Unlocking the Summit: Understanding the Highest Rank in Call of Duty 3
The question of the highest rank in a Call of Duty game can often be confusing, especially with different iterations introducing varying ranking systems. When it comes to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MW3), the answer isn’t as straightforward as a single number. While the primary progression system caps at rank 80 (or 81 if you include the initial Prestige), the ultimate goal for many players is to achieve Legendary rank within the Ranked Play mode. So, while 80/81 is the max level, Legendary sits atop the ranked system, representing the pinnacle of competitive skill. This article will delve into the complexities of both systems, explain how they work and clarify any confusion about the various rankings available in MW3.
MW3’s Two Ranking Systems
Modern Warfare 3 incorporates two distinct ranking systems: the standard leveling system for general multiplayer and the Ranked Play system for competitive matches.
Standard Multiplayer Progression
In the standard multiplayer mode, players gain experience points (XP) by participating in matches, completing challenges, and performing various in-game actions. This XP contributes to your overall level, progressing from level 1 to a maximum of level 80. At the peak of this system, you unlock the option to enter Prestige Mode.
Prestige Mode
Prestige Mode effectively resets your level back to 1, but you gain the coveted Prestige 1 designation (hence the 81). This prestige level indicates that you’ve completed the normal progression once. The original Modern Warfare 3 allowed players to prestige multiple times ( up to 20 prestiges.) The current Modern Warfare 3 offers different Prestige levels each season. Each new prestige unlocks exclusive rewards like calling cards, emblems, and other customization options.
Ranked Play: The True Test
While the standard leveling system showcases your time investment, Ranked Play is where true competitive skill is measured. In MW3’s Ranked Play, you don’t just level up; you climb through distinct Skill Divisions, earning Skill Rating (SR) for wins and losing it on losses. These divisions form a ladder culminating in the Legendary rank.
Rank Divisions in Ranked Play
The Ranked Play system uses several tiers that players progress through to reach the ultimate rank. These are:
- Rookie
- Veteran
- Elite
- Pro
- Master
- Grandmaster
- Legendary
Each tier except Legendary has multiple sub-ranks within it, requiring a specified amount of SR to advance. Legendary is the highest rank, reserved for the best players, and is achieved when you have 8001+ points. In other words, the highest rank is determined by the Skill Rating (SR) system in Ranked Play.
FAQs About Ranking in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help clarify the ranking system in MW3:
How many ranks are there in MW3’s normal multiplayer?
There are 80 ranks in the normal multiplayer mode. When you reach level 80, you can choose to enter Prestige Mode. This technically makes it 81.
Does MW3 have a ranked mode?
Yes, MW3 has a Ranked Play mode. This mode features a “Skill Rating” system and “Rank Divisions,” allowing players to climb the competitive ladder.
What is Prestige mode in MW3?
Prestige Mode is an optional reset mechanic that allows players to reset their level back to 1 after reaching the maximum level 80. You gain a Prestige level, and unlock unique rewards and emblems.
How do you prestige in MW3?
Once you reach level 80 in multiplayer (and level 35 in Zombies), you can go to the Barracks menu and select the Prestige Mode option.
How many prestige levels are there in MW3?
The amount of prestige levels will change each season, usually around 4 or 5 are added each season.
What is the highest rank in Ranked Play?
The highest rank in Ranked Play is Legendary, which requires 8,001+ Skill Rating (SR) points.
How does the Ranked Play system work?
In Ranked Play, your Skill Rating (SR) fluctuates based on your match performance and win/loss ratio. As you gain SR, you climb through different divisions like Rookie, Veteran, Elite, Pro, Master, Grandmaster, and ultimately, Legendary.
What are the different rank divisions in Ranked Play?
The rank divisions in Ranked Play are: Rookie, Veteran, Elite, Pro, Master, Grandmaster, and Legendary.
What are Skill Rating (SR) points?
Skill Rating (SR) points are awarded and deducted based on your wins, losses, and overall match performance in Ranked Play. The higher your SR, the higher your rank.
Can I lose rank in Ranked Play?
Yes, you can lose rank in Ranked Play if you consistently lose matches, which will deduct your SR. You will fall down the ranks if you have a bad losing streak.
Can I stop the deduction of Rank XP in Ranked Play?
Yes, you can use a Ranked Shield Card to stop the deduction of Rank XP, protecting your SR from losses.
What is the difference between level 80 and Legendary rank?
Level 80 is the highest level in the standard multiplayer progression system, while Legendary is the highest rank in the Ranked Play system. They represent two different types of accomplishments: one for time spent, the other for competitive skill.
Does the ranking system reset?
Yes, the Ranked Play system has seasonal resets, similar to other competitive games. This means your rank will be reset, and you will have to climb the ladder again. The normal multiplayer levels do not reset with a new season.
Is there a special reward for reaching Legendary rank?
Yes, usually there are exclusive rewards for reaching Legendary such as calling cards, emblems, and potentially weapon blueprints. These rewards vary per season.
Is it more difficult to achieve a high rank in ranked or level 80 in standard multiplayer?
It’s generally considered more difficult to reach Legendary rank in Ranked Play, as it requires a combination of skill, teamwork, and consistent performance, whereas reaching level 80 is more about time investment.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the “highest rank” in MW3 depends on your focus. For those interested in general progression and customization, reaching level 80 and achieving Prestige is the goal. However, for players looking for the ultimate competitive challenge, the Legendary rank in Ranked Play represents the highest pinnacle of skill and mastery. Both modes provide unique challenges and rewards and contribute to the overall depth of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. By understanding these two interconnected but different systems, you can truly master all aspects of the game and achieve your goals.