Robert “The Spider” Parker is the current Innergeekdom champion. Drafted by Kaiser in the 2020 Schmoedown draft, he was a member of The Dungeon during Season 7: The New Era and Season 8: War, and a member of The Den during Season 9: Reboot. Here are his reflections on the show we all love, in his own words.
Looking back on the Schmoedown, what is the most memorable moment that you were personally involved in?
Winning the title against Smets after years of getting close to championship wins but never quite getting there, and to do it against a close friend made it so special.
What is the most memorable moment that you were not involved in?
Watching two of my best friends, Kevin and Mara, each winning their second titles.
Which of your matches would you say is the best you played?
Statistically, my best matches are against folks like Brandon Hanna or Chance Ellison (the 2nd time), but I think my best-played match is against Mike Kalinowski at 2021 Spectacular. Even though I lost the match, I think I proved I could fight back from getting behind and maneuver the 3rd and 4th rounds of a title match the best. Holistically, I’m the most proud of my gameplay in that match.
Which match that didn’t involve you would you say is the best you ever saw?
Mike Kalinowski vs Rachel Cushing at the Schmoedown Throwdown is still the best-played match in my book. There’s been higher scoring matches, and matches where both players go near perfect, matches where the score ends 51-50, but I think the swings in Cushing vs Kalinowski epitomize the excitement of the show.
How would you describe the Schmoedown’s impact on you?
The Schmoedown has changed my life in so many ways. From being involved in other online leagues prior to becoming an MTS competitor, to competing on stage at Spectacular, to everybody I’ve had the opportunity to meet along the way. It’s given me an avenue to focus my time and effort and work ethic and passion, while also allowing me to become close with some of my best friends.
What will you miss most about the Schmoedown?
The competition of the show. I’ll keep in contact with a lot of the close friends I’ve made throughout these past few years, but as somebody who is very competitive, I’ll miss playing in matches, the nerves leading up to when Round 1 starts, and just talking about the show in general. I’ve been a massive fan for years, since long before I was a competitor, so I’ll miss talking about everything.
Robert Parker can be found on Twitter @rbrtprkr98.
