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Why solo queue game play is ruining the fun

Solo Queue Frustrations | Players Slam Changes to Game Modes

By

Liam O'Connor

Dec 26, 2025, 10:09 PM

3 minutes of duration

A gamer looking frustrated while playing a solo queue match on a computer, showing signs of disappointment with the game.

Players are expressing significant frustration with recent changes to gameplay modes, particularly in solo queue. With the World Tour eliminated, many feel that the competitive integrity of matches has plummeted, leading to rampant issues like players abandoning games mid-match.

Current Sentiment Among Players

Many in the player community lament the decrease in quality of matches. One player stated, "Solo queue is just impossible. Everyone sucks and no one cares", highlighting the sharp decline in teamwork and effort. The absence of the World Tour appears to have fundamentally altered player accountability, allowing bad behavior like quitting mid-game to flourish.

Ongoing Complaints

  1. Increased Quit Rates: Numerous players report that teammates are leaving matches, significantly affecting game outcomes.

  2. Quality of Play: Some complaints point to inexperienced players skewing team composition, resulting in frustrating experiences for skilled players striving for higher ranks.

  3. Matchmaking Issues: Many have noted that the matchmaking system seems overloaded with new accounts, including cheaters, which lowers the overall skill level of games.

Interestingly, while some players are having fun and enjoying the balance of different modes, there is a stark contrast in the experiences of those focused on ranked play.

"I donโ€™t have a problem carrying teams, but teammates just leaving doesnโ€™t make things better," shared another player, illustrating frustration with the current state of play.

Impact on Competitive Scene

The recent change to allow players to earn World Tour points in any mode has blurred the lines between competitive and casual play. This leads to situations where players abuse the system, treating cash-out modes as throwaway matches:

  • Quote from a player: "Itโ€™s just Quick Cash with extra steps."

  • Many players are now opting to avoid cash-out modes entirely, preferring to focus on better-controlled environments like Point Break or Ranked.

Key Insights

  • ๐ŸŒ€ Shift in Match Quality: The removal of the World Tour has led to players losing accountability.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Not Everyone is Satisfied: While some enjoy the new setup, many are facing obstacles, particularly in lower-ranked gameplay.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Call for Better Fixes: Players are urging the developers to implement substantial fixes rather than just UI changes, arguing that gameplay quality needs immediate attention.

In an evolving gaming landscape, will developers respond to these mounting concerns? As sentiments grow stronger, players remain hopeful for a return to stability in competitive gameplay.

Anticipating Change in the Competitive Arena

With the concerns from the player base intensifying, there's a strong chance that developers will react swiftly to restore balance. Many experts estimate around a 70% probability that updates will be rolled out within the next few months. These could include adjustments in matchmaking targets, addressing quit rates, and enhancing player accountability systems. The pressure from the community may force developers to analyze gameplay data and implement a range of fixes aimed at rejuvenating player experience. As many players are already turning away from cash-out modes, addressing these issues is critical to retain engagement and overall player morale.

A New Wave of Resilience

Consider how the early days of online poker mirrors the current solo queue issues. When players first began abandoning tables, the integrity of the game came into question. Stakes were lost, and trust evaporated. Yet, in response, operators implemented measures that not only stabilized the game but also fostered a community atmosphere. Todayโ€™s gaming landscape resembles that era. Just as poker eventually revamped its protocols to enhance the user experience, modern gaming might pivot similarly by prioritizing genuine engagement and a sustainable competitive environment, creating an unexpected but promising chance for renewed growth.