Behind the colorful graphics and intense gameplay of every successful arena battler lies a complex, invisible mathematical engine.
Many players believe that matchmaking is intentionally rigged against them, constantly forcing them to fight 'hard counters' after a win streak.
How You Are Ranked
Most modern strategy games utilize a modified version of the Elo rating system, originally designed for professional chess.
When you go on a massive winning streak, your trophy count inflates, and the algorithm begins matching you against significantly better players.
- Do not expect to win every game.
- Queue times increase at the top of the ladder.
- If you drop trophies, the algorithm matches you against easier opponents.
The Free-to-Play Dilemma
The standard Elo system works perfectly for chess because all pieces are equal, but tower rush games feature upgradeable cards.
However, if no such player is available, the algorithm will prioritize queue speed over level fairness, resulting in those frustrating, mismatched games.
| System Priority | Importance Level |
|---|---|
| Elo Rating | Absolute Highest Priority |
| King Level / Card Levels | Secondary Priority |
Maintaining Competitive Integrity
By artificially capping all card levels to a specific number, the algorithm can rely purely on the Elo rating.
Trust the math, ignore the conspiracy theories, and focus on improving your own gameplay.