Apex Legends is constantly striving to improve the competitive experience in its ranked mode. With the upcoming launch of season 19, Ignite, Respawn is introducing a significant addition called promotional trials. These trials will challenge players to prove their skill and rank up from one tier to another. This change is a direct response to passive strategies, such as hiding in corners, that have been prevalent in ranked play.
The promotional trials will require players to complete specific challenges within a limited time frame. For example, in five ranked games, a player may need to either win a single match or place in the top 10 with three kills and/or assists three times. Successfully completing these challenges will allow players to advance to the next tier.
The introduction of promotional trials aims to create more intense and competitive gameplay by ensuring a minimum skill level for each tier. It also discourages passive playstyles and encourages players to actively engage in fights and strive for victory.
Failing to meet the requirements of the promotional trials will result in a punishment. The severity of the punishment will depend on the player’s performance during the trials. If a player consistently performs poorly, they will be pushed down the ladder further than someone who came close to meeting the challenges. The punishments are more significant in higher ranks, emphasizing the importance of the trials as players progress into Diamond.
In addition to the promotional trials, Respawn is removing party restrictions on Trios in ranked mode. This means that players can now play with their friends regardless of their skill level. With the implementation of the skill checks, carrying a less skilled player will be a more challenging task.
As previously announced, ranked rewards will also be changing. Instead of Skydive Trails, players will now receive animated Banner Frames as cosmetic rewards. These Banner Frames are indefinite rewards, making them a more valuable item to pursue in the long run.
All of these changes will be implemented with the launch of Apex season 19, Ignite, on October 31st across all platforms.
Source: DOTESPORTS
