After delving into the recent ranking system overhaul and its accompanying changes, I couldn't resist exploring the complexity of ranking systems. A video I recently watched provided some insights into this intricacy

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WHO IS JOSH MENKE

Josh Menke is known for his work on skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) and ranking system design in video games. His approach involves creating systems that aim to match players of similar skill levels against each other to provide a fair and balanced gaming experience.

SHORT SUMMARY OF VIDEO

- Speaker, Josh Menke, discusses his background working for Blizzard, 343, and Activision.

- Emphasizes designing games with replayability in mind, focusing on adding skill depth to keep players engaged.

- Explains concepts of skill, matchmaking, and ranking systems in game design, highlighting the need for effective communication between designers and engineers.

- Discusses importance of measuring player ability in games and how it can be used for matchmaking, ranking, and understanding player skill distribution.

- Advocates for unique and distinct skill systems to enhance player engagement and avoid complicated matchmaking complications.

- Highlights challenges of creating a hybrid ranking and matchmaking system in games, emphasizing a clear distinction between skill-based progression and leveling systems.

- Emphasizes the importance of transparency in skill systems and the need to simulate player experiences to understand how different systems affect gameplay.

- Discusses the importance of balancing game play for both skilled and less skilled players in online games.

- Advocates for skill-based matchmaking and ranking systems to create a competitive yet enjoyable gaming environment.

- Discusses various types of skill systems in games, focusing on progression systems and hybrid systems, and the challenges they present in player engagement and progression.

Section 10

00:39:27

The speaker discusses the importance of designing a skill system in games that allows players to accurately assess their own progress and compare themselves to others. They emphasize the need for a balance between broad, chunky rank gaps and high personal granularity for each player. The goal is to provide players with a sense of movement and improvement while also ensuring transparency and integrity in the ranking system. The speaker also touches on the concept of an endless ceiling for top players, where skill levels can continue to improve but never reach an infinite level. They explain the use of standard deviations in creating player distributions and how server-based matchmaking can lead to better matches by considering a larger pool of potential opponents. Ultimately, the goal is to create a system that provides players with genuine feedback on their progress and fosters competitive engagement.

Q&A

00:56:15

In the video, Josh Menke discusses his views on the reset (restarting) of rank systems in competitive multiplayer games. Here's a summary of his key points:

Natural Progression: Menke emphasizes the importance of allowing players to naturally progress in rank systems without the need for resets. He suggests that resetting ranks can disrupt this progression and create frustration among players who have put in time and effort to climb the ranks.

Skill Measurement: According to Menke, rank systems should focus on accurately measuring a player's skill level over time. Continuous evaluation allows for more precise matchmaking and ranking, rather than relying on periodic resets.

Consistency: Menke argues that consistent measurement and evaluation of skill levels lead to more meaningful and satisfying gameplay experiences. Resetting ranks can undermine this consistency and disrupt the integrity of the ranking system.

Alternative Solutions: Instead of resetting ranks, Menke proposes alternative solutions to address issues such as inflation or stagnation in ranking systems. This could include adjusting matchmaking algorithms, recalibrating skill ratings, or introducing seasonal resets that maintain a player's skill data while resetting their visible rank.

Community Feedback: Menke suggests that game developers should consider community feedback when designing and updating rank systems. Understanding player preferences and concerns can help create more effective and enjoyable ranking experiences for everyone.

CONCLUSION

While implementing an ELO system for Splinterlands introduces several beneficial changes, it's important to recognize its potential impact on bot activity. The ELO system's ability to accurately measure player skill and provide fair matchmaking could indeed encourage more active participation from bots, as they seek to optimize their rankings and performance. However, this increased bot activity may also pose challenges in maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the ranking system

RERENCE

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