FURIA just pulled off the best play we’ve seen in the ALGS Split Two Playoffs so far—and it’s only day one. If you thought the new meta was boring to watch, your opinion may change after watching this play.
While Apex Legends pros are having to shift towards a more defensive playstyle (regardless of whether they play edge or zone), the Newcastle-Crypto pairing is proving to be historic. This change is welcomed by the FURIA roster of ImMadness, Keon, and Vaxlon. Taking number one spot in the C vs. D group stage lobby, their success came from an impressive and funny play only FURIA could come up with.
If we were to look at the North American Apex pros participating in the Split Two Playoffs, Vaxlon takes top spot as the strongest Newcastle in the region. This meta adjustment centered around Cypto might be detrimental to some (Team Falcons), but is downright powerful for others. The incredible play from FURIA arrived in the final match of group C vs. D, where FURIA had to drop from high ground and put themselves in a position that would kill most teams, if not for their Newcastle pick.
Vaxlon and Keon tried to survive for as long as possible, while TSM had eyes on their position at all times. But where was Madness throughout this intense three-vs.-three-vs.-three battle? He was hiding in the open water, away from all the chaos, and completely invisible from the other teams with no armor and just 100 HP.
FURIA coach Jxmo told the roster that “[Vaxlon] is going to pull [Newcastle ultimate] at the craziest moments.” And he was right.
While Madness hid in the open, Vaxlon used his ultimate to leap from Keon to Madness. In one of Vaxlon’s classic comedic moments, he calmly repeated “we’re fine” to Madness as he proceeded to take down two TSM members before finally getting knocked, with Madness cloaked the entire time. Those knocks proved invaluable, as Complexity swept in to finish off the last TSM member—letting FURIA claim second place. Hands off his mouse and keyboard, Madness yelled “come find me!” to Complexity as the remaining squad shot sand, rocks, and water in the search of the invisible Crypto.
Crypto’s invisible buff as of season 22 has made him one of the top legends for this LAN. Will we see more iconic plays like this from FURIA and other teams as Split Two Playoffs pans out?