Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Confirms SBMM Removal, Fans Rejoice

UPDATE: In a groundbreaking announcement today, Treyarch confirmed that Black Ops 7 will officially remove skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) for casual play, a move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. This decision marks a significant shift, promising to restore the exhilarating chaos that older Call of Duty titles were known for.

For years, SBMM has been a contentious issue among players, often criticized for creating lobbies that felt overly competitive and draining. The frustration peaked after the introduction of stricter SBMM in Modern Warfare 2019, leading to a decline in casual enjoyment. Players lamented the loss of unpredictability that once defined the franchise, likening new lobbies to “exam halls” rather than vibrant battlefields.

Now, with Black Ops 7 set to launch in November 2023, Treyarch is promising a return to the thrilling unpredictability of multiplayer matches. The removal of SBMM means players can expect a more dynamic environment where luck and player skill will dictate outcomes rather than an algorithm.

Treyarch’s decision is not just a win for casual gamers; it also benefits seasoned players who have felt the weight of relentless matchmaking pressures. The change allows for varied team compositions and unpredictable opponents, enhancing the experience and keeping gameplay fresh. This is a pivotal moment for both new and veteran players, promising a return to camaraderie and rivalry that characterized earlier titles.

Persistent lobbies will also make a comeback, allowing players to face the same opponents repeatedly, fostering friendships and rivalries alike. The feature had been lost in recent years, but its return is expected to reignite the excitement of post-match banter and competition.

This shift comes as Activision faces increased competition from titles like Battlefield 6, which recently generated buzz with its strong beta performance. While some speculate that Activision’s changes are a direct response to this competition, the community’s long-standing call for a return to older matchmaking styles has finally been heard.

The anticipation surrounding Black Ops 7 is palpable, as fans eagerly await a gameplay experience that promises to be both nostalgic and invigorating. With the removal of SBMM, players can look forward to an environment where they can try out unconventional strategies and engage in thrilling matches without the constant pressure of performance-based matchmaking.

As the launch date approaches, the gaming world watches closely to see how these changes will reshape the Call of Duty landscape. This could very well be the most significant release in a decade, with the potential to redefine the franchise’s future.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the launch of Black Ops 7. The countdown has begun, and the gaming community is ready to dive back into the chaos of Call of Duty like never before.