Is Open Queue 6v6 a Real Competitive Mode? | Players Speak Out
Edited By
Noah Rodriguez
There's a lively debate among gamers about the legitimacy of competitive rankings in the open queue 6v6 mode. While some players enjoy the format, others question its seriousness compared to the traditional role queue setup.
Several players expressed their opinions on forums, highlighting the growing division within the community. Some players prefer the open queue for its casual atmosphere, while others argue that it lacks the rigor and competitiveness of the 5v5 role queue.
Context and Controversy
The tension centers on whether ranking high in 6v6 means anything in the broader Overwatch community. Sources indicate that many players ignore 6v6 records and do not take those ranks seriously during matchmaking, especially when top players often compete exclusively in 5v5.
“6v6 is definitely easier a lot of people can’t get out of diamond but reach grandmaster in open queue,” explained one player. This sentiment reflects a growing concern about the credibility of achievements within the open mode.
Main Themes from Player Responses
Seriousness of Ranking: Many players believe that rank in 6v6 is less prestigious, often comparing it to a scale where you can subtract a rank or more from 5v5 ranks.
Fun Factor: Several comments focus on enjoyment, with players urging each other to "play what you enjoy."
Community Perception: A prevalent view is that no one outside the 6v6 community cares about those ranks, further highlighting the divide.
"If you have a title, you shouldn’t need someone to tell you if you can use it or not."
What Players Are Saying
While one user noted the fun of open queue, they admitted, "The rank difference is more than an entire rank for most of the ladder.” This echoes a broader sentiment that flexibility in game modes comes at a cost to ranking credibility. Another user stated, "99% of discussion around the game is for 5v5 role queue," suggesting that 6v6 serves as a playground rather than a competitive arena.
Sentiment Patterns
The comments reflect a mix of positive and negative sentiments. While many advocate for a fun gaming experience free of judgment, a significant faction remains skeptical about the competitive value of 6v6.
Key Insights
🔹 6v6 is viewed as easier; players report higher ranks due to less competition.
🔸 Enjoyment is emphasized; community members encourage playing for fun.
💬 "To be honest, no, it’s not really taken seriously by most of the player base.”
As the game evolves, will opinions on 6v6 shift, or are players likely to stick to their established views? Players continue to grapple with how personal enjoyment aligns with community perceptions of legitimacy.
Predictions for Competitive Play in 6v6
There's a strong possibility that as more players engage with Open Queue 6v6, opinions on its viability in competitive play will evolve. With a rising number of players participating in this format, experts estimate that the perception of 6v6 could shift within the next year. Some players might start to value the mode more seriously, especially if tournaments begin to embrace it as a legitimate alternative to 5v5. That said, there remains a sizable portion who will likely hold onto skepticism, seeing 6v6 as a playground rather than a serious challenge. Overall, there's maybe a 60% chance that 6v6 will gain more credibility in competitive gaming circles, while a steady 40% will likely see it as an inferior option.
A Historic Analog: The Rise of Mixed Martial Arts
In a surprisingly similar way, the rise of mixed martial arts (MMA) in the early 2000s parallels the current discussion around Open Queue 6v6. Originally, traditional boxing and wrestling dominated, and many dismissed MMA as a less serious format filled with brawlers. Yet, as fighters crossed disciplines and fans embraced the excitement, the legitimacy of MMA soared. Today, it’s celebrated as a respected competitive sport. Like 6v6, early opinions were guided by preconceived notions of credibility. It took time, showcases of skill, and broad acceptance for MMA to cement its place. This transformation underscores how public perception can evolve—something players debating the worth of 6v6 might want to keep in mind.