Coaches Use Pause Tablet Mind Games at IEM Cologne Major

Coaches Use Pause Tablet Mind Games at IEM Cologne Major

The new pause tablet introduced at the IEM Cologne Major has already created a new layer of mind games between coaches.

Former player STYKO explained that some coaches have started using the tablet to gain an advantage during freeze time. Since coaches can see each other moving toward the device, they may wait to see if the opposing coach commits to a timeout first.

According to STYKO , two coaches at the Major told him they used this tactic on the opening day. By delaying their own decision, coaches can try to force the other side into using a pause instead.

Finnish coach t0mbbaa noted that this type of behavior existed before the tablet. Coaches have long watched each other during freeze time, waiting to see who would signal for a timeout first. However, the tablet makes the intention much clearer, as physically walking toward the button is easier to read than the old method of signaling an admin.

STYKO also pointed out that the tablet creates a new timing advantage. Under the previous system, waiting too long could cause the in-game vote to finish late, pushing the timeout to the next round. With the tablet, the pause activates instantly without a vote.

Because of that, coaches can technically wait until the final seconds before triggering a timeout. A tool designed to make pauses faster and cleaner has instead added a small but meaningful psychological battle between coaching staffs.