Paper Rex’s first match in the VCT Pacific Kickoff against T1 resulted in a disappointing loss. Losing to a strong team like T1 isn’t inherently disastrous, but the way Paper Rex faltered, particularly on Bind, raises concerns about their performance and strategy. This analysis delves into the key moments and decisions that contributed to their loss, focusing on team composition, tactical execution, and individual plays.
Questionable Team Composition?
One of the most glaring issues was Paper Rex’s team composition. While Jinggg on Raze and Mindfreak on Brimstone made sense, the decision to put f0rsakeN on Deadlock and d4v41 on Fade was less conventional but workable. The real concern arose with the choice of KAY/O for something, which felt suboptimal for their playstyle and the Bind map.
There are numerous better options for Bind, such as Skye, Gecko, or Viper, which could have significantly enhanced their strategy. Paper Rex’s no-flash composition also clashed with their aggressive, fast-paced playstyle. The absence of flashes limited their ability to take control of key areas and effectively execute plays, leaving them vulnerable to T1’s coordinated responses.
Early Round Struggles For Paper Rex
The lack of synergy in Paper Rex’s comp was evident from the very first round. Opting for a showers push, Paper Rex threw a Fade Haunt through the teleporter, which detected multiple opponents. However, they failed to capitalize on this information. Running through their own smoke without coordinating utility like flashes or nade combos led to an easy cleanup for T1’s Meteor, who secured three kills in quick succession. The absence of a flash to disrupt T1’s hold exemplified how the comp hindered Paper Rex’s usual aggressive style.
Tactical Mistakes in Key Rounds
The third round showcased a promising idea from Paper Rex—a trap play involving a Boombot, Wingman, and Gravitational Well combo. While the execution was decent, the lack of a follow-up flash again proved costly. T1’s players adapted and neutralized the threat, forcing Paper Rex into unfavorable gunfights. Despite their utility usage, Paper Rex’s dry swings and reliance on uncoordinated aggression led to their downfall.
A similar pattern emerged in the eighth round. Paper Rex initiated a solid combo with a Gravitational Well and Brimstone’s ultimate, securing two kills. However, the follow-up phase lacked proper utility, with Jinggg and d4v41 losing critical fights due to the absence of flashes.
T1’s Clinical Execution
T1’s performance was commendable, with players like Meteor and BuZz consistently stepping up. Their ability to read Paper Rex’s moves and counteract with well-timed utility and crossfires highlighted their preparation. In crucial moments, T1 leveraged KO’s knife to clear areas and gain information, punishing Paper Rex’s predictable setups. The synergy between T1’s players allowed them to maintain control and punish Paper Rex for their mistakes.
While individual performances from players like d4v41 on Split showed promise, the overarching issue lay in Paper Rex’s team composition and tactical execution. Their no-flash comp on Bind limited their ability to play their signature aggressive style. Against a disciplined and skilled team like T1, these weaknesses were magnified.
To bounce back, Paper Rex needs to reassess their comp and adapt it to suit their aggressive identity. Integrating agents with flashes, such as Skye or Kay/O, could provide the utility needed to support their playstyle. As VCT Pacific progresses, refining their strategies and learning from this loss will be crucial to their success.
