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Waiting 20 minutes for a casual match: is it normal?

Long Queues in Casual Matches | Players Question Wait Times

By

Aisha Khan

Jul 19, 2025, 01:42 PM

Edited By

Liam O'Reilly

2 minutes (approx.)

A gamer sitting in front of a computer, looking frustrated while waiting for a casual match to start.

A growing number of players are finding themselves stuck waiting up to 20 minutes for casual matches, stirring up conversations in forums about game balance and skill disparities. Gamers express frustration over matchmaking delays while others focus on self-improvement and strategy during this downtime.

The Casual Match Wait Time Dilemma

Recently, a post on a gaming forum highlighted the concerns over lengthy waits for casual matches. While a simple match might seem straightforward, players are left contemplating game mechanics and their skill levels while clocking in these extended wait times.

A Focus on Improvement

Many in the community have shifted their mindset from the desire to win to focusing on personal growth. One player advises, "accept that you wonโ€™t win anytime soon and instead play to improve." This shows a growing acceptance of the competitive nature of gaming. Practicing specific techniques, such as combos or defensive strategies, becomes a priority over immediate victories.

Facing Tough Opponents

Another user has voiced their challenge by stating, "All Iโ€™m fighting are people a million times better than me" This sentiment resonates with many others in the community, indicating a significant skill gap in matchmaking. As players continue to face opponents far beyond their level, the developmental struggle becomes evident.

Insights from the Community

Community feedback reveals mixed sentiments concerning long wait times:

  • Users express feelings of frustration and discouragement.

  • Others embrace the wait as a moment for practice and improvement.

  • Some even call for system changes to balance matchmaking skill levels.

> "Donโ€™t worry about wins or losses, focus on what you can learn" This advice encourages a healthier approach to competitive gaming.

Key Observations:

  • ๐Ÿšซ Players report casual match waits of up to 20 minutes.

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ Focus on self-improvement is rising among gamers.

  • ๐ŸฅŠ Significant skill gaps challenge newer players.

As discussions about wait times and match quality continue, will game developers take note and adjust matchmaking systems? This situation remains under the spotlight as both casual and competitive players navigate the challenges of today's gaming environment.

What Lies Ahead for Matchmaking?

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that game developers will react to the growing complaints about lengthy wait times. As players increasingly share their experiences on forums, experts estimate around a 60% likelihood that changes to matchmaking algorithms could be on the horizon. Developers are likely to analyze current data showing skill gaps and player satisfactionโ€”and those insights may lead to adjustments aimed at speeding up match times and balancing skill levels. This could create a more enjoyable experience for both new and seasoned players, fostering a healthier gaming environment.

A Lesson from the Sports World

In a striking parallel, consider the evolution of professional tennis during the 1970s when the sport faced criticism over imbalanced matches. Players and fans grew frustrated with disparities in skill levels, often leading to one-sided games. To address the issue, officials restructured tournaments and modified ranking systems, which ultimately fostered a more competitive and engaging environment. Similarly, as players grapple with long waits and skill gaps in gaming, developers might find that tailoring experience through system enhancements can create a more dynamic and vibrant community, much like the renaissance seen in tennis decades ago.