Elo hell

Elo hell is a term used in online, ranked video games, particularly those employing an Elo rating system (or similar matchmaking rating), to describe a situation where a player believes they are consistently matched with teammates of insufficient skill, hindering their ability to climb the ranks and achieve their desired Elo rating.

The term implies that a player is trapped in a specific Elo range due to factors outside of their own skill level, specifically the perceived incompetence or uncooperative nature of their teammates. Players who believe they are in Elo hell often feel that even if they perform well individually, their efforts are negated by the actions of their less skilled teammates, leading to frequent losses.

The existence of Elo hell is a highly debated topic within gaming communities. Proponents argue that the random nature of matchmaking can result in streaks of unfavorable team compositions, trapping players in a cycle of losses. Detractors argue that Elo hell is a myth and that players who are truly better than their current Elo will eventually climb out, as their superior skill will outweigh the impact of inconsistent teammates over a large number of games. They suggest that attributing losses solely to teammates is often a form of cognitive bias, failing to acknowledge personal mistakes and areas for improvement.

The concept is often associated with frustration, tilt, and a feeling of helplessness, as players perceive themselves as being unfairly disadvantaged by the matchmaking system. Strategies for escaping "Elo hell" often involve focusing on self-improvement, mastering carry roles, playing with premade teams, and maintaining a positive attitude.