nonranked

Nonranked is a term used in online multiplayer environments to describe matches, modes, or players that do not affect an official ranking, rating, or ladder standing. In nonranked contexts, performance typically does not change a player's ladder position, skill rating, or matchmaking score, and progression systems are often disabled or kept separate from competitive ladders.

Nonranked modes are designed for casual play, learning, experimentation, or social play. They allow players to practice mechanics, try new roles, or play without the pressure of climbing. Different games use different labels for these modes—such as normal, casual, or unranked queues—and some rely on custom games or practice arenas. While nonranked play usually lacks progression, some titles still collect statistics such as kills, objectives, or win rates, which generally do not influence rankings.

Usage and terminology can vary by game. Some communities use nonranked and unranked interchangeably, while others reserve nonranked for modes that intentionally separate players from the ranked ladder but still involve some form of matchmaking. In other cases, nonranked can refer to matches played outside the main competitive framework, including private lobbies or practice environments. Because terminology is game-specific, players should consult in-game help or official documentation to understand how a given mode affects rankings, matchmaking, or statistics.

In summary, nonranked denotes play that does not contribute to official rankings, offering a casual or educational alternative to competitive play.