Dota 2 is an incredibly popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, but like any competitive online game, it comes with a system of penalties for players who disrupt the gaming experience for others. One of the most common consequences is being placed in Low Priority. This penalty results from behaviors such as abandoning matches, being reported for disruptive behavior, or not participating adequately in games. If you’ve found yourself stuck in Low Priority, it can be frustrating, especially if it affects your matchmaking experience and the overall enjoyment of the game.
Fortunately, there are ways to get out of Low Priority and restore your standing in the game. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to get rid of Low Priority in Dota 2.
Before you can get out of Low Priority, it’s essential to understand how you got there in the first place. Dota 2 uses an automated system to track player behavior, and here are the main reasons why players may find themselves in this penalty pool:
Leaving the game: If you abandon a match by disconnecting or deliberately leaving early, the system flags you for disruptive behavior. The more you leave games, the worse the penalty becomes.
Not participating in the game: Players who fail to contribute meaningfully to the game (e.g., AFKing or not helping their team) may also face the Low Priority penalty.
Reports from other players: If you receive multiple reports for toxicity, poor behavior, or cheating, you are likely to be sent to Low Priority.
Disconnecting repeatedly: Even if you are not abandoning games, frequent disconnects can trigger penalties, especially if they happen during important moments of the match.
Once you’re in Low Priority, the most straightforward way to get out is by playing and winning matches in this queue. You can only play in the Low Priority pool, which consists of matches that typically involve other players who are also under penalty.
Win matches: The main goal while stuck in Low Priority is to win games. Each victory will help reduce your penalty, but it may take a few wins to get back to normal matchmaking.
Play with a positive attitude: Winning is not just about getting kills or pushing lanes; it’s about working as a team. If you maintain a good attitude and play supportively, you increase your chances of winning and improving your reputation.
Stay active and participate: Don’t neglect your role in the team. Make sure to always play actively and help your team succeed, whether you’re a core hero or a support.
Avoid disruptive behavior in future matches
To avoid being put back in Low Priority, it’s crucial to change any behavior that led to the penalty in the first place. Here are a few tips to improve your gameplay:
Be polite and supportive: Toxic behavior, including harassment or arguing with teammates, can lead to more reports and another stint in Low Priority. Keep your interactions respectful and encourage teammates.
Don’t abandon games: Even if you’re losing, try to play through to the end. Abandoning a game leaves your team at a disadvantage and is a quick way to get penalized.
Play regularly and show consistency: One-off incidents can trigger penalties, but consistent good behavior will show that you’re a reliable player and help you avoid Low Priority queues in the future.
If you disconnect accidentally, Dota 2 provides a “reconnect” option. This feature allows you to rejoin a game if you disconnect early on. This way, you can avoid receiving a Low Priority penalty for leaving prematurely.
Rejoin quickly: If you experience a connection issue or accidentally disconnect, log back in immediately. The longer you take to reconnect, the more likely it is that your teammates will report you for abandoning.
If you’re facing Low Priority for a short period and cannot handle playing through it, you can also choose to wait for the cooldown to expire. This is the least favorable option because it doesn’t involve any active improvement of your behavior. However, you’ll eventually be able to participate in regular matchmaking again once the penalty period ends.
In rare cases, players may feel they have been wrongly penalized. If you believe that your Low Priority penalty is unjustified, you can submit a support ticket to Valve through the Dota 2 Help Center. Make sure to include any relevant information, such as match IDs, and provide a clear explanation of why you believe the penalty was unfair.
Prevent future low priority penalties
To ensure you never find yourself in Low Priority again, try to adopt habits that promote a positive gameplay experience:
Play in a party: If possible, play with friends or in a pre-made team. Playing in a party reduces the chances of receiving reports from other players.
Monitor your internet connection: Ensure that your internet connection is stable, so you avoid disconnecting during matches. If you experience frequent internet issues, consider switching providers or using a more reliable connection.
Being stuck in Low Priority in Dota 2 can be frustrating, but it’s important to view it as an opportunity to improve your gameplay and behavior. By playing through the Low Priority queue, avoiding toxic behavior, and being mindful of your actions, you can quickly work your way back to regular matchmaking. Remember, good sportsmanship and consistency are key to maintaining a healthy gaming experience in Dota 2.