In Dota 2, MMR (matchmaking ranking) is the pillar of the game’s ranking system. It is the easiest way to determine or compare a player’s skill level, and is primarily used to place players into fair and balanced ranked matches. In this guide, we’ll break down what MMR is, how it works, and how you can get your first rank.
What is MMR in Dota 2?
MMR is a numerical value that represents a player’s current skill level. The Dota 2 matchmaking system uses MMR as the primary indicator to pair players with similar skill levels in ranked matches, ensuring that the game is balanced and competitive. Such a system helps maintain healthy ranked play that prevents significant skill gaps between players.
A player’s MMR will continuously fluctuate based on their wins and losses in ranked matches. It is also the most important factor in determining a player’s rank, which is displayed as a medal. Similar to any elo system, higher MMR indicates a stronger player, while lower MMR suggests a less experienced or lower-skilled player.
How MMR Works
As briefly stated earlier, MMR is an adjustable rating that will change with every ranked match. After each completed ranked match:
- Winning the match will increase a player’s MMR.
- Losing the match will decrease a player’s MMR.
The Solo and Party MMR system no longer exists in Dota 2. Instead, players now have a single MMR value, which updates regardless of whether they play solo or party matches.
MMR numbers are only updated through playing the ranked game mode. Modes such as unranked, turbo, or ability draft do not impact MMR changes.
How much MMR is gained or lost per game?
Generally, players win or lose an average of 25 MMR. However, the amount won or lost may slightly vary depending on the MMR discrepancy in the game.
All ten players in the game will win or lose the same amount of MMR points. You will not gain or lose more MMR than your teammates for playing better or worse.
MMR Calibration
If you clicked on this article, there’s a solid chance you don’t have your MMR yet. Don’t worry, this is completely normal.
New players are automatically placed in an “Uncalibrated” state, and must go through the MMR calibration process to get your numbers.
What is MMR calibration?
MMR calibration is the process by which a player’s MMR is assessed and determined for the first time.
However, players also have the ability to use the “MMR Reset” option to go back to an uncalibrated state. If this is the case, they will also redo the MMR calibration process.
How does MMR calibration work?
All players are assigned with a “Rank Confidence” which is displayed in the form of a percentage. When new players or those resetting their MMR begin the calibration process by playing ranked games in Dota, their Rank Confidence will be set to 0%.
Players must play ranked matches until the Rank Confidence value reaches 30%, in which the game will assign the MMR value. The number of matches required varies between players, but it is usually between 10 to 30.
The calibration process will evaluate the following:
- Win/Loss Record – Winning more calibration games than losing will often result in a higher initial MMR for obvious reasons.
- Individual Performance – Though Valve has never explicitly detailed this, the community widely believes that metrics such as KDA, GPM, XPM, and damage dealt may influence calibration results.
- Previous MMR – Players who reset their MMR will likely start from their previous MMR. However, new players calibrating for the first time will not have to worry about this.
Once you unlock your MMR value, you will automatically be placed into the corresponding medal in Dota 2’s ranking system.
