The Functioning of Skill-Based Matchmaking in Call of Duty

by Annabelle Stephenson
in *AR, *DE, *ES, *PT, News, xBG, xET, xHE, xLT, xLV, xRS
on 29 January 2024

Jak działa “Skill-Based Matchmaking” w Call of Duty?

In a recent blog post, Activision has shed light on the controversial mechanism known as Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) in Call of Duty. While not groundbreaking, this detailed explanation of how SBMM works provides a behind-the-scenes look that has been a cause of concern for many players.

How does SBMM work?

According to the extensive blog post, the matchmaking algorithms in Call of Duty take into account several factors:

1. Connection
2. Playlist diversity
3. Recent maps and game modes
4. Matchmaking time
5. Skill level and performance
6. Platform
7. Input device
8. Voice chat

The post emphasizes that the most critical factor in matchmaking is connection quality – as Activision puts it, “Ping is King.” The second most important factor is matchmaking time, followed by the rest of the elements in no particular order.

Activision explains that most of the matchmaking algorithms in Call of Duty focus on “Delta Ping,” which refers to the distance from data centers and the time it takes to match with other players. These elements are quite straightforward, but what interests players the most is how their skill level and performance in the game affect the matchmaking algorithm.

According to Activision, skills are determined based on a player’s overall performance, including kills, deaths, wins, losses, mode preferences, and recent matches. These are fluid measurements that constantly update and adapt to the player’s gameplay style. Skill level is not only a factor in matching players with suitable opponents but also in team balancing.

Reportedly, these algorithms have been in development since Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare in 2007. Contrary to what many players might believe, Activision highlights that they use player data to ensure that the gap between the most skilled and least skilled players in a lobby is not so vast that players feel like their matches are a waste of time.

At the same time, there is a mission to provide maximum “result diversity.” Considering how long Activision has been working on these algorithms, the developers acknowledge that there is still much to be done:

“We also understand that many highly skilled players want more diverse experiences but often feel they only get into the toughest lobbies. We hear that feedback clearly and will continue to test and actively explore ways to alleviate this concern.”

In conclusion, Activision addresses a few burning questions:

1. Streamers do not receive special treatment in SBMM.
2. Paid content does not influence the algorithms.
3. Multiplayer modes do not include bots.
4. Matchmaking algorithms do not affect hit registration, aim assist, or damage.
5. Game time does not matter.

Furthermore, Activision has already conducted tests by disabling SBMM, and the results showed significantly lower player retention. So, don’t expect it to disappear anytime soon.

FAQ – Skill-Based Matchmaking in Call of Duty

1. How does Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) work?
SBMM in Call of Duty relies on matchmaking algorithms that consider various factors such as connection quality, playlist diversity, recent maps and game modes, matchmaking time, skill level and performance, platform, input device, and voice chat. The most important factor, however, is connection, followed by the other elements in no particular order.

2. What are the criteria for selecting opponents in SBMM?
The selection of opponents in SBMM is based on a player’s overall performance, including kills, deaths, wins, losses, game mode preferences, and recent matches. The algorithms continuously update and respond to the player’s gameplay style. Player skills are not only a factor in matching opponents but also in team balancing.

3. Do streamers receive special treatment in SBMM?
No, streamers do not receive special treatment in SBMM. The algorithms do not take this factor into account when matching players.

4. Do paid content influence SBMM algorithms?
No, paid content does not influence SBMM algorithms. The selection of opponents is solely based on player skills and performance.

5. Are there bots in multiplayer modes?
No, there are no bots in multiplayer modes. Players will be matched only with other real players.

6. Do SBMM algorithms affect hit registration, aim assist, and damage?
No, SBMM algorithms do not affect hit registration, aim assist, or player damage.

7. What is the significance of game time in SBMM?
Game time does not matter in the selection of opponents in SBMM. The algorithms focus on other factors such as player skills and performance.