In a surprising turn of events, SS and Head TD Starmaster have been vocal about their support for the Draft tier in SCL, yet their reluctance to initiate a discussion on the subject has left many disappointed. Consequently, I, as the second most influential Smogon Draft player, will take the initiative to start this conversation and spearhead the movement.
With SCL approaching its conclusion, I feel an urgent need to present this proposal without delay. Addressing it promptly is crucial to avoid any potential issues related to timing that could jeopardize its acceptance.
For the sake of clarity: this thread will focus solely on introducing the Draft tier. I recognize that some fans might say, “This is an intriguing idea, but can we also consider adding the SU tier?” (which is indeed a legitimate tier).
Proposition: introduce a Gen 9 Draft in addition to OU4 to create a total of 12 slots.
Symmetry enthusiasts would greatly appreciate having the SPL and SCL feature matching numbers of OU slots and overall participant totals, enhancing the competitive landscape.
Having dived into the world of Draft over the past two years through various individual and team tournaments like DCL and DPL, it has become evident to me just how passionate and dedicated the participants are. The community’s zeal is palpable as competitors continually showcase their unique skills and innovative strategies. Throughout my experiences in Draft tournaments, I have found the managers and players to be incredibly active and supportive, fostering an environment that encourages success—an atmosphere that I’ve found lacking in many other platform leagues. Of course, my perception could hinge on my personal experiences or the teams I’ve played for, but the level of engagement I’ve witnessed in Draft competitions is genuinely astonishing.
It’s notable that a plethora of draft tournaments exist where players compete purely for their love of the game, with no tangible rewards apart from personal enjoyment and a desire for improvement. Furthermore, numerous large-scale leagues provide not only prestige but also lucrative cash prizes, attracting hundreds of applicants. The selection process operates based on player achievements in prior leagues and, increasingly, in Smogon Draft tournaments as well. The Draft community is massive, teeming with players recognized as the cream of the crop, just like in every community tier participating in SCL.
The Best aspect: what truly excites me is the inclusive nature of the Draft slot. Every member of an SCL team can engage with it, not necessarily as a player but as contributors who can build competitive teams and provide unique insights into matchups. If teammates remain up-to-date on the tiers their colleagues are engaged in (excluding, perhaps, the more niche LC), they can identify key Pokémon and offer valuable feedback.
An example of how the draft process unfolds:
game
(complete with points)
Before the first week, teams engage in a draft with the other participating teams, selecting Pokémon in a snake pick order. This is especially thrilling because SCL always schedules a week off before Week 1! Each drafting team is given a point allocation limit, and specific Tera Captains carry higher costs than others. Teams choose their Pokémon, and their opponents do the same, keeping the process simple yet exciting. For my own preparation, I tend to devise my teams; however, I consistently value and incorporate my teammates’ suggestions. For instance, I might not have recognized that a Tera Electric Blast Urshifu with Punching Gloves was a major threat until it was brought to my attention—look what they ended up using! Remarkable!
Every teammate can contribute their insights, meaning that, for the first time in SCL’s history, we would have an inclusive tier that every player can support and be engaged with without needing to invest countless hours in ladder matches or replay analysis.
Proposed operational structure for SCL with Draft:
– Week Break: all ten teams’ designated Draft players, alongside their managers and possibly additional players, will draft two distinct teams in a randomized selection order. For example, my team 1 might be assigned Pick #3 while my team 2 lands on Pick #7. There are established guidelines regarding drafting timers and skip rules to ensure teams complete their drafts before Week 1, ideally by Sunday night.
– Sunday night: each Draft player selects one of their two drafted teams that they believe will present the best matchup against their upcoming opponents.
– Following this, the usual preparation and scheduling continue as standard.
In summary: This format is poised to be the most interactive of all tiers, allowing teammates to contribute meaningfully while not encroaching on their valuable personal time or preparation. The week-long gap that typically exists is ideal for teams to conduct their drafts efficiently.
For more information, feel free to explore the Draft team tournament threads for further insights.
EDIT: Updated to emphasize the 12-tier symmetry with SPL.
What strategies do you recommend for new players to succeed in Smogon Draft tournaments?
**Interview with a Smogon Draft Advocate**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today! As a prominent figure in the Smogon community, can you share your thoughts on the recent support expressed by SS and Head TD Starmaster for the Draft tier in the SCL?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely! It’s refreshing to see influential figures highlighting the Draft tier, but their hesitation to engage in deeper discussions has frustrated many. With the SCL winding down, I felt it was essential to step up and advocate for the introduction of a Gen 9 Draft alongside OU4. This move could establish a total of 12 slots, which would enhance the symmetry and competitiveness of our leagues.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of timing in this discussion. Can you elaborate on why it’s crucial to act now?
**Alex Reed:** Certainly! The conclusion of the SCL is imminent, and presenting this proposal without delay is paramount. Any procrastination could jeopardize its acceptance, especially with the busy schedules everyone has leading into the new year. We want to ensure that the Draft tier gets proper consideration before the start of the next competitive season.
**Interviewer:** You’ve been involved in Draft tournaments for the past two years. What stands out to you about this community compared to other tiers?
**Alex Reed:** The passion and dedication here are unmatched. In my experience with tournaments like DCL and DPL, I’ve witnessed a vibrant community where managers and players come together to support one another. The collaborative spirit—where every team member can contribute to building strategies and insights—creates an environment that’s uniquely inclusive. This is often missing in other formats, where competition feels more isolating.
**Interviewer:** That sounds promising! Could you share more about the appeal of Draft tournaments?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely! Many of these tournaments are driven purely by love for the game, providing no monetary rewards but significant personal fulfillment and opportunities for improvement. The Draft community is massive, filled with skilled players striving for excellence. This level of engagement is essential for growth and innovation in strategies, benefiting everyone involved.
**Interviewer:** You also touched on the structure of the Draft process. Can you elaborate on how that works and why it excites you?
**Alex Reed:** The drafting process itself is thrilling, especially within the SCL’s framework, which includes a break week before competitions begin. Teams select Pokémon in a snake draft format within a point allocation limit, making strategy a critical part of team composition. This not only keeps things competitive but also enhances camaraderie, as teams discuss picks and coordinate efforts to build the best lineups possible. It’s a blend of strategy, teamwork, and excitement that truly embodies the spirit of competitive play.
**Interviewer:** what do you hope to achieve with your initiative to push for the Draft tier?
**Alex Reed:** My goal is to elevate the visibility and recognition of the Draft format. By articulating our community’s enthusiasm and potential, I believe we can create a more balanced competitive landscape where different tiers successfully coexist. I’m excited to bring more players into this vibrant community and showcase the myriad of strategies and skills that make Draft tournaments so compelling.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights! Your passion for the Draft community is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing its growth in the SCL.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited for what lies ahead and for the chance to engage more players in this incredible format.
