If this system fails, the game becomes a frustrating, unplayable mess that bleeds players instantly.

While this conspiracy theory is widespread, the reality is much more mundane and focused entirely on mathematical fairness.
Trophy and Rating Systems
Most modern strategy games utilize a modified version of the Elo rating system, originally designed for professional chess.

When you go on a massive winning streak, your trophy count inflates, and the algorithm begins matching you against significantly better players.
The algorithm does not care what deck you are playing.With millions of players, you will occasionally draw a bad matchup.It helps them learn before facing real humans. The Problem of Card Levels
The standard Elo system works perfectly for chess because all pieces are equal, but tower rush games feature upgradeable cards.

To combat this, developers have implemented secondary checks that look at the player's King Tower level.
Community MythHow it Actually WorksRigged MatchmakingThe algorithm does not force losses; you are simply playing tilted against harder opponents because your MMR is inflatedRigged Deck MatchingDevelopers have confirmed repeatedly that the algorithm does not read the contents of your deck when finding an opponent Maintaining Competitive Integrity
Because the ladder algorithm must balance queue times against fairness, it will never be perfectly balanced.

When levels are equalized, the matchmaking system shines, ensuring that the better player almost always wins.