Oak Forest High School Junior 5th in Nation in Pokkén Tournament

Oak Forest High School Junior, Jacob Waller has been ranked fifth in the United States in Pokkén Tournament, a fighting game that blends Pokémon characters with Tekken fighting moves.

“The goal of the game is to knock your opponent’s health down to zero through the use of combos and strong attacks,” says Waller. “Of course, there are other mechanics in the game too.”

Players in the tournament community have the responsibility of ranking each other. Rankings are based on set total, which is the combined number of losses and wins from the tournament. Other factors include ranking in the tournament compared to the size of the tournament and wins against those who are higher in rank. These tournaments happen all over the country and have taken Waller to states such as California, Georgia, Florida, and Connecticut to compete.

“Usually I get a bit nervous, and I don’t even eat breakfast,” says Waller. “But by the time the tournament actually starts, I feel a lot better and confident. The more I win, the more confident I get, and in the process, I start playing better and better. It doesn’t calm the nerves all the way, but when I do well, I think that I could take the whole tournament.”

Elite players such as Waller win prize money and invitations to the World Championship during the weekend of August 25. Qualifying rounds are currently in progress and the Championship will take place in Nashville, Tenn. this year. First through seventh place will receive prize money, with first place receiving $6,000.

A total of 24 players will qualify for the Pokkén Tournament World Championship. Waller, who trains three hours a day at the game, hopes to be a contender this year.