Dota 2 Implements Phone Number Verification and Other Changes in Matchmaking System
Valve, the developer of Dota 2, has announced that players will soon be required to link their accounts to a personal phone number as part of their efforts to improve matchmaking experiences. This feature, known as “prime matchmaking,” is similar to the system used in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and aims to prevent players from using multiple active accounts in different skill brackets. The practice of “smurfing,” where highly skilled players use lower-rated accounts, will be curtailed, thus improving the gaming experience for lower ranked players.
Solo Matchmaking Gets an Update
A significant change has been made to Dota 2’s matchmaking system, affecting solo matchmaking in particular. Previously, solo players had the disadvantage of encountering opponents who queued up as a party. This meant that the opposing team could communicate and strategize better, putting the solo players at a disadvantage. With the update, solo players will only face other solo players, creating a more balanced and fair gaming experience.
Party Matchmaking Adjusts MMR Based on Skill Level
The matchmaking update also brings changes to party matchmaking. If a player with a significantly higher MMR joins a party, the entire party’s MMR will be adjusted to face opponents of a higher skill level. This adjustment is based on research conducted by Valve, which found that having a player with a much higher solo MMR than party MMR led to uncompetitive matches. This change aims to improve the overall gaming experience for both teams.
Banning Players Using Bots for MMR Manipulation
Valve has also taken steps to address the issue of MMR manipulation using bots. Previously, players were able to use bots in ranked matchmaking to artificially inflate their MMR. This gave them an unfair advantage and allowed them to rapidly increase their MMR without playing against real opponents. However, Valve has now implemented strict measures, with any account found using bots being permanently banned from playing Dota 2.
If you’ve been hesitant to try out ranked matchmaking in Dota 2, now is the perfect time to give it another shot. These changes promise to create a more enjoyable and competitive gaming experience for all players.
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