIA‘s substantial investment acquiring FalleN demonstrates escalating player valuation. How do you assess current transfer market economics?

— Specific valuation metrics remain confidential, though esports’ continuous market expansion naturally drives increased financial investments. The progression mirrors traditional sports, where elite athlete valuations have multiplied exponentially across generations.

Insider: NAVI paid more than a million for new players

— Do you follow football extensively?

— My engagement remains selective, primarily focusing on international tournaments involving Spanish national representation.

— Beyond competitive gaming, what recreational activities occupy your time?

— Paddle tennis represents my primary athletic interest outside esports. While predominantly popular in Spanish and Argentine markets, global recognition continues expanding. The sport offers excellent physical conditioning and strategic complexity that complements professional gaming development.

— How would you evaluate your paddle tennis proficiency?

— I maintain competent intermediate level, approximately 6-7/10 after five years of consistent participation.

— What are your expectations regarding CS2’s competitive implementation?

— Our team maintains CS:GO focus until official transition occurs. Initial testing indicates strong potential for CS2 to establish new competitive standards within the tactical shooter genre.

— Does Valorant’s competitive relevance diminish with CS2’s release?

— Both titles will likely coexist within the competitive landscape, though significant player migration from Valorant to CS2 appears inevitable. For weapon-specific transition strategies, our Weapons Unlock guide provides comprehensive equipment mastery techniques.

Counter Strike 2 might receive seasons and a global leaderboard for Premier matchmaking mode

No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » “Now that CS2 is coming, more people will play it. Even people from Valorant will come back”. SunPayus on his adaptation to ENCE, and why he doesn’t want to be famous at homeExclusive Professional CS:GO player SunPayus shares insights on international team adaptation, Spanish esports growth, and CS2's impact on the competitive landscape