The matchmaking system in Call of Duty has long been a source of debate within the community, particularly the controversial feature known as Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM). This system has been a point of contention in each new CoD release, including Black Ops 6 and Warzone's annual updates, with players expressing differing opinions on how it affects the overall gaming experience. Here’s everything you need to know about SBMM and its impact on matchmaking in Call of Duty.

What Is Skill-Based Matchmaking in Call of Duty?
Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) is a system that uses player statistics to match them with opponents of similar skill levels. Unlike traditional matchmaking, which may prioritize factors such as connection quality, SBMM aims to create as fair a match as possible by placing players in lobbies with others who have comparable skill sets. This can be especially beneficial for new or less experienced players, as it protects them from being overwhelmed by more seasoned opponents. For earning XP, using redeem codes buy bo6 cod provided by U4gm is affordable and offers instant delivery. Use coupon code "allen" to get 5% off at U4gm.

Why Is SBMM Controversial?
Despite its intention to level the playing field, SBMM has become one of the most divisive features in the Call of Duty franchise. Critics argue that SBMM forces veteran players into lobbies with opponents of similar skill, which can lead to repetitive, less varied matches. This issue has particularly gained attention in Modern Warfare (2019), where many felt the system had been taken to extremes, significantly altering the traditional CoD experience.

Activision had avoided formally discussing SBMM for years, leaving fans to speculate on its impact. However, in April 2024, Activision finally acknowledged how matchmaking works in Call of Duty, publishing several White Papers to clarify the system. These documents outlined the factors that influence matchmaking in non-ranked lobbies, which include connection quality, time to match, player diversity, recent maps and modes, skill, performance, input device, platform, and voice chat preferences.

Does Black Ops 6 Have Skill-Based Matchmaking?
As for Black Ops 6, the matchmaking system does consider skill, but it is not confirmed as the primary factor for assembling players into lobbies. According to the White Papers, skill is one of many factors in the matchmaking process, though it does not necessarily take precedence over others like connection quality or time to match.

While SBMM is a part of the system, neither Activision nor the development team behind Black Ops 6 have explicitly confirmed whether it is the driving force in non-ranked matchmaking. This leaves some uncertainty regarding how heavily SBMM influences the lobby creation process in Black Ops 6, with skill still being an important but secondary consideration.

Skill-Based Matchmaking remains a controversial feature in Call of Duty, with players split on its impact on gameplay. While Black Ops 6 incorporates skill as part of its matchmaking process, it is still unclear whether SBMM is the central factor. Activision's recent transparency in discussing matchmaking has provided some clarity, but the ongoing debate surrounding SBMM is likely to continue with each new title in the franchise. As the discussion evolves, players are left to navigate the balance between fair matchmaking and preserving the core fun of Call of Duty's multiplayer experience.