The following FAQ relates to the Matchmaking for Novices feature implemented in Update 1.12.1.
General
What is the matchmaker for novices?
The matchmaker is an in-game feature designed to improve the experience of novices in low-Tier Random Battles (Tiers I–V) and not pit them against more experienced players.
Will experienced players play with this matchmaker?
The matchmaker will aim to create battles with only novices. The only exceptions are if there aren't enough novice players, in which case the matchmaker will select some seasoned players.
Where will the new A.I. players be available?
A.I. players will be added to a separate queue created by matchmakers for novices. A.I. players will not be present outside of this queue.
Who is considered to be a novice?
A player is considered to be a novice if they have not played a single battle in a researchable Tier VII or higher vehicle in any game mode. If they show good performance in battles with novices, they will be assigned the status of a regular player.
What if a player buys a Tier VIII Premium vehicle, but is classed as a novice?
If a player purchases a Tier VII–VIII or higher Premium vehicle, but continues to fight in low-Tier (Tier I–V) battles, they will still be considered a novice. However, if they enter a Tier VIII battle with a Premium vehicle, they will join the regular queue with other regular players.
Can someone become a novice if they play poorly?
Players who were deemed more experienced by the system and have left the novice queue will not be part of it again, regardless of their future play. This does not exclude the occasional inclusion if the matchmaker requires regular players.
A.I. Players
Why is World of Tanks adding A.I. players to the game?
Depending on the time of the day and the queue state, the matchmaker may not have enough novice players to form two full teams. In this scenario, the matchmaker will add several A.I.-controlled vehicles in order to help assemble teams quickly and get players into battle.
How can A.I. players be distinguished from other players?
The A.I. players can be identified by the "..." symbol at the start of their username.
Will A.I. players be available at any time of the day?
A.I. players will only be used during low population when the matchmaker cannot find enough novice players in the queue.
Will A.I. players be available in lower Tiers in the regular queue?
No, only in the queue for novices.
What Tier vehicles will A.I. players use?
A.I. players will be present in matches involving vehicles between Tiers I–V.
How will A.I. players be distributed in a match between teams and players?
A.I. players cannot occupy more than 7 spots on a team or 14 spots in a match.
Can I check the profile of an A.I. player?
You will not be able to view the statistics of A.I. players after the battle.
Gameplay
What skill level do A.I. players have relative to novices?
You can expect A.I. players to play at a similar level of skill to players who have progressed to the same point in the game in which they are available (i.e. Tiers I–V). They will respond to the situation at hand, but will also occasionally make mistakes, much like a player of a similar experience level.
Which vehicles will A.I. players command?
A.I. players will only control light, medium and heavy tanks within the Tiers they are active. They cannot operate tank destroyers or SPGs.
Do A.I. players have the same information as players to process, or are they aware of enemy positions?
A.I. players have no more information than a player would in the same position.
Will A.I. players react to chat commands?
No.
Other
How are a player's statistics impacted by damaging or destroying A.I. players?
All stats, medals, and match results will be unaffected and will operate as normal. Destroying A.I. enemies will award you with the same amount of XP as you would receive for destroying regular opponents. Just like in regular battles, you will be able to earn achievements and rewards and make progress in Personal Missions.
Does the matchmaker only work with newly created accounts?
The matchmaker works with both new and existing accounts that have no battles played on any researchable Tier VII vehicle or higher.
