Apex Legends, one of the most popular battle royale games, has recently been facing significant challenges, especially in its ranked mode. Players and streamers alike have voiced their frustration over the current state of ranked matches, citing issues with skill-based matchmaking (SBMM), cheaters, and declining player counts. This article delves into the root of the problem and explores how Respawn Entertainment, the developers of Apex Legends, plan to address these issues, including introducing the new Rumble Knockout mode.
Ranked Matchmaking Crisis: A Decline in Player Experience
The current season of Apex Legends has introduced a new map and meta, along with some powerful buffs for specific characters like Crypto. Despite these updates, the game’s player count has dipped to its lowest point since January 2021. At the time of writing, Apex Legends is averaging around 107,000 players on Steam, with projections suggesting it could drop below 100,000 soon.
This drop in player numbers has a direct impact on ranked matchmaking. Players on Reddit and other forums have expressed their frustration about being paired with opponents of vastly different skill levels. For instance, players in the gold and diamond tiers often find themselves matched against Apex Predators, the top players in the game. Such unbalanced matchmaking diminishes the overall competitive experience, leaving many players questioning whether ranked play is worth their time.
Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM): The Core of the Issue
A key factor contributing to Apex Legends’ declining player experience is the flawed skill-based matchmaking system. SBMM, designed to match players of similar skill levels, is currently malfunctioning. Players have reported instances of being placed in lobbies with far more skilled opponents, creating a frustrating and unbalanced playing field.
As highlighted by the Apex Legends community, the problem seems exacerbated by the low player count in ranked mode. With fewer players in the pool, the matchmaking system struggles to find appropriate matches, leading to mismatched opponents. This issue is further compounded by the existing split system, which resets player rankings midway through each season. Many players feel that resetting their ranks forces them into unfair matches, as higher-ranked players swiftly climb back up through the lower ranks, decimating less experienced players in the process.
Cheaters and Teaming: Unaddressed Challenges
On top of matchmaking issues, cheating and teaming have become rampant in ranked mode, particularly on consoles. Players report encountering groups of six to nine players working together in what should be solo or trio matches, ruining the competitive integrity of the game. These unfair tactics, combined with the presence of cheaters using third-party software, have made ranked play nearly unplayable for many.
Respawn Entertainment has acknowledged these issues and is working on new anti-cheat measures to combat the problem. They’ve announced plans to disable third-party software configurations on PC and introduce extended external technology to address cheating more effectively. However, as streamer and content creator Berno OC pointed out, while new anti-cheat solutions are welcome, the persistent problem of teaming remains largely unaddressed.
Ranked Rewards: A Long-Standing Complaint
Even for players willing to endure the SBMM issues and cheaters, the rewards for grinding ranked mode have remained stagnant for nearly 20 seasons. The current rewards system offers little motivation for players to climb the ranks, with only badges, charms, and holo sprays as incentives. Players feel that more substantial rewards, such as crafting materials or unique skins, would provide better motivation to invest time in ranked play.
In fact, Respawn briefly hinted at potential changes to ranked rewards earlier this year, acknowledging player feedback about making both splits of each season more rewarding. However, these changes were quickly backtracked, much to the frustration of the community. Players are left questioning why Respawn can consistently release new skins and heirlooms for monetization purposes but fails to innovate when it comes to improving the ranked rewards system.
For those interested in learning more about Apex Legends’ ongoing issues, check out this Twitter thread where Respawn addresses some of the concerns raised by the community.
The Future of Ranked: Rumble Knockout and Solos
Despite the current struggles, Respawn Entertainment is actively working on new modes to revitalize the competitive scene. One such mode is the Rumble Knockout, which is slated to replace ranked mode in the future. The mode will feature unique weapon skins, ranked badges, and crafting materials as rewards, giving players a new way to compete in Apex Legends.
Additionally, there are rumors that a solo mode will be introduced within the Rumble Knockout system, further expanding the competitive options available to players. While this new mode shows promise, many players remain cautious, as Respawn’s track record with implementing and maintaining competitive features has left much to be desired.
As the Apex Legends player base continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Respawn will address the numerous issues plaguing ranked play. While some players have abandoned ranked mode due to frustrations with matchmaking, cheaters, and lackluster rewards, others are hopeful that the introduction of new modes like Rumble Knockout will breathe new life into the game’s competitive scene.
FAQs
1. What is wrong with skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in Apex Legends ranked mode?
SBMM in Apex Legends ranked mode is currently malfunctioning, resulting in players being matched against opponents with vastly different skill levels. This imbalance creates an uncompetitive and frustrating experience for many players.
2. Why has the player count in Apex Legends dropped?
The player count has declined due to a combination of factors, including issues with ranked matchmaking, cheating, and a lack of meaningful rewards for grinding ranked mode. Many players are opting to leave the game until these issues are addressed.
3. How is Respawn addressing cheaters and teaming in ranked mode?
Respawn Entertainment is introducing new anti-cheat measures, including disabling third-party software and rolling out extended external technology. However, teaming, especially on consoles, remains a persistent issue that has yet to be fully addressed.
4. What rewards do players get for playing ranked mode in Apex Legends?
Currently, ranked rewards include badges, charms, and holo sprays. Players have expressed dissatisfaction with these rewards, as they have remained largely unchanged for nearly 20 seasons.
5. What is the Rumble Knockout mode in Apex Legends?
Rumble Knockout is a new mode being introduced by Respawn Entertainment, with the potential to replace the existing ranked mode. It features unique weapon skins, ranked badges, and crafting materials as rewards, offering players a new competitive experience.
