Overwatch expert highlights the critical requirement for attaining the Grand-master rating in ranked play

Grandmaster is the greatest achievement in Overwatch's ranked version, according to former Overwatch League coach Jacob 'Spilo' Clifton. However, mere mechanical ability and game knowledge are insufficient to attain this apex.

Spilo explains the goal of earning the Grandmaster rank in Overwatch 2 in a video posted on May 27 and why many players fall short of it. Spilo has uncovered a critical component that affects whether players may reach the Grandmaster rank based on his experience coaching players of all skill levels, including potential prodigies and professional teams such as the London Spitfire.

While abilities in Overwatch 2, like any other game or endeavor, are built via practice and habits such as consistency, adaptability, and the ability to learn, motivation is an innate attribute that cannot be taught.
To reach Grandmaster, players must spend a large amount of time grinding Overwatch 2 and engaging in self-reflection to recognize and correct their flaws. This dedication, however, necessitates a genuine enjoyment of the game, because as inspiration decreases, so does the drive to progress.

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Spilo emphasises the difficulty of inspiring individuals to achieve their goals, whether in professional coaching or schooling. When working with athletes, he cannot inculcate in them a love of the game, as this is something they must possess to improve.

Spilo dives into the topic of game motivation, emphasizing the importance of both external and internal elements. Gaming, unlike goals like increasing physical health through exercise, lacks conspicuous external motivators. Success in gaming is mostly dependent on the internal drive, which differs from person to person and explains why only a few gamers can reach the top rankings.

Esports acts as a testing ground not just for the best players, but also for those who can maintain their motivation. Retirements in esports are frequently caused by a lack of time or motivation to practice and compete at a high level, rather than by age.

In conclusion, Spilo argues that obtaining the Grandmaster position in Overwatch and other esports games provides little more than acknowledgment and a sense of success. He claims that many other abilities are more valuable and worthy of one's attention than becoming a Grandmaster.

Finally, in addition to refining physical abilities and game sense, finding satisfaction in the grind and establishing purpose along the way are critical for achieving high ranks in Overwatch 2 and most esports games.