The argument for skill-based matchmaking in online multiplayer games like Apex Legends is that it helps make online play fairer and more inviting for less-skilled players. The concept ensures that players of roughly the same skill level will be placed together in matches. That way, newcomers aren't easily stomped by more experienced players and put off of playing the game. Apex Legends director Chad Grenier even said this himself when he defended the inclusion of skill-based matchmaking.
However, some Apex Legends players believe that the game's matchmaking system isn't working properly, claiming to have been put up against players that far exceeded their own skill level. PolishMuhGrapple posted in the game's sub-reddit a complaint about how the system was "busted," suggesting that either it thinks they're better at the game than they actually are or that there is a complete lack of casual players.
They aren't alone in their complaints either. One vrazix replied with their own experiences, saying that their kill/death ratio (KDR) is below average, yet they routinely have to play against those with far greater statistics. According to them, this is a sudden shift from how it worked in Season 8. Another user, Kampongfish, comments that they too have a KDR average of 0.7 and yet will be placed against players who have reached Master or Diamond rank during casual matches. They even claim that ranked matches are much easier for them since they're forced to play with other Gold players.
A few other players admit to having similar experiences. One believes that the system has been completely tossed out with Season 9, officially titled Apex Legends: Legacy, while a couple of others claim that this issue isn't new and has been around as early as Season 3. One player, Valkyriebourne, admits that they only ever play with friends nowadays and that the community has been complaining to Respawn about this for ages, and the developer has never addressed it.
At the time of writing, Respawn doesn't appear to have commented on these recent complaints. As it stands, it's not entirely clear whether this is a major widespread issue or if only a fraction of the player-base is affected. Respawn has also been receiving complaints recently regarding the pricing for some of its cosmetics, namely the legendary gear, which some believe is too expensive. Respawn defended its pricing, saying that turning out new cosmetic content isn't as easy as some may think.
Apex Legends is available on Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.