Just like any esports-centric game, Heroes of the Storm (HotS) features a robust ranking system. These ranks are more than just a way for people to brag about their achievements. Instead, they serve an essential purpose: matching players of comparable skill and cultivating a competitive arena for gamers.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the HotS ranking system, dissecting its inner workings and exploring the various League Tiers and Divisions that comprise it. We’ll also briefly touch on rank decay and even share some tips to help you climb the Heroes of the Storm ranked leaderboard.
HoTS Ranking System
What Is The Heroes Of The Storm Ranking System?
The ranking system in HotS categorizes and matches players in Ranked Play based on their skill levels. Every player starts the season by playing three placement matches that will determine their initial rank—these are expressed as League Tiers and Divisions (more on that later).
Ultimately, ranked games offer players a platform to showcase their skills, rewarding those who manage to climb the tiers. Note that there is a player-level requirement of 50 to protect the competitive integrity of the matches. If Ranked Play isn’t available yet, just keep playing!
How Do The Ranks Work?
In previous iterations, players progressed through the various HotS ranks by earning rank points. Once they reached 1,000 points, they had to compete in a Promotion Match that would advance them to a higher tier or division if they won. Similarly, dropping to 0 points would trigger a Relegation Match, where they risk being demoted to a lower rank or division.
However, the promotion-relegation system was abolished in 2019’s Season 3 update. Now, players’ ranks are directly linked to their matchmaking rating (“MMR”), which streamlines the transition between League Tiers and Divisions. In short, players rank up or down simply by winning or losing HotS games.
The number of rank points lost or gained in a competitive HotS match is not fixed and varies by several factors. However, the main determinant is winning or losing. You’ll generally earn more points if the odds are stacked against you (e.g., if you won when you weren’t expected to); the same is true for the contrary.
Ultimately, players’ HotS ranks only persist for a few months. At the end of each season, everybody’s rank will reset and require them to (once again) play placement matches to re-establish their skill level. But don’t worry—you’ll earn season rewards based on your highest rank for your effort!
How Many Ranks Are There In Heroes Of The Storm?
HotS ranks are divided into the following League Tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Master, and Grand Master. These “skill buckets” reflect a player’s general skill level, with each tier having Divisions (up to Master), numbered from five (lowest) to one (highest), to indicate a player’s ranked progress.
It’s important to note that the same rank is used for solo and teams, meaning that HotS players of different ranks can play together in Ranked Play. In fact, it’s faster to climb the ranks queuing with friends, especially at higher ranks (but only if they are within one League Tier of their rank).
HotS Ranks
Here’s an overview of all the League Tiers in Heroes of the Storm:
- Bronze (Divisions 5 to 1)
- Silver (Divisions 5 to 1)
- Gold (Divisions 5 to 1)
- Platinum (Divisions 5 to 1)
- Diamond (Divisions 5 to 1)
- Master
- Grand Master
Master And Grand Master Leagues
Master and Grand Master tiers do not have any Divisions. Instead, the Master League will display the total rank points accumulated over the season, which are gained or lost based on the outcomes of matches. This system lets players track their progression against others in the Master League.
The Grand Master League comprises only the highest-skilled players in Heroes of the Storm. More specifically, the tier is reserved only for the top 500 players in the Master League of each region. Each player’s position in the league is reflected by their position in the regional leaderboard.
As you may imagine, earning (and keeping) a spot in the Grand Master League in HotS comes with significant honor as it shows that a player is among the elite within their respective region. While it’s a tremendous accomplishment, it’s also hotly contested as every other player vies for that top spot.
Does Heroes Of The Storm Have Rank Decay?
Yes, HotS does have rank decay. The system was implemented to ensure that the ranks of HotS players remain accurate and reflect their current skill level. Rank decay primarily affects higher-rank players like Diamond, Master, and Grand Master.
If a player does not play ranked games for a certain period, they will slowly lose Rank Points. If enough time passes, they may even be demoted to the previous Division. The decay rate varies by the length of inactivity. However, you will be notified if you approach this threshold.
How To Rank Up In Heroes Of The Storm
Ranking up in HotS will take time and effort. But there are some things you can do to gain a winning edge. Here are a few tried-and-true tips you can use to rank up:
- Comfort picking: If you want to win your matches, choose heroes you’re familiar with to enhance your performance. A ranked match is not the place to be experimental—your rank points are on the line! So, pick a hero you know you can dominate with and learn which heroes are best on specific maps.
- Be versatile in your role: While you’ll do well to know your role, you should be adept with other roles like tank, healer, support, bruiser, and the rest. Your ability to adapt to the unique demands of your team and matches could be the difference between winning and losing.
- Do well during placement: Bring your A-game in your placement matches because they will dictate the ease or difficulty of your climb. Mediocre performance could mean an arduous journey back to your rank in the previous season.
- Teamwork: Remember that HotS is a team-based game. Your success hinges on your collaboration rather than your individual ability in the game. Work together with your teammates, not against them.
These are just a few tips for improving your rank in HotS. Beyond this, you’ll do well staying updated with the ranked meta and maintaining your composure in tough matches. Finally, always reflect on your gameplay and in-game decisions. A loss is not a reflection of poor skill but an opportunity to grow and learn!
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