Solo queue means entering matchmaking alone, with no party, so the game assigns you teammates you do not know. Players also write "solo q" or "soloq".
In some games "solo queue" is also the name of a dedicated mode that only allows players without a party, while other games let solo players and groups share one queue.
How players use it
- "Solo q is so rough at night"
- "I only play solo queue, no friends online"
- "Climbed to Diamond in solo queue this season"
- "Soloq or flex tonight?"
How solo queue works
In a shared queue, the matchmaker builds teams from individual players and rates your team by combining everyone's skill estimate. In a separate solo mode, every player in the lobby is alone, so teams are comparable in coordination.
The common frustration: in a shared queue, you may face a premade group that communicates and plays together, while your team does not. That is why many ranked modes offer a separate solo or duo option, or restrict group sizes.
Why players argue about it
- Rank pressure. Your rating depends partly on strangers, which is where terms like elo hell come from. Our post on why your rank does not climb solo looks at what you can control.
- Communication. With no shared voice chat, you rely on pings and short text calls.
- Fairness. Some players want solo-only queues, others prefer a single queue for faster matches.
For a longer comparison, read solo queue versus duo queue.
Tips for solo queue
- Learn the game's quick-chat or ping system and use it.
- Pick roles that cover gaps in your team.
- Mute toxic players early and keep your own tilt in check.
- Practice a small pool of reliable characters or strategies.
- If solo is too frustrating, find one steady partner for duo queue.
Related terms
- Duo queue: queueing as a pair.
- Premade: a pre-formed group.
- SBMM: skill-based matchmaking.
- Elo hell: the feeling of being stuck in a rank.
FAQ
Is solo queue harder than playing with friends?
Often, because you cannot rely on communication or trust. In games where you face coordinated groups, it can feel unbalanced. Results still depend on game and rank.
Does solo queue mean I have no teammates?
No. It means you queue without a party. The game gives you teammates, usually strangers.
How do I stop playing solo queue?
Use an LFG post, a Discord server, or a player finder at /find-players to find people who want the same game and mode.