Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 to Eliminate SBMM and Revive Chaos

BREAKING: Call of Duty fans rejoice! Activision’s Black Ops 7 is set to eliminate skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in casual play, a major shift that promises to bring back the excitement of multiplayer lobbies. This announcement comes just weeks before the game’s October 2023 launch, marking a significant change in the franchise’s approach to matchmaking.

For years, players have expressed frustration with SBMM, a system intended to create balanced matches but often leading to chaotic and frustrating gameplay experiences. The change comes in response to overwhelming community feedback, signaling that developers are finally listening.

“We are moving away from SBMM for casual play,” Treyarch confirmed in a statement, ensuring that players can look forward to unpredictable matches filled with fun and camaraderie. This shift is expected to restore the thrill that made earlier iterations of Call of Duty so popular.

Since its introduction in Modern Warfare 2019, SBMM has been criticized for causing uneven matchmaking, often trapping players in high-pressure environments. Many felt that their gaming experience was no longer about enjoyment but rather a relentless grind against highly skilled opponents.

With Black Ops 7, players can anticipate a return to the chaotic energy of classic lobbies where skill isn’t the only determining factor. This means less predictable matches and the potential for hilarious, memorable moments rather than just competitive stress.

The decision to remove SBMM aligns with Treyarch’s goal of fostering a more engaging and dynamic multiplayer environment. Instead of being pigeonholed into sweat-laden lobbies, players will have the freedom to experiment with different strategies and play styles.

Additionally, the introduction of persistent lobbies is set to enhance the social aspect of the game. Players will no longer be booted to the main menu after each match; instead, they can face the same opponents repeatedly, building rivalries and friendships along the way.

As the gaming community eagerly anticipates Black Ops 7, one must consider if this is a strategic move by Activision in response to the competitive landscape, particularly with the upcoming release of Battlefield 6. Recent reports indicated that Battlefield 6’s beta has seen a peak in concurrent players, prompting a necessary shift in strategy for Call of Duty.

Regardless of the motivation, the removal of SBMM is a victory for both casual gamers and competitive players alike. This decision allows for a more playful gaming atmosphere where players can enjoy the thrill of the game without the pressure of performance metrics overshadowing their experience.

As the countdown to October 2023 begins, anticipation builds for what could be a transformative entry in the Call of Duty franchise. The return to less restrictive gaming environments may very well revive the spirit of community and competition that defined the early days of multiplayer gaming.

Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches, and prepare for an exhilarating gaming experience that promises to bring back the heart and soul of Call of Duty.