Hearthstone is a free-to-play online collectible card video game developed and published by Blizzard. Since its initial launch, the game has garnered many followers. This of course includes Singapore as well. To find out more about the Hearthstone community in Singapore, we have had an interview with Silfer, an admin of the Hearthstone Singapore community group.
Photo Credits: Silfer
Tell us about the beginning of Hearthstone Singapore, what led to the community group being set up ah?
It was during 2013 when the game was first announced. I was extremely interested in the game and wanted to play it competitively but I soon realised that there were no plans for competitive Hearthstone either locally or regionally. Thus, I took it upon myself to create and grow the scene such that others would have the opportunity to live their dreams in this ecosystem.
What kind of community events can members of the Hearthstone Singapore expect to be a part of?
Members of Hearthstone Singapore are able to either participate in both the competitive and casual aspects of Hearthstone; they range from tournaments (community tournaments to official Blizzard-sanctioned tournaments) to Fireside Gatherings with special formats (that can be created by official taverns) and special events (pre-release).
Photo Credits: Hearthstone Singapore (Bernie Koh)
Got what makes Hearthstone different from the other card games out there?
I feel that Hearthstone has a very unique starting point as it was originally based off the Warcraft series (allowing existing players of the Blizzard franchise to identify with the game easily). It’s unique user interface and experience, in my opinion, is still unmatched so far (I have tried other digital CCGs but they do not feel as everlasting).
Do you view Hearthstone as a pay to win game, considering how cards can be obtained by purchasing card packs? Can a Hearthstone player play at a pro level without having to spend cash?
I would say that it’s a pay-to-win game to a small extent. As much as cards are required for players to play on an even playing field, skill still separates the wheat from the chaff as marginal differences determine the outcome of a game. You can easily tradeoff money spent with time but skill refinement is harder to obtain, even with dedication to your craft.
Photo Credits: Hearthstone Singapore (Bernie Koh)
Games die out over time hor, so what do you think is the current lifespan of Hearthstone? If you were Blizzard, how would you keep the Hearthstone scene alive?
I feel that Hearthstone is holding a comfortable position at the moment; it is definitely good for at least another two years. I am always a strong proponent of listening to the community as they are the ones who are your largest fans. A little bit of creative freedom in keeping things fresh would definitely help as well!
What are your opinions on the state of the current esports scene in Singapore?
I am holding passive optimism that Singapore esports would pick up in the near future, haha! (This is quite a huge topic, and I don’t think I can cover it fully).
Photo Credits: Hearthstone Singapore (Bernie Koh)
Are there any promising Hearthstone Singapore Pro Players that we should keep an eye on? What decks do they run?
I would say that katsucurry from Resurgence is our strongest player at the moment; Sequinox and Crumpled should round up the top three. They usually play the meta decks in tournaments (apart from their personal preferences) as performance is always their highest priority.
Do you think National Service acts as a big obstacle towards pro players developing in Singapore?
I think it does affect their development significantly, especially for games which require superior mechanical mastery. Players are unable to produce similar work and consistency that is required of professional players.
Photo Credits: Hearthstone Singapore (Silfer)
If you were in the government ah, how would you build up the esports scene in Singapore?
If I were in the government, I would look into creating an ecosystem; support esports organisations to set up shop here. I will then move into grooming the next generation of esports players by looking at the collegiate level and encouraging existing players to develop skill sets that can also be used outside their training lives.
Do you have a message that you wish to say to the Hearthstone Singapore community?
I am very thankful for the Singapore Hearthstone community who has stuck by us for the past five years (since Beta); we have grown a lot together as both a unit and a community. We have accomplished many firsts together, and I hope more people will join in this adventure and grow this huge gang of enthusiasts. Finally, I would like to give many thanks to all the people over the last five years (you all know who you all are) who gave up their time and energy to help achieve this together. Some might have moved on to other interests but I will treasure the memories and teaching points that you all have provided me!
