The matchmaking algorithm is the unsung hero that determines exactly who you will face every time you press the ‘Battle’ button.

This article explores how developers design these algorithms to keep queue times short while maintaining a competitive environment.
How You Are Ranked
Most modern strategy games utilize a modified version of the Elo rating system, originally designed for professional chess.

When you go on a massive winning streak, your trophy count inflates, and the algorithm begins matching you against significantly better players.
Understand that a 50% win rate is normal.Queue times increase at the top of the ladder.Losing streaks are also self-correcting. Level-Based Matchmaking
The standard Elo system works perfectly for chess because all pieces are equal, but tower rush games feature upgradeable cards.

To combat this, developers have implemented secondary checks that look at the player’s King Tower level.
System PrioritySignificanceElo RatingThe system will always prioritize finding an opponent within a 50-trophy rangeUpgrade StatusThe system tries to match levels, but will abandon this check if the queue takes longer than 10 seconds Maintaining Competitive Integrity
By artificially capping all card levels to a specific number, the algorithm can rely purely on the Elo rating.

When levels are equalized, the matchmaking system shines, ensuring that the better player almost always wins.