Since the release of Shattered Web, the most discussed aspect of the operation has been the new agent and operator skins that Valve released which much enthusiasm and gusto. What they thought would be a celebration for the community came back to bite them hard, as the models turned out to have a negative impact on the overall gameplay.
And while Valve indirectly through its recent update made it clear that they have no intention of removing these new character models, by implementing visual improvements across multiple maps instead of introducing the “cl_minmodel” command, multiple tournament organizers like ESEA, FACEIT and ESL have also voiced their opinions quite firmly on the matter by implementing a ban on these new character models during competitive play.
ESEA in their recent blog update clearly mentioned that “In line with the CSPPA, ESEA and all other ESL CS:GO tournaments will be prohibiting the use of custom CS:GO skins.”
Players playing in any ESEA League or any event match from now on have been warned to use default player model CS:GO skins, cautioning them that if a support ticket is raised against them for using custom player skin, action will be taken.
On the other hand, Roald Van Buuren, director of esports - FACEIT after discussing the matter with CSPPA has decided that the ECS Season 8 - Finals will run on the latest patch, however, due to visibility concerns with the new models they will be using the default character model.
ESL after their recent run-in with CSPPA over the 'In-game Suicide Rule' have aligned with them once again to ensure that ESL Pro League Season 10 - Finals is played on the latest update while prohibiting the use of custom player model skins.
While ESEA’s decision on the ordeal seems to be a bit more firm when compared to how FACEIT and ESL have reacted, all the organizations have clearly backed CSPPA who are trying to come to a fair conclusion that doesn’t harm a professional player’s experience while keeping the competitive scene balanced. It will be interesting to see how Valve reacts to the growing differences between them and the organizers.
