Call of Duty shares secrets behind multiplayer matchmaking

Call of Duty player aiming down sights of assault rifle
Credit: Activision


Call of Duty player aiming down sights of assault rifle
Credit: Activision

Call of Duty has finally shared details surrounding the often-discussed topic of matchmaking.

Whether it's Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer or Warzone, some matches feel more competitive than others much to the confusion of those looking to dominate ranked play or experience some of the more casual game modes Call of Duty has to offer.

After years of wondering how the process of SBMM works, Activision has unveiled the science of how it puts players in the same lobby and despite all the theories, there are plenty of parameters that go into grouping fans of the franchise onto their favourite maps.

On January 29, 2024, the Call of Duty X account opened dialogue surrounding the matchmaking process. The blog post reveals eight factors determine which players are placed in the same lobby.

This is the first time Call of Duty has ever shared its matchmaking philosophy with the community. While some are happy with the clarity, others aren't best pleased with connection becoming less of a priority. One fan says: "Ping isn't king anymore and it's been proven countless times."

Alongside revealing how matchmaking works in the current iteration of multiplayer, Activision revealed that skill-based matchmaking has featured in every Call of Duty since the launch of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare back in 2007.

Additionally, the publisher announced a white paper with more details surrounding Call of Duty matchmaking will be published soon.

On one hand, Activision providing insight into Call of Duty's matchmaking ideas is excellent for providing players with the clarity they've craved for so long, it appears that the publisher is unable to please everyone who continues to demand changes to the current system.

We'll have to wait and see if any matchmaking changes come from the announcement. For now, there's every chance one match will feature easier opposition then the next will feature the toughest team with impeccable aim and co-ordination.

This Article's Topics

Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!

newsGaming NewsCall of Duty