queue
MatchmakingDefinition
Queue is the waiting state and the underlying matchmaking process that places players into matches. The queue groups players by rank, party size, language, and region, then forms balanced teams. Queue time is one of two competing matchmaking objectives, the other being match quality. Off-peak hours produce longer queues, especially at top ranks.
Example
"Queue is 12 minutes at 3 AM — I'm done for tonight." The thinning player pool at off-peak hours stretches matchmaking.