The Evolution of Skill-Based Matchmaking in Multiplayer Games
Skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) has become a hot topic of discussion whenever a new blockbuster first-person shooter is released. Players argue over the effectiveness and fairness of the algorithmic systems that determine matchmaking in multiplayer games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Apex Legends. However, the concept of SBMM has been misunderstood and oversimplified, leading to misconceptions about its purpose and impact.
In its simplest form, SBMM sorts players into lobbies based on various statistics such as kill/death ratio, time played, and total wins. The goal is to create balanced matches where players of similar skill levels compete against each other. But the implementation of SBMM has evolved over the years.
One former head of multiplayer at Bungie, Max Hoberman, shed light on the early days of skill-based matchmaking in games like Halo 2 and Halo 3. Back then, skill-based matchmaking aimed to provide different experiences through ranked and unranked playlists. Ranked mode filtered opponents based on level, offering competitive matches. Unranked play, on the other hand, allowed for a wider range of skills to match together, providing easier, harder, and evenly matched games.
The issue arises when SBMM is applied to casual play. Activision’s unique algorithm in games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III prioritizes finding the “perfect match,” resulting in constant high-stakes, tight games. Some players argue that casual play should prioritize factors like preferred play style and connectivity over skill level.
While SBMM strives to create fair matches, it has unintended consequences. Many players experience a constant back-and-forth between games where they feel either overmatched or not good enough. Top percentile players often face long queue times to find a fair match, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
The question of how skill should factor into matchmaking criteria is a matter of context and opinion. Developers should consider balancing the desire for fair matches with the need for variable and enjoyable gameplay experiences. Ultimately, the evolution of skill-based matchmaking should aim to strike a balance that satisfies both competitive and casual players.
FAQ:
Q: What is skill-based matchmaking (SBMM)?
A: Skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) is an algorithmic system used in multiplayer games to sort players into lobbies based on their skill levels, with the goal of creating balanced matches.
Q: What statistics are used to determine matchmaking?
A: Various statistics such as kill/death ratio, time played, and total wins are used to determine matchmaking in skill-based matchmaking systems.
Q: How has the implementation of SBMM evolved over the years?
A: In the early days, skill-based matchmaking aimed to provide different experiences through ranked and unranked playlists. Ranked mode filtered opponents based on level, offering competitive matches, while unranked play allowed for a wider range of skills to match together.
Q: What is the issue with applying SBMM to casual play?
A: The issue arises when SBMM is applied to casual play as it can result in constant high-stakes, tight games. Some players argue that casual play should prioritize factors like preferred play style and connectivity over skill level.
Q: What are the unintended consequences of SBMM?
A: Many players experience a constant back-and-forth between games where they feel either overmatched or not good enough. Top percentile players often face long queue times to find a fair match, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
Definitions:
– Skill-based matchmaking (SBMM): An algorithmic system used in multiplayer games to sort players into lobbies based on their skill levels, with the goal of creating balanced matches.
Suggested Related Links:
– Call of Duty Official Website
– Fortnite Official Website
– Apex Legends Official Website