Fnatic Claims Gaimin Gladiators Could Hear Casters At Dota 2 TI11

The International is one of the world's most prestigious, widely-known Dota 2 esports competitions and is typically marked by its record-breaking prize pools. This year, The International 2022 (TI11) features a monumental $17.3 million on the lines (and growing), putting the pressure to succeed at an all-time high.

On 21st October 2022, Fnatic CGO, Patrik ‘cArn’ Sättermon, Tweeted that the organization had filed an official report regarding their opponents, Gaimin Gladiators, being able to hear broadcasters and information involving their game. More concerning, this issue is reportedly not restricted to Fnatic but has affected many other teams at The International 2022.

Fnatic Files Report After Opponents Heard Casters At TI11

Soundproofed booths have been an absolute staple in The International (and many other esports events) for years. In a game where strategy, split-second decisions, and teamwork come heavily into play, silence and focus are the most important aspects of winning a game. These booths essentially block outside noise, including distractions from the crowd but also critical information from casters discussing the game.

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However, this year at The International 2022, the organizers apparently didn’t have soundproofed booths or noise distortion systems installed. As a result, players could hear casters discuss information about the ongoing game, leading to speculation that some leveraged these details to gain the upper hand.

This news came after a player from Gaimin Gladiators, Anton ‘dyrachyo’ Shkredov, revealed via an interview that he and his team had heard casters speaking about their game. The player then said that their team used the information, leveraged it to their benefit, and played accordingly, picking fights and ultimately changing gameplay pacing based on the details heard from the cast.

Following this shocking reveal and after facing Gaimin Gladiators, Fnatic filed a report over the problematic issue. Fnatic CGO, Patrik ‘cArn’ Sättermon revealed the organization’s disappointment in the lack of soundproofing, especially after Gaimin Gladiators publically stated they’d used outside information to win the game essentially.

In a series of Tweets, cArn stated, “as a former player, I am very frustrated that such integrity issues are still not prevented, especially on the absolute biggest stage of the sport. Our intention is solely to raise awareness about something that can be as game-breaking as dream-crushing for the athletes.”

We have filed a formal report after learning that the opponent in our elimination game at TI11 were able to hear the production of the match, and according to themselves leveraged from that information in their decision-making. (1/2)

— Patrik Sättermon (@cArn) October 21, 2022

So far, neither Valve nor The International 2022 organizers (PGL) have released a public statement or ruling regarding the soundproofing issues, but fans can only hope that things will change very soon.

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All featured images are courtesy of Twitter via Valve.