Reaching for Unreal in Ranked Reload
Why am I trying to reach Unreal in Ranked Reload?
Great question! Ironically, as I’ll explain, the answer seems to lie in the process.
First, for those of you who may be unfamiliar with it, Ranked Reload is a fast-paced version of Fortnite. 40 players battle on a smaller map. Each player can be eliminated up to 3 times before their game ends where typically Battle Royale only grants players one elimination. This combination of a player having multiple lives coupled with the smaller playing field rewards aggressive play. Typically, players can rack up many eliminations in a single game. Like Battle Royale, Ranked Reload awards placement points so surviving until end game enables a player to progress in their ranking and uses the standard Bronze-to-Unreal ranking system.
Progress is Slow and I’m Stubborn
Since my camping playing style does not produce many eliminations, I need to rely mostly on placement points to progress in my ranking upwards. So far, I’ve played 103 matches and my current ranking is 88% Diamond 2. For comparison purposes. I made it all the way to Unreal in Battle Royale this season in 72 games with a similar playing style.
I’m stubbornly doing this alone meaning I am playing in Solo mode. Other streamers that have a camping playing style like myself will typically partner up with someone who can get a lot of eliminations to help them get to Unreal more rapidly. Curiously, I want to see if I can make it there on my own. I’m estimating now that this could take 300 or more total games to get there.
Playing Ranked Reload is Helping me Improve
As mentioned earlier, Ranked Reload forces players together on a smaller map. Surviving late into the game requires being able to safely move, build, and heal very quickly. Historically, I’ve had the healing part down. My movement and building skills however are severely below average for an Unreal player.
My movement is improving! I’m learning to use Fortnite’s movement items like shockwaves and launch pads much better. This enables me to safely rotate into very tight playing circles at end game which is something I am gaining a huge appreciation for.
My building skills are improving! I’m rotating into the previously mentioned small zones safely only because I am learning to rapidly build small shelters to protect myself. This is a skill that I’ve been wanting to develop and is yet another huge benefit of playing Ranked Reload.
A Long Way to Go
By my estimation, I’m probably only about a third of the way to Unreal in Ranked Reload. Still a long grind ahead. It feels worthwhile though as it’s helping me improve aspects of my game that I’ve been wanting to improve for a long time. I’d love for you to tune into my stream and share this journey with me. My typical streams are Mon, Wed, Fri, from 5-7 pm ET.
