The Call of Duty franchise has always been about fast-paced action and competitive gameplay, but in recent years, the introduction of skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) has caused division within the player base. While SBMM was designed to create more balanced games by matching players with similar skill levels, it has become a point of contention for many. With the official release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, the developers buy bot lobbies bo7have made the decision to remove SBMM from the game entirely. This move has sparked mixed reactions, but it might just be the best decision the developers could have made for the long-term health of the franchise.

At the heart of the debate over SBMM is the fundamental issue of fun versus competitiveness. On the one hand, SBMM has been praised for its potential to create more even, fair matches. By placing players of similar abilities against each other, the system theoretically reduces the chances of one-sided games, making it easier for players to experience victories that feel earned. However, the reality of SBMM has often been different. Players have found themselves stuck in a cycle of frustration, as the system constantly tries to place them in games with opponents who are either too good or too bad, making the overall experience feel stale and tedious.

One of the major complaints about SBMM is that it often punishes players who want a more casual gaming experience. For the average player who wants to relax and enjoy a match without worrying about constantly maintaining a high level of performance, SBMM can be exhausting. In Black Ops 7, the decision to remove SBMM represents a return to more traditional matchmaking methods. Players will no longer be placed in a constant cycle of “sweaty” matches where every game feels like a grind. Instead, the removal of SBMM opens the door to more varied and unpredictable experiences, where players can face opponents of all skill levels and engage in matches that feel spontaneous and fun.

For those who enjoy the competitive side of Call of Duty, the removal of SBMM might initially seem like a risky move. After all, SBMM was designed to create a more competitive environment, ensuring that players are constantly matched with others of similar skill levels. However, it’s important to remember that competitive play is not entirely being abandoned in Black Ops 7. The developers have stated that they are working on other ways to provide players with a more competitive experience, such as by introducing separate ranked modes or offering more customizable matchmaking options. These changes could help satisfy players who want a more structured competitive environment while also preserving the excitement and accessibility of public matches.

One of the most significant benefits of removing SBMM is that it could lead to a more vibrant and diverse player base. When SBMM is in place, players often find themselves stuck in repetitive cycles, where they are constantly matched against similar players. This can create a sense of stagnation, as players are continually facing the same types of challenges and scenarios. Without SBMM, however, the matchmaking system will open up the possibility for more varied and dynamic matches. Players may find themselves facing opponents who play differently, which could lead to more exciting and unpredictable games.

Another advantage of removing SBMM is that it could help restore the sense of fun and freedom that many players felt was lost in previous Call of Duty installments. The emphasis on skill in SBMM often creates a hyper-competitive environment where the enjoyment of the game takes a back seat to winning at all costs. By removing this system, Black Ops 7 allows players to focus on the fun aspects of the game, whether it’s pulling off a crazy kill streak or simply enjoying a game with friends. This shift could also encourage more social play, as players are no longer locked into a high-stakes environment where every match feels like a life-or-death situation.

Of course, the removal of SBMM is not without its challenges. The absence of a system that aims to balance skill levels could result in more unbalanced matches, where highly skilled players dominate less experienced ones. This could lead to frustration for some players, especially those who are still learning the ropes of the game. However, it’s possible that the developers will address these concerns by implementing new features that allow players to find the right balance between competitive play and fun.

In conclusion, the removal of skill-based matchmaking in Black Ops 7 is a bold and potentially positive change for the Call of Duty franchise. While it may cause some initial discomfort among competitive players, the move could ultimately lead to a more enjoyable and dynamic experience for the broader player base. By shifting the focus away from constantly matching players based on skill, Black Ops 7 opens the door to more varied and exciting matches, allowing players to truly enjoy the game in a way that feels both fresh and fun.