Dota 2 ranks and ranking system explained

Most online games have a player skill rating system. The criteria can be the level of the main character, the number of matches played, the total cost of in-game assets, and other parameters. The choice depends on the theme of the game and the specifics of the gameplay. Such measures support the competitive spirit, stir up interest, and also allow you to connect equal partners in one match.

What are the ranks in Dota 2?

Dota is no exception: it also has a rating system. However, this game stands out in that all achievements, in-game currency, and character level only matter during a single match. Previously, in Dota 2, ranks were calculated using a modified Elo system. With the release of patch 7.33 and the "New Frontiers" update, Valve introduced a new MMR (Match Making Rating) system called Glicko.

The Glicko system in Dota 2 is a ranking algorithm designed to more accurately determine players' skill levels. It is based on two key indicators:

• Rating (MMR) – a numerical value reflecting the player's current skill level.
• Rating Deviation (RD) – a measure of rating accuracy, which increases with frequent play and decreases with long pauses.

The system’s uniqueness lies in its consideration of not only match outcomes (wins or losses) but also the opponents’ skill level. Rating changes are more dynamic: the more unexpected the match result, the greater the MMR adjustment (from ±10 to ±40 points). This is significantly different from the old system, where players always received a fixed ±25 points per match. This approach allows for a more precise assessment of skill, reflecting the real level of play and creating more balanced matchmaking.

Ranked matchmaking table

With the release of "New Frontiers," the traditional calibration system was removed. Initially, all players had to go through a "short calibration" based on their previous rank, similar to the start of a new season. Upon reaching 30% confidence, players received updated ranking medals.

The current table of numerical MMR ranges and ranks is as follows:

• Herald – 0 to 610 MMR;
• Guardian – 610 to 1400 MMR;
• Crusader – 1400 to 2150 MMR;
• Archon – 2150 to 2930 MMR;
• Legend – 2930 to 3700 MMR;
• Ancient – 3700 to 4460 MMR;
• Divine – 4620 to 5420 MMR;
• Immortal – 5620+ MMR.

Notably, players with 8500 MMR unlock the Immortal Draft. Two players with the highest ratings become captains and alternately select four players each from a pool of eight remaining players to form their teams.

Additionally, Dota 2 features a global leaderboard known as the ladder. It displays the top players with the Immortal rank and is divided into regions: Americas, Europe, Southeast Asia, and China.

Features of the rank system

• Each rank has five sub-levels (represented by stars). To move up a star, ~150 MMR is required.
• Advancing to the next rank occurs when the player reaches the required MMR threshold.
• The number of points added or subtracted per match depends on the opponents' skill level and your performance.
• Since there are no seasons, your current medal is not protected, and in case of a losing streak, you may lose rank and drop to a lower level.

It’s important to note that if you play in a group and your average MMR is lower than your opponents', you will gain more rating points for a win and lose fewer points for a loss.