What Is a Smurf in Gaming?
An experienced player using a new or low-ranked account, so they face opponents far below their real skill.
What does smurf mean in games?
A smurf is an experienced player who plays on a second, newer or lower-ranked account. Because the account has little history, the game matches them against much weaker opponents until the system catches up. Smurfing is the act of doing it.
Where the word comes from
The term dates back to Warcraft II in the 1990s, when two strong players created accounts named after the Smurfs cartoon characters to play anonymously against beginners. Today it is used in practically every competitive game, from League of Legends and Valorant to CS2 and Clash Royale.
Why smurfs exist in ranked
Matchmaking relies on a hidden rating, the MMR. A fresh account starts with an estimate and very little data, so the first games, often the placement matches, carry more weight while the system figures out where the player belongs. A skilled player wins far more than expected, climbs fast and, along the way, plays games that are lopsided for everyone else.
- Playing with lower-ranked friends without making the lobby unbalanced on their main account.
- Practicing a new role, agent or champion without risking the rank of the main account.
- Avoiding pressure from a high rank, or simply stomping weaker players, which is the reason that gives smurfing its bad reputation.
How games fight smurfing
Developers push accounts with a big win rate up faster, require phone verification or a minimum account level for ranked, and in some cases detect linked accounts. Riot, Valve and other studios also treat account sharing and buying as a rules violation, which is different from simply owning a second account.
Example
A Diamond player creates a new account and wins 18 of the first 20 games against Silver opponents. The MMR rises much faster than normal, and within a few dozen games the account reaches its real level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smurfing bannable?
It depends on the game. Having a second account is usually allowed, but deliberately losing to lower the rank, sharing accounts or buying accounts breaks most terms of service.
How do I know I played against a smurf?
Common signs are a low account level, a very high win rate in few games and mechanics clearly above the lobby. Still, one great game is not proof: some players are simply on a hot streak.