The average ranking of CS students is actually higher than commonly perceived.
The average ranking of CS students is actually higher than commonly perceived.
We all understand the hierarchy has changed, especially for the top four spots... mainly DMG and SMFC. This shift is linked to improved skills and the removal of many cheaters, though it hasn't impacted the lower ranks in the MGE below. Before the ban wave, DMG was a rank known for strong skill variation and remains so. Some believe DMG represents the average skilled player in CS, but that’s misleading—DMG is someone who understands everything yet hasn’t pushed it further. I recently moved down from DMG to MGE, and the gap between the two is clear. Top-tier DMG players are essentially elite LE/LEM individuals, making them a rare and impressive rank. GN4 is considered the average level in this scene, which many find disappointing. Those above MG2 likely share the same view, as skill progression is gradual in such a narrow range after GN4. A global perspective might struggle to distinguish between a silver 2 and a GN3 player, especially as people become less discerning with rank.
You believe top-tier DMG players perform equally well as LE and LEM players. As a LEM, I expect to rise to Supreme status after securing some wins, and I notice LE players often struggle more and are easier to defeat. When I encounter a DMG in my game, they tend to struggle with the bottom frag.
DMG is far behind LEM. I’m currently GE but play less often now. After the VAC ban, I noticed LEM offers a broad range of skills. Sometimes it felt like facing five GE players at once, other times like battling just four silvers. It really depends—some rise by chance, others through talent. The luck of the draw plays a big role. In my view, LEM should be split into two tiers to balance things out.
The main issue here is that at a higher rank, your mindset needs to adapt. As a GE, I faced tough matches against MG1 and MG2, and honestly, it was challenging. It wasn't due to a bad day but because I often overlook simple mistakes that others make. This led MG1 to take control of the game. It's strange, but you can't just improve by playing normally—you need to shift your thinking. This is my advice for getting better.
It seems like you're pointing out that improvements in rank after MG2 came from various strategies, not just one method.
Based on my observations, your standing is low until you reach DMG.