Respawn has introduced a temporary adjustment to the matchmaking rules for Apex Legends’ Ranked mode, aiming to limit the matchmaking pool for Masters and Predator players. This update arrives as a precursor to the upcoming Season 26, which is set to launch in August and could greatly alter the competitive gaming landscape.
One of the key attractions of Apex Legends has been its Ranked mode, offering players a chance to compete for higher ranks, ultimately reaching the prestigious Predator tier. Although this mode has engaged many players over the years, it has faced its fair share of challenges, prompting many reworks by Respawn in search of a balanced formula that satisfies a broad player base. With Season 26 approaching, the developers have unveiled this latest initiative to potentially enhance the overall experience.
New Matchmaking Restrictions for Ranked Players
According to Respawn, this new test is particularly focused on high-skill players. The changes will prevent Masters and Predator players from joining games with teams below Diamond 1 rank. Currently being tested across all regions and platforms, the purpose is to “improve the skill distribution across Ranked matches.” This adjustment is in response to feedback from players regarding the uneven skill distribution noted in prior lobbies.
Although the changes aim to balance matchups, players below Diamond 1 might still encounter Masters and Predator representatives during their games. A follow-up tweet from Respawn clarified that matchmaking decisions will be based on the highest-ranked member in a squad, meaning a Diamond 1 player could be teamed up with lower-ranked allies in matches with higher-ranked opponents.
It remains to be seen how this updated matchmaking will influence Apex Legends in the long term, and whether it will become a permanent feature. Developers have expressed a desire to conduct these tests at the season’s end to maintain a healthy population among Masters and Predator players. Notably, a downside could be lengthened wait times in lobbies with fewer players available for matchmaking. As such, should the queue times become excessively prolonged, this test may conclude earlier than anticipated.
Players are hopeful that this matchmaking revision will elevate their Ranked experience as Season 25 wraps up. With updates for Season 26 already hinted at by Respawn, many are eager to see if these changes will be part of the new framework.
