How do Placement Matches Work in League of Legends?
As a new player in League of Legends, you’re likely eager to dive into the ranked scene and test your skills against other players. However, before you can start climbing the ranked ladder, you need to go through a process called placement matches. But how do placement matches work, exactly?
What are Placement Matches?
Placement matches are a series of games played by new players in League of Legends that help the game determine their skill level. These matches are used to calculate a player’s starting position in the ranked queue, ensuring that they’re matched against opponents of similar skill. The goal of placement matches is to give new players a chance to showcase their abilities and get a sense of their relative strength compared to others.
How do Placement Matches Work?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the placement match process:
- Initial Placement Match: Your first placement match is against another new player, and the goal is to get a feel for the game. You’ll play a normal game, with no special rules or restrictions.
- Gameplay and Match Results: Your performance in the initial match will determine whether you’ll play another placement match or move on to the ranked queue.
- Additional Placement Matches: If your initial match performance indicates that you need more evaluation, you’ll be matched against other new players in additional placement matches. The number of matches you’ll play depends on your performance.
- Ranking and Placement: After playing a set number of placement matches, you’ll be assigned a ranked role (e.g., Solo/ Flex, Ranked Flex) and a starting rank. This rank will determine the players you’re matched against in the ranked queue.
How are Placement Matches Scored?
Placement matches are scored based on your performance in each game. Here’s how it works:
- Wins and Losses: You earn 1 point for a win and 0 points for a loss.
- Champion Mastery: Your champion mastery level (0-7) affects your placement match score. For example, if you’re a bronze-tier champion, you’ll earn fewer points for a win than if you were a platinum-tier champion.
- K/D/A Ratio: Your K/D/A (kills, deaths, assists) ratio is also considered in placement match scoring. A high K/D/A ratio can boost your score.
Table: Placement Match Scoring
| Win/Loss | Champion Mastery (Bronze) | Champion Mastery (Platinum) | K/D/A Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Win | 1 point | 1.5 points | +0.1 per kill, -0.1 per death |
| Loss | 0 points | 0 points | -0.1 per death |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about placement matches in League of Legends:
Q: How many placement matches do I need to play?
A: The number of placement matches you need to play depends on your performance. If you win a certain number of matches, you’ll be assigned a ranked role and starting rank.
Q: Can I decline a placement match?
A: No, you cannot decline a placement match. These matches are mandatory for new players to ensure accurate ranking.
Q: Will my placement matches affect my ranked performance?
A: No, your placement matches will not affect your ranked performance once you’re assigned a ranked role and starting rank.
Q: Can I play placement matches with my friends?
A: No, placement matches are designed to evaluate individual performance. Playing with friends will not affect the placement match scoring.
Q: Can I skip placement matches and start ranked?
A: No, all new players must complete the placement match process before starting ranked games.
Q: How long do placement matches take?
A: The duration of placement matches varies depending on your performance and the number of matches you need to play.
Q: Can I reset my placement matches?
A: No, once you’ve completed the placement match process, you cannot reset it. However, if you re-create an account, you’ll start the placement match process again.
Q: Can I buy LP (League Points) in placement matches?
A: No, LP is not available in placement matches. You’ll earn LP in ranked games only.
By understanding how placement matches work, you’ll be better prepared to start your ranked journey in League of Legends. Remember, the goal of placement matches is to give new players a chance to showcase their abilities and get a sense of their relative strength compared to others. So, take the process seriously, and you’ll be climbing the ranked ladder in no time!