Who to max first: choosing brawlers that work across Ranked
Since the November 2026 update, Ranked requires Power 11 brawlers at every rank, and Diamond and above need 12 of them. Free max-level brawlers per season went up to 6, but which brawlers you upgrade first now matters a lot. Here are the criteria.
Criterion 1: many modes over one
Ranked rotates Gem Grab, Brawl Ball, Heist, Bounty, Hot Zone and Knockout. A brawler that's consistently strong across several modes gives better value than one that dominates a single mode, because you can pick it whatever map comes up.
The panel below is computed from PickStudy data. For each ranked mode we take the top 15 brawlers by win rate, then list brawlers by how many modes they appear in. It updates every morning.
Brawlers that stay on this list over time are the "works anywhere" picks. Rather than deciding from one or two days, look for names that keep showing up.
Criterion 2: spread the classes
If you're maxing 12, cover different classes. You need backups when bans hit, and different maps need different roles. For example:
- Open maps: 1–2 marksmen
- Wall-heavy maps: 1–2 artillery
- Modes with ground to hold: 2–3 controllers or tanks
- Anywhere: a few damage dealers and supports
See the class guide.
Criterion 3: brawlers you actually play well
Great data doesn't help if a brawler doesn't suit your hands. From the list, upgrade brawlers you already play well in trophy matches first. It's also fine to keep one or two personal favorites even if they're not on the list.
Criterion 4: don't rely on one ban magnet
Top ranked brawlers are prime ban targets. Pour everything into the strongest one and you're stuck whenever it's banned. Build it, but prepare another brawler that can fill the same role.
Watch for patches
Balance changes can reshuffle the list. Upgrades can't be undone, so after a big patch, wait two or three days for rankings to settle. See how to read our numbers.
Summary
Consistent across modes, varied classes, and comfortable in your hands. Weigh all three and you won't regret your Power 11 order.