Activision recently conducted a secret experiment in Call of Duty that turned the multiplayer matchmaking system on its head and revealed unexpected results.
Recently, Activision conducted a bold experiment in Call of Duty’s multiplayer mode, making significant changes without notifying players beforehand. This initiative aimed to evaluate the impact of these changes on player engagement and satisfaction, and the results were surprising to say the least…
Activision analyzes players without informing them about Call of Duty
In fact, Activision has quietly disabled the Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) system in Call of Duty (Modern Warfare 3?) multiplayer, a decision that proved largely unpopular with players. This experiment, conducted without warning, produced surprising results: an increase in players leaving games, a decrease in participation, and general dissatisfaction.
Skill-based matchmaking is a mechanic that aims to match players with opponents of similar skill levels in order to ensure balanced and competitive games. However, this system has often sparked heated debates within the gaming community. In an in-depth 25-page study titled “Matchmaking Series: The Role of Skill in Matchmaking,” Activision examined the impact of this system on the gaming experience.
During this study, Activision gradually disabled SBMM and monitored player behavior. The results were clear: Without SBMM, players were more likely to abandon ongoing games, played less often, and games were often unbalanced. A frustrating experience for many.
What conclusion should one draw?
Interestingly, despite frequent complaints from players about SBMM, disabling SBMM leads to even more negative outcomes. Many players complain about this system. I consider it unfair or too restrictive, but this study proves that its absence leads to an even less enjoyable gaming environment. Without SBMM, the game becomes unbalanced, frustrating and discouraging, resulting in lower player engagement.
Activision plans to keep SBMM in place for the long term. We believe this system allows most players to fully enjoy all facets of Call of Duty. Activision continues to explore new experiences to refine its matchmaking systems. While recent testing has highlighted the importance of SBMM, the publisher does not rule out further adjustments in the future to further improve balance and player satisfaction.
Source : Activision
