In the often-humble world of professional esports, a truly audacious declaration can certainly turn heads. Alexander `TORONTOTOKYO` Khertek, the celebrated offlaner for Aurora Gaming in Dota 2, recently did just that, stating unequivocally that he considers himself the finest Chen player on the global stage. This isn`t merely a casual boast; Khertek challenges observers to review official matches, assuring them that “with a brain,” the evidence of his supremacy would be undeniable.
A Pro Player`s Confidence
Known for his aggressive playmaking and sharp strategic mind, TORONTOTOKYO has solidified his reputation as a formidable presence in the Dota 2 competitive scene. His transition to the offlane role has seen him redefine what’s possible for position three players, often taking heroes not traditionally associated with the role and bending them to his will. Yet, his recent claim veers away from his current specialty, diving headfirst into the nuanced realm of support play.
The Enigmatic Chen
Chen, however, is a hero that occupies a truly unique niche in Dota 2. A complex intelligence support, he specializes in converting jungle creeps to fight for his cause, healing allies, and pushing objectives with a veritable army. Mastering Chen requires intricate micro-management, precise timing, and an unparalleled understanding of creep abilities – skills often attributed to dedicated position five support players. For an offlaner of Khertek`s caliber to lay claim to such mastery is, in itself, an interesting twist, prompting both intrigue and a hint of eyebrow-raising skepticism within the community.
The Statistical Backing (and Context)
According to detailed competitive statistics, TORONTOTOKYO boasts a commendable 69.2% win rate across 13 official matches played on Chen. Intriguingly, all these appearances were recorded during his tenure with BetBoom Team, where he operated exclusively as a position five support. This historical context adds a layer to his recent assertion; while his current role is offlane, his claimed expertise on Chen stems from a period where he excelled in a vastly different capacity. It suggests a deep, foundational understanding of the hero from a support perspective, rather than an offlane one.
An Offlaner`s Brief Support Experiment
Khertek himself revealed he entertained the idea of playing Chen as an offlaner (position three). After experimenting with it in a few games, he candidly admitted,
It didn`t quite work out, to be honest. The hero simply lacks damage in the lane.
This self-aware assessment highlights a pragmatism beneath the bravado, showcasing a player who understands hero mechanics beyond mere theoretical dominance. It`s a testament to his analytical approach, even when it means acknowledging a hero`s limitations outside its optimal role, despite his personal mastery.
Beyond the Game: A Player`s Enduring Passion
This confident yet grounded perspective echoes his broader outlook on professional Dota 2. TORONTOTOKYO previously shared his thoughts on player burnout and early retirements, emphasizing his enduring passion for the game. He stated that he genuinely enjoys every match, which prevents him from experiencing the exhaustion often associated with intense tournament schedules. It`s this sustained enthusiasm, perhaps, that allows him to pursue mastery in diverse aspects of the game, even if it’s a hero largely outside his current primary role.
Whether Alexander `TORONTOTOKYO` Khertek is truly the world`s best Chen player remains a claim to be continuously tested and debated on the digital battlegrounds. What is undeniable, however, is his unwavering confidence, his deep understanding of Dota 2`s intricate mechanics, and his willingness to make bold statements that captivate the esports community. In a game constantly evolving, players like TORONTOTOKYO continue to challenge conventions, keeping the competitive spirit vibrant and utterly engaging.
Wesley Dunham