Interview Lucas « Cudder » Courtin, Host and Caster

Evalunna (Vitality)

Welcome and thank you for accepting this interview. Can you introduce yourself and your role in the scene?

I’m Cudder, a host and caster on CS and EVA in France. I commentate matches and host desk segments around Counter-Strike and EVA.

In your opinion, which game is the most difficult to cast?

I’d say League of Legends, mainly because of its complexity and the pace of the action.

What motivated you to get into esports?

It all started with my passion for video games. Since I was already commentating traditional sports, combining the two felt natural.

What do you think is your biggest strength as a host, journalist, and caster?

I’d say being natural. I also have formal training that helps me stay technically solid, even if it’s not always perfect. Most importantly, I try to stay objective, which is easier when you’re not close to the players.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that has happened during a cast, if any?

Losing my voice. In Austin after a map, my voice was completely gone, and in Budapest I was already sick before the event even started. When you’re a host and caster, it’s clearly a tough situation.

How many hours per week do you usually work?

It really depends on the period. Some weeks go well over 60 hours, while others are much more relaxed.

Do you think age is a factor in becoming a pro player?

Yes, to some extent. That early-career carefree mindset helps a lot. On CS, reflexes decline with age, but experience makes up for it. It’s about finding the right balance.

If you could change one thing about how young players are trained in esports, what would it be?

Social media and communication management. There are still too many slip-ups. Financial management is also important, especially when you earn a lot at a young age. Support outside of the game is essential.

If you had to choose one game for the rest of your life, would it be CS?

Not necessarily. For fun, I’d go with Dragon Quest or Age of Empires II. But competitively, Counter-Strike remains a benchmark.

What kind of academic path should someone follow to become like you?

I followed a traditional path with a science-focused high school diploma, then two years of journalism studies. I started in traditional sports before moving into esports. Casting requires work; it’s not just natural talent.

Is there a player or team that particularly inspires you? Why?

For players, Dan Madesclaire apEX and Lee Sang-hyeok Faker for their incredible longevity. For teams, T1 in LoL and Natus Vincere in CS for their consistency at the highest level.

Outside of esports, what other games or activities do you enjoy, and how do they help your balance?

Sports are still central, even if I have less time to follow them. Cinema and cooking also help me disconnect.

Do you think EVA will become accessible to everyone in the future?

Yes, the concept is strong with its mix of sport and esports. There are still improvements needed on the visual side for viewers, but the direction is good, especially with its international growth.

If you had to describe your job in one word, what would it be?

Passionate.

What is your favorite game (outside of CS) and why?

Dragon Quest. I enjoy open-world games where you can explore freely, a bit like World of Warcraft, and I really like its artistic direction.

Do you need to be a player to be a good caster and journalist?

No. It may affect perceived legitimacy, but it’s not necessary to be good at the job.

How do you handle criticism, and what would you say to someone afraid to start because of it?

Constructive criticism is useful; the rest is part of the job. Sometimes it affects you more than other times. Nowadays, I’m less likely to let certain things slide. If you’re hesitant to start, you have to accept uncertainty. Otherwise, you’ll never know how far you can go.

What would you improve in esports if you were in charge tomorrow?

On CS, I’d like to produce events based on my own vision. Overall, esports is developing well, but it still lacks institutional recognition.

Would you rather play forever with cold hands or without a crosshair?

Without a crosshair. You adapt over time, whereas playing with cold hands is consistently uncomfortable.

Any final message for the fans?

Keep supporting Counter-Strike and esports. And above all, respect each other, no matter your teams or games.

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