Ranked Matchmaking
Ranked Matchmaking in Critical Ops
Ranked matchmaking in Critical Ops allows players to compete against others of similar skill levels in a more structured environment. Players are ranked based on match performance, and each season offers exclusive rewards for those who rank high enough. More specific information about ranked, such as specific rating tables, search ranges, decay, and rewards, can be found on our website here.
New Players and Ranked Access
New players need to reach Player Level 10 to access Ranked Defuse mode. Upon entering ranked, new players start without a rank but with a Matchmaking Rating (MMR) of 1200. To receive an official rank, players must complete 5 placement matches.
Before completing the 5 placement matches, new players are in the Calibrating rank during placements. After the placement matches, your starting rank will be based on your performance during those matches and, if applicable, previous season results. Continue playing ranked matches to improve your rank and unlock exclusive seasonal rewards as you progress to prove your skills!
How to Rank Up
Your Matchmaking Rating (MMR) determines your rank in the game. This rating is based on your performance during placement matches, with your previous season’s results influencing your starting rating. To rank up, you need to play more ranked matches and perform well—winning matches will improve your rank and unlock exclusive seasonal rewards.
Matchmaking is based on your MMR, not your K/D or other stats. Playing as a team and cooperating with teammates is key to success. The system doesn’t account for fluctuating performance or personal goals, meaning your rank is determined purely by match outcomes.
For a smoother experience, consider using the Party feature to play with 2-5 players who have similar skill levels and goals for ranked matches. This increases your chances of winning and is common among higher-ranked players.
To learn more about the ranked system and how ranks affect matchmaking, check out the Ranked System Overview.
Ranked Leaver Penalty
Leaving ranked matches results in penalties. Players who leave a match will face a 30-minute or longer penalty. To avoid penalties, make sure you have a stable connection and are ready to complete the match. More information about ranked penalties can be found here.
Regional vs Global Matchmaking
Regional matchmaking means you will only search for ranked matches within your selected region.
- Global Matchmaking: Matches are played on the most optimal server for all players, ensuring a more diverse pool of opponents.
- Regional Matchmaking: Matches are played only on servers within the region you have selected, providing potentially better connectivity.
Note: Enabling Regional matchmaking will improve your connectivity, but it may result in longer queue times as you're searching only within your chosen region.
You can toggle this option by tapping the server icon in the top right of the main hub.
Too Far Apart Error Message
The "Too Far Apart" error occurs when the difference between your matchmaking rating (MMR) and your friend's is too large to play ranked together. This happens since even while you are unranked, you have a hidden MMR based on your previous rank and matches played this season.
To fix this, complete your 5 placement matches to receive an official rank and align your MMR with your friends, allowing you to play ranked matches together.