Tendo
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NL_Growler
Drunken_master
8th wonder & klavskis: "Hunt a boar and go to Castle Age under 20 min and you play a showmatch for $400".
Huehuecoyotl22
Too many good quotes as a title...
8th wonder: "If you can hunt a boar and go to Castle Age under 20 minutes you are playing a show match for 400$."
Klavskis: "DauT, I believe he might be my real father."
... and more:
Welcome, 8th wonder and klavskis as representation of Latvia in the upcoming Nations Cup. We didn’t see Latvia in the last 3 SY Nations Cups, but recently in the 2v2 World Cup in 2018, with the 2020 NC being 3v3, fans can hope for a competitive Latvian team too. Both of you are already quite well-known in the community, but one of you high-level since a long time and the other one more recently 2k. Did you ever play as a team so far?
Why did you choose the AoE nicknames 8th wonder and klavskis? 8th wonder, you used many different names on Voobly in the past too, which ones were your favourites?
8th wonder: I loved and still love basketball and streetball. There was the infamous AND1 streetball team and they had player 8th wonder, I liked the name so I took it. I have had so many nicks probably up there is NoReIGoEat even now I see people in the Twitch chat or on Voobly referencing it, at least I have left some legacy, haha. Also Cupcake was nice. Once I lost a bet to Lojza and I had to use “NomNom” for a week, when Nadya heard that nick she said “OMG, I want to take it for myself”. We said no, because it was part of the bet and it wouldn't make sense for her to use so she didn't talk to me for like 2 weeks because of that, 11.
Klavskis: Hello and thanks for having me in the same interview as the one and only "8th wonder".
The name klavskis was made a long time ago, I would say I was maybe 7 or 8 when I first thought about it. My real name is Klāvs, and since it is hard to pronounce for non-Latvians, I thought up klavskis, so it is made from my name into a nickname, and since then I have used it basically everywhere, with few tweaks of course, like adding LV (Latvian) and such.
How old are you and since when do you play Age of Empires 2, have you played Age of Empires 1/3? What are your expectations and wishes for AoE 4? If you could add one thing from AoE 1 and one from 3 to add to AoE 2, what would it be? For the upcoming AoE 2 Definitive Edition, what are your hopes? Did you play in the beta?
8th wonder: I’m 29 now and first I played AoC was year 2001 I think. My dad used to be an IT guy in this company and on weekends we could get in and play LAN with my sister and brother so that was my first encounter with the AoC world. I have played 1st and 3rd AoE as well. I have no opinion about AoE 2 Definitive Edition. Obviously I hope it will be successful.
Klavskis: im 21 now and first probably played AoE 2 when I was like 5, but that was vs. AI from an old CD I had, but my PC didn't recognize the language, so I had "?????" everywhere. I still remember how i was trying to find regicide mode, cause I played it on accident once and loved it. I have done the AoE 3 campaigns, AoR 1 not so much. I hope AoE 4 is successful and brings in some innovative stuff, and AoE 2 DE, well, my PC probably can't run it if I stream, so I don’t know how I feel about that, 111.
In which clans have you been since you started to play AoE 2 online? Which were your favourite tournament experiences?
Klavskis: I was in a group of known CBA experts in Gameranger times, I was like 12-14 and we played a lot of CBA, like 8h/day. This kind of put me in known territory of the CBA community and I became one of the known guys for custom scenarios back in the day, in RM I was like 15xx at that time. If I was actually decent at the game I would probably try to join a clan, but yeah atm it's not really possible. I haven't really done a lot of successful tourney runs, but I really enjoyed watching the last NC.
8th wonder: I was in some random Gameranger clans where I started playing online. When I moved to Voobly I was in Usk, Vipers (if I recall the name correctly) it was a clan with Viper, Jordan, Dogao, Garyyyy(?) and others. I just remember I was invited by Ceaser, the Brazilian dude, I was like 1850+ and I’m not sure why I was even invited, haha, also of course Beliebers, with Viper, Fosse and Sletten. And then I met Spaden and also starting to play with Lojza, he hated me at the start as most people did who became my AoC friends later on
. Spaden was friends with Zuppi, Nadya was the cute girl who was playing AoC, so that friendship was the obvious one :D. Pike was playing BF with Nick and they were friends with Spaden, Mentalist was the friendly stereotypical Canadian so the NaBs were formed, it was an organic friendship which led us to forming one of the best teams of AoC for several years.
The Maldives tournament was probably the peak of my training and skill-wise where I managed to get to top 16 phase where I eventually lost to Lojza and he ended up going to the Maldives instead of me, that ****er. For that tournament I was training so much that my wrist ended up hurting and ended up going numb after playing, so I had to pause games during the tourney to massage my wrist which didn't help much. It was a good experience and at the same time very disappointing, because I couldn't play up to my potential .
From team game tourneys all the big ones were fun, I always enjoyed playing with the boys and that nice rush you have when the new set of game starts. Beating 2.4k my ass (F1Re, Goku, Miguel, Nicov(?)) in Clash of Clans(???) was so satisfying. We played that tourney with 0 practise and those guys were playing practise games vs. Tyrants every day. The last game was a memorable RF game which lasted like 4 hours or so.
How would you describe your playstyle and how much has it changed during the last years?
Klavskis: Very meta oriented, I am probably that guy who plays most by the book. Last year it hasn't changed since I took a year break, but in general, I am now an Arabia player instead of Arena player, and my 2k and 2k1 come off 1v1 Arabia, both vs. famous Denmark legend Dobbs. The style itself well, I like [email protected] archer very much, since I have a good BO that was made by some 2k4 guys, the problem is that it becomes very one dimensional, soooo I should spend some time doing other stuff so I can become a more rounded player. That was super hard back in the day cause 50% if not more of my games were vs. Bugum’s 18 pop trush smurf or Metal’s naked FC smurfs, soo yeah. I also play very macro/build order style, I think that comes mostly from Arena days, Dark Age there was trained to perfection really.
8th wonder: I was never much of a build order player. Aggressive, disruptive, trying to take map control, awful eco, army/micro heavy approach, strategic, I loved to lame a lot as well.
Do you say “I was”, because you don’t play recently or did you change, as e. g. not laming anymore?
Both, I didn't lame in the recent past anymore unless it was a tourney.
Klavskis, you have reached a 2k1 1v1 rating. What in your opinion is the difference between a 1.8-2k player, you and a 2k3-2k4+ player? How much do you see yourself improve in the upcoming months and year?
Well, I would say that the mechanics are definitely better, I think if I play very tryhard I have decent speed and that allows for more spot on mechanics, at 1800 those mechanics are usually more sloppy and such, also build orders have improved as well. The problem for me is that I don't play enough to be stable at my rate or even improve, a lot of people who used to be 1900 are now 2k2+, in the year I was gone everyone was going full addict and even now when I’m back, university takes a long time, I would argue I might have 50+ 2k+ arabia games which is nothing in comparison, the experience is not there, so decision making is not there. I would say if I would be able to put in hours, could get 2k2 which would be decent enough, the plan was to try to get 2k2 till the new year and maybe higher till NC, but playing 2 games a week is not going to help doing that, 11.
8th wonder, your highest 1v1 rating is 2284. At the time you reached that it was a top 10 rating. If you played more 1v1 nowadays, do you think you would easily reach 2400 or even 2500?
If I remember correctly, I was like top 8 at one point. I hope I would, ratings are inflated a lot these days. I did a mini comeback when KotD 2 was announced and played on a smurf account on my laptop after more than 1 year break, got 2.1k in 3 days beating LaaaN, IamOK and others while doing it. If I would put my time into it, I like my chances.
You have always been known more as a team game player instead of a 1v1 player? Why?
Probably because of the success of NaBs and not really playing Arabia 1v1. But I think I could hold my own in 1v1 as well back in the days. Also there were way less 1v1 tourneys, these days if you can hunt a boar and go to Castle Age under 20 minutes you are playing a show match for 400$.
With which setup and at what place do you usually play? Would you add a photo of your gaming setup?
Klavskis: I have a setup I’ve updated as the years go by.
My PC is probably the worst part of the setup, I’m running a 6 year old fx6300 cpu with radeon 280x. The keyboard I use is Blackwidow and I have a Bloody mouse, nothing too fancy, but it works, also running a 2 monitor setup, helps with streaming and with studies (I don't think I can ever go back to 1 monitor only). I play at my home, in summer maybe I play at grandparents place where the famous "furnace" is located (the real klav fans know the story of the furnace).
8th wonder: Since I’m not playing right now, not really because my gaming setup is at my parents' home and I’m using a laptop these days.
Do or did you stream? What is your stream link, how often do you stream and what is special about your stream?
Klavskis: I do yeah, I did it a lot since I didn't know what I want to do with my life, but obviously with university I do it quite rarely nowadays. Special? Well a lot of people did enjoy my casting since I had quite an in-depth view and analysis of games, especially Arena, but yeah, atm I'd say it's pretty dead, 1111.
My link is: www.twitch.tv/klavskis_.
8th wonder: I streamed like twice but my PC couldn't handle it. Funny thing is, couple months ago I was seriously considering coming back to AoC and trying to stream full time and see If I can make money of it, if I would do it like 8+ hours a day. But it would be a risky move and probably not worth it.
I agree, only if you have some free time anyway I would recommend it. Not quit a job or studies for it. I don’t know much about wages in Latvia, but from what we have seen, you either need to be very famous already like TheViper or DauT or you need many months to years to build up a fanbase to have a reasonable income.
Yup, that is the reason why I won't do it, wages in Latvia are very low that's why it might be doable, but I just know that I would regret this decision in the future.
Which city do you come from/live in? What do you like/dislike about it and where would you like to move to?
8th wonder: I’m from a smaller town called Saldus, but currently live in the capital - Riga. Riga is the best city to live in Latvia with most opportunities. It’s alright, the old town is beautiful, a problem is the weather and our mayor. I would like to move to South East Asia for a while, I don’t know if I ever will spend a long period of time in one place, maybe when/if I will get married with kids.
Which countries from South East Asia would you consider? Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand? There are different challenges, but for all but Singapore you probably should learn a new language very well.
Not like move permanently, for like 6 months in a place and then move to the next, more like Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc. Right now I'm working towards being location independent with my work and have possibility to do something like that in the future.
Klavskis: I am from a small town called Aizkraukle, but currently I live in Riga, same as wonder, because it's the main place to study at, it is a bit too crowded for me, but in time you adapt and it seems OK.
I would want to live in Canada, I really like the place and the people there seem to be nice (except slam), but yeah, if not there, then probably Scandinavia.
Riga
Latvia has less than 2 million inhabitants, but still 4 AoE 2 players who have reached a 2k+ rating. It’s almost as unlikely as Iceland having a good football national team. Can you explain it?
Klavskis: 4 AoE 2 players, 2 inactive, 2 don't know how to play (I fit in here), well, not much of a team, 11.
8th wonder: I think it’s just a random occurrence.
Now to your favourite things:
What is your favourite food and drink?
8th wonder: I like a little bit spicy food. Asian and Middle East cuisine. Passion fruit mojito can change your life. I drink green tea every day, water is also nice - health is wealth.
Klavskis: I like wok, a lot of variations of it, especially spicy ones, I try to actually fix my meals and learn how to meal prep, it’s haaaarrddd. From drinks, my favourite is probably Latvian Kvass, hehe. Whiskey+coke or just whiskey is my favourite from alcoholic drinks.
Which foods from your home country/region and family background would you recommend?
8th wonder: Latvian kitchen is not really great, we have many influences from other countries kitchens. Main dishes consist of potatoes and some sort of meat and I dislike both :S. One thing I love is “plātsmaize” it’s like a pie in a way. We have great beers and with some garlic bread that could be one of our best foods.
Klavskis: Boiled gray peas with friend bacon and onions, a cup of kefir. It’s not like it is super tasty, but there will be few people who will like it, try at your own risk.
What can you cook well yourself and how often do you do it?
8th wonder: I cook everyday. I don't eat meat/fish, probably it's just a matter of time till I become vegan so I cook plant based meals mostly, I like baking cookies and cakes, also I can make decent tortilla patata.
If you’d consider abandoning animal products, what is your opinion on mushrooms then? They are neither animals nor plants, but closer to animals. If you read my self-interview, maybe you remember that I don’t eat meat either. I do eat mushrooms, but I have always felt strange about them.
Never heard that one before, I will do some research but for now I eat mushrooms, also they are super healthy.
Klavskis: I can do pretty tasty wok and something basic like, greens/protein source/rice lentils or something.
What would you put on top of a pizza?
8th wonder: Cheese, mushrooms, pineapple is also a nice addition.
Klavskis: Ughh.. everything except olives and shrooms.
What is your favourite colour? (Does not need to be one of the 8 AoE II colours.)
Klavskis: Purple (the AoE 2 kind) and dark red (like blood dark).
8th wonder: Turquoise blue and yellow.
What is your favourite animal?
8th wonder: Tardigrade or naked mole rat, just read about them, they are fascinating animals.
Klavskis: I like dogs, dogs are good, If I ever have a private house I want to have a dog!
What/where is your favourite place on Earth?
8th wonder: Greece, Sri Lanka and area around my parents home. Marrakech is a city I love/hate. Berlin in summer time is amazing as well, very young city with lots of cool places.
Klavskis: Don't know, aaa.
What is your favourite song at the moment, of all time (can be top 5)?
Klavskis: I'd say NF - "Only" and "Miss the days" are really really good ones that become my favourites, but overall I'd say a lot of songs from Eminem, Hopsin, NF and Nas.
I have never listened to NF before, I know many songs by Eminem and by Nas. I could never decide whether I like Eminem’s music or not. Nas has some songs I like a lot, but also some quite boring ones. What are your favourites by those too? Eminem nowadays or 15-20 years ago?
I would say from Nas Illmatic and Stillmatic are really good albums, I like those a lot, from Eminem, well D12 days are insane, “Devil’s Night” and “World” are really really crazy albums, nowadays I enjoy “Kamikaze” and some of the standalone songs he has done like “Homicide”, they are fire.
8th wonder: J. Cole - Love yourz, Moby - Porcelain, The doors ft. Snoop - Riders on the storm, Jay-Z - Forever young, many, many Eminem songs, grew up on them.
What is your favourite movie at the moment, of all time (can be top 5)? Who is you favourite actor?
8th wonder: Pulp Fiction, Inception, Dark (it’s a MUST SEE TV show), The man from Earth, 12 Angry Men. I love Denzel Washington.
Klavskis: Inception as well, John Wick (haven't seen 3rd yet). TV shows: House MD (seen it like 6 times), Mindhunter, Sherlock.
I like a lot of actors, Keanu Reeves is a good one, his life story is quite inspiring.
What are your favourite books?
Klavskis: I enjoy philosophy a lot, Karamazov brothers is a nice and hard one, “Why we sleep”, by Matthew Walker (since in my studies I have read a lot about sleep and other stuff), mostly reading a lot of psychology books at the moment, if anyone wants, pm me and I can send you a list.
8th wonder: When I grew up we only had 2 TV channels and 1 PC for the whole family and we lived in the countryside so I spent all my spare time reading books, there would be too many to write down here. Recent ones I loved were -” Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini, “12 rules for life: an antidote to chaos” by Jordan B. Peterson. Right now im reading “Why we sleep” by Matthew Walker and listening to - “Can't hurt me” by David Goggins. Next on my list is “Talking to strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell.
Do you have a favourite sports team? (football, basketball etc.)
8th wonder: I follow the NBA and the team I will follow the most would be the Dallas Mavericks because Kristaps Porzingis plays there, but I love all high level basketball.
Klavskis: I think the only sport I follow somewhat is hockey, I really enjoy watching it, especially NHL, but it always goes at bad times for me, I usually watch the Latvian team play and I do enjoy the World Cup, favourite team Canada (if World Cup) or Penguins if NHL.
Do you two remember, when Latvia played in the UEFA EURO 2004? Klavskis, you are probably too young, but that was really unexpected. I saw the match against Germany, but I was kind of too young to know how special it was for Latvia. Now that I know how small a country it is and that they never qualified for another tournament after that, I understand how unexpected it was.
Klavskis: Well, I don’t really watch football, sooo nope: D 100% not.
What are your favourite traits on a woman?
Klavskis: Ughhh, she gotta be intellectually challenging. It’s like if she can’t figure out basic stuff, no thanks, 11, I have the tendency to overcomplicate stuff and talk a lot about complex topics where discussions have to take place, if she can’t challenge me in that way, I'mma just leave, 11. I guess this might have come from me in the past hanging out a lot in parties with girls who can’t finish school, and trust me, it gets boring super fast, 11.
8th wonder: Intelligence is the most important one. The girl must be more intelligent than me. Kindness and easy going, down to earth, sense of humour is the obvious one. Self-driven and passionate. Confidence is sexy, but it's a fine line between confidence and arrogance/narcissism.
What time do you usually go to sleep? What do you like doing before sleeping?
8th wonder: I try not to go sleep after 1 am. I sit on my Yoga mat and do some light stretching. Might listen or watch something while I do it. Lately I also have incorporated some meditation to slow down the mind and to be in a good mental space before bed.
Klavskis: At 22:00-23:00, for a guy who has read shit ton on sleep, I try to abuse the free superpower we have, 11. Before sleeping I probably watch a video or read a book, nothing too fancy.
If there was anything you could tell your 16-year-old self, what would it be?
8th wonder: Confucius has this quote “We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” Don't wait till you are 25 to start living your second life. Dream bigger. Don't chase happiness, chase meaning and fulfillment. Never play AoC, you will regret the time you wasted.
Klavskis: Just go and study medicine you dumb fool, 11.
Which countries have you visited? And where would you like to go to? Why?
8th wonder: I did volunteer projects for 2 years on and off and lived for an extended period of time doing that in Spain, Germany, Portugal and Morocco. Also I have visited Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, Austria, Czech Republic, UK, Greece, Sri Lanka, Malta, Turkey, Italy, Switzerland. On top of my list would be Nepal right now, I want to go on one of the big hikes - for example Annapurna circuit, just google it, it looks insane.
Klavskis: Basically none, I'm a sad little man.
Why? If you are sad about it, there must be a reason. From Latvia you can reach 5 countries in less than 100 km, so you could easily go there and back in one day.
Oh yeah, I mean I’m joking mostly, but it was never a big priority at this time, It is definitely something I want to do in the future a lot, but at the moment on my priority list it is down there.
Which languages can you speak and which would you like to learn?
8th wonder: Latvian, English, I had in school and understand Russian, kind of. Right now I'm studying Spanish, even got an A1 certificate this spring (muchas gracias a mi amiga Ester/Locka para la ayuda, jaja). Right now I do it on my spare time, don't have time to continue courses. Also I picked up some Darija - enough to talk with local store owners and get around (Arabic dialect spoken in Morocco). I would like to learn Arabic after I’m done with Spanish.
Klavskis: Ughh, LV/ENG, would be nice to learn Norwegian or Finnish.
Because you consider living there? I mean, outside of those countries they have very little use and as far as I know Finnish is one of the hardest, if not the hardest languages using the same alphabet as us.
Well, I would only do that if I was planning to study or live there, but yeah I think there is maybe maybe a tiny chance I go to study there, probably not, but maybe in Finland or Norway, live, probably not.
What are your hobbies beside AoE?
8th wonder: Basketball, I got into nutrition and health a lot recently, so I do some research on that topic on a daily basis, also recently started doing some calisthenics, learning Spanish, I love a good podcast. Once the winter starts I will re-start going to the bouldering gym.
Klavskis: I did athletics, like running 60m/100m dash, high jumping etc. For about 7 years or something, I had a lot of health problems, doing sports kind of fixed most of them, those were fun times, I did some regional competition with decent results, but nothing too fancy, was nice times, new friends, routine and such. I stopped like 1 week before my last regional competition was suppose to happen (easy medals, 11), because i got quite a huge injury while doing triple jumping, that was kind of the end of that. Nowadays I do some sport just for sake of not getting fat and staying healthy. Hobbies, hmm, at the moment I don't have anything special I guess, university and stuff outside of it takes almost all of my time.
Who would you like to meet once, who you have not met? One AoE player and one other person.
8th wonder: I would like to meet Mentalist/Nick from the AoC world. Jordan B. Peterson or David Goggins, JBP is my intellectual idol and Goggins is my mental strength idol. My dog counts? I would love to take him for a walk one more time, he was the goodest boy.
Klavskis: From AoE 2 world Stefan, he is the closest friend I have from AoE 2, would be nice to meet him IRL. Also Metal ofc, but I think I would lose my mind there. Me, Metal, Stefan, Bugum in a bar would be top 4v4 TG. I would like to meet Joe Rogan on his podcast, would be an honour to be on it, and Matthew Walker, because he led me to pursue sleep, and JBP same as wonder, cause he lead me to study psychology.
Do you have an AoE idol?
8th wonder: When I started playing online someone gave me a link to the L Clan web page and I downloaded Chris 1000 game pack. I watched like all of the games and thought that level is unreachable for me, then couple years later I beat him. Besides that I was never a fan of any AoC player, once you can compete vs. them I don't think you can idolize any other top player, respect sure.
Klavskis: This might be top surprise, but I do, at the moment that guy is top retired-active pro, his nickname is, Hearttt. I started following him when he started doing 2v2s with Liereyy, everyone was hyping Liereyy, but I enjoyed watching Hearttt play, I liked his style + explaining things. When Fortnite came around, playing with him and Hera were fun times, my sleep schedule was non-existant at that time. "I'm a Mooonsteer" (some will get this), but yeah, talking with Hearttt were always fun times. I do respect him as a player and always look forward to his games.
What is your favourite civilisation, map and unit?
8th wonder: Aztecs, xbow and Nomad.
Klavskis: Mayans, Conqs, I don't think I have a favourite map.
What is your favourite in-game sound? (e. g. farm, water buffalo, relic…)
8th wonder: Deleted all the taunts 10 years ago and always played with music on, so no, I don't have a favorite sound.
Klavskis: The sound you hear when you run 30 elephants and 10 sec later you know 15 of them are gone soon. And water buffalo sound, I always spam it when i'm casting games with them.
If Arabia did not exist, which map do you think everyone would be playing like people play Arabia (and not Serengeti etc., which are just very similar to Arabia)?
Klavskis: Arena and the game would be 3x times bigger.
8th wonder: Arena and the game would have died 18 years ago.
Who is your favourite and least favourite 1v1 opponent?
Klavskis: On Arena Stefan favourite, Terror least favourite. In general, I like playing any top player, except Viper, it is always an interesting experience. I don't like people who forward unconditionally.
Why Terror?
Cause he does stuff a normal person wouldn’t do, and you don’t expect it so it works, 11.
8th wonder: Favourite ones were TatoH, ACCM, poZ_cloud - they also played FR a lot and I was slightly better than them so I could farm some points. Viper was someone who was way better than me but always pushed me to try my hardest and also most satisfying to kill, probably the player I have played the most 1v1s against. Least favorite - Edie, MbL, BacT, slam.
What is wrong with slam? Did he do something to Latvia? (You both have a negative comment about him).
8th wonder: I like slam, his stream might be my favorite AoC stream, I just hate playing vs. him, he is always so tryhard.
Klavskis: I was joking, slam is best! I always joke about him, in his stream and so on.
Who is your favourite team mate for a 2v2?
For just playing:
8th wonder: Was always fun to play with Lojza and Zuppi. Hate/love with Nadya. When you play with Nadya it's not just playing a 2v2 together. You must be a teacher ,motivator, advisor, psychologist, future predictor, comedian and someone with nerves of steel while trying to kill them 1vs2.
Klavskis: Don't have one.
Also outside of the game
8th wonder: All of the NaBs core.
Would you live with him/her together in one apartment for a month or a year? With one bedroom or two?
8th wonder: I could live for a short period of time, but not for a long time, person must be very special for me in order for us to co-exist. Zuppi and Pike probably would be low maintenance people whom I could get along with easily. If I lived with Nadya I would be taking taking drugs and visiting a psychologist. Also it would be fun.
In the new expansions (after AoC), what is your favourite new civilisation and unit?
8th wonder: Probably Burmese and Arambai, but I think they nerfed them. That civ fitted my style perfectly.
Klavskis: Ethiopians are super fun, faster shooting xbow with no lag, oh boii. Gbeto is a unit I like playing with a lot.
Which 4-5 players from your country do you think will form the A team in the upcoming Nations? Which maps would you like to be included apart from Arabia, Nomad, Islands? Would you prefer the Nations Cup to be on Voobly or on the new Definitive Edition?
8th wonder: Well me, Klavskis, Knifer and Mr_Full? I have never talked to Knifer, and Mr_Full, we just have played together in same/opposite teams, I’m like 98% sure they hate me, lol. I like open maps with lots of action and chaos, Voobly unless DE comes out in time and is better and tested bugfree.
Klavskis: Wonder already answered it, I hope we get some Arena, and wonder plays and curses 24/7. Voobly for sure.
What is your goal for the 2020 Nations Cup? Which teams do you think will reach the top 8?
Klavskis: Sign up.
I think that the typical Finland/China/Brazil will be in the top, but let's be honest, predictable is boring. I would want to see Norway and Canada train hard to actually get the skill gap going and trying to get good results, I guess Germany will be an interesting team as well, I think im looking forward to that. NL and France, Spain are teams who have potential as well and I think these teams will depend on practice and teamplay more than individual skill.
8th wonder: No goals. Finland seems like a favorite, with China (A, B, C) and Brazil. Norway could be interesting depending who is their 3rd and if they actually teach the 3rd player to survive for the first 20 minutes. Spain could win some games, still not convinced with TaToH as a team leader, I think he is a complementary player, not a leader. Args will probably fail as they tend to do. VNS should be in the top 8. Germany lack individual skill. USA will do great in the 2nd division. Also Canada might do good.
Which 4 players would you like to see forming a team? (can include inactive players)
8th wonder: Me + Zuppi + Lojza + mentalist/Pike/SSpaden for one last ride.
Klavskis: Hmmm, gimme DauT+Chris+DreaIVIS+Wrath, thank you.
Which 8 players would you invite for Nili’s Apartment Cup 3?
8th wonder: Myself, Lojza, Viper, Nicov, dogao, Zuppi, Chris, Duck.
Do you know anything about what happened to Duck? A long time ago he was one of the best Chinese players. Then, 5 years ago or so, he still played hundreds of games all the time, but was 1600-2100 (went up and down within a few weeks), now I haven’t seen him play since 1.5 years. Probably I should better ask a Chinese AoE player, but I just wondered, because you chose him.
8th wonder: I chose him for comedic purposes, he was always a fun guy to play with. No idea what happened to him. He reminds me of Abu, 11.
Klavskis: Me, Metal, Nicov, slam, Miguel, Hearttt, Hera, Bugum.
When you visit AoEZone and Voobly, is there something you really like or would like to have improved?
Klavskis: Naaaa.
8th wonder: Can’t think of anything right now.
What is the funniest moment in your life you experienced because of AoE?
Klavskis: There was a legendary moment in my stream during last NC, it was Canada vs. Brazil (I think) some close ass series, I’m casting it with like 120 viewers, super hyped all going good and a guy named “Khangbo” joins, and he asks for tips how to talk to a girl, approach her and such, so bam casting over, we spend like 20 minutes+ trying to tell him what to do, he walks up to her and INSTEAD of talking to her or trying to get to know her he messes it up and says ”where is the library” then he starts typing in stream that he is in the library and now he gotta sit there, so it doesn’t look weird, it was funniest shit ever, I was barely paying attention to the stream, and everyone was laughing their ass off, ahh I’m sad i didn’t save the VOD, I think it was the funniest stream ever.
8th wonder: NaBs meetups, Just random moments sitting in TS and chatting till 4 am about everything and nothing. Masterpiecing Viper and Jordan in the same week with 1 tc Goth long swordsmen push. We had many funny moments throughout the years, but you can’t describe them like any experience, you have to be there.
Once we were playing a random TG with Chinese Top players, game gets paused for like 25-30 mins, then one of them (Lyx, Lovecheng, Tim?) comes back and writes in the chat - “Sorry, I bath my child”.
Choose:
Chris or DauT?
8th wonder: Chris
Klavskis: DauT (I believe he might be my real father.)
Tim or TheViper?
8th wonder: Vipa
Klavskis: Sadly Viper
Edie or Terror?
8th wonder: Edie
Klavskis: Edie
Metal or DraCoNT?
8th wonder: Those guys are not clowns, they are an entire circus.
Klavskis: The 3rd best USA player Metal ofc.
FeAge or Lavie_Head?
8th wonder: Really?
Klavskis: Don't know either of them.
T90 or Memb?
8th wonder: T90
Klavskis: Ah shit, gonna get hammered for this answer. T90Membicial
Lumberjack or Farmer?
8th wonder: Lumberjack cause it reminds me of Mentalist.
Klavskis: Farmer, cause potatoooooes.
Sheep or water buffalo?
8th wonder: Water buffalo
Klavskis: Water buffalo
1v1 or 4v4?
8th wonder: 4v4
Klavskis: 4v4
Feudal Age or Imperial Age?
8th wonder: Feudal
Klavskis: Imperial
Nomad or Islands?
8th wonder: Nomad
Klavskis: Arena
What would you do to make the world a better place?
8th wonder: Change what we value in other people, make so that in our society you can only rise up in socio-economic hierarchy based on your competency, hard work, honesty and selfishness. Erase mainstream religions, remove BF/Arena from AoC.
Klavskis: Educate people.
If you were not in a relationship, and could date anyone, who would it be?
Klavskis: Nina Dobrev, oh boiiiiii, that is something else.
8th wonder: I would never want to date a celebrity. Also celebrity would get bored of me like 3 days later and vice versa. There is this girl I'm kind of seeing right now, she seems like someone I could marry, she is like a different level nice, she is super smart and beautiful . So yea, proly her.
Write a poem/rap of 8 lines (or more) about something AoE-related, either in English or your native language.
8th wonder: Rain check.
Q?
Klavskis:
Once upon a time
Klavskis came to climb
18 pop trush, 22 pop smush
His opponents wanted to rush
Crying in tears breaking in fears
He started to break some chairs
One week passes no luck appears
Then he gets 2k and disappears
Add one more comment or question for me or someone else.
8th wonder: What is your dream of life?
Thank you both for the detailed interview and good luck for the sign-up.
8th wonder: "If you can hunt a boar and go to Castle Age under 20 minutes you are playing a show match for 400$."
Klavskis: "DauT, I believe he might be my real father."
... and more:
Welcome, 8th wonder and klavskis as representation of Latvia in the upcoming Nations Cup. We didn’t see Latvia in the last 3 SY Nations Cups, but recently in the 2v2 World Cup in 2018, with the 2020 NC being 3v3, fans can hope for a competitive Latvian team too. Both of you are already quite well-known in the community, but one of you high-level since a long time and the other one more recently 2k. Did you ever play as a team so far?
Why did you choose the AoE nicknames 8th wonder and klavskis? 8th wonder, you used many different names on Voobly in the past too, which ones were your favourites?
8th wonder: I loved and still love basketball and streetball. There was the infamous AND1 streetball team and they had player 8th wonder, I liked the name so I took it. I have had so many nicks probably up there is NoReIGoEat even now I see people in the Twitch chat or on Voobly referencing it, at least I have left some legacy, haha. Also Cupcake was nice. Once I lost a bet to Lojza and I had to use “NomNom” for a week, when Nadya heard that nick she said “OMG, I want to take it for myself”. We said no, because it was part of the bet and it wouldn't make sense for her to use so she didn't talk to me for like 2 weeks because of that, 11.
Klavskis: Hello and thanks for having me in the same interview as the one and only "8th wonder".
The name klavskis was made a long time ago, I would say I was maybe 7 or 8 when I first thought about it. My real name is Klāvs, and since it is hard to pronounce for non-Latvians, I thought up klavskis, so it is made from my name into a nickname, and since then I have used it basically everywhere, with few tweaks of course, like adding LV (Latvian) and such.
How old are you and since when do you play Age of Empires 2, have you played Age of Empires 1/3? What are your expectations and wishes for AoE 4? If you could add one thing from AoE 1 and one from 3 to add to AoE 2, what would it be? For the upcoming AoE 2 Definitive Edition, what are your hopes? Did you play in the beta?
8th wonder: I’m 29 now and first I played AoC was year 2001 I think. My dad used to be an IT guy in this company and on weekends we could get in and play LAN with my sister and brother so that was my first encounter with the AoC world. I have played 1st and 3rd AoE as well. I have no opinion about AoE 2 Definitive Edition. Obviously I hope it will be successful.
Klavskis: im 21 now and first probably played AoE 2 when I was like 5, but that was vs. AI from an old CD I had, but my PC didn't recognize the language, so I had "?????" everywhere. I still remember how i was trying to find regicide mode, cause I played it on accident once and loved it. I have done the AoE 3 campaigns, AoR 1 not so much. I hope AoE 4 is successful and brings in some innovative stuff, and AoE 2 DE, well, my PC probably can't run it if I stream, so I don’t know how I feel about that, 111.
In which clans have you been since you started to play AoE 2 online? Which were your favourite tournament experiences?
Klavskis: I was in a group of known CBA experts in Gameranger times, I was like 12-14 and we played a lot of CBA, like 8h/day. This kind of put me in known territory of the CBA community and I became one of the known guys for custom scenarios back in the day, in RM I was like 15xx at that time. If I was actually decent at the game I would probably try to join a clan, but yeah atm it's not really possible. I haven't really done a lot of successful tourney runs, but I really enjoyed watching the last NC.
8th wonder: I was in some random Gameranger clans where I started playing online. When I moved to Voobly I was in Usk, Vipers (if I recall the name correctly) it was a clan with Viper, Jordan, Dogao, Garyyyy(?) and others. I just remember I was invited by Ceaser, the Brazilian dude, I was like 1850+ and I’m not sure why I was even invited, haha, also of course Beliebers, with Viper, Fosse and Sletten. And then I met Spaden and also starting to play with Lojza, he hated me at the start as most people did who became my AoC friends later on
. Spaden was friends with Zuppi, Nadya was the cute girl who was playing AoC, so that friendship was the obvious one :D. Pike was playing BF with Nick and they were friends with Spaden, Mentalist was the friendly stereotypical Canadian so the NaBs were formed, it was an organic friendship which led us to forming one of the best teams of AoC for several years.The Maldives tournament was probably the peak of my training and skill-wise where I managed to get to top 16 phase where I eventually lost to Lojza and he ended up going to the Maldives instead of me, that ****er. For that tournament I was training so much that my wrist ended up hurting and ended up going numb after playing, so I had to pause games during the tourney to massage my wrist which didn't help much. It was a good experience and at the same time very disappointing, because I couldn't play up to my potential .
From team game tourneys all the big ones were fun, I always enjoyed playing with the boys and that nice rush you have when the new set of game starts. Beating 2.4k my ass (F1Re, Goku, Miguel, Nicov(?)) in Clash of Clans(???) was so satisfying. We played that tourney with 0 practise and those guys were playing practise games vs. Tyrants every day. The last game was a memorable RF game which lasted like 4 hours or so.
How would you describe your playstyle and how much has it changed during the last years?
Klavskis: Very meta oriented, I am probably that guy who plays most by the book. Last year it hasn't changed since I took a year break, but in general, I am now an Arabia player instead of Arena player, and my 2k and 2k1 come off 1v1 Arabia, both vs. famous Denmark legend Dobbs. The style itself well, I like [email protected] archer very much, since I have a good BO that was made by some 2k4 guys, the problem is that it becomes very one dimensional, soooo I should spend some time doing other stuff so I can become a more rounded player. That was super hard back in the day cause 50% if not more of my games were vs. Bugum’s 18 pop trush smurf or Metal’s naked FC smurfs, soo yeah. I also play very macro/build order style, I think that comes mostly from Arena days, Dark Age there was trained to perfection really.
8th wonder: I was never much of a build order player. Aggressive, disruptive, trying to take map control, awful eco, army/micro heavy approach, strategic, I loved to lame a lot as well.
Do you say “I was”, because you don’t play recently or did you change, as e. g. not laming anymore?
Both, I didn't lame in the recent past anymore unless it was a tourney.
Klavskis, you have reached a 2k1 1v1 rating. What in your opinion is the difference between a 1.8-2k player, you and a 2k3-2k4+ player? How much do you see yourself improve in the upcoming months and year?
Well, I would say that the mechanics are definitely better, I think if I play very tryhard I have decent speed and that allows for more spot on mechanics, at 1800 those mechanics are usually more sloppy and such, also build orders have improved as well. The problem for me is that I don't play enough to be stable at my rate or even improve, a lot of people who used to be 1900 are now 2k2+, in the year I was gone everyone was going full addict and even now when I’m back, university takes a long time, I would argue I might have 50+ 2k+ arabia games which is nothing in comparison, the experience is not there, so decision making is not there. I would say if I would be able to put in hours, could get 2k2 which would be decent enough, the plan was to try to get 2k2 till the new year and maybe higher till NC, but playing 2 games a week is not going to help doing that, 11.
8th wonder, your highest 1v1 rating is 2284. At the time you reached that it was a top 10 rating. If you played more 1v1 nowadays, do you think you would easily reach 2400 or even 2500?
If I remember correctly, I was like top 8 at one point. I hope I would, ratings are inflated a lot these days. I did a mini comeback when KotD 2 was announced and played on a smurf account on my laptop after more than 1 year break, got 2.1k in 3 days beating LaaaN, IamOK and others while doing it. If I would put my time into it, I like my chances.
You have always been known more as a team game player instead of a 1v1 player? Why?
Probably because of the success of NaBs and not really playing Arabia 1v1. But I think I could hold my own in 1v1 as well back in the days. Also there were way less 1v1 tourneys, these days if you can hunt a boar and go to Castle Age under 20 minutes you are playing a show match for 400$.
With which setup and at what place do you usually play? Would you add a photo of your gaming setup?
Klavskis: I have a setup I’ve updated as the years go by.
My PC is probably the worst part of the setup, I’m running a 6 year old fx6300 cpu with radeon 280x. The keyboard I use is Blackwidow and I have a Bloody mouse, nothing too fancy, but it works, also running a 2 monitor setup, helps with streaming and with studies (I don't think I can ever go back to 1 monitor only). I play at my home, in summer maybe I play at grandparents place where the famous "furnace" is located (the real klav fans know the story of the furnace).
8th wonder: Since I’m not playing right now, not really because my gaming setup is at my parents' home and I’m using a laptop these days.
Do or did you stream? What is your stream link, how often do you stream and what is special about your stream?
Klavskis: I do yeah, I did it a lot since I didn't know what I want to do with my life, but obviously with university I do it quite rarely nowadays. Special? Well a lot of people did enjoy my casting since I had quite an in-depth view and analysis of games, especially Arena, but yeah, atm I'd say it's pretty dead, 1111.
My link is: www.twitch.tv/klavskis_.
8th wonder: I streamed like twice but my PC couldn't handle it. Funny thing is, couple months ago I was seriously considering coming back to AoC and trying to stream full time and see If I can make money of it, if I would do it like 8+ hours a day. But it would be a risky move and probably not worth it.
I agree, only if you have some free time anyway I would recommend it. Not quit a job or studies for it. I don’t know much about wages in Latvia, but from what we have seen, you either need to be very famous already like TheViper or DauT or you need many months to years to build up a fanbase to have a reasonable income.
Yup, that is the reason why I won't do it, wages in Latvia are very low that's why it might be doable, but I just know that I would regret this decision in the future.
Which city do you come from/live in? What do you like/dislike about it and where would you like to move to?
8th wonder: I’m from a smaller town called Saldus, but currently live in the capital - Riga. Riga is the best city to live in Latvia with most opportunities. It’s alright, the old town is beautiful, a problem is the weather and our mayor. I would like to move to South East Asia for a while, I don’t know if I ever will spend a long period of time in one place, maybe when/if I will get married with kids.
Which countries from South East Asia would you consider? Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand? There are different challenges, but for all but Singapore you probably should learn a new language very well.
Not like move permanently, for like 6 months in a place and then move to the next, more like Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc. Right now I'm working towards being location independent with my work and have possibility to do something like that in the future.
Klavskis: I am from a small town called Aizkraukle, but currently I live in Riga, same as wonder, because it's the main place to study at, it is a bit too crowded for me, but in time you adapt and it seems OK.
I would want to live in Canada, I really like the place and the people there seem to be nice (except slam), but yeah, if not there, then probably Scandinavia.
Riga
Latvia has less than 2 million inhabitants, but still 4 AoE 2 players who have reached a 2k+ rating. It’s almost as unlikely as Iceland having a good football national team. Can you explain it?
Klavskis: 4 AoE 2 players, 2 inactive, 2 don't know how to play (I fit in here), well, not much of a team, 11.
8th wonder: I think it’s just a random occurrence.
Now to your favourite things:
What is your favourite food and drink?
8th wonder: I like a little bit spicy food. Asian and Middle East cuisine. Passion fruit mojito can change your life. I drink green tea every day, water is also nice - health is wealth.
Klavskis: I like wok, a lot of variations of it, especially spicy ones, I try to actually fix my meals and learn how to meal prep, it’s haaaarrddd. From drinks, my favourite is probably Latvian Kvass, hehe. Whiskey+coke or just whiskey is my favourite from alcoholic drinks.
Which foods from your home country/region and family background would you recommend?
8th wonder: Latvian kitchen is not really great, we have many influences from other countries kitchens. Main dishes consist of potatoes and some sort of meat and I dislike both :S. One thing I love is “plātsmaize” it’s like a pie in a way. We have great beers and with some garlic bread that could be one of our best foods.
Klavskis: Boiled gray peas with friend bacon and onions, a cup of kefir. It’s not like it is super tasty, but there will be few people who will like it, try at your own risk.
What can you cook well yourself and how often do you do it?
8th wonder: I cook everyday. I don't eat meat/fish, probably it's just a matter of time till I become vegan so I cook plant based meals mostly, I like baking cookies and cakes, also I can make decent tortilla patata.
If you’d consider abandoning animal products, what is your opinion on mushrooms then? They are neither animals nor plants, but closer to animals. If you read my self-interview, maybe you remember that I don’t eat meat either. I do eat mushrooms, but I have always felt strange about them.
Never heard that one before, I will do some research but for now I eat mushrooms, also they are super healthy.
Klavskis: I can do pretty tasty wok and something basic like, greens/protein source/rice lentils or something.
What would you put on top of a pizza?
8th wonder: Cheese, mushrooms, pineapple is also a nice addition.
Klavskis: Ughh.. everything except olives and shrooms.
What is your favourite colour? (Does not need to be one of the 8 AoE II colours.)
Klavskis: Purple (the AoE 2 kind) and dark red (like blood dark).
8th wonder: Turquoise blue and yellow.
What is your favourite animal?
8th wonder: Tardigrade or naked mole rat, just read about them, they are fascinating animals.
Klavskis: I like dogs, dogs are good, If I ever have a private house I want to have a dog!
What/where is your favourite place on Earth?
8th wonder: Greece, Sri Lanka and area around my parents home. Marrakech is a city I love/hate. Berlin in summer time is amazing as well, very young city with lots of cool places.
Klavskis: Don't know, aaa.
What is your favourite song at the moment, of all time (can be top 5)?
Klavskis: I'd say NF - "Only" and "Miss the days" are really really good ones that become my favourites, but overall I'd say a lot of songs from Eminem, Hopsin, NF and Nas.
I have never listened to NF before, I know many songs by Eminem and by Nas. I could never decide whether I like Eminem’s music or not. Nas has some songs I like a lot, but also some quite boring ones. What are your favourites by those too? Eminem nowadays or 15-20 years ago?
I would say from Nas Illmatic and Stillmatic are really good albums, I like those a lot, from Eminem, well D12 days are insane, “Devil’s Night” and “World” are really really crazy albums, nowadays I enjoy “Kamikaze” and some of the standalone songs he has done like “Homicide”, they are fire.
8th wonder: J. Cole - Love yourz, Moby - Porcelain, The doors ft. Snoop - Riders on the storm, Jay-Z - Forever young, many, many Eminem songs, grew up on them.
What is your favourite movie at the moment, of all time (can be top 5)? Who is you favourite actor?
8th wonder: Pulp Fiction, Inception, Dark (it’s a MUST SEE TV show), The man from Earth, 12 Angry Men. I love Denzel Washington.
Klavskis: Inception as well, John Wick (haven't seen 3rd yet). TV shows: House MD (seen it like 6 times), Mindhunter, Sherlock.
I like a lot of actors, Keanu Reeves is a good one, his life story is quite inspiring.
What are your favourite books?
Klavskis: I enjoy philosophy a lot, Karamazov brothers is a nice and hard one, “Why we sleep”, by Matthew Walker (since in my studies I have read a lot about sleep and other stuff), mostly reading a lot of psychology books at the moment, if anyone wants, pm me and I can send you a list.
8th wonder: When I grew up we only had 2 TV channels and 1 PC for the whole family and we lived in the countryside so I spent all my spare time reading books, there would be too many to write down here. Recent ones I loved were -” Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini, “12 rules for life: an antidote to chaos” by Jordan B. Peterson. Right now im reading “Why we sleep” by Matthew Walker and listening to - “Can't hurt me” by David Goggins. Next on my list is “Talking to strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell.
Do you have a favourite sports team? (football, basketball etc.)
8th wonder: I follow the NBA and the team I will follow the most would be the Dallas Mavericks because Kristaps Porzingis plays there, but I love all high level basketball.
Klavskis: I think the only sport I follow somewhat is hockey, I really enjoy watching it, especially NHL, but it always goes at bad times for me, I usually watch the Latvian team play and I do enjoy the World Cup, favourite team Canada (if World Cup) or Penguins if NHL.
Do you two remember, when Latvia played in the UEFA EURO 2004? Klavskis, you are probably too young, but that was really unexpected. I saw the match against Germany, but I was kind of too young to know how special it was for Latvia. Now that I know how small a country it is and that they never qualified for another tournament after that, I understand how unexpected it was.
Klavskis: Well, I don’t really watch football, sooo nope: D 100% not.
What are your favourite traits on a woman?
Klavskis: Ughhh, she gotta be intellectually challenging. It’s like if she can’t figure out basic stuff, no thanks, 11, I have the tendency to overcomplicate stuff and talk a lot about complex topics where discussions have to take place, if she can’t challenge me in that way, I'mma just leave, 11. I guess this might have come from me in the past hanging out a lot in parties with girls who can’t finish school, and trust me, it gets boring super fast, 11.
8th wonder: Intelligence is the most important one. The girl must be more intelligent than me. Kindness and easy going, down to earth, sense of humour is the obvious one. Self-driven and passionate. Confidence is sexy, but it's a fine line between confidence and arrogance/narcissism.
What time do you usually go to sleep? What do you like doing before sleeping?
8th wonder: I try not to go sleep after 1 am. I sit on my Yoga mat and do some light stretching. Might listen or watch something while I do it. Lately I also have incorporated some meditation to slow down the mind and to be in a good mental space before bed.
Klavskis: At 22:00-23:00, for a guy who has read shit ton on sleep, I try to abuse the free superpower we have, 11. Before sleeping I probably watch a video or read a book, nothing too fancy.
If there was anything you could tell your 16-year-old self, what would it be?
8th wonder: Confucius has this quote “We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” Don't wait till you are 25 to start living your second life. Dream bigger. Don't chase happiness, chase meaning and fulfillment. Never play AoC, you will regret the time you wasted.
Klavskis: Just go and study medicine you dumb fool, 11.
Which countries have you visited? And where would you like to go to? Why?
8th wonder: I did volunteer projects for 2 years on and off and lived for an extended period of time doing that in Spain, Germany, Portugal and Morocco. Also I have visited Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, Austria, Czech Republic, UK, Greece, Sri Lanka, Malta, Turkey, Italy, Switzerland. On top of my list would be Nepal right now, I want to go on one of the big hikes - for example Annapurna circuit, just google it, it looks insane.
Klavskis: Basically none, I'm a sad little man.
Why? If you are sad about it, there must be a reason. From Latvia you can reach 5 countries in less than 100 km, so you could easily go there and back in one day.
Oh yeah, I mean I’m joking mostly, but it was never a big priority at this time, It is definitely something I want to do in the future a lot, but at the moment on my priority list it is down there.
Which languages can you speak and which would you like to learn?
8th wonder: Latvian, English, I had in school and understand Russian, kind of. Right now I'm studying Spanish, even got an A1 certificate this spring (muchas gracias a mi amiga Ester/Locka para la ayuda, jaja). Right now I do it on my spare time, don't have time to continue courses. Also I picked up some Darija - enough to talk with local store owners and get around (Arabic dialect spoken in Morocco). I would like to learn Arabic after I’m done with Spanish.
Klavskis: Ughh, LV/ENG, would be nice to learn Norwegian or Finnish.
Because you consider living there? I mean, outside of those countries they have very little use and as far as I know Finnish is one of the hardest, if not the hardest languages using the same alphabet as us.
Well, I would only do that if I was planning to study or live there, but yeah I think there is maybe maybe a tiny chance I go to study there, probably not, but maybe in Finland or Norway, live, probably not.
What are your hobbies beside AoE?
8th wonder: Basketball, I got into nutrition and health a lot recently, so I do some research on that topic on a daily basis, also recently started doing some calisthenics, learning Spanish, I love a good podcast. Once the winter starts I will re-start going to the bouldering gym.
Klavskis: I did athletics, like running 60m/100m dash, high jumping etc. For about 7 years or something, I had a lot of health problems, doing sports kind of fixed most of them, those were fun times, I did some regional competition with decent results, but nothing too fancy, was nice times, new friends, routine and such. I stopped like 1 week before my last regional competition was suppose to happen (easy medals, 11), because i got quite a huge injury while doing triple jumping, that was kind of the end of that. Nowadays I do some sport just for sake of not getting fat and staying healthy. Hobbies, hmm, at the moment I don't have anything special I guess, university and stuff outside of it takes almost all of my time.
Who would you like to meet once, who you have not met? One AoE player and one other person.
8th wonder: I would like to meet Mentalist/Nick from the AoC world. Jordan B. Peterson or David Goggins, JBP is my intellectual idol and Goggins is my mental strength idol. My dog counts? I would love to take him for a walk one more time, he was the goodest boy.
Klavskis: From AoE 2 world Stefan, he is the closest friend I have from AoE 2, would be nice to meet him IRL. Also Metal ofc, but I think I would lose my mind there. Me, Metal, Stefan, Bugum in a bar would be top 4v4 TG. I would like to meet Joe Rogan on his podcast, would be an honour to be on it, and Matthew Walker, because he led me to pursue sleep, and JBP same as wonder, cause he lead me to study psychology.
Do you have an AoE idol?
8th wonder: When I started playing online someone gave me a link to the L Clan web page and I downloaded Chris 1000 game pack. I watched like all of the games and thought that level is unreachable for me, then couple years later I beat him. Besides that I was never a fan of any AoC player, once you can compete vs. them I don't think you can idolize any other top player, respect sure.
Klavskis: This might be top surprise, but I do, at the moment that guy is top retired-active pro, his nickname is, Hearttt. I started following him when he started doing 2v2s with Liereyy, everyone was hyping Liereyy, but I enjoyed watching Hearttt play, I liked his style + explaining things. When Fortnite came around, playing with him and Hera were fun times, my sleep schedule was non-existant at that time. "I'm a Mooonsteer" (some will get this), but yeah, talking with Hearttt were always fun times. I do respect him as a player and always look forward to his games.
What is your favourite civilisation, map and unit?
8th wonder: Aztecs, xbow and Nomad.
Klavskis: Mayans, Conqs, I don't think I have a favourite map.
What is your favourite in-game sound? (e. g. farm, water buffalo, relic…)
8th wonder: Deleted all the taunts 10 years ago and always played with music on, so no, I don't have a favorite sound.
Klavskis: The sound you hear when you run 30 elephants and 10 sec later you know 15 of them are gone soon. And water buffalo sound, I always spam it when i'm casting games with them.
If Arabia did not exist, which map do you think everyone would be playing like people play Arabia (and not Serengeti etc., which are just very similar to Arabia)?
Klavskis: Arena and the game would be 3x times bigger.
8th wonder: Arena and the game would have died 18 years ago.
Who is your favourite and least favourite 1v1 opponent?
Klavskis: On Arena Stefan favourite, Terror least favourite. In general, I like playing any top player, except Viper, it is always an interesting experience. I don't like people who forward unconditionally.
Why Terror?
Cause he does stuff a normal person wouldn’t do, and you don’t expect it so it works, 11.
8th wonder: Favourite ones were TatoH, ACCM, poZ_cloud - they also played FR a lot and I was slightly better than them so I could farm some points. Viper was someone who was way better than me but always pushed me to try my hardest and also most satisfying to kill, probably the player I have played the most 1v1s against. Least favorite - Edie, MbL, BacT, slam.
What is wrong with slam? Did he do something to Latvia? (You both have a negative comment about him).
8th wonder: I like slam, his stream might be my favorite AoC stream, I just hate playing vs. him, he is always so tryhard.
Klavskis: I was joking, slam is best! I always joke about him, in his stream and so on.
Who is your favourite team mate for a 2v2?
For just playing:
8th wonder: Was always fun to play with Lojza and Zuppi. Hate/love with Nadya. When you play with Nadya it's not just playing a 2v2 together. You must be a teacher ,motivator, advisor, psychologist, future predictor, comedian and someone with nerves of steel while trying to kill them 1vs2.
Klavskis: Don't have one.
Also outside of the game
8th wonder: All of the NaBs core.
Would you live with him/her together in one apartment for a month or a year? With one bedroom or two?
8th wonder: I could live for a short period of time, but not for a long time, person must be very special for me in order for us to co-exist. Zuppi and Pike probably would be low maintenance people whom I could get along with easily. If I lived with Nadya I would be taking taking drugs and visiting a psychologist. Also it would be fun.
In the new expansions (after AoC), what is your favourite new civilisation and unit?
8th wonder: Probably Burmese and Arambai, but I think they nerfed them. That civ fitted my style perfectly.
Klavskis: Ethiopians are super fun, faster shooting xbow with no lag, oh boii. Gbeto is a unit I like playing with a lot.
Which 4-5 players from your country do you think will form the A team in the upcoming Nations? Which maps would you like to be included apart from Arabia, Nomad, Islands? Would you prefer the Nations Cup to be on Voobly or on the new Definitive Edition?
8th wonder: Well me, Klavskis, Knifer and Mr_Full? I have never talked to Knifer, and Mr_Full, we just have played together in same/opposite teams, I’m like 98% sure they hate me, lol. I like open maps with lots of action and chaos, Voobly unless DE comes out in time and is better and tested bugfree.
Klavskis: Wonder already answered it, I hope we get some Arena, and wonder plays and curses 24/7. Voobly for sure.
What is your goal for the 2020 Nations Cup? Which teams do you think will reach the top 8?
Klavskis: Sign up.
I think that the typical Finland/China/Brazil will be in the top, but let's be honest, predictable is boring. I would want to see Norway and Canada train hard to actually get the skill gap going and trying to get good results, I guess Germany will be an interesting team as well, I think im looking forward to that. NL and France, Spain are teams who have potential as well and I think these teams will depend on practice and teamplay more than individual skill.
8th wonder: No goals. Finland seems like a favorite, with China (A, B, C) and Brazil. Norway could be interesting depending who is their 3rd and if they actually teach the 3rd player to survive for the first 20 minutes. Spain could win some games, still not convinced with TaToH as a team leader, I think he is a complementary player, not a leader. Args will probably fail as they tend to do. VNS should be in the top 8. Germany lack individual skill. USA will do great in the 2nd division. Also Canada might do good.
Which 4 players would you like to see forming a team? (can include inactive players)
8th wonder: Me + Zuppi + Lojza + mentalist/Pike/SSpaden for one last ride.
Klavskis: Hmmm, gimme DauT+Chris+DreaIVIS+Wrath, thank you.
Which 8 players would you invite for Nili’s Apartment Cup 3?
8th wonder: Myself, Lojza, Viper, Nicov, dogao, Zuppi, Chris, Duck.
Do you know anything about what happened to Duck? A long time ago he was one of the best Chinese players. Then, 5 years ago or so, he still played hundreds of games all the time, but was 1600-2100 (went up and down within a few weeks), now I haven’t seen him play since 1.5 years. Probably I should better ask a Chinese AoE player, but I just wondered, because you chose him.
8th wonder: I chose him for comedic purposes, he was always a fun guy to play with. No idea what happened to him. He reminds me of Abu, 11.
Klavskis: Me, Metal, Nicov, slam, Miguel, Hearttt, Hera, Bugum.
When you visit AoEZone and Voobly, is there something you really like or would like to have improved?
Klavskis: Naaaa.
8th wonder: Can’t think of anything right now.
What is the funniest moment in your life you experienced because of AoE?
Klavskis: There was a legendary moment in my stream during last NC, it was Canada vs. Brazil (I think) some close ass series, I’m casting it with like 120 viewers, super hyped all going good and a guy named “Khangbo” joins, and he asks for tips how to talk to a girl, approach her and such, so bam casting over, we spend like 20 minutes+ trying to tell him what to do, he walks up to her and INSTEAD of talking to her or trying to get to know her he messes it up and says ”where is the library” then he starts typing in stream that he is in the library and now he gotta sit there, so it doesn’t look weird, it was funniest shit ever, I was barely paying attention to the stream, and everyone was laughing their ass off, ahh I’m sad i didn’t save the VOD, I think it was the funniest stream ever.
8th wonder: NaBs meetups, Just random moments sitting in TS and chatting till 4 am about everything and nothing. Masterpiecing Viper and Jordan in the same week with 1 tc Goth long swordsmen push. We had many funny moments throughout the years, but you can’t describe them like any experience, you have to be there.
Once we were playing a random TG with Chinese Top players, game gets paused for like 25-30 mins, then one of them (Lyx, Lovecheng, Tim?) comes back and writes in the chat - “Sorry, I bath my child”.
Choose:
Chris or DauT?
8th wonder: Chris
Klavskis: DauT (I believe he might be my real father.)
Tim or TheViper?
8th wonder: Vipa
Klavskis: Sadly Viper
Edie or Terror?
8th wonder: Edie
Klavskis: Edie
Metal or DraCoNT?
8th wonder: Those guys are not clowns, they are an entire circus.
Klavskis: The 3rd best USA player Metal ofc.
FeAge or Lavie_Head?
8th wonder: Really?
Klavskis: Don't know either of them.
T90 or Memb?
8th wonder: T90
Klavskis: Ah shit, gonna get hammered for this answer. T90Membicial
Lumberjack or Farmer?
8th wonder: Lumberjack cause it reminds me of Mentalist.
Klavskis: Farmer, cause potatoooooes.
Sheep or water buffalo?
8th wonder: Water buffalo
Klavskis: Water buffalo
1v1 or 4v4?
8th wonder: 4v4
Klavskis: 4v4
Feudal Age or Imperial Age?
8th wonder: Feudal
Klavskis: Imperial
Nomad or Islands?
8th wonder: Nomad
Klavskis: Arena
What would you do to make the world a better place?
8th wonder: Change what we value in other people, make so that in our society you can only rise up in socio-economic hierarchy based on your competency, hard work, honesty and selfishness. Erase mainstream religions, remove BF/Arena from AoC.
Klavskis: Educate people.
If you were not in a relationship, and could date anyone, who would it be?
Klavskis: Nina Dobrev, oh boiiiiii, that is something else.
8th wonder: I would never want to date a celebrity. Also celebrity would get bored of me like 3 days later and vice versa. There is this girl I'm kind of seeing right now, she seems like someone I could marry, she is like a different level nice, she is super smart and beautiful . So yea, proly her.
Write a poem/rap of 8 lines (or more) about something AoE-related, either in English or your native language.
8th wonder: Rain check.
Q?
Klavskis:
Once upon a time
Klavskis came to climb
18 pop trush, 22 pop smush
His opponents wanted to rush
Crying in tears breaking in fears
He started to break some chairs
One week passes no luck appears
Then he gets 2k and disappears
Add one more comment or question for me or someone else.
8th wonder: What is your dream of life?
It's something to spend hours writing about, so I will just write a little bit. Peace, both as no violence, no people hurting each other and an equilibrium, so you don't feel mentally oppressed. If I go further than just myself, there are some general problems already. I would like no humans to suffer and save people, but it is just realistic to say that there are much too many humans on the planet already, so if not more or less naturally some die while growing up, the world's population would grow even faster. Then, what about the other animals, organisms, especially plants. How do we find the best equilibrium of health, peace and also not just thinking about humans? About life and death: Of course I don't want to die, but humans are not supposed to grow 100s of years old or is it OK to aim at that by changing genetics a lot? Most species or genera don't survive for several hundred million years, so why should we worry about no more water on Earth in one billion years? Is it worth it to invest so many resources from a damaged planed by trying to escape it to a different planet? What about flying and driving cars, actually? I want to experience nature which I don't want to damage, but still fly there...
Those are some questions on my mind which are probably impossible to find answers about while I still live. If it is just about peace and harmony, I could just lie somewhere in the forest or savanna on my own and just eat fruit and nuts, maybe a few other things. But still I want to listen to music, read news on the internet and meet other people. For that I need devices that disturb the peace. So in reality it is just about reaching a state of happiness that suppresses everything else from time to time. This can be done in so many ways. One of the most fulfilling things is to give, and teaching is an important part of it, I think that is a way for me.
Those are some questions on my mind which are probably impossible to find answers about while I still live. If it is just about peace and harmony, I could just lie somewhere in the forest or savanna on my own and just eat fruit and nuts, maybe a few other things. But still I want to listen to music, read news on the internet and meet other people. For that I need devices that disturb the peace. So in reality it is just about reaching a state of happiness that suppresses everything else from time to time. This can be done in so many ways. One of the most fulfilling things is to give, and teaching is an important part of it, I think that is a way for me.
Thank you both for the detailed interview and good luck for the sign-up.
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