Top Prospects

Gure - Demo He is definitely the best of the best when it comes to Japanese Quakers. His excellent aim, solid map control, and his smart play make him the toughest competitor out there. His undefeated record in EGL shows that he's no slouch. Japan's LAN like pings and his experience playing some of the top players from past games make him a great player. Also, being one of the top UT2k4 stars in Japan, and practicing with Hanbei from UT2k4 stardom, who represented Japan at WCG, as well as practicing with Yuuki, a personal friend and teammate, Gure is definitely my pick for the #1 prospect spot.

Having talked with Gure quite extensively about his hopes to compete this season in the CPL World Tour, it is obvious that he is hungry and wants to show everyone that the Japanese can play FPS games with the best of the best. With the mindset of the market, I don't see anyone giving this unknown player a chance unless he proves himself and shows everyone he is willing to attend big LAN events, and give it all he has. He plans on attending CPL on his own, and if he does, look out. I see him with no less than a top 10 finish. Given the chance, he would make any team very happy. With the drive and dedication that the Japanese show in their everyday life, I see no reason why he could not become one of the top Quake 4 players in the world. Some days, he makes the best players of Japan look like amateurs.

Yuuki - Demo Gure's greatest challenge and another tough competitor. While a very strong Quake 4 player, he is still a bit rough around the edges. His map control could use some work, as well as his mind game. He falls into a solid #2 spot in my countdown, and is always a tough match for anyone. His great aim only falls short to the more deadly rail/rocket of Gure. Anytime these two square off, it’s an exciting match. Either one of them could place well at CPL.

Honorable Mention

210 and Hanbei