How to Qualify for the Top 500 Player Icon in Overwatch 2

If you’ve ever come across an orange and yellow player icon displaying the number 500 while playing Overwatch 2, that means the person possessing it has ranked among the top 500 players. However, if you don’t have it, don’t be too hard on yourself. Unfortunately, Blizzard has made changes to the rules surrounding this prestigious icon.

Applying for the Top 500 Overwatch Player Icon

Since the September 2022 competitive play update, players are no longer able to obtain the Top 500 Player Icon in Overwatch 2. This update, announced by Blizzard, has led to the elimination of the sprays and icons that were earned each season, including the top 500.

Many players were left perplexed as to why they didn’t receive the Top 500 player icon despite placing significantly higher than 500 on the leaderboard. Following the update, those who place among the Top 500 will now receive a player title instead.

Qualifying for the Top 500 in Overwatch 2

Securing a spot within the Top 500 is the pinnacle of achievement in competitive Overwatch 2. To qualify for the Top 500, you need to complete 25 games for each role in the Role Queue, or 50 games in the Open Queue.

The leaderboard showcases the region’s top players. While a specific rank is not required to be listed in the Top 500, those who make the cut are typically ranked as Master or Grandmaster. Keep in mind that the leaderboards are updated every two weeks, so if you wish to maintain your position, you must continue playing and maintain a strong Matchmaking Rating (MMR). You can be listed on more than one server, depending on which servers you play on.

Understanding Overwatch 2’s MMR and SR

For a comprehensive explanation of how the ranked system works in Overwatch 2, refer to our guide on Overwatch 2 ranks: Explaining the OW2 ranking system. Here, we will focus on two crucial factors: Matchmaking Rating (MMR) and Skill Rating (SR), which greatly impact your chances of entering the Top 500.

Each player is assigned an invisible MMR, which approximates your skill level based on your recent wins and losses. It fluctuates with each match and determines the appropriate tier for matchmaking. On the other hand, SR is the visible value that changes your rank after winning five games or losing 15. Despite its significance, SR does not affect matchmaking.

Not on the Overwatch 2 Top 500 Leaderboard?

Consistent top performance and a strong MMR are essential to be featured on the Top 500 leaderboard. Even surpassing the SR of other players is insufficient if your MMR is low. It’s important to note that the leaderboard is fluid, meaning those at the bottom of the Top 500 might not always be listed, as someone else may have taken their place. Since numerous players are vying for the same spot, the competition is fierce.

If you’ve fulfilled all the requirements for the Top 500 rank, such as playing 50 games in the Open Queue and achieving a high placement, but still aren’t on the leaderboard, the issue might lie in your settings.

Related: Best Custom Game Codes for Aim Training in Overwatch 2

For PC players, it’s crucial to have SMS protection active in order to be eligible for the Top 500 leaderboard. Adding your phone number to your Blizzard account is a simple step that, if overlooked, can prevent you from making it into the Top 500.