Activision changes course: Call of Duty Black Ops 7 abandons skill-based matchmaking

The company is betting on a more open and fast system, with persistent lobbies since its launch.

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Following the numerous criticisms that arose during the Beta, Activision and Treyarch have decided to modify the matchmaking system of Call of Duty Black Ops 7. The company has officially announced that the game will abandon skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) lobbies and adopt a more open matchmaking model, prioritizing connection over player skill level.

This change comes just a month before the game’s official release, scheduled for November 14th, and directly responds to community feedback. According to the statement, matches will be organized based on a minimum skill level, allowing for faster matchmaking and keeping player groups together between consecutive rounds.

Persistent Lobbies and More Direct Matchmaking

The new system aims to provide more natural and less restrictive encounters, focused on connection quality (ping) and team persistence after each match. This means that players will be able to continue competing with the same teammates or opponents, reducing wait times and improving the continuity of online play.

Activision also confirms that persistent lobbies will be active from day one, a feature that fans have been requesting for years. This measure, combined with the new matchmaking system, aims to recapture the classic sense of community and dynamism that characterized the most memorable installments of the series.

For now, Call of Duty Black Ops 7 is preparing for its release on November 14th on Xbox Series, PS5, and PC, with a reception that promises to be very different after listening to players. It will also be available on Xbox Game Pass.