Elo Rankings: More than Just a Number
For those familiar with the popular online multiplayer game, League of Legends, the term 'elo' will be instantly recognizable. It's a system that categorizes players based on their skill level, determining their matchmaking in games. However, we often see a pattern in how the occupants of one tier view those in the tier directly below them.
Simply put, players from a higher elo often consider gamers from the next elo down as 'trash'. This perspective has commonly been observed and has sparked plenty of animated debates within the League of Legends community.
The importance of the elo ranking system cannot be understated. It adds structure to the game, ensuring players of comparable skill levels compete against each other. Yet, it has also seemingly contributed to a mentality of condescension and arrogance among some players.
The root cause of this attitude could be many factors such as competition, pressure to perform, or a simple misunderstanding of the ranking system.
Upper Elo Disdain for Lower Elo
As previously mentioned, players in a higher elo often consider those in the lower elo as less capable. This belief is not confined to just a couple of tiers; the trend persists across all elo rankings.
Lower elo players could understandably be discouraged by this. Their efforts to improve their gameplay might seem futile in light of such disdain. They could also feel the pressure to quickly advance to a higher elo, though that might be beyond their capability.
A player's elo does not necessarily define their potential. However, players appear to hold firm to the belief that anyone below them in the ranking system is less capable.
This mentality imposes an unnecessary hurdle for lower elo players, as the expectation is for them to prove the detractors wrong rather than focus on their own improvement and growth.
Wider Issues with the Mentality
Looking broader, one can see the real issues this mentality creates within the League of Legends community. The culture of looking down on lower elo players fosters an environment of toxicity and condescension.
Every player started at a beginner's level, learning the game strategies, the characters, how to cooperate in a team, among many other skills. The elo system ranks this learning progression, ultimately categorizing players according to their abilities.
While it's natural for players to be competitive – given the game's nature– this sense of superiority seems misplaced. Rather than encouraging newer or less skilled players, this culture seems bent on belittling their efforts.
Fostering such a negative environment may discourage new players or those trying to improve – they might feel overwhelmed or find the game less enjoyable due to the problematic culture.
Changing the Attitude
Breaking down this entrenched mindset needs efforts from everyone within the community. The first step toward this could be to rethink how we view the elo system and its role in the game.
Rather than assigning value judgments based on someone's elo, it might be more beneficial to see it as a guide to a player's current skill level and understanding of the game. This shift in perspective could help promote a more positive environment.
Having experienced players support and mentor those in lower echelons could also help mitigate the issue. Sharing of knowledge and techniques can facilitate better skill development among lower elo players.
In the end, it is essential to remember that it is just a game, meant for enjoyment and camaraderie among its players. The focus should be on personal growth and mastery rather than being superior to others.
All Elos Matter: A Final Word
To surmise, players need to understand that every elo, from the lowest to the highest, is equally important — each elo represents a different stage in a player's journey in mastering League of Legends.
The community needs to discourage the culture of demeaning lower elo players and instead focus on encouraging every player's growth and skill development.
Changing this toxic culture could lead to a more inclusive and supportive environment, where players of all skill levels feel welcomed and appreciated for their efforts.
The elo system is a tool for matchmaking and categorizing player skill level, not a measure of a player's inherent worth or potential.