For years, the Polish Counter-Strike scene has relied not only on the biggest organisations and players known from international tournaments, but also on players who are gradually establishing themselves in smaller projects and leagues. It is precisely there that new talent emerges, well-coordinated teams are formed, and players willing to devote long hours to developing their skills come to the fore. One such player is CzlowieQ, captain of NPK Esport’s second squad, who brings with him experience gained at Gravity Esport, amongst others.
In conversation with us, he spoke about his early days with Counter-Strike back in the 1.6 era, his first major competitions, and what everyday life is like for someone in the role of team leader. We also covered topics such as the current state of the Polish CS2 scene, the importance of mental strength and communication, as well as his memories of the most memorable matches of his career. We also discussed his inspirations, his approach to training, and the goals he has set for himself and the NPK Esport team for the coming months.
[R] Before we begin, please introduce yourself to our readers.
Good morning/good evening. My name is Darek; you may know me by my nickname, CzlowieQ.
[R] So, to kick things off, could you tell us how your journey with Counter-Strike began and what made you stick with the game for the long haul?
My journey with CS began with 1.6. I’ve got a real soft spot for that version. One day, when I was at a friend’s house, he showed me the game and invited me to play with him; ever since then, CS has been a permanent fixture in my life.
[R] Do you remember the moment when you thought: “Right, I want to give this a proper go”?
Thoughts like that often crossed my mind; we got a group of friends together and tested our limits. My first proper match was about seven years ago, and I often like to look back on it – unforgettable memories.
[R] During your career, you’ve represented Gravity Esport, amongst others. How do you look back on that period, and what did it teach you?
I have very fond memories of representing Gravity Esport. I think that period taught me the importance of consistency – just how much training and team chemistry influence the result.
[R] Why did you decide to join NPK Esport in particular? What convinced you to join this project?
The new opportunities and the excellent facilities they offer us were the deciding factors in my decision to join here.
[R] What’s the atmosphere like in your team? Who do you think is the biggest joker, and who works the hardest?
The atmosphere is really good – there’s plenty of mutual support and positive energy. As for the ‘joker’, I suppose everyone chips in a bit, but there are some who always manage to lighten the mood. And the biggest ‘tryhard’? Each of us is one when we have to give it our all.
[R] As captain, you’ve got a lot of responsibility on your shoulders. How do you find yourself in the role of team leader?
That question should be put to my teammates; they know me best. For my part, I try to make sure everyone gets on well and feels comfortable, and I try to motivate them during tough moments – fortunately, there aren’t many of those.
[R] What do you think is most important for a good IGL – a cool head, tactics, or perhaps rapport with the team?
I believe that all these elements are necessary for complete success. Let’s not kid ourselves – performing under pressure does nobody any favours. We practise often and try to work on each of them.
[R] Is there a particular match or moment in your career that has stuck in your memory?
Of course, it’s a match in one of the leagues where, after a tough battle, we won 28–26.
[R] How would you rate the current standard of the Polish CS2 scene? Do you see potential in the younger teams?
I think the Polish CS2 scene still has great potential, particularly when it comes to young players. There’s plenty of talent in the academies and smaller teams, but there’s still a bit of a lack of stability, organisation and a long-term approach. There are plenty of skilled players in the underground scene; the problem is often their mental game, consistency and the right environment for development.
[R] What do you personally try to work on the most as a player? Aim, mental strength, communication, or perhaps something else?
As I’ve already mentioned, we train a lot and work on every aspect of the game; we try out different tactics and improve our communication so that, on the day of the tournament, everyone is confident and focused on the goal. I believe that none of these things should be overlooked, as they’re the key to success.
[R] What does your typical day look like when you’re preparing for important matches or a tournament?
I try to stick to a routine – a warm-up, some individual training, analysing the opponent, and then focusing entirely on the match. The more important the tournament, the more I prioritise my mental preparation and good communication with the team.
[R] Is there a player you particularly admire or whose playing style you model your own on?
Definitely one of the players I admire most is Finn Andersen – karrigan. I’ve always been impressed by how he leads his team and maintains a high standard regardless of changes to the meta or the line-up. What I value most about him is his mentality and approach to the game – even in difficult moments, he manages to stay calm, read his opponents well and get the most out of his team. I try to follow his example, mainly in terms of decision-making and influencing the team. I think that’s precisely why karrigan is so respected on the scene – over the years, he’s proven that a good leader can build winning teams in practically any circumstances.
[R] If you were to put together a ‘dream team’ from any CS players, who would you choose?
If I had to choose an all-time team, it would look like this:
- IGL – karrigan
- Sniper – s1mple
- Star player – NiKo
- Lurker – ropz
- Support – Magisk
[R] What are you interested in apart from CS? Do you have any hobbies or ways of unwinding from the game?
Actually, I play other games as well, but what I enjoy most is being active and going for walks with my family. I also often go to the gym and the swimming pool to relieve the stress of everyday life.
[R] What goals have you set for yourself and the NPK team for the coming months?
My main goal for the coming months is to continue developing, both individually and as part of the NPK team. I want to constantly improve my consistency, my decision-making in-game and my overall impact on the team during important matches.
[R] Finally, is there anyone you’d like to thank, or anything you’d like to say to the people who support you?
I’d certainly like to thank everyone who supports us – whether they watch the matches, write in after the games or simply keep their fingers crossed for us. That kind of support really gives us extra motivation to work hard and improve. Thanks also to the whole team and everyone involved in the NPK project, because without a good atmosphere and shared commitment, it would be hard to move forward. I hope that in the coming months we’ll play even better and give our fans plenty of reasons to celebrate. Thanks for your support, and see you on the server!
Finally, we’d like to thank CzlowieQ for his time and for answering our questions. The interview was a great opportunity to learn more about both his history with Counter-Strike and his perspective on the role of team leader, as well as the development of the Polish CS2 scene. The interview included recollections of the early days of his career, his approach to training, the inspiration he draws from the greatest players, and his plans for the further development of NPK Esport. It was also clear just how important a good atmosphere, mutual support and systematic work on every aspect of the game are for the whole team. All that remains is to wish CzlowieQ and the entire NPK team the best of luck in their upcoming matches, and to hope that the coming months will bring them even more valuable experience and success on the server.
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