Read this guide for everything you need to know about unlocking your Dota 2 rank and medal.

Dota 2 is a complex and challenging online multiplayer strategy game. For beginners, getting started can be tough. There are specific requirements to unlock ranked matchmaking and medals as well. This article will show you how to do this and provide tips on how to improve in the game mode.

The ranking system of Dota 2

Dota 2's ranking system has eight main ranks, each with five sub-ranks from zero to five. These ranks represent a player's skill level and influence the matchmaking process.

  • Herald: Herald is the lowest rank, often for new players learning the basics of the game.
  • Guardian
  • Crusader
  • Archon
  • Legend
  • Ancient
  • Divine: This rank indicates excellent skills, strategy, and teamwork. Players often face high-level opponents here.
  • Immortal: It's the highest rank in Dota 2, reserved for top-tier players. These players are often seen in the global leaderboards.
Dota 2 medals (Image via Valve)
Dota 2 medals (Image via Valve)

How to unlock ranked matchmaking

There are some basic requirements before you can start your ranked matches.

  • Game time requirement: Players need to play at least 100 hours of unranked matches to unlock ranked matchmaking. This helps them get familiar with the game's mechanics, heroes, and basic strategies.
  • Phone verification: Dota 2 requires players to link a unique phone number to their account. This step helps prevent cheating and ensures fair play.
Requirements to unlock ranked matchmaking (Image via Valve)
Requirements to unlock ranked matchmaking (Image via Valve)

How to unlock your game medal

The medal is an important measure of a player's level within Dota 2.

  • Play ranked matchmaking: After unlocking ranked matchmaking, you can start playing ranked games to earn your MMR. These matches determine your initial rank.
  • Increase ranked confidence: Keep playing ranked games and aim to raise your rank confidence above 30%. After you make it, your initial MMR and medal will be set. This indicates a more accurate representation of your rank.
Rank confidence (Image via Valve)
Rank confidence (Image via Valve)

How to improve MMR

Improving MMR really depends on the player. If you don't know how to start, you can try some of the tips below:

  • Understand heroes and game mechanics: Learn each hero's abilities, attributes, and best use cases. Try different roles and team compositions to understand the game's diversity.
  • Enhance skills and micromanagement: Practice skill accuracy and timing. Master each hero's combos and item usage, especially in critical moments.
  • Develop game awareness: Improve map awareness and economic management. Keep an eye on the mini map and anticipate enemy movements and strategies.
  • Communicate effectively with teammates: Use in-game voice or text chat to coordinate tactics and actions with your team. Good communication and teamwork are key to winning. Make sure to downvote teammates you don't like.
  • Maintain a stable mindset: Avoid playing ranked matches when feeling stressed or upset. Stay calm, learn from each match, and keep improving.

With these steps and tips, we hope you can unlock a rank or medal that you're proud of. Good luck!

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