Why Do High-Ranked Players Keep Appearing in My Valorant Matches?

There are several reasons why you may encounter high-ranked players in your Valorant matches. In this article, we will explore these reasons.

1. MMR Balance in Ranked Matches

• Valorant uses an MMR (Matchmaking Rating) system for ranked matches. In addition to your rank, your hidden MMR also influences matchmaking. If your MMR is high, the system may match you with better players.
• If you perform well despite being in a low rank, the system will match you with players with higher MMR.

2. Party Games

• If you queue with a high-ranked friend, the system will match you with players closer to their rank. This can result in facing tougher opponents despite your lower rank.

3. Player Pool and Matchmaking

• At certain times, especially when fewer players are active, the system may add higher-ranked players if it cannot find enough players at your rank. This is common in less populated regions or during late-night hours.

4. Smurf and Boosting Issues

• Some players create "smurf" accounts to play at lower ranks or join matches with their high-ranked accounts to boost friends. This can disrupt matchmaking balance.

5. Riot System Updates

• Occasionally, Riot Games updates its matchmaking system. During these updates, temporary matchmaking imbalances may occur.

Solutions

• Play Solo: If you frequently face high-ranked players, try playing solo. Partying can cause unbalanced matchmaking.
• Choose Prime Hours: Play during peak hours to benefit from a more balanced player pool.