Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is on the cusp of launch, drawing wide attention for the sweeping changes to multiplayer matchmaking rules, especially around Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM). For years, SBMM has been both widely requested and widely criticised by series fans; some saw it as necessary for competitive integrity, while others longed for the more casual, “old school” matchmaking experience of earlier Call of Duty games. With Black Ops 7, developer Treyarch has attempted to strike a new balance by fundamentally reworking how SBMM is applied across multiplayer playlists, offering players more freedom in how they experience the game.
What is SBMM and Why Does It Matter?
Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) refers to the algorithm in online games that matches players based on their in-game performance, skill rating, or recent results. Its aim is to create even matches for everyone, ensuring new or less-skilled players aren’t constantly facing seasoned veterans. In ranked play modes, SBMM is expected and even welcomed; players want to test their abilities against others at their level, climb ladders, and earn prestige. In casual modes, however, SBMM tends to reduce variety and can lead to overly “sweaty” matches where everyone is closely matched, a situation many longtime fans dislike.
Black Ops 7’s New SBMM Approach
For Black Ops 7, Treyarch confirmed that most multiplayer playlists will feature “open matchmaking”, a system in which skill level is only minimally considered. This move returns series multiplayer closer to classic roots, with casual playlists relying much more on party connection quality and region than player skill. This means that in the majority of playlists, both new and veteran players will encounter a more diverse pool of opponents, contributing to the unpredictable fun and excitement that many fans recall from older titles.
A few notable exceptions remain: one “rotating Moshpit” playlist will utilise SBMM more heavily, focusing on creating balanced matches where player skill is a key consideration. Most significantly, the Ranked Play mode launching in Season 2 will rely entirely on SBMM, letting competitive players face off for skill rating and leaderboard positions. Standard playlists also offer a competitive option for players who enjoy rigorously balanced matches, but the default is now open matchmaking for public lobbies.
Persistent Lobbies and Fan Requests
Another widely requested improvement coming with Black Ops 7 is persistent lobbies. For years, Call of Duty lobbies would disband after each match, often splitting up parties and ruining rhythm for groups. Persistent lobbies allow players to stay together for multiple matches, enhancing the social experience and making it easier for friends to play together.
This feature, along with the SBMM changes, directly addresses top community complaints from recent years. For casual fans, it’s a return to a more relaxed Call of Duty experience. For competitive players, the ranked and standard modes retain a challenging environment.
Playlist and Mode Breakdown
At launch, Black Ops 7 offers a wide variety of multiplayer playlists, differentiated initially by their approach to matchmaking. Here’s a breakdown of notable modes:
- Open Playlists: Skill is only minimally considered; players are matched primarily by connection, region, and party composition.
- Standard Playlists: Offer a more competitive experience, closely matching player skill levels.
- Rotating Moshpit: Skill-matched playlist added for those seeking balanced challenges.
- Ranked Play: Arriving in Season 2, it fully uses SBMM, with ladders, divisions, and progression.
Core launch modes include Team Deathmatch, Domination, Search and Destroy, Kill Confirmed, Free-For-All, Hardpoint, Control, Face Off Moshpit, and the new 20v20 Skirmish mode featuring wingsuits and vehicles on larger maps. Hardcore variants are also included, with lowered HUD and friendly fire options. Zombies, campaign content with open-world elements, and persistent lobbies further round out the package, making Black Ops 7 one of the most complete COD experiences to date.
Community Reaction and Industry Impact
The announcement of reduced SBMM in casual multiplayer has generated a mixed but largely positive reception from Call of Duty’s fanbase. Many see the changes as a “return to form,” restoring the unpredictability and fun of earlier titles. Critics of SBMM argue that strict matchmaking is best reserved for ranked play, while more casual playlists should prioritise fun over competition. The timing is notable, as rival shooter Battlefield 6 is experiencing a surge in popularity; Activision may be responding to market forces as well as player feedback.
Why This Matters for You
For casual players, Black Ops 7 promises less pressure to perform, less “sweatiness,” and a more fun, social experience where skill gaps aren’t always closed by the matchmaking algorithm. Competitive players still have the choice to dive into ranked play, where strict SBMM will deliver the kind of high-level challenge they demand. This dual system is designed to be flexible, catering to both camps and letting people play Call of Duty their way.
Industry Innovation or Marketing Move?
Some pundits suggest that the SBMM shakeup is both a response to fan discontent and an attempt to differentiate Black Ops 7 in a crowded FPS market. Persistent lobbies and wide playlist options are seen as improvements, but critics note that how players respond over the next season will be the true test. With features like open-world campaign zones, wingsuit combat in multiplayer, and a major zombies update, Black Ops 7 is clearly being positioned as the boldest entry in the franchise. It’s clear Treyarch is listening to player feedback more closely than ever before.
