Smurf

Smurfing is when a highly skilled player creates a secondary account so they appear new, then plays against beginners or lower-ranked players. The new account is called a smurf. Because matchmaking systems place new accounts with less experienced opponents, the smurf can win easily.

Warcraft II and two cartoon names

The term is traced to the strategy game Warcraft II, where two skilled players used the strategy under the names “Papa Smurf” and “Smurfette”. The cartoon names stuck, and “smurf” spread across online gaming as a general word for disguised experienced players.

Why people smurf

Motives vary. Some smurf simply to win easily or show off. Others say they want to play with a lower-ranked friend without dragging that friend into hard matches, or to try a new character without risking their main rank, or to escape the pressure of a high rating. Whatever the reason, the effect on the opponents is usually the same: newer players face someone far above their level.

Why it is a problem

Smurfing undermines skill-based matchmaking, which is meant to give everyone fair games. For newcomers, losing heavily to smurfs can be discouraging enough to make them quit. Many games discourage smurfing by requiring a phone number or account level before ranked play, by detecting unusually strong new accounts and moving them up quickly, or by treating it as a breach of their rules. Policies differ from game to game, so check the specific code of conduct.

Losing to smurfs is not your fault

If a child keeps losing badly in early matches, smurfs may be part of the reason, and it is not a reflection of their ability. Most games provide a report option for suspected smurfs. Co-operative modes, games against computer players and private matches with friends are good alternatives while building confidence.