Skill-Based Matchmaking in Black Ops 6 explained: How SBMM works in CoD

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of multiplayer gaming under my belt, I’ve seen the evolution of matchmaking systems from their early days to the sophisticated Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) we have today. While it might sound like a dream come true for those striving for competitive perfection, it can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword.


As a die-hard Call of Duty player diving into Black Ops 6, I’ve noticed that the Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) system has been a hot topic among us gamers. Let me share my take on how this feature shapes my multiplayer adventure.

In the realm of multiplayer games, nothing sparks as much debate as the topic of Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM). Some argue about its existence, while others discuss its extent, and this discussion significantly influences the overall online gaming experience for many players.

As we delve into this year’s fresh Call of Duty installment, the discussion revolves around Black Ops 6 once more. However, you might wonder: What’s SBMM? Does Black Ops 6 employ it? And what influence does it have on multiplayer lobbies?

Here’s everything you need to know about SBMM and how it relates to the latest CoD title.

Skill-Based Matchmaking in Black Ops 6 explained: How SBMM works in CoD

What is Skill-Based Matchmaking?

In simpler terms, Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) is a system designed to bring together players with similar abilities for a fair and balanced gaming experience.

When looking for a multiplayer game, various aspects are taken into account by the automatic matching systems behind the scenes. These considerations include things like your connection to the server and your gaming expertise, among others. However, when Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) is active, your skill level becomes the primary factor in pairing you with other players.

In essence, it aims to ensure that lobbies remain impartial and well-balanced. This means you’ll typically play with opponents who have roughly the same level of skill, ensuring that each game is challenging and enjoyable since everyone involved shares a comparable playing field.

On occasion, it may lead to feelings of annoyance or dissatisfaction. Some people criticize Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) for supposedly spoiling the relaxed multiplayer experience, since top-tier players can no longer dominate less experienced lobbies as was often possible in early online gaming days.

Does Black Ops 6 have Skill-Based Matchmaking?

Absolutely, the game Black Ops 6 uses a system called SBMM, which stands for Skill-Based Matchmaking. In other words, during unranked games, your skill level will be evaluated and you’re likely to encounter opponents with similar abilities more frequently.

In Black Ops 6, although developers haven’t explicitly discussed how Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) impacts the game’s matchmaking system, a brief play session makes it clear that SBMM is at work. Players across the globe have been vocal about their experiences with SBMM in the latest Call of Duty game, expressing largely negative opinions about the system.

Skill-Based Matchmaking in Black Ops 6 explained: How SBMM works in CoD

How does SBMM work in Black Ops 6?

In SBMM (Skill-Based Matchmaking), experienced Black Ops 6 players are grouped together for matches, meaning that if you’re looking to showcase your skills through high killstreaks and impressive clips, you’ll be competing against other skilled players who share the same goal. The days of finding easier lobbies with less-experienced opponents have largely come to an end.

Some players find that Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) in Black Ops 6 has been overly challenging this year. Because of the system pairing opponents based on skill, it’s led some to claim that the game feels draining since they perceive there are no more casual matches left.

One player shared on Reddit that they need to give their absolute best, staying completely focused with bated breath throughout each match in order to just come out slightly ahead.

If you’re among the top-tier players in the game, you’ll frequently encounter tough matchups whenever you log in at night. For illustration, take a look at the competitive landscape that gaming icon Karma has been navigating.

On November 4, the four-time world champion expressed his frustration by saying, “The opponents I face in public matches are so challenging that it dampens my enthusiasm for them. One particularly grueling night, I lost every Hardpoint match for a full six hours.

“I would be willing to spend money to ensure there’s at least one skilled player on my team in multiplayer games (pubs). The teams I often get matched against are so challenging that they discourage me from playing. One particular night, I lost every hardpoint game for a full six hours.

— Damon B (@DKarma) November 5, 2024

It’s important to note that while Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) seems to influence the gameplay for certain users, it’s crucial to debunk the speculation surrounding skill-based damage. After the launch of Black Ops 6, there were rumors circulating, suggesting that a player’s damage output might vary based on their performance. However, these claims have not been substantiated with concrete evidence.

For example, if you had a disappointing game, the rumor suggested that you would inflict more damage in your next game as a kind of consolation. However, this isn’t true. Activision has debunked such claims earlier and it remains untrue even with Black Ops 6 in the spotlight.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but notice that the Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) system is still running strong. While some gamers are vocal about their disapproval, many others, including myself, seem unfazed by its presence in our gaming sessions.

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2024-11-05 06:18