Ranked Matchmaking
The unfairness of mixed matchmaking (mixed ranks and mixed party compositions) is frequently reported.
Instead of ignoring cause-and-effect, root-cause solutions via matchmaking adjustments are required.
Mixed Ranks likely stem from Plat/Diamond stagnation and Master tier account abandonment. Duos structurally complicate matchmaking and heavily burden Solo players, pushing players to only queue with a full party, thus causing population shortages.
Here are two solution patterns for each issue:
Addressing Mixed Rank Matchmaking
- Pattern ① Deter Inactivity: Set Rank Rewards by final rank. Implement Master tier point decay over time to discourage abandonment.
- Pattern ② Promote Flow: Increase promotion difficulty for Gold and below. Conversely, lower it for Platinum and Diamond (via fee/RP adjustments) to increase player flow into the Master tier.
Addressing Mixed Party Compositions
- Pattern ① Empower Solos: Restrict Duos to same-rank. Give Solo players the On/Off right for matching with Duos to mitigate unfairness.
- Pattern ② Matchmaking Pool & Composition Reform: Restrict Duos to same-rank. Duos queue as two-player parties. Isolate full Trios into a separate pool, keeping Duos and Solo players in the main pool to reduce overall burden.
Though full elimination is challenging, these measures should significantly reduce occurrence.
