While Marvel Rivals embraces a fun-filled design, it also introduces a competitive mode where players can earn rewards such as the coveted golden Moon Knight skin. The ranking system features three sub-ranks within each main rank (Gold 1, 2, and 3), which might initially suggest an easier path to ascend the ranks compared to titles like Overwatch 2 and League of Legends. However, players quickly discover that the quality of competition at even slightly above average ranks is notably higher than in many other games.
Unlike many games that utilize placement matches to gauge players’ skills and assign an initial rank, Marvel Rivals sets the stage by placing everyone at the lowest rank, Bronze Three. It remains uncertain whether this approach will continue beyond the current Season 0 or if it is a unique setup. Regardless, beginning from the bottom means the ranks are heavily weighted towards lower tiers.
Rank Distribution in Marvel Rivals is Noticeably Skewed
Majority of Players Are in Bronze and Silver
In contrast to similar games where ranked players typically populate the silver and gold tiers, Marvel Rivals has a significant number of players still competing in bronze. This dynamic yields intriguing outcomes for those competing above the gold tier. Typically, reaching the platinum rank denotes a player who is ahead of the majority; however, as of this writing, platinum-ranked players in Marvel Rivals represent comfortably within the top 5% of all players according to the game’s metrics. This deviates from the norm where platinum status usually equates to a more crowded field.
Marvel Rivals’ rank structure comprises eight distinct ranks: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Grandmaster, Eternity, and One Above All.
For context, consider Overwatch 2, which recently concluded its 12th Season. Based on insights from Morgan Maddren, a Blizzard Server Engineer, and data shared by Reddit user bullxbull, we observe that platinum players in Overwatch 2 are positioned in the top 26.93%. This highlights that a platinum-ranked player in Marvel Rivals may possess a significantly higher skill level compared to their Overwatch counterpart.
Future Seasons May Normalize Rank Distribution
Marvel Rivals is Currently in Season 0
As Marvel Rivals continues to develop, it is essential to note that with an expansive player base of approximately 20 million, the ranking structure will remain skewed towards lower ranks, at least during this initial phase. The current ranking system offers relief, allowing players to climb without the harsh penalties that established titles often impose. It is advisable for players to familiarize themselves and aim for higher ranks now before potential adjustments are made as Season 1 approaches.
Importantly, players should be mindful not to be overly critical of their performance if they cannot replicate their past ranks from other games like Overwatch. The distribution of ranks indicates that players of higher caliber are likely occupying the same ranks. Therefore, as time progresses, the rank distribution may begin to shift towards reflecting a more balanced landscape, with silver and gold becoming more prevalent. Yet, if the system remains as is, players who avoid ranked play will perpetually stay at bronze, continuing to influence Marvel Rivals’ overall rank distribution.
The progressive climbing of ranks and witnessing a good standing among a broad player base enhances the experience and conveys a sense of achievement, especially given the substantial engagement surrounding Marvel Rivals.
Sources: Morgan Maddren/X, bullxbull/Reddit
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