BagTrax rates every player with an ELO system. Win games, gain rating. Lose games, drop rating. The size of the change depends on who you play.
How ELO Works
ELO is a zero-sum rating system originally built for chess. The core idea: beating a stronger opponent is worth more than beating a weaker one. And losing to a weaker opponent costs more than losing to a stronger one.
Every new player starts at 1000. After each non-friendly game, both players' ratings adjust based on the result and the rating gap between them.
Rating Changes
Beat someone rated higher than you? Big gain. You proved you belong at a higher level.
Beat someone rated lower? Small gain. You were expected to win.
Lose to someone rated higher? Small loss. That's the expected result.
Lose to someone rated lower? Big loss. The system adjusts because you underperformed.
Typical changes range from 5–30 points per game. The wider the rating gap, the more dramatic the swing for upsets.
Rank Tiers
BagTrax maps your rating to six rank tiers:
- Rookie — Starting out. Everyone begins here.
- Tosser — You're getting consistent.
- Slider — Board control is solid.
- Ringer — You're hitting holes regularly.
- Ace — Top-tier. People notice when you're in the bracket.
- Legend — The leaderboard peak. You earned it.
What Counts
Only non-friendly games affect your rating. Mark a game as friendly in the lobby and it won't touch your ELO or stats. Tournament games always count.
Climbing the Leaderboard
Play more. Play better opponents. Win consistently. Your rating reflects your competitive history — not just volume. Beating one Legend is worth more than beating ten Rookies.
Check your rank and rating on your player profile.