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

Many players believe that matchmaking is intentionally rigged against them, constantly forcing them to fight ‘hard counters’ after a win streak.
The Elo System Adapted
Your trophy count is a numerical representation of your skill; win a match, and you take trophies from the loser.

When you go on a massive winning streak, your trophy count inflates, and the algorithm begins matching you against significantly better players.
There is no ‘anti-deck’ conspiracy.Accept the RNG.In the lower arenas, the system often includes ‘bots’. The Problem of Card Levels
The standard Elo system works perfectly for chess because all pieces are equal, but tower rush games feature upgradeable cards.

However, if no such player is available, the algorithm will prioritize queue speed over level fairness, resulting in those frustrating, mismatched games.
Player PerceptionHow it Actually WorksRigged MatchmakingThe algorithm does not force losses; you are simply playing tilted against harder opponents because your MMR is inflatedRigged Deck MatchingDevelopers have confirmed repeatedly that the algorithm does not read the contents of your deck when finding an opponent The Esports Standard
By artificially capping all card levels to a specific number, the algorithm can rely purely on the Elo rating.

The algorithm is blind; it only respects victory.