If this system fails, the game becomes a frustrating, unplayable mess that bleeds players instantly.

This article explores how developers design these algorithms to keep queue times short while maintaining a competitive environment.

Trophy and Rating Systems

The algorithm's primary goal is to match you against someone with the exact same—or very similar—trophy count.

This is why winning streaks inevitably end in a 'wall' of difficult matches; the system is functioning exactly as intended.

• Do not expect to win every game.
• Queue times increase at the top of the ladder.
• You will eventually stabilize.

The Free-to-Play Dilemma

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.

Maintaining Competitive Integrity

Because the ladder algorithm must balance queue times against fairness, it will never be perfectly balanced.

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