Current State of WoW PvP
World of Warcraft PvP is in a critical state. Many prominent PvP streamers, including former Arena World Championship (AWC) competitors, have abandoned PvP entirely. This exodus reflects a deep-rooted issue within the PvP community. If Blizzard does not take immediate action, PvP risks becoming irrelevant, with potential ripple effects across the entire game.
Proposed Solutions
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Block Third-Party Programs
• How: Implement a robust anti-cheat system that detects and blocks unauthorized third-party software in real-time, similar to Riot’s Vanguard for Valorant.
Blizzard could make it so that if certain codes from third-party programs interfere with their game code, the game freezes. This would not give them access to your computer or files, but simply prevent certain cheat codes from known files from being able to interact with the game.• Benefits:
• Drastically reduces botting and scripting.
• Levels the playing field for all players.
• Restores integrity to the competitive environment. -
Revamp MMR and Matchmaking System
• New MMR Reset System: Reset all players to zero MMR and introduce a ranked progression system where players climb through distinct ranks, such as Bronze to Grandmaster. Make it so players only fight others of the same rank, making boosting impossible and allowing new players to only fight those with similar experience, helping them learn.
• Inspiration: Combine elements of the old Vanilla ranking system (e.g., Scout to High Warlord) with modern tier-based ranks.
• Benefits:
• Fresh start for all players, creating excitement, motivation and a new playerbase.
• Balanced matchmaking, as players earn their ranks through consistent performance.
• Long-term engagement through rank progression and milestone achievements. -
AI-Driven Monitoring for Win-Trading and Cheating
• How: Use AI to detect:
• Abnormally fast reaction times (e.g., interrupting within 0.2-0.4 seconds 9/10 times).
• Repeatedly matching players from the same IP or with identical login patterns in lobbies.
• Automation patterns indicating non-human behavior.
• Benefits:
• Real-time detection and prevention of win-trading and botting.
• A fairer matchmaking environment for legitimate players. -
Enhanced PvP Rewards
• Token System: Players earn tokens by climbing ranks, which can be exchanged for:
• Classic PvP gear (High Warlord sets, old Elite transmog).
• Exclusive new mounts, transmogs, and titles.
• Benefits:
• Nostalgia-driven rewards attract veteran players.
• Unique, rank-specific rewards incentivize players to compete fairly.
• Long-term progression ensures consistent engagement. -
Randomized Lobby Assignment
• How: Implement random lobby generation after players accept the queue, reducing the potential for pre-arranged win-trading setups.
• Benefits:
• Eliminates coordination between boosters and win-traders.
• Ensures organic, balanced competition.
Why This Matters
These changes would bring back the core values of fair competition, integrity, and rewarding progression that WoW PvP was once known for. Addressing cheating and creating meaningful rewards can rebuild player trust, bring back lapsed PvP enthusiasts, and attract new players. Without decisive action, the decline will continue, potentially affecting both PvP and PvE.
Call to Action
Let’s unite as a community and push for Blizzard to implement these changes. Report cheating, share your experiences, and advocate for a fairer PvP environment. Together, we can make WoW PvP great again.