CSGO Ranks - Understanding how they work in 2023

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

16 Sep

Andre Guaraldo

For avid CSGO enthusiasts who thrive on competitive play, this guide offers a comprehensive look into CSGO ranks, the intricate ranking system, CSGO levels, and more. CSGO's ranking system, with its eighteen distinct tiers, has historically served as a clear-cut measure of player skill, ranging from newcomers to seasoned veterans.

CSGO ranks explained for 2023 players

Recent discussions have raised questions about potential flaws in the CSGO ranking system, especially in specific regions. These concerns have prompted in-depth investigations into the distribution of skill levels within the CSGO community. However, our primary aim today is not to delve into these matters but rather to offer a detailed exploration of all the CSGO ranks that exist in the competitive gaming landscape.

Demystifying CSGO ranks

The CSGO ranking system has often been shrouded in mystery, leaving many players in a state of confusion about its inner workings. To shed light on this enigma, let's begin by clarifying the core principles behind CSGO ranks. Upon completing a competitive match, your performance dictates whether you gain or lose 'ELO points.' These points essentially serve as behind-the-scenes data that determine your CSGO rank. Every action you undertake in the game contributes to your ELO score.

For newcomers to CSGO, your initial rank typically falls within the range of Silver III to Gold Nova II, offering a rough gauge of your skill level. In most instances, you'll be matched with players of similar proficiency. CSGO ranks serve as a reflection of your fundamental skills, encompassing critical aspects like positioning, aiming, map knowledge, line-ups, awareness, placement, movement, and game sense. To make rapid strides up the ranks, prioritize honing your aiming skills, a pivotal factor under your control.

CSGO ranks and the player distribution (in %) as of the end of 2022 (credits: Buff.Game)

CSGO player distribution (in %) as of the end of 2022 (credits: Buff.Game)

Unveiling the CSGO ranking ladder

Since Counter-Strike: Global Offensive's inception, the hierarchy of ranks has remained consistent, comprising a total of eighteen tiers:

Silver ranks
1. Silver I
2. Silver II
3. Silver III
4. Silver IV
5. Silver Elite
6. Silver Elite Master
Gold ranks
1. Gold Nova I
2. Gold Nova II
3. Gold Nova III
4. Gold Nova Master
Master Guardian ranks
1. Master Guardian I
2. Master Guardian II
3. Master Guardian Elite
4. Distinguished Master Guardian
Legendary Eagle ranks
1. Legendary Eagle
2. Legendary Eagle Master
Supreme Master First Class
Global Elite;

Defining your CSGO identity through the competitive rank

Having explored the diverse realm of CSGO ranks, let's now talk about strategies for enhancing your rank and making significant strides in the CSGO universe.

The first of all journeys: the Silver rank

At the Silver tier, you're essentially a newcomer. Your aiming skills may leave room for improvement, and your grasp of grenade placements and map awareness might be limited.

Thankfully, progressing through the Silver ranks is relatively straightforward. Your primary focus should center on enhancing your map knowledge and honing your aiming abilities. Dedicate 30 to 60 minutes daily to practice and pinpoint areas where you can elevate your skills. Numerous servers offer aim training options, including headshot-only scenarios and Free-For-All (FFA) maps.

The first group of all CSGO ranks: the Silvers (credits: CS Money)

The first group of all: the Silvers (credits: CS Money)

Getting better and stronger: from Gold to Master Guardian

Upon reaching the Gold Nova ranks, you've likely accumulated several hundred hours of CSGO gameplay. At this juncture, it's imperative to develop advanced skills beyond mere accuracy in aiming. Prioritize the acquisition of advanced game sense and a deeper understanding of maps, routes, lanes, and tactics.

While you'll naturally acquire various tactics in these ranks, there are still numerous skills to master. Ensure you have a solid grasp of optimizing your crosshair placement. If you seek guidance in this area, consider consulting our guide on the best CSGO crosshair settings.

Keep in mind that, even in these ranks, you're still part of the approximately 30% of the player base. Progressing further demands more than just improved aim; it necessitates a comprehensive skill set.

Where most players currently reside: the Gold group of CS:GO ranks (credits: CS Money)

Where most players currently reside: the Gold group (credits: CS Money)

Where legends begin to rise: reaching the Legendary Eagle Master rank

At this stage, the competition intensifies. These ranks are often associated with highly competitive players who prioritize their stats and performance. Some players in these ranks may even stream their gameplay. Although not the highest ranks in CSGO, they represent a significant achievement.

Players within these ranks typically have invested between 2000 to 3000 hours into the game, giving them a distinct edge over their competition. If you find yourself facing a player with only 1000 hours of playtime, chances are your map knowledge, movement, and utility understanding surpass theirs. To maintain this advantage, continue to play regularly and fine-tune your skills.

The top of the mountain: Supreme Master and Global Elite CSGO ranks

Distinctions between Supreme Master First Class and Global Elite are subtle. In some instances, a Supreme Master First Class player may outperform a Global Elite player, with minimal differences between them. You've ascended to the highest echelons of the game, and recognition will follow, especially if you aspire to become a professional CSGO esports player.

The tip of the mountain: the final fice CS:GO ranks in the ladder (credits: CS Money)

The top of the mountain: the final five ranks in the ladder (credits: CS Money)

How do CSGO ranks are defined and calculated?

Understanding how CSGO ranks function is crucial for players who seek a more technical insight. While the concept is relatively straightforward, there are intricacies unique to CSGO's matchmaking system. Unlike some other esports titles, CSGO does not disclose players' precise Matchmaking Rating (MMR) numbers, only revealing their rank or medal.

Your MMR is influenced not only by wins and losses but also by various performance metrics:

Kill Death Ratio (KDA)
Most Valuable Player (MVP) count
Damage dealt per round
Total number of bomb plants and defusals

Although winning matches remains the primary factor in rank adjustment, CSGO's ranking algorithm considers these additional performance metrics.

In competitive CSGO, even a loss can be valuable if you've performed at your best and excelled in other aspects of the game. Staying updated with CSGO news is advisable, as any updates to the ranking system will be promptly reported.

Tips and tricks for evolving as a player and progress in the CSGO ladder

The question of how to rank up in CSGO is at the forefront of many players' minds as they embark on their CSGO journey. While individual circumstances play a significant role, there are key pieces of advice to accelerate your ascent through the CSGO ranks:

Find teammates you can trust: Playing with consistent teammates is crucial for faster ranking. Queueing with random players often results in minimal communication, disjointed teamwork, and varying skill levels. Forming a team and communicating effectively can significantly expedite your progress.
Understand roles and define yours: To reach the highest CSGO ranks, specialize in a particular role or skill set. Becoming a master in one area, such as AWPing, can set you apart and elevate your performance.
Master competitive maps and their details: Rather than spreading yourself thin across all maps, focus on mastering one map at a time. Understand the intricacies of each map, including lanes, routes, and strategies, to gain an edge over opponents.
Keep yourself up-to-date: Follow the professional CSGO scene and watch top players in action. Observing their gameplay can provide insights into advanced tactics and strategies that can enhance your performance and ranking.
Don't stop studying: Dedicate time to improving your individual skills, including aiming, positioning, and game sense. Regular practice, utilizing aim training maps, and analyzing your gameplay can lead to noticeable improvement.

Remember that ranking up in CSGO requires dedication and commitment, and not everyone may reach the highest ranks. However, by following these tips, you can become a better player and potentially achieve higher CSGO ranks after years of effort.

What about the CSGO levels?

In addition to CSGO ranks, it's essential to understand CSGO levels. While ranks reflect your skill level, levels indicate your playtime and experience within the game, separate from your abilities.

The progression of CSGO levels is as follows:

Recruit Rank 0 » 1,000 XP
Private:
- Rank 1 » 5,000 XP
- Rank 2 » 6,000 XP
- Rank 3 » 11,000 XP
- Rank 4 » 16,000 XP
Corporal:
- Rank 5 » 21,000 XP
- Rank 6 » 26,000 XP
- Rank 7 » 31,000 XP
- Rank 8 » 36,000 XP
Sergeant:
- Rank 9 » 41,000 XP
- Rank 10 » 46,000 XP
- Rank 11 » 51,000 XP
- Rank 12 » 56,000 XP
Master Sergeant:
- Rank 13 » 61,000 XP
- Rank 14 » 66,000 XP
- Rank 15 » 71,000 XP
- Rank 16 » 76,000 XP
Sergeant Major:
- Rank 17 » 81,000 XP
- Rank 18 » 86,000 XP
- Rank 19 » 91,000 XP
- Rank 20 » 96,000 XP
Lieutenant:
- Rank 21 » 101,000 XP
- Rank 22 » 106,000 XP
- Rank 23 » 111,000 XP
- Rank 24 » 116,000 XP
Captain:
- Rank 25 » 121,000 XP
- Rank 26 » 126,000 XP
- Rank 27 » 131,000 XP
- Rank 28 » 136,000 XP
Major:
- Rank 29 » 141,000 XP
- Rank 30 » 146,000 XP
- Rank 31 » 151,000 XP
- Rank 32 » 156,000 XP
Colonel:
- Rank 33 » 161,000 XP
- Rank 34 » 166,000 XP
- Rank 35 » 171,000 XP
Brigadier General Rank 36 » 176,000 XP
Major General Rank 37 » 181,000 XP
Lieutenant General Rank 38 » 186,000 XP
General Rank 39 » 191,000 XP
Global General Rank 40 » 196,000 XP

There are currently 40 CSGO levels and, after winning them all, you are eligible for a Medal (credits: Eloboss)

CSGO currently features a total of 40 levels, and you earn XP across all game modes. Most XP can be obtained in the primary competitive mode, where you receive bonus points for each round won.

Upon reaching level 40, you can acquire a prestigious CSGO service medal. Upon receiving this medal, your CSGO level resets to one, allowing you to start anew. This system bears resemblance to the "prestige" model found in Call of Duty's multiplayer modes.

Frequently asked question around CSGO ranks:

WHAT ARE CS:GO RANKS?

CS:GO ranks assess a player's performance and skill level within the game. They also play a crucial role in matchmaking to ensure balanced matchups. Earning or losing ELO points through each match determines your CS:GO rank.

HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY CS:GO RANK?

Improving your CS:GO rank primarily requires extensive in-game experience and skill development. Specializing in a specific role, practicing regularly, and finding reliable teammates can enhance your ranking progress.

WHAT IS THE BEST CS:GO RANK?

The highest attainable CS:GO rank is Global Elite. Achieving this rank suggests a high level of skill and might even open doors to professional gaming opportunities.

Stay tuned to Strafe for more CSGO information as well as live updates from the games and tournaments!

Featured Image Credits: CS Lab