Don't even get me started on how they've ruined bot royale with live players. I don't want all-bots for the same reasons as you, but I definitely want all-bots, and this is just one example of how the means can serve more than one end.
Right now I'd have to say that the firing range is really your only fall back. There's a lot you can do there to help your buddy get up to speed, although, as noted, bots are a far cry from live enemies no matter which difficulty setting you choose.
Best of luck to both of you. I hope he sticks it out - not sure there are any games out there that are any better than this one. And I mean that in both senses - the good and the bad.
"I’m right in the middle—I’ve been playing for a long time, but my MMR isn't that high. I’m no pro, but I truly enjoy this game. It’s actually funny because I’ve tried so many other games out there, but I always end up coming back to this one. I love the theme, the characters, and the gunplay is just top-tier. I genuinely love Apex, and that’s why I still want my long-time friends of 15 years to give it a real shot.
Here’s an update on my squad:
Friend A felt stressed at first because his high MMR was making the game too brutal for a beginner, but he is doing better now and is ready to get back in.
Friend B (the beginner) is actually back with a vengeance. Instead of quitting, he is now motivated to push himself and get good enough to take revenge on those who looked down on him.(lol)
The three of us strongly believe that a 100% Bot mode is essential. We really want the developers to bring it back as a private option.
It’s the only way for veterans to mentor their friends in a safe environment without the broken matchmaking interference. We’ve decided to stick together and will be spending time in the Firing Range for now. We aren't letting a bad system or toxic encounters ruin a 15-year friendship. See you in game!"
