Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 to Remove SBMM, Revive Classic Gameplay

The gaming community is buzzing with excitement as Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 prepares to eliminate skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in casual play when it launches in October 2023. The decision comes after years of criticism from players who felt that the stricter SBMM introduced in Modern Warfare 2019 dampened the thrill and unpredictability that once defined the franchise. With this major shift, Treyarch aims to restore the classic gameplay experience that fans have been missing.

For nearly a decade, SBMM has been a contentious topic among players. While designed to create balanced matches, the system often led to frustration. Players experienced a drastic shift in difficulty between games, moving from enjoyable matches to intense competitions against highly skilled opponents. This unpredictability turned casual gaming into a stressful endeavor, ultimately detracting from the fun that Call of Duty was known for, particularly during its earlier days on platforms like the Xbox 360.

Black Ops 7 Marks a New Era for Multiplayer Experience

The announcement of SBMM’s removal has sparked a wave of optimism within the community. Players are looking forward to a gaming environment where the outcome is driven by luck and player skill rather than an invisible algorithm. This approach allows for a more dynamic experience, enabling players to try out unconventional strategies and engage in playful rivalries. The change is expected to foster a sense of community, reminiscent of the earlier days of Call of Duty, where players would often encounter the same opponents multiple times.

The reintroduction of persistent lobbies is among the most anticipated features. In the past, these lobbies encouraged camaraderie as players formed bonds through repeated encounters. The thrill of facing the same squad again and again, coupled with the opportunity for revenge, added a layer of excitement to the game. Many players lamented the loss of this feature as lobbies began to disband after each match, diminishing the social aspect of gaming.

A Response to Community Feedback and Market Competition

The move to scrap SBMM reflects a significant response to longstanding community feedback. For years, Call of Duty fans have voiced their concerns, and Treyarch’s decision indicates that they are finally listening. This change not only aims to enhance the gaming experience but also demonstrates the studio’s willingness to adapt to player demands.

Industry dynamics may also play a role in this decision. The recent surge in interest surrounding Battlefield 6 has raised questions about Activision‘s competitive strategy. The company even offered Black Ops 6 for free during the launch week of Battlefield 6 to draw players away from its rival. This competitive landscape suggests that enhancing player experience through the removal of SBMM could be a strategic move designed to retain existing fans and attract new ones.

Ultimately, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has the potential to redefine the franchise’s multiplayer landscape. By prioritizing player enjoyment over strict matchmaking rules, Treyarch is seeking to reignite the passion that has kept the series alive for nearly two decades. As fans eagerly await the game’s launch, the optimism surrounding this significant change is palpable, marking what could be one of the most important releases in the series’ history.