Halo Wars 2 is now out on PC and Xbox One, but its multiplayer mode initially lacks a ranked component. While you can play a campaign and four multiplayer modes against AI-controlled opponents, the multiplayer ranking system has been temporarily disabled.
343 Industries and Creative Assembly opted not to have that part of the game enabled immediately so that new players can get used to Halo Wars 2′ dynamics. The delay also allows balancing issues to be worked out before rankings are affected.
First, a social/unranked environment is going to be more inviting and less stressful and allow players a chance to get familiar with the game, the units, and the multitude of strategies and tactics at their disposal. Second, delaying a ranking seasonal model also allows the development team to monitor and respond to any balancing issues that usually only arise after players have spent considerable time exploring units and developing strategies and synergies. – Brian Jarrard, community manager
