One of the most exciting aspects of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 leading up to its release was Treyarch and Activision’s promise to reduce skill-based matchmaking (SBMM). Players were buzzing with anticipation, and I was no exception.
However, shortly after launch, a wave of feedback from the CoD community pointed out that the experience felt strikingly similar to Black Ops 6 and earlier entries. Many players described the lobbies as “sweaty,” especially when compared to the beta test period, which featured significantly lower SBMM.
To address these concerns, Treyarch released a statement just two days post-launch, assuring players that “all of our Open Playlists use Open Matchmaking” and reaffirming their commitment to this model. Yet, merely a week into the game’s release, skepticism remains strong.
Prominent gamers, including former pro player Havok, have expressed frustration, claiming the SBMM feels as intense as it ever did. A recent video by content creator JayBroski illustrates a dazzling discrepancy using what’s known as the “two box” method, hinting at troubling matchmaking results.
This method involves using two separate accounts to game; the first is deliberately played poorly to lower the perceived skill level, leading to easier lobbies when the main account joins in. JayBroski’s video highlighted a stark contrast: his main account faced off against highly skilled players, while his “two box” account battled much weaker opponents.
Another content creator, Saio, shared their experience of repeatedly entering the same lobby in an attempt to encounter new players. While this doesn’t definitively prove or disprove the effectiveness of the matchmaking system, it does raise questions about what actually occurs behind the scenes.
While it’s difficult to label Treyarch or Activision as “liars” regarding their claims of open matchmaking, I sought further clarification but was met with silence after their initial statement. The topic is contentious, and the community’s narrative is far from settled.
Call of Duty really SCAMMED us… pic.twitter.com/sKuOuepDB8
— Jaybroski (@TheJayBroski) November 18, 2025
It’s important to note that the opinions of streamers might differ significantly from those of everyday players who are not gaming during peak hours with a more competitive crowd. Many casual players might experience a different reality in the lobbies.
Personally, I’ve struggled to navigate BO7 multiplayer since its launch. My experiences have varied widely—some matches against novice players have felt incredibly random, yet I find myself regularly matched with skilled opponents, more so than in the beta. Additionally, the nerf to aim assist has compounded the challenges I face.
The debate over SBMM in BO7 seems far from over. While I never expected a complete overhaul where every lobby would be filled with amateurs, the ongoing discussions are exhausting. There’s a yearning for resolution, but with the current environment, it seems we have a long way to go.
What has changed in BO7 regarding SBMM?
The skill-based matchmaking system in BO7 is designed to create balanced matches, but some players feel it mirrors prior iterations rather than improving upon them.
Are players genuinely happier with the matchmaking changes in Call of Duty?
Many players remain skeptical, claiming the game feels more challenging than expected and that lobbies are still highly competitive.
How does the “two box” method impact matchmaking fairness?
Players utilizing this method manipulate perceived skill levels, potentially skewing the matchmaking process and raising questions about fairness.
Does SBMM benefit or harm new players in FPS games?
While SBMM aims to create fair competition, it may frustrate newcomers who struggle to find balanced matches against higher-skilled players.
If you’re a Call of Duty enthusiast, join the ongoing conversation as we explore these pressing questions together. For more insightful content and discussions related to gaming and beyond, check out Moyens I/O.