Activision’s Secret Experiment: Call of Duty Players Prefer Skill-Based Matchmaking
Skill-based matchmaking, or SBMM, is a hot topic among Call of Duty players. This system matches players with others of similar skill levels to ensure fair gameplay. While this may seem ideal, some players argue that it takes away the fun of casual gaming and prefer a more random matchmaking system.
Activision, the publisher of Call of Duty, recently released a 25-page document titled “The Role of Skill In Matchmaking,” delving deep into the intricacies of their matchmaking algorithm. One interesting revelation was a secret experiment conducted in Modern Warfare 3 in 2024, where SBMM was toned down for 50% of North American players. The results showed that over 90% of players preferred the previous SBMM system, highlighting the impact of skill-based matchmaking on player experience.
The document also outlined the factors that contribute to a player’s skill assessment at the end of a match, such as total kills, kill/death ratio, and kills/deaths by enemies. These factors play a crucial role in determining a player’s skill level and matchmaking experience.
Activision emphasized the importance of SBMM in preventing one-sided matches and ensuring a positive gameplay experience for the majority of players. By balancing skill considerations with other matchmaking factors, the company aims to increase player engagement and enjoyment.
Overall, this white paper provides valuable insights into the world of skill-based matchmaking in Call of Duty. As Activision continues to explore this topic, players can expect more transparency and understanding of the matchmaking process in future releases. Stay tuned for updates on how SBMM evolves in Black Ops 6 and beyond.
Morgan, a dedicated writer for PC Gamer, has been covering the latest shooter games and their communities since 2018. With a passion for gaming and a knack for storytelling, Morgan brings a unique perspective to his articles. Whether he’s dissecting matchmaking algorithms or sharing tips and tricks, Morgan’s writing is sure to inform and entertain readers. Join him on his gaming journey and discover the world of skill-based matchmaking in Call of Duty.
