Understanding the Rating System

Measuring Real Skill

The rating system in Totemancer is designed to reflect true playing strength, not the number of games played. Each match adjusts your rating based on performance and opponent level.

How Ratings Change

• Winning against stronger opponents gives more points
• Losing to weaker opponents costs more points
• Close ratings lead to smaller adjustments
• Large upsets create bigger movement

Matchmaking Logic

The system searches for opponents with similar ratings to ensure fair and educational games. Over time you naturally meet players of comparable skill.

Improving Your Rating

Climbing is not about playing endlessly but about playing better:

• focus on quality decisions
• review key positions
• avoid emotional rematches

Streaks and Stability

Short winning streaks are normal, but sustainable growth comes from understanding. The rating smooths random results to highlight long-term ability.

What Rating Does Not Measure

It does not judge creativity, sportsmanship, or learning potential. It is a compass for matchmaking, not a definition of your worth as a player.

Think of rating as feedback: a helpful guide on your journey toward deeper mastery.