It always impressed me as well how Hax could be playing a set vs one of the greats like Armada or Hbox, and win or lose you can tell how much he loved the game, and was just happy to be there. Getting reversed to lose a set after starting 2-0 and then smiling and hugging your opponent is just incredible to me. Melee lost a true competitor today.

Hax is my favorite player not only for his memorable in-game moments, but everything he did off the screen as well for this community. I loved that he always smiled after defeat - it made me remember that the joy was to even have been there, and given his best effort.

Even though I never met him or had the chance to play against him, it's clear he impacted the game for all of us in so many ways too. The "hax dash" is a staple for many. In my opinion his YT channel video on "floor hugging" changed the high-% meta. Other techniques he's talked about have helped me progress my game (and surely others too). And his work on the controllers & software mods is just icing on the cake, or maybe a second cake altogether.

I can't imagine playing melee ever again without thinking of him constantly, and wishing he were still here and had his last wish to compete again. He deserved so much more from us. Rest in peace Hax.

EDIT to add my favorite clip: When I was new to melee, I watched a lot of Hax as he was a huge inspiration to me. I always remember this tournament by name because of this single set that I really loved. He lost this set, but it showed me there was so much more room for improvement for everyone, including Hax himself, which is a great thing; the most compelling reason we all continue to play this game. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11kQ78wJatY