What is Elite Ranking in World of Warcraft?
The Elite ranking in World of Warcraft (WoW) is a prestigious achievement in player-versus-player (PvP) combat, specifically within the Arena system. It signifies a high level of skill and dedication, placing players among the top competitors in the game. Achieving the Elite rank is not just about winning a few battles; it requires consistent performance and reaching a specific rating threshold. Reaching this milestone unlocks exclusive rewards, including titles, achievements, and access to unique gear transmogs. In essence, the Elite rank is a badge of honor for dedicated PvP players, demonstrating mastery of their class and a deep understanding of arena combat mechanics.
Understanding the Elite Ranking
The Elite ranking is not a static position; it’s a marker of progress along a ladder of PvP skill. It is a stepping stone on the way to the highest echelons of PvP play. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Rating Requirement: To reach the Elite rank, players must achieve a rating of 2400 or higher in Arena. This requires consistently winning against other highly skilled teams, climbing up the ranks, and maintaining a high level of performance.
- Arena Focus: The Elite ranking is specifically tied to the Arena PvP environment. It doesn’t apply to other forms of PvP like Battlegrounds or War Mode.
- Rewards & Recognition: Upon reaching 2400 rating, players are awarded the “Elite” title, a unique achievement specific to the season and, in many cases, access to the complete Elite PvP transmog set of their current season. These transmogs are visually distinctive and highly sought after by players.
- The Climb to Gladiator: The Elite ranking is a prerequisite for the Gladiator rank. To attain Gladiator, players must reach 2400 rating and win 50 Arena matches at that rating or above. This makes the Elite ranking an essential step toward becoming a Gladiator.
- Seasonal Reset: PvP rankings, including the Elite rank, reset at the beginning of each season. This means players need to continuously perform at a high level to regain their position and rewards each season.
Significance of the Elite Rank
The Elite rank holds a high significance in the WoW community for several reasons:
- Skill Indication: It clearly demonstrates a player’s proficiency in PvP combat. Reaching 2400 rating is not just about being lucky; it requires tactical awareness, good coordination with team members, understanding of different class abilities, and a quick reaction time.
- Prestige: The Elite title and transmogs are highly prestigious, setting players apart and allowing them to show off their PvP accomplishments.
- Progression Gateway: The Elite rank is a key checkpoint on the way to Gladiator, the highest attainable rank in Arena.
- Community Respect: Elite ranked players often receive respect and recognition from others in the WoW community due to their dedication and demonstrable skill.
- Gear and Progression: Reaching the Elite rank can also unlock the ability to upgrade PvP gear, further increasing character power and improving combat effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Elite Ranking in WoW
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the Elite ranking in World of Warcraft to provide a comprehensive understanding of this important aspect of PvP.
1. What is the difference between Elite and Gladiator?
The Elite rank is achieved when a player reaches 2400 rating in Arena. The Gladiator rank requires reaching 2400 rating and then winning 50 Arena matches while at that rating or higher. Elite is a stepping stone towards Gladiator, which requires further dedication and consistent victories.
2. What rewards do you get for reaching the Elite rank?
Upon reaching the Elite rank, players receive the “The Elite” title (or variations of it based on the season), an achievement for that season, and usually access to purchase the full Elite PvP transmogrification set for the current season.
3. Does the Elite rank apply to all PvP modes?
No, the Elite rank is specifically tied to the Arena PvP mode. It does not apply to Battlegrounds, War Mode, or other forms of PvP combat.
4. How often does the Elite rank reset?
The Elite rank, like all PvP rankings, resets at the beginning of each new PvP season. Players must earn the rank again each season if they want the corresponding rewards.
5. What rating do I need for the Elite PvP transmog set?
Typically, players need to reach 1800 rating in Arena to unlock the ability to purchase pieces of the current season’s Elite PvP transmog set. Reaching the Elite rank of 2400 usually unlocks the full set to be bought.
6. Is the Elite rank permanent?
No, the Elite rank is not permanent. Players need to re-earn it every season. While achievements might remain, the title and current rewards need to be secured each new season.
7. What happens if I drop below 2400 rating after getting the Elite rank?
If a player drops below 2400 after initially reaching the Elite rank, they may lose the ability to upgrade gear to the highest tiers until they climb back up. They may keep the achievement if the requirements for keeping it are met even after falling out of the required rating for it. However, their displayed title will remain until the end of the season, they will be able to purchase the transmogs that are obtained when reaching this rating, unless another criteria was not met in between.
8. How difficult is it to achieve the Elite rank?
Achieving the Elite rank is considered very challenging, requiring a high level of skill, knowledge of the game, effective communication with teammates, and consistent performance in the Arena. It is generally a goal for more serious PvP players.
9. Can I achieve the Elite rank solo?
The Elite rank is almost exclusively achieved in Arena, which requires forming a team with other players. It’s not typically achievable solo.
10. Is there an “Elite” rank in other forms of PvP?
The Elite rank is primarily associated with Arena PvP. Other forms of PvP may have their own rewards and rankings, but not the Elite title or associated achievements.
11. Does the Elite rank guarantee Gladiator?
No, while reaching the Elite rank is necessary for achieving Gladiator, it doesn’t guarantee it. Players need to reach the 2400 rating and win 50 additional games while remaining above that rating to become a Gladiator.
12. What gear is needed to achieve the Elite rank?
While having decent PvP gear is essential, skill and strategy matter more than gear at the highest levels of arena. Players need to understand their class, its strengths and weaknesses, and how to counter enemy compositions.
13. Are there special mounts for Elite ranking?
No, there aren’t specific mounts awarded directly for the Elite rank. However, Gladiator rank does award a mount. It’s common for players who achieve Elite ranking to continue pushing towards the mount at that point.
14. How does the Elite ranking impact gear upgrades?
Reaching the Elite rank often unlocks the ability to upgrade PvP gear to the highest item level, making it a necessary step for top-tier PvP character progression.
15. What is “Rank One” after Elite and Gladiator?
“Rank One” is the highest rank in WoW’s Arena PvP, given to the very top players at the end of each season. This title is often referred to as “Cosmic Gladiator,” and represents the absolute peak of PvP performance for that season. The criteria to obtain the title are very high and reserved for the very best players on the realm.
The Elite rank in WoW is a significant achievement in the world of PvP, showcasing a player’s dedication and skill. It not only grants prestigious rewards but also serves as a crucial step towards the highest PvP ranks, fostering a competitive environment for players to test their limits.