New meta + very tough competition makes it seem like the other regions might be catching up to speed if not better. Thoughts?
SEA teams, as demonstrated in Champs, have moved past the fast hit, all aim no brain tactics for a while now, visible in PRX and XIA's strategy. I don't think the new meta will benefit them greatly nor do I think it will hurt them that much.
LOUD in particular may end up being able to make a dent, I think their playstyle will be greatly augmented by the pace of the new meta.
I don't think the meta will be a big reason for the success of a "minor" region team, if it does occur. If anything, it'd simply be because they improved. It's, in my opinion, irrational to believe teams like PRX, XIA, KRU, and others are well below NA (especially) but also EMEA teams after Champions 21.
I think there's a definite possibility for a minor region team to win an event. HOWEVER, I do think EMEA teams are favored compared to any other region.
Personally, I believe there aren't many teams close to Gambit, even with their recent loss to FPX. Fnatic, Guild, Liquid and others aren't far behind, either.
Well there are some really strong minor region teams like Loud, Leviatán (KRÜ will fall off after lost their coach), On Sla2ers, DRX and Xerxia. Definitely possible, I think minor region teams got a way better chance of winning an international this year compared to 2021. Meta will be changing though so who the fuck knows what's gonna happen because teams were perfecting this meta and now Riot fucked it up.