CHENNAI: The entire game must feel like an immersive short story which allows players to influence the outcome through the actions and choices that they make; these are unique to each gamer. You are known for your techniques in the virtual world. It is all about developing new methods which help you navigate through the game swiftly,” says Abdul Faiyaz, 21, a resident of Begumpet in Hyderabad.
With this idea in mind, Faiyaz chose gaming as his full-time profession. However, his journey was laden with many difficulties. Born and brought up in a typical middle-class family, he had to balance academics, family issues along with pursuing his passion. After he graduated from Cognizant Degree College with an aggregate of 60%in commerce, he struggled to establish himself in the gaming world at first. “My parents believed that gaming was only meant for the rich.
However, with dedication and hard work, I was able to prove myself,” says the gamer who won the national tournament, ‘Playmax, LXV one Vs one’ in 2016.
He was all of six years when he got hooked to Mario and was instantly drawn to the pace, graphics and the theme of the game in which Mario rescues a princess. “My teenage was spent in gaming cafes; I used to save up pocket money only for this purpose. Gradually, it became an integral part of my life,” he adds.
Popularly, known as ‘Noobita’ in the virtual world he considers himself a master of Counter Strike Global Offensive.
Shortlisted as the quarter finalist in Tech Mahindra, and currently preparing for the Extremeland CSGO Asia Open India Online Qualifier, he hopes to earn laurels at the international level and even build his own team. “I have been practicing for 10 hours a day from the past three years. I have all the equipment including high-end gaming keyboard and mouse...the funds for which come from account trading with international players. I want to be good at what I do,” he smiles and adds that Rocket League and FIFA are stressbusters for him.
He points out that gaming is not easy — it involves coordination, quick thinking and a high level of intellect as well as patience and good communication skills. Faiyaz’s inspiration is Envyus, a French gaming team that is famous worldwide for his techniques in handling AK47 in CSGO. “This team is smart and flexible. I want to be more like them and enhance my skills. I am working towards being one of the best gamers in the country so that I will be able to compete internationally in the future,” he shares.