The Heroes of the Storm Global Championship (HGC) premier league debuted last weekend (January 20–22) with outstanding results. Despite being an online league, Blizzard came through with top notch production, a complete revamp of their esports site, and most importantly, tons of exciting esports action.

North American team Gale Force eSports won both of their matches over the weekend. The first was a nail-biting match between several former BlizzCon champions, and the second ended in a 3-0 sweep against their NA rivals Team Naventic. After the match against NVT, GFE’s tank player, Equinox, agreed to an informal post-match interview regarding the matches and the opening week of HGC.

Q. You just stomped your rivals Team Naventic in an intense match. What happened?

We knew they relied on Malf a lot and we knew they played Medic, so we just drafted around their weaknesses. If you just do straight up teamfights they win, but if you don't they get destroyed.

Q. But you guys even won all the teamfights. It was brutal.

Yeah, we just played our game. Was really happy with how it worked out. We treat every team equally though, so [we’re] hoping to keep it up and just get better. We’re not gonna be that team that gets cocky.

Q. A lot of people didn’t think you guys would actually stick with the constant role swapping, but it looks like it’s working out.

We just do it if it's comfortable. Like, we all play the heroes we're good at and that fit the style of compositions.

Q. Any chance we’ll see the Udall Azmodan?

Don't even start, rofl.

We were the first team to play Nazeebo, though, and made it a thing in NA.

Q. Overall, what did you think of the first weekend of the HGC Premier League?

I loved it, it went so smooth. There's no down time, and it's very organized. Zero complaints at all.

Q. Is it weird playing a premier tournament from your bedroom?

I'm more comfortable, but the hype isn't the same. There's something special about playing in front of the crowd—the energy and confidence you get is unmatched.

Q. Well, if it makes you feel any better, it's still super hype for viewers.

Yeah, I think the viewers will love it because it's so clean. No down time, interviews after matches, best of five’s, scheduled matches...it's just good for the game.

Q. You guys get a super chill weekend next weekend with only one match against Team Freedom, one of the underdogs.

Yeah...still gonna go hard on them like we did vs Naventic.

Q. I thought you guys would face Tempo Storm sooner. We need to settle who the best team in North America is.

Yeah, it’s really late, but I'm excited for it.

Q. Do you think Tempo Storm is the main competitor for the #1 spot in NA?

100%, them and Team 8. Well...I think Team 8 is that good if they get the draft they want, but they’re extremely draft-reliant and we know their weaknesses.

Q. You weren't surprised by Team 8’s results this weekend?

Not really, no. Expected it [based on] scrims.

Q. Any last words or shoutouts?

Shoutout to Gale Force and our sponsors Twitch and GUNNAR. Also to my teammates for playing as well as they do and never tilting.