When it comes to action-shooter titles, Skill-Based Match-Making, or SBMM, is not really the fan-favorite topic to discuss on, and Battlefield 6 is no exception. Fortunately, EA has settled on a decent mix of factors like ping and server availability to be considered in their latest launch’s matchmaking, and it is what some Call of Duty fans wish Black Ops 7 had.
How Does SBMM Work in Battlefield 6?
Unlike Call of Duty, Battlefield 6 has a more subtle matchmaking system, with an SBMM tuned for making sure that you are not matched based strictly on kill/death ratios, but also other dynamic factors to keep the experience stable.
EA says Battlefield 6 matchmaking will focus on:
– Ping
– Player's location
– Server availability
– And some skill factor
The matchmaking factors will vary based on each game mode and player counts. pic.twitter.com/CjclVJm8k1
As revealed in a press briefing (via CharlieINTEL), Battlefield 6
Despite taking into account the skill ceiling of Battlefield 6 players. DICE’s matchmaking algorithm rather prioritizes latency and region as well, making sure you still land in lobbies with both seasoned veterans and casual players.
While Battlefield 6’s SBMM might come off as traditional and the same old mechanic that a lot of gamers hate, the developers have already clarified that player skill is a factor that remains “far down in the list” (via GamesRadar) when it comes to matchmaking.
Battlefield 6 SBMM Compared to Black Ops 7’s Default Matchmaking
This is where things get interesting. Call of Duty is known to take a far more aggressive approach to SBMM, one that many players hate with a passion. Activision’s matchmaking system groups players almost entirely by hidden performance ratings, often disregarding factors like connection quality or ping. This results in consistently sweaty matches where the end-game is always predictable.
Fortunately, after years of negative player feedback, the developers have finally backtracked on their SBMM procedure and brought changes that sit well with the current player base. Starting with Black Ops 7 beta, there is now an Open Moshpit option in matchmaking that allows players to opt in for an SBMM protocol that is better-tuned than the existing structure. The best part is how this playlist will launch as the default matchmaking option at the game’s full release on 14 November 2025.
In comparison, Battlefield 6 offers a more lenient and organic matchmaking system. DICE prioritizes connection and region before skill, ensuring low-latency matches and smoother gameplay. On the other hand, Call of Duty SBMM has always been about prioritizing skill ceilings up until recently.
Which game’s matchmaking do you feel is better optimized? Make sure to let us know what you think in the comments below!
