SBMM

Skill-Based Matchmaking — a system that matches players against opponents of similar skill level based on performance metrics such as win rate, kill-death ratio, or ELO rating. SBMM is designed to create balanced matches and prevent new players from facing highly skilled opponents. However, it is highly controversial in games like Call of Duty: Warzone because it results in consistently challenging lobbies with little relief, making casual play feel like a ranked match. Critics argue SBMM removes the natural skill variation that made older multiplayer games more fun. Supporters say it makes games fairer for casual players.