Cipher brings Legend bans to high-ranked Apex matches

The story

Apex Legends’ Cipher update introduces Legend banning in Diamond-and-above Ranked matches as Season 31 begins.

EA’s patch notes say players can vote to remove Legends from selection for each match. The season also changes entry costs when a player’s rank is far above or below the median rank of the lobby.

Ranked preparation changes

These additions make the pre-match selection process more consequential for high-ranked players. The update also introduces Akimbo Wingman and Strongholds, alongside balancing, bug fixes and quality-of-life changes.

The notes were published on November 2 ahead of the November 3 season start. Ranked changes do not by themselves confirm which settings an esports tournament will use; competitors should also consult the applicable event rules.