OW2 Season 9 Patch Notes: The Mysterious World of Placement Matches in Overwatch
Highlights
- The recent changes in OW2 Season 9's placement match system have left many Overwatch players perplexed, as they experienced apparent discrepancies in their rankings compared to their friends.
- The placement matches in OW2 Season 9 are a soft reset, meaning that your previous season rank is taken into account but the algorithm's certainty in your skill rating (SR) is reset to zero, resulting in larger fluctuations in rank after wins and losses.
- The game's intention is for players to achieve a balanced 5-5 record in placement matches, but win streaks and loss streaks can amplify rank changes, and there may be a cap on how high the game can place you even with a flawless 10-0 record.
In the ever-evolving world of Overwatch, placement matches have always been a source of intrigue and excitement for players. These matches mark the beginning of a new season, offering the chance to prove one's worth and secure a prestigious rank. However, the recent changes in OW2 Season 9 have left many players perplexed, questioning the inner workings of the placement match system.
One player shared their experience, recounting how they won an impressive 8 out of 10 placement matches as a DPS, only to find themselves placed in Gold 2, while their friend soared to Diamond 5. Similar scenarios unfolded when they played as a tank and support, with their friend consistently outplacing them. The apparent discrepancy in placements has sparked a wave of confusion and doubt among the Overwatch community.
Thankfully, the community has rallied together to shed some light on this enigmatic system. According to one insightful comment, the placement matches in OW2 Season 9 are not a complete reset but rather a soft reset. This means that while your previous season rank is taken into account, the algorithm's certainty in your skill rating (SR) is reset to zero.
In simpler terms, the more you play, the more the algorithm learns about your true skill level, and the more it adjusts its certainty. This is where volatility comes into play. If there is a significant discrepancy between your visible SR and your hidden matchmaking rating (MMR), your SR becomes more volatile, resulting in larger fluctuations in rank after wins and losses.
Another comment delves into the mechanics of the placement matches. Let's say your previous season rank was Masters 1. The game would then bring you down by one whole rank, placing you at Diamond 1 as your starting rank before the placement matches. Each victory would subsequently move you up one division, while each defeat would drop you down one division.
The game's intention is for players to achieve a balanced 5-5 record, resulting in no change in SR and remaining one whole rank down. However, win streaks and loss streaks can amplify these changes, propelling you further up or down the ladder. It is worth noting that there may be a cap on how high the game can place you after the placement matches. Even if you achieve a flawless 10-0 record, you will not immediately skyrocket back to your previous rank.
While these insights provide some clarity, it is crucial to remember that the placement match system is intricate and influenced by a multitude of factors. So, do not be disheartened if you do not end up where you had anticipated. Instead, focus on honing your skills, enjoying the game, and let the ranks fall into place as you continue your Overwatch journey.
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