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

Many players believe that matchmaking is intentionally rigged against them, constantly forcing them to fight 'hard counters' after a win streak.
Trophy and Rating Systems
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.
The algorithm does not care what deck you are playing.If you face a hard counter, it is pure statistical variance.AI opponents ensure instant queue times for beginners. 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.
Conspiracy TheoryHow it Actually WorksForced Loss StreaksThe algorithm does not force losses; you are simply playing tilted against harder opponents because your MMR is inflatedAnti-Strategy CodeDevelopers have confirmed repeatedly that the algorithm does not read the contents of your deck when finding an opponent Maintaining Competitive Integrity
Because the ladder algorithm must balance queue times against fairness, it will never be perfectly balanced.

The algorithm is blind; it only respects victory.