Pokemon Unite to introduce matchmaking changes from Season 24 onwards

With the dawn of Season 24 on December 5, 2024, Pokemon Unite is set to overhaul its matchmaking system in response to long-standing community feedback. The developers have acknowledged players’ frustrations surrounding the current system, which relies on an unseen “matchmaking rating” (MMR) to determine matches. While effective in theory, the lack of transparency and occasional mismatches in skill levels have left many Trainers dissatisfied.

To address these concerns, Pokemon Unite will implement three significant changes aimed at refining the matchmaking experience. These updates include adjustments to Master rank ratings, a transition away from MMR for matchmaking, and tweaks to matchmaking wait times.

The goal is to ensure fairer matches, improved ranking accuracy, and a more enjoyable experience for players across all regions.

Note: Parts of this article are subjective and reflect the writer's opinions.

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Pokemon Unite matchmaking changes: Master Rank rating adjustments

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One of the key changes focuses on making the Master rank system more reflective of a Trainer’s true skill. Previously, climbing to 1600 Master rank points was relatively easy, with ratings not always representing actual player ability. Starting from Season 24, win and loss values will be adjusted for Master rank players.

Rank and Rating	Season 24 Wins	Previous season Wins	Season 24 Losses	Previous season Losses
Expert rank or below	No changes	N/A	No changes	N/A
Master rank (1200–1399)	+11	+12	-8	-6
Master rank (1400–1599)	+9	+9	-9	-6
Master rank (1600–1799)	+9	+9	-9	-9
Master rank (1800–1999)	+9	+9	-10	-9
Master rank (2000–2199)	+9	+9	-11	-9
Master rank (2200+)	+9	+9	-12	-9

For example, Trainers with 1200 - 1399 Master rank points will now gain 11 points for a win but lose 8 for a defeat (previously +12 and -6, respectively). As players climb higher, the penalties for losses increase. At 2200+ Master rank points, a loss will deduct 12 points, up from 9 previously.

These changes aim to create a more competitive environment, making it tougher to reach higher ranks and ensuring that players’ ratings accurately reflect their skill levels.

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Transition to Pokemon Unite Master Rank ratings for matchmaking

Another significant improvement is the move from MMR-based matchmaking to a system solely dependent on Master rank ratings. This change seeks to eliminate mismatches caused by hidden ratings and provide greater transparency.

Previously, players on long win or losing streaks often found themselves paired with opponents whose visible ranks differed greatly from their own. With the new system, players with similar Master rank ratings will be matched more consistently. While this may not entirely eliminate discrepancies, it should lead to fairer and more balanced matches.

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Pokemon Unite matchmaking changes: Matchmaking time adjustments

Pokemon Unite made some promising matchmaking adjustments (Image via The Pokemon Company)

In the upcoming season, Pokemon Unite will also experiment with narrower matchmaking ranges to ensure opponents are closer in skill level. However, this change may lead to longer wait times, particularly in regions where the player base is smaller. The developers are prepared to monitor the impact on matchmaking times and adjust the system as needed.

For players in highly active regions, this change should result in better-quality matches. However, those in less populated areas, such as Oceania or parts of Europe, might experience longer queues. The success of this update will heavily depend on community feedback and the developers’ willingness to fine-tune the system over time.

Also read: Tinkaton's Unite movesets leaked

Pokemon Unite matchmaking changes: Looking ahead to Season 24 and further

These changes mark a significant step for Pokemon Unite’s matchmaking system. By introducing greater transparency, refining ranking accuracy, and prioritizing fairer matchups, the developers are addressing some of the community’s biggest pain points.

As Season 24 kicks off, Trainers can look forward to more competitive and rewarding gameplay. However, the adjustments also mean that climbing ranks will demand greater consistency and skill. Whether these changes will fully satisfy the community remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly represent a move in the right direction.

Pokemon Unite’s team has emphasized their commitment to ongoing improvements, urging players to share their thoughts and experiences. Your feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the game, ensuring that it continues to evolve and thrive.

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Edited by Abhishek Manikandan