What does SBMM mean?

As an avid CoD player and content creator, skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) is a hot topic in my community. Players seem divided – some love it, others want it gone. As debates rage on, I decided to deep dive into how SBMM works and why opinions vary so drastically.

What is SBMM?

At its core, SBMM matches players with similar skill levels together for multiplayer games. It‘s been present across online titles for years, but recently stoked controversy in Call of Duty.

How CoD‘s SBMM System Works

Activision hasn’t publicly detailed their algorithm, but based on player testing and data, it likely utilizes statistics like:

• K/D ratio
• Score per minute
• Win/loss ratio
• SPM (score per minute)

Matching players with comparable figures aims to create intense, competitive and balanced matches across skill brackets.

A Long History in Call of Duty

Despite stirring recent debates, SBMM has been present across CoD titles for over a decade in some capacity:

Public match data confirms skill brackets across each title. But fan reception over the years shows SBMM algorithms likely adjust from release to release.

SBMM Debate: Arguments From Both Sides

Skill-based matchmaking has sparked impassioned debate across the Call of Duty scene. As a player and creator closely in tune with community discussions, here’s the breakdown of stances:

Pro SBMM Arguments

Promotes Growth for New Players: Veterans claim lobbies were too harsh on newcomers back when connections had priority over skill brackets. SBMM protects new players, helping them slowly improve rather than rage quit.

Fairer Fights Across Skill Levels: Similarly, below-average players can find matches catered to their abilities rather than serve as “fodder” against elite squads each round.

Increases Player Engagement and Retention: Research analyzing popular titles with SBMM shows it helps weaker players stick around longer by providing fun, fair fights even as they improve. Activision likely utilizes SBMM to expand and retain its player base.

Anti SBMM Arguments

Caters Too Heavily to Below-Average Players: Above-average and pro players argue algorithms prioritize new player protection over all. With no ranked playlist alternative, public matches feel too intense for casual play.

Punishes Improvement: As skill develops, opponents only get tougher. But stats can plateau if you primarily face elite squads. Some want less strict SBMM that occasionally mixes skill levels to allow improvement metrics to reflect growth.

Prevents Content Creation: Big streamers and YouTubers claim ultra intense SBMM hinders their ability to make entertaining videos showcasing fun class setups or playing along with fans. Instead, public matches feel like ranked since competition stays lethal.

The debates stems around perceived SBMM intensity in recent years. Both sides hold valid stances, but stricter algorithms likely aim to retain and expand CoD’s casual player base even if it frustrates longtime fans.

The Bottom Line

While debates will surely continue, SBMM looks firmly entrenched across Call of Duty matchmaking. But opinions vary sharply on its merits and downsides. I wouldn’t expect wholesale changes, but my hope is the developers can find an equilibrium – a properly balanced algorithm that keeps public games fun while protecting newer players. Separate casual playlists could provide a short-term fix.

What are your thoughts on SBMM? I welcome perspectives across skill levels. Let’s keep conversations constructive as the community looks to enhance enjoyment for all players.