What's Happening?
Treyarch has announced significant changes to the multiplayer experience in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, set to launch on November 14. The company confirmed that open matchmaking, with minimal skill consideration, will be the default setting for multiplayer. This decision marks a departure from the controversial Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) system, which has been a staple in previous Call of Duty titles. The change is expected to provide a more varied gaming experience, as players will no longer be matched strictly based on skill level. Additionally, Treyarch has introduced persistent lobbies, allowing players to remain in the same lobby across multiple matches, addressing community concerns about frequent lobby disbanding.
Why It's Important?
The shift away from SBMM in Black Ops 7 is significant for the Call of Duty community, particularly for high-skilled players who have criticized the system for creating overly competitive 'sweaty' lobbies. By implementing open matchmaking, Treyarch aims to enhance the gaming experience by offering a more diverse range of opponents, potentially increasing player satisfaction and engagement. The introduction of persistent lobbies further supports community desires for continuity and camaraderie among players. These changes could influence future multiplayer game designs, as developers seek to balance competitive fairness with player enjoyment.
What's Next?
As Black Ops 7 approaches its release, Treyarch plans to share more details about the changes to aim assist and other gameplay mechanics. The company is committed to refining the multiplayer experience based on feedback from the beta testing phase. Players can expect updates and improvements as Treyarch continues to analyze data and implement changes. The gaming community will be watching closely to see how these adjustments impact player dynamics and overall game reception.
