What Do You Need to Play Heroes of the Storm Ranked?

Heroes of the Storm is a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that requires players to have a certain level of skill and knowledge to compete in ranked matches. If you’re interested in playing Heroes of the Storm ranked, there are a few things you’ll need to have in order to get started. In this article, we’ll take a look at what you need to play Heroes of the Storm ranked, including the game itself, a stable internet connection, and some basic knowledge of the game’s mechanics. We’ll also cover the importance of teamwork and communication, as well as some tips for improving your skills and climbing the ranks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new player just starting out, this article will provide you with everything you need to know to get started with Heroes of the Storm ranked.

Requirements for Playing Heroes of the Storm Ranked

Basic System Requirements

In order to play Heroes of the Storm ranked, you will need to meet the basic system requirements. These requirements are the minimum specifications that your computer must meet in order to run the game at a playable framerate.

Minimum Requirements

• OS: Windows 7 64-bit or later
• CPU: Intel Core i3-550 or AMD Phenom II X4 965
• RAM: 8 GB RAM
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 or AMD Radeon HD 7850
• DirectX: DirectX 11

The minimum requirements for playing Heroes of the Storm ranked are quite reasonable, and most modern computers should be able to meet them with ease. However, it’s important to note that these requirements are only sufficient for running the game at a bare minimum of 720p resolution and at a relatively low graphical quality setting. If you want to play the game at higher resolutions or with higher graphical settings, you will need to meet the recommended requirements instead.

Recommended Requirements

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit
• CPU: Intel Core i7-6700 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
• RAM: 16 GB RAM
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT
• DirectX: DirectX 12

The recommended requirements for playing Heroes of the Storm ranked are significantly higher than the minimum requirements. If you want to play the game at its highest settings and at 1080p or higher resolutions, you will need to meet these recommended requirements.

It’s important to note that these recommended requirements are quite high, and you will need a powerful gaming computer to meet them. However, if you’re serious about playing Heroes of the Storm ranked, it’s worth investing in a high-end computer to ensure that you can play the game at its best.

Account Requirements

Playing Heroes of the Storm ranked requires fulfilling specific account requirements. Here are the necessary steps to ensure you are eligible to participate in ranked matches:

Free-to-Play Account

1. Register for a free Blizzard account: If you already have a Blizzard account, you can skip this step. However, if you don’t have one, you will need to create a new account on the Blizzard website. This account will be used to access Heroes of the Storm and other Blizzard games.
2. Download and install Heroes of the Storm: Once you have a Blizzard account, you can download and install Heroes of the Storm from the Blizzard launcher. This will grant you access to the game client and allow you to start playing.

Ranked Play Account

1. Complete the Heroes of the Storm tutorial: Before participating in ranked matches, you must complete the in-game tutorial. This will introduce you to the basics of the game, including heroes, game modes, and objectives. The tutorial will help you understand the core mechanics of Heroes of the Storm, which is essential for success in ranked play.
2. Play a certain number of games in Quick Match or Play vs. AI: To be eligible for ranked play, you must accumulate a certain number of games in either Quick Match or Play vs. AI modes. This requirement ensures that you have enough experience with the game to compete at a higher level. The exact number of games needed may vary depending on the frequency of updates and balance changes.
3. Earn the required amount of experience points: Experience points (XP) are earned by playing matches in Heroes of the Storm. To reach the ranked play requirements, you will need to earn a specific amount of XP. This can be achieved by playing games in various modes, such as Quick Match, Play vs. AI, or Team Games. As you progress through the game, you will gain XP and eventually reach the threshold required for ranked play.

By fulfilling these account requirements, you will be prepared to participate in Heroes of the Storm ranked matches and engage in intense competitive gameplay.

In-Game Requirements

In-Game Store

In order to play Heroes of the Storm ranked, players need to have access to the in-game store. This is where players can purchase heroes and mounts using real money or in-game currency. Players can also use the in-game store to gain access to additional game content such as skins, mounts, and other virtual items.

Battle.net Account

Another requirement for playing Heroes of the Storm ranked is having a Battle.net account. Players need to log in to their Battle.net account to access the Heroes of the Storm game lobby. The Battle.net account is also used to manage the player’s game progress, achievements, and other game-related data. It is important to note that players must have a stable internet connection to play Heroes of the Storm ranked, as the game requires a constant connection to the Battle.net servers.

Understanding Ranked Play

What is Ranked Play?

Ranked Play is a competitive game mode in Heroes of the Storm (HotS) where players compete against other teams to earn points and climb the ranks. In Ranked Play, players are matched with other players of similar skill levels to ensure a fair and challenging experience.

The purpose of Ranked Play is to provide a more competitive and serious game mode for players who want to test their skills against other players. It also allows players to earn rank points, which determine their position on the leaderboard and their eligibility for rewards.

There are several game modes available in Ranked Play, including:

• Quick Match: A casual game mode where players are matched with other players in a short amount of time.
• Team League: A more serious game mode where players are matched with other teams and must work together to win.
• Play vs. AI: A game mode where players can practice against computer-controlled opponents.

Overall, Ranked Play is a great way for players to improve their skills, compete against other players, and earn rewards.

Ranked Play Rewards

Ranked play in Heroes of the Storm is a highly competitive game mode that requires a significant amount of skill and teamwork to succeed. Players who participate in ranked play matches are eligible to receive various rewards at the end of each season. These rewards are designed to encourage players to continue improving their skills and to provide recognition for their achievements.

The following are the main rewards that players can earn through participating in ranked play matches:

• Experience Points (XP): XP is a currency that is earned by playing matches in any game mode. XP can be used to unlock new heroes, skins, and other in-game items. Players can earn more XP by playing in ranked play matches, making it a valuable reward for those who are looking to improve their collection of in-game items.
• Heroes of the Storm Tokens: Heroes of the Storm Tokens are a type of in-game currency that can be used to purchase new heroes, skins, and other in-game items. Players can earn these tokens by playing in ranked play matches, with the number of tokens earned increasing based on the player’s performance in the match.
• Seasonal Rewards: At the end of each season, players who have reached certain milestones in ranked play will receive special rewards. These rewards can include unique hero skins, sprays, and other in-game items that are only available to players who have achieved a high level of skill in ranked play.

Overall, the rewards for participating in ranked play matches in Heroes of the Storm are designed to encourage players to continue improving their skills and to provide recognition for their achievements. Whether you are a casual player or a hardcore competitor, there are many rewards to be earned by participating in ranked play matches.

Ranked Play Tiers

In Heroes of the Storm, players can participate in ranked play to compete against other players in a structured environment. The game features a tiered ranking system that determines the skill level of each player, with higher tiers indicating greater skill. The following are the different tiers of ranked play in Heroes of the Storm:

Unranked

Unranked play is the entry-level tier for players who are new to the game or who are still learning the basics. This tier is not part of the official ranked play system and does not contribute to a player’s rank. Players can still earn experience and rewards in unranked play, but they will not receive a rank at the end of the game.

Bronze

Bronze is the first tier of the official ranked play system. This tier is for players who are still learning the game and developing their skills. Players in the Bronze tier can expect to face a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to more experienced players.

Silver

Silver is the second tier of the ranked play system and is for players who have a basic understanding of the game and its mechanics. Players in this tier can expect to face more skilled opponents than in the Bronze tier, but still have room for improvement.

Gold

Gold is the third tier of the ranked play system and is for players who have a solid understanding of the game and its mechanics. Players in this tier can expect to face skilled opponents and will need to have a good understanding of team strategy and communication to be successful.

Platinum

Platinum is the fourth tier of the ranked play system and is for players who have a high level of skill and experience. Players in this tier can expect to face very skilled opponents and will need to have a deep understanding of the game and its mechanics to be successful.

Diamond

Diamond is the fifth tier of the ranked play system and is for players who are among the best in the game. Players in this tier can expect to face very skilled opponents and will need to have a mastery of the game and its mechanics to be successful.

Master

Master is the highest tier of the ranked play system and is for the top players in the game. Players in this tier can expect to face the best of the best and will need to have an exceptional level of skill and experience to be successful.

Preparing for Ranked Play

Building a Team

One of the most important aspects of playing Heroes of the Storm ranked is building a strong team. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when assembling your team:

• Finding a Balanced Team: In order to be successful in ranked play, it’s essential to have a balanced team with a mix of different heroes and playstyles. This will help ensure that your team has the necessary tools and strengths to overcome various challenges and strategies that you may face in the game.
• Choosing a Primary and Secondary Role: Each player should choose a primary and secondary role to play on their team. This will help ensure that everyone has a defined role and can contribute to the team’s overall strategy. For example, one player might be a tank, while another is a support, and another is a damage dealer.
• Communication and Coordination: Effective communication and coordination are crucial for success in ranked play. Make sure that your team has a way to communicate effectively and coordinate strategy throughout the game. This might involve using voice chat or a messaging app, or simply communicating through in-game chat.

Overall, building a strong team is a critical part of playing Heroes of the Storm ranked. By focusing on finding a balanced team, choosing a primary and secondary role, and communicating and coordinating effectively, you’ll be well on your way to success in the game.

Choosing Heroes

Choosing the right heroes is crucial to your success in ranked play. Each hero has their own unique abilities and playstyle, and it’s important to choose heroes that complement your team’s composition and strategy. Here are some factors to consider when choosing heroes for ranked play:

Selecting Heroes for Each Role

Each hero can be classified into one of several roles, such as tank, damage dealer, support, or healer. It’s important to have a balanced team composition with a mix of roles to ensure that your team can effectively take on your opponents. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of each hero and how they fit into your team’s strategy.

Mastering the Heroes’ Abilities

To be successful in ranked play, you need to master the abilities of the heroes you choose. This means understanding how each ability works, how it can be used effectively, and how it interacts with other abilities. Practice playing with each hero and experiment with different builds and playstyles to find what works best for you.

Synergies and Counter-Strategies

It’s important to consider the synergies and counter-strategies of the heroes you choose. Synergies refer to the positive interactions between heroes, such as providing crowd control for a teammate or boosting their damage output. Counter-strategies refer to the ways in which you can counter your opponents’ strategies, such as countering a heavy crowd control comp with strong positioning and map awareness. Consider how the heroes you choose fit into your team’s overall strategy and how they can be used to counter your opponents’ strategies.

Practicing and Improving Skills

Playing Normal and Co-op vs. AI Games

One of the most effective ways to improve your skills in Heroes of the Storm is by playing the game itself. Whether it’s playing the game’s Normal mode or Co-op vs. AI games, each match offers valuable experience and practice that can help you improve your overall gameplay. By playing through different game modes and maps, you can gain a better understanding of how each hero works, how to use their abilities effectively, and how to work with your team to achieve objectives.

Analyzing Game Replays

Another effective way to improve your skills in Heroes of the Storm is by analyzing game replays. By watching replays of your own games or games of other players, you can identify areas where you need to improve, as well as strategies and tactics that work well in different situations. Replays can also provide valuable insight into how to effectively use different heroes and abilities, as well as how to position yourself and your team to gain an advantage over your opponents.

Watching Streams and YouTube Videos

Watching streams and YouTube videos can also be a valuable resource for improving your skills in Heroes of the Storm. Many professional players and streamers offer in-depth analysis and strategies for playing different heroes and achieving success in ranked play. By watching these videos, you can gain a better understanding of the game’s mechanics, as well as strategies and tactics that can help you improve your own gameplay. Additionally, watching experienced players can also help you develop a better sense of how to play to your strengths and overcome your weaknesses.

Ranked Play Strategies

• Team Composition: The team composition is one of the most critical factors in winning games in Heroes of the Storm. Players need to select heroes that complement each other and can work together effectively. Each hero has its strengths and weaknesses, and players need to choose heroes that fill the necessary roles, such as tank, damage dealer, support, or healer. It is also essential to consider the hero’s abilities and how they can synergize with other heroes in the team.
• Lane Control: Lane control is crucial in Heroes of the Storm, as it allows players to secure objectives and deny enemies from doing the same. Players need to communicate with their teammates and coordinate their movements to control the lanes effectively. They should also prioritize last-hitting minions to gain levels and gold faster and deny enemies from doing the same.
• Objective Control: Objective control is a vital aspect of Heroes of the Storm, as it allows players to secure map control and deny enemies from doing the same. Players need to work together to capture and defend objectives, such as towers, mercenary camps, and enemy structures. They should also be aware of the objective’s location and coordinate their movements to capture or defend it effectively.
• Mapping and Ward Control: Mapping and ward control are essential in Heroes of the Storm, as they allow players to gain vision of the map and deny enemies from doing the same. Players need to place wards in strategic locations to gain vision of the map and deny enemies from doing the same. They should also be aware of the enemy’s position and movements and adjust their strategy accordingly. Effective mapping and ward control can give players a significant advantage in the game.

Joining the Ranked Play

Joining a Ranked Play Game

In order to join a ranked play game in Heroes of the Storm, players must first navigate through the game’s user interface and find the ranked play option. Once they have located the ranked play option, they can then queue up for a game.

Queuing for a Ranked Play Game

To queue up for a ranked play game, players must first select the game mode they wish to play. There are several game modes available in Heroes of the Storm, including “Classic,” “Team Deathmatch,” and “Assault.” Players must also choose a map to play on. There are numerous maps available in the game, each with its own unique layout and objectives.

Once a game mode and map have been selected, players can then choose their role. In Heroes of the Storm, there are several roles available, including “Tank,” “Damage,” “Support,” and “Specialist.” Each role has its own unique abilities and playstyle, and players must choose the role that best suits their personal playstyle.

After selecting a game mode, map, and role, players can then queue up for a ranked play game. While waiting for a game to start, players can review their team composition and strategize with their teammates. It is important for players to communicate effectively and work together as a team in order to succeed in ranked play.

Navigating the Ranked Play Interface

When it comes to participating in Heroes of the Storm ranked matches, understanding the ranked play interface is crucial. This section will cover the essential aspects of the ranked play interface that every player should be familiar with.

Understanding the Ranked Play Lobby

The ranked play lobby is where players can join together to form a team and participate in ranked matches. To access the ranked play lobby, players need to select the “Play” button on the Heroes of the Storm main menu. From there, they can choose the “Ranked Play” option, which will take them to the ranked play lobby.

In the ranked play lobby, players can view the list of available game modes, including the popular “Play vs. AI” mode and the ranked “Team vs. Team” mode. To join a ranked match, players need to select the “Team vs. Team” option and then choose a hero from their collection.

Once a player has selected a hero, they can invite their friends to join their team or search for other players to fill out their team. Players can also view the rank of their teammates and use this information to determine their chances of winning the match.

Reading the Match History

The match history is an essential feature of the ranked play interface that allows players to track their performance in previous matches. By reviewing their match history, players can identify areas where they need to improve and learn from their mistakes.

To access the match history, players need to select the “Profile” button on the Heroes of the Storm main menu. From there, they can navigate to the “Match History” tab, which will display a list of all the matches they have played in ranked play.

Each match in the match history includes detailed information about the game mode, the time of day, the duration of the match, and the final outcome. Players can also view their individual performance in each match, including their hero selection, kills, deaths, and assists.

Viewing Player Profiles

Player profiles are another important feature of the ranked play interface that allow players to learn more about their teammates and opponents. By viewing player profiles, players can see a player’s rank, win/loss record, and other relevant information.

To view a player’s profile, players can simply hover over their name in the ranked play lobby or during a match. This will display the player’s profile, which includes their rank, win/loss record, and a breakdown of their performance in previous matches.

In addition to this information, players can also view a player’s overall performance in ranked play, including their average damage dealt, healing done, and other statistics. This information can be helpful for players looking to improve their own performance and learn from their teammates and opponents.

Ranked Play Etiquette

Reporting Toxic Players

Playing Heroes of the Storm Ranked can be a great experience, but it can also be ruined by toxic players who make the game unbearable. It is important to report players who engage in toxic behavior to the Blizzard support team. Players who engage in behavior such as racism, sexism, or hate speech will not be tolerated and should be reported immediately. Players who engage in this behavior risk being banned from the game and losing their rank.

Playing with Respect and Sportsmanship

Playing Heroes of the Storm Ranked requires a level of respect and sportsmanship. It is important to treat your teammates and opponents with respect and not engage in negative behavior such as trash talking or insulting others. It is important to remember that everyone is here to have fun and play the game.

Avoiding Leaving Early or Feeding

Leaving early or feeding (deliberately losing to get a lower rank) is not acceptable behavior in Heroes of the Storm Ranked. It is important to stick with your team and try to win, but if you must leave, let your team know beforehand so they can find a replacement. Feeding can result in a temporary ban from the game and a loss of rank.

Maintaining a High Rank

Reviewing Game Replays

Reviewing game replays is a crucial aspect of maintaining a high rank in Heroes of the Storm ranked play. By analyzing your own and your team’s performance in previous matches, you can identify patterns and mistakes that can be improved upon. This process can help you to understand your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of your teammates, which can be invaluable in optimizing your strategy for future games.

Learning from Mistakes

Learning from mistakes is an essential part of maintaining a high rank in Heroes of the Storm. Whether it’s a misplay, a missed engage, or a miscommunication with your team, it’s important to reflect on what went wrong and how you can avoid making the same mistake in the future. By acknowledging and learning from your mistakes, you can improve your overall performance and contribute more effectively to your team’s success.

Adjusting Strategies and Tactics

Adjusting strategies and tactics is crucial for maintaining a high rank in Heroes of the Storm. As the game evolves and new patches are released, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest changes and adjust your playstyle accordingly. This might involve experimenting with new heroes, adjusting your build, or modifying your team composition. By staying adaptable and willing to adjust your strategies and tactics, you can continue to perform at a high level in ranked play.

FAQs

1. What is Heroes of the Storm?

Heroes of the Storm is a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It features a variety of heroes with unique abilities and playstyles, and players work together to destroy the enemy team’s base while defending their own.

2. What are ranked matches in Heroes of the Storm?

Ranked matches are a type of match in Heroes of the Storm where players compete against other teams in a structured ranking system. Players earn points based on their performance in each match, and their overall rank is determined by their accumulated points. Ranked matches are a great way to test your skills against other players and work towards improving your rank.

3. What kind of computer do I need to play Heroes of the Storm?

To play Heroes of the Storm, you will need a computer that meets the game’s minimum system requirements. This typically includes a CPU with at least 2 GHz processing power, 4 GB of RAM, and a dedicated video card with at least 512 MB of memory. However, to play ranked matches, you may want to consider a computer with higher specifications to ensure a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.

4. How do I start playing ranked matches in Heroes of the Storm?

To start playing ranked matches in Heroes of the Storm, you will first need to install the game and create an account. Once you have done this, you can jump into a ranked match by selecting the “Play” button and choosing the “Ranked” playlist. From there, you can choose a hero and join a team or queue up to be matched with other players.

5. What should I do if I’m struggling in ranked matches?

If you are struggling in ranked matches, there are a few things you can do to improve your performance. First, make sure you are familiar with the hero you are playing and understand their abilities and playstyle. You can also practice playing with your team and communicating effectively to coordinate your attacks. Additionally, you may want to consider watching replays of your matches to identify areas where you can improve and learn from your mistakes.