Edited By
Tanya Melton

Players returning to Apex Legends after long breaks are facing tough challenges, encountering seasoned double and triple stacks in matchmaking that are no match for their rusty skills. With 20 games played, many feel disappointed and frustrated by the rise in competition since their absence.
After stepping away from Apex for almost 20 seasons, one player recently found themselves overwhelmed in high-stakes matches. Expectations of a relaxed gaming experience quickly turned into frustration against 20,000+ player stacks. This experience highlights how significantly the player base has improved over time.
The gaming community isn't shy about offering advice, and several themes have emerged from discussions:
Practice Makes Perfect
Players recommend starting with limited-time modes (LTMs) and shooting ranges to regain skills without damaging rank. As one player stated, "Play the LTMs and practice in the range while you shake the dust off."
Evaluate Matchmaking Skills
Comments suggest that current matchmaking does not adjust for a player's break, with many players stating they'll face advanced opponents regardless of their past skills. "Your old K/D looks legit and normal," said another player, stressing how the overall skill level has ramped up.
Consider a Fresh Start
Several users hinted at the option to create new accounts to enter lower-skill lobbies, allowing them to play more comfortably. "I havenโt played in two years itโs all about getting a feel for the game again," one shared as they echoed a common sentiment about adjusting skill perceptions.
"The average player is likely a lot better than they used to be years ago," noted a returning player reflecting on the increased talent in lobbies.
Key Takeaways:
โก Many players recommend returning through LTMs and practice ranges to ease back into gameplay.
๐ Players face unmatched competition due to lack of skill adjustment in matchmaking.
๐ Creating a new account might help returnees find more suitable opponents.
While the allure of nostalgia remains strong, the hurdles of returning to a game have left many players feeling worn out. As one player noted, "After 2 hours, Iโm leaving tired, frustrated, and disappointed." The game has transformed into a tougher battleground, challenging even the most seasoned players.
For tips and strategies to ease your way back into Apex Legends, consider joining community forums and user boards to connect with others on similar journeys. Your comeback can be smoother with the right support!
As players adapt to the more competitive Apex Legends environment, thereโs a strong chance we will see a shift in how games are balanced. With ongoing feedback from the community, developers might implement matchmaking adjustments to account for player inactivity. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that we will see limited-time events specifically designed to help returning players reacquaint themselves with the game. This move could enhance player retention and satisfaction, ultimately leading to a more inclusive community for both novices and veterans alike.
Consider the return of classical music in the late 20th century, where performers sought to revitalize interest in long-forgotten pieces. Much like today's Apex players, those musicians originally struggled against a backdrop of modern pop influences and changed audience preferences. Over time, they found new interpretations and brought these works into contemporary contexts, fostering a rich dialogue between old and new. This parallel underscores that while returning to a familiar environment can feel daunting, it often leads to innovative adaptations that build stronger connections across generations.