Q: When did you first find out about the MLG? What made you decide you wanted to invest the time into being a pro gamer?
Pistola: I first heard about it around the end of 06, and after seeing how great everything and everyone was I wanted to join in. I wanted to see where I would stand against everyone. I wanted to play with or against the players I looked up to, I’m extremely happy where it has taken me. The people I’ve meet, the close friends I would never have, thanks Major League Gaming for everything.
Q: How hard is it to be a top player in more than one game? In more than one genre?
Pistola: It’s very difficult, means you have to put twice as much time into playing. Playing two different games takes up a lot of time, so you have to be determined and ready for anything.
Q: Do professional gamers suffer ‘off days’ or do you see that as just a lack of skill?
Pistola: Everyone has an off day, where you can’t handle what’s happening around you. Depends on your state of mind sometimes, if something is upsetting you. It’s hard to control your emotions depending on what’s upsetting but you must try and stay calm. Keep a clear head, that’s why I play hard and practice so I don’t have off days for my team.
Q: In games that you compete in, do you play through or have any interest in the single player campaign (assuming there is one)?
Pistola: Oh yeah I love the campaign, it’s like a movie that you get to play in. I’m the kind of person who loves great story lines. Halo is definitely a great story to play.
Q: Do you have any rituals or superstitions you go through before competing?
Pistola: I like to carry my Dads necklace around that my Mom gave him. It means a lot to me to have, they made me into the man I am today. I could thank them forever but it wouldn’t be enough. I also like to play for others not for myself, makes me play harder and stronger. I will never let my team down, I promise.
Q: Would you say it’s common for people on different professional gaming teams to keep up with each other outside of gaming? Do you know of any friendships between competing teams?
Pistola: It’s very common, a lot of the pro players have the same interest. Also what happens when you’re playing stays there. (If the other is trash talking, no hard feelings after it’s just part of the game.) I’m friends with a lot of the players, a lot of them are great guys.
Q: Looking back, what was the hardest part about getting to this point in your gaming career? Honestly?
Pistola: Everything, I’ve put so much time and effort into this and hoping I would make it this far. So for every player out there, never give up on your dream and you will go places.
Q: Where do you see professional gaming, as a business, in 5 years? 10 years?
Pistola: I think it’s going to keep growing, it’s going to be huge by then. This is something we will just have to wait and see really. By 10 years I will be married with the girl of my dreams and have kids running around the house.
Q: Mountain Dew or Red Bull? Or other?
Pistola: I’m a huge fan of a lot of drinks, but Dr. Pepper is amazing. So, I would say Dr. Pepper.
Q: Favorite game of all time?
Pistola: Oh man that’s a hard one, but besides Halo it would have to be The Legend Of Zelda Ocarina Of Time; if you haven’t played it you should try it out, It’s awesome.
