Fixing the Joke: Ranked Changes in Season 17
Apex Legends players were disappointed with the state of ranked play in season 17. Respawn Entertainment acknowledged the issue and shared details about the updates made during that season to address the problem. They also provided insights into the upcoming changes planned for season 19.
Season 17’s Ranked Distribution: A Historic Problem
Season 17’s ranked distribution was a historic problem for Apex Legends. The official numbers revealed that nearly 20 percent of players who logged more than five hours of ranked play reached the Master rank. This was due to changes that allowed players to rank up quickly by hiding and securing decent placements, disregarding gun skill and combat ability. This imbalance rendered the ranked results null and void.
Fixing the Ranked Distribution in Season 18
To address the issues from season 17, changes were implemented at the beginning of season 18. These changes reduced the ladder points gained from high placements and increased the LP cost for joining games at higher ranks. As a result, the ranked distribution swung back towards Bronze and Silver, although it leaned a bit too heavily in that direction. Nevertheless, it was a relief to see a more balanced distribution compared to the previous season.
Improvements in Matchmaking for Solo Players
The developers also noted improvements in matchmaking for solo players. There has been less disparity in match wins between solo players, two-stacks, and full three-person premade squads. This is a positive development for the ranked experience.
Planned Changes for Season 19
While the changes in season 18 were a step in the right direction, there are still areas that can be improved. The developers acknowledged this and shared their plans for season 19.
– Provisional Matches: The developers recognized that players took longer than expected to reach their “true rank” after provisional matches. To address this, there will be less LP drop next season after completing these matches.
– LP Bonuses: Greater LP bonuses will be introduced in season 19 to help players rank up quicker as they grind the ladder.
– Teammate Rank Disparity: In season 19, there will be no restrictions on full three-player squads in terms of disparity between teammate ranks. This means that Master players can team up with Bronze players, although the skill level of the lobbies they play in will lean more towards Master than Bronze.
Split Opinions on Teammate Rank Disparity
The change allowing players of different ranks to team up has received mixed reactions. While many casual players appreciate the opportunity to play with friends regardless of rank, there are concerns that this could make it easier for cheaters to enter high-ranked lobbies and quickly boost their LP.
Season 19 of Apex Legends is set to begin on October 31. It will be interesting to see how these new ranked changes impact the mode when it officially launches.
Source: DOTESPORTS
