In the context of competitive online games, particularly team-based titles, the term “bussing” generally refers to a practice where highly skilled or experienced players carry less proficient teammates to victory, often for a fee or other form of compensation. This dynamic can create an uneven playing field, as one team benefits significantly from the skill disparity, while the opposing team faces an artificially inflated challenge. In Marvel Rivals, this could manifest as a skilled player or group of players consistently partnering with lower-ranked individuals, boosting them through the game’s ranking system.
The prevalence of such practices can significantly impact the competitive integrity of a game. While some argue that it provides an opportunity for less skilled players to improve and learn from experienced individuals, others contend that it devalues legitimate progress, unfairly elevates players who have not earned their rank, and potentially fosters a negative community environment. The historical context shows this has been present in many competitive online games. The implications involve a player’s rank not accurately reflecting their abilities, undermining the intended purpose of matchmaking systems and leading to frustration among players who are competing against artificially boosted opponents.
