How does MMR work?
MMR (Matchmaking Rating) is a skill-based ranking system used in multiplayer video games to match players of similar skill levels together. It works by assigning each player a numerical value, which represents their skill level, and then using this value to match players together in games.
The MMR system is designed to be dynamic, so a player's MMR will increase or decrease based on their performance in matches. If a player wins, they will gain MMR, and if they lose, they will lose MMR. The amount of MMR gained or lost will depend on the skill level of the opponents.
For example, if a player wins a match against an opponent with a higher MMR, they will gain more MMR than if they won against an opponent with a lower MMR. Similarly, if a player loses a match against an opponent with a lower MMR, they will lose more MMR than if they lost against an opponent with a higher MMR.
MMR systems can use various factors to calculate a player's skill level. Some of the most common factors include:
* Win/loss record: This is a simple measure of how many games a player has won or lost.
* Rating: This is a number that represents a player's skill level, and it is typically based on their win/loss record.
* K-factor: This is a number that represents how much a player's rating can change after each game.
* Time spent playing: This can be a factor in some MMR systems, as it is assumed that players who have spent more time playing the game are more experienced and have higher skill levels.
MMR systems are not perfect, and there are some potential problems that can occur, such as:
* Smurfing: This is when a player creates a new account so they can play against lower-skilled players and win in order to artificially boost their MMR.
* Boosting: This is when a player gets another player who is better at the game to help them win games, thus artificially boosting their MMR.
* Match fixing: This is when players agree to lose a match in order to manipulate their MMR.
Overall, MMR systems can be a useful way to match players of similar skill levels together, but they are not without their problems.