Time and time again, we hear the term. How did they pull that off? They came back again? They’ve made another final? All these questions often answered by one phrase, NiP Magic.

Which, really, isn’t much of an answer at all. What IS NiP magic? When used by fans it’s a fun term to explain the extraordinary skill our team has. However, too many times it seems to be used to throw away our teams incredible achievements. Used by those who counted us out to explain why they were wrong, without admitting that they have missed the fundamental things that makes this team so great. So, I’m going to do my best to explain it.

The most obvious part of the so called magic is the fact that Ninjas in Pyjamas has a roster filled to the brim with individual talent. Each and every one of the five players has the ability to be absolute animals in the game. GeT_RiGhT is known to many as a God, he can and will pull of some indescribable solo efforts, bringing whole teams to their knees. f0rest and friberg can decimate defences with an entry frag, or bring the enemies assault to a halt with perfect timing, positioning and execution. Allu, the new guy, already showing in his short time here that he can bring a whole five man team down with his awp, adding to this he can also take a step back from the awp when needed and hold crucial parts of the map. Finally Xizt, whether you look at his ability to top frag like the best of them, or the often overlooked leadership qualities he brings every single game, it is clear that he is an integral part of the team. Remember, form is temporary, class is permanent.

The next part is the teamwork, while many will open the scoreboard and look solely at the kills, counterstrike is a game that requires five players, and the five we have fit together perfectly. Whilst this is currently still a point that is being worked on due to roster changes, a team must understand each other well and move like a well oiled machine in order to pull off the greatest of results. Whilst Xizt must be mentioned again for his ability to organise and instruct the team, every single one of the boys is responsible for their input and dedication to following what they have been told will be the best plan.

The final and equally important part of this so called magic, is the personality and mentality the team has. Together on and off the game the five are good friends. Their jokes, character and attitude towards the game bounce off one and other and is crucial to keeping the team functioning. Whether ten rounds ahead or ten rounds behind, they always know they are still in the game. Until there is a sixteen on the scoreboard, the game is not over and should be treated like any other, one round at a time. Their composure does not crack, their faith in their own ability never fades and this allows them to always be in the game. No matter how many times you tell them they are not capable, that they are not amongst the best, they will prove you wrong time and time again reaching final after final. They never blame each other or project any anger, instead they hold each other up and keep the team firmly together throughout.

So, tell me. Do you believe in magic?

By Robert Gooderson