The long-running debate over Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) in Call of Duty is finally getting a shake-up. With the upcoming launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Activision is taking a bold new direction by scaling back the strict matchmaking systems favoured in recent entries and reviving an essential piece of multiplayer nostalgia — persistent lobbies.
For years, the Call of Duty community has been divided over SBMM. On one hand, it helps newer and casual players stay competitive, preserving engagement. On the other? It turns every match into a sweat-fest — even in casual playlists. But if you’ve been feeling drained by constant high-stakes games, Black Ops 7 might be the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for.
Goodbye, sweat-fest: SBMM takes a backseat in Black Ops 7
Let’s face it: SBMM isn’t going away forever — at least not entirely. But in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Activision is dialing it way down. The beta gave us a taste of this approach in its Open Moshpit playlist, which implemented a looser version of matchmaking without that usual SBMM rigidity. The feedback from players? Overwhelmingly positive.
Now, the Open Moshpit style of matchmaking will become the default experience for multiplayer when the game officially releases on November 14. This marks a huge change from recent titles, where players were constantly pitted against squads of similarly skilled opponents for every single match. If you just want to jump into a few laid-back rounds after work, you’ll finally be able to do so — without gearing up for a virtual warzone every time.
Persistent lobbies are making a comeback
Remember persistent lobbies? If you’ve been playing since the golden era of Modern Warfare 2 or Black Ops II, you already know the vibe. You’d finish a match, talk trash or make friends in post-game chat, and then queue up for rematch after rematch with the same crowd. It built rivalries, friendships, and — let’s be honest — memorable rage quits.
That all changed in 2019’s Modern Warfare reboot when persistent lobbies were scrapped in favour of match-by-match reshuffling. But now, Black Ops 7 is bringing persistent lobbies back. It’s another clear sign that Activision is serious about listening to the community’s feedback and is aiming to bring back the social core that made multiplayer feel alive.
The community speaks, Activision listens
This isn’t just about gameplay mechanics — it’s about rebuilding trust with longtime fans. Activision is also cracking down hard on cheaters during the beta, and they’re pulling back on off-brand crossovers that many players felt clashed with the gritty, military tone of the franchise.
Black Ops 7 is shaping up to be more than just a shooter — it’s a direct answer to years of community requests. With a 4-player co-op campaign, traditional round-based Zombies, and less restrictive multiplayer, the game feels like a return to form.
Mark your calendar: Black Ops 7 launches November 14
The Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 beta may be wrapping up, but the feedback it generated is already leaving a noticeable impact on launch plans. With Activision applying real-time changes based on player responses, the November 14 release date now carries the weight of true potential.
Whether you’re here for the chaos of lobbies, the easier-going matchmaking, or simply want to dive into Zombies with friends, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 might be the game where the franchise reconnects with its roots — and its players.