Activision has responded to criticism of Call of Duty with some genuinely good news: the Black Ops 7 beta is about to become much more enjoyable, as Treyarch introduces a new mode where SBMM (skill-based matchmaking) will be drastically reduced.

For years, one of the main reasons Call of Duty players have grown frustrated with multiplayer is SBMM, or skill-based matchmaking. While Activision has always defended the system, the community remains deeply divided — some prefer more balanced matches, while others want looser, more unpredictable sessions with larger skill gaps between players.

SBMM Will Be Significantly Reduced in Black Ops 7

In the middle of the Black Ops 7 early access beta, Treyarch is experimenting with a new approach that could mark a small victory for Activision. As reported on X/Twitter, the studio has activated a new playlist called “Open Moshpit” in the Black Ops 7 beta, where SBMM has been drastically reduced. The goal is to create more varied match experiences, collect data and feedback throughout the remainder of the beta, and potentially implement the changes in the final game or future betas.

This adjustment will roll out in the coming hours. In the October 4 patch notes, the developer confirms that the experiment will apply to the same maps and modes as the standard moshpit and emphasizes that it is a beta-specific measure to gather data and fine-tune matchmaking. CharlieIntel notes: “The new Open Moshpit playlist in the Black Ops 7 beta will feature the classic matchmaking from older Call of Duty titles, where skill played only a minimal role.”

Meanwhile, the studio is also tweaking weapons, kill rates, and map elements, and is encouraging the community to participate and share feedback to help shape the future of multiplayer. It’s worth noting that the Black Ops 7 beta launched with hackers, fewer players, and heavier criticism compared to the Battlefield 6 betas. As a result, the developers have decided to preserve the essence of Call of Duty by canceling numerous collaborations and preventing Black Ops 6 cosmetics from being transferred to the new game.

Remember: you can play the Black Ops 7 beta if you pre-ordered the game or if you have Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The beta schedule remains unchanged, with early access from October 2–4 and the open beta from October 5–8, during which new maps, modes, and tweaks will be added progressively throughout the week.

Source: 3djuegos