The debate between Counter-Strike and VALORANT has once again sparked discussion within the esports community, this time between two Natus Vincere players. Andrey “jL” Lubinskiy, a professional CS player for NAVI, recently shared his perspective on why many players transitioned from CS to VALORANT. His opinion received a pointed response from Kirill “ANGE1” Karasiow, NAVI’s VALORANT team captain, leading to a clash of perspectives between the two teammates.
In a recent stream, jL reflected on the wave of players who moved from CS to VALORANT, suggesting that while they don’t regret the switch, many still yearn for CS.
"I feel like more than 50% of people who moved to VALORANT from CS, not regret, that’s not the right word, but they wish they could play CS,” jL said. “They had better opportunities in VALORANT, and that’s completely understandable. But if people had a choice to have the same contract, the same opportunity in CS that they have in VALORANT, they would choose CS. No cap. CS is such a good game."
jL further shared his personal passion for FACEIT matchmaking and grinding ELO, emphasizing the timeless enjoyment of playing CS.
ANGE1, who has been a key figure in NAVI’s VALORANT roster, disagreed with jL’s viewpoint, arguing that VALORANT provides a more fulfilling experience, particularly for in-game leaders (IGLs).
"Everyone who had this mindset is not in Tier 1 anymore or back to CS," ANGE1 countered. "I’m not saying one game is better than the other, but being an IGL in VALORANT is so much more enjoyable. You can’t compare the strategic depth and variables of VALORANT with CS."
This exchange highlights the ongoing tug-of-war between the legacy of CS and the innovation of VALORANT. For jL, CS remains a polished, competitive masterpiece with unmatched simplicity and nostalgia. For ANGE1, VALORANT’s dynamic meta and strategic possibilities redefine what it means to lead a team.
While both games share the same tactical FPS roots, VALORANT’s addition of agents with unique abilities introduces layers of complexity that some, like ANGE1, find more rewarding. Meanwhile, the minimalistic and refined nature of CS continues to appeal to purists like jL.
The debate has sparked reactions across social media. Fans of CS align with jL, citing the game’s unmatched history and enduring appeal. VALORANT supporters, however, echo ANGE1’s thoughts, pointing to its innovative approach and exciting meta shifts as reasons why it’s the future of tactical FPS esports.
The perspectives of jL and ANGE1 represent the broader conflict between two of esports’ most iconic games. CS, with its storied legacy, continues to captivate players, while VALORANT’s modern take on the genre is redefining the competitive landscape.
As NAVI thrives in both titles, the team itself exemplifies the coexistence of these two giants. But for players and fans alike, the choice between CS and VALORANT often comes down to personal preference.
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