Is it normal that all levels from 1 to 9 is available despite what shield rank you are?
Yes, PvE doesn’t lock out, only PvP does.
I must have been dreaming the last 100 or so PvE events, I could swear that levels 1-6 has always been locked for me. Is it new? (confused)
No, it’s always been this way…
No - you can play whatever level you like at PvE but most vets wont bother below SCL7 because there are no 4* covers from progression and the rewards don’t stack up.
PvP was changed during the first round of Wins testing for PvP - this was done because many 5* players in order to grab the CP which had been shifted to placement went slumming in levels way below their normal locking out placement for rosters who were there legitimately. So they locked out rosters based on Shield Rank - something like at Rank 60 or something - not sure exactly.
You’re right guys. My mind is playing tricks on me I guess.