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Modern Warfare 2 (MW2) is in the wild, with players around the world getting stuck into the game’s multiplayer. However, a hot topic you might see frequently in MW2, is that around something called SBMM.
It’s been one of many talking points with Modern Warfare 2 fans, with some fans for and others calling for its removal. But if you’re unsure as to what SBMM is, let us help you out.
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Here’s what you need to know.
What is SBMM?
SBMM stands for ‘skill based matchmaking’. It’s pretty common in multiplayer games, and is meant to ensure players get a fair challenge when playing online.
On a basic level, SBMM ensures that players of a certain skill level are playing with other players of roughly a similar level.
This way, someone incredibly good at the game won’t be placed in a match with someone who’s brand new for the first time or vice versa.
Is SBMM in MW2?
Yes, SBMM is a feature in Modern Warfare 2 multiplayer.
Why is SBMM in MW2 controversial?
There’s arguments for and against the practice. Of course, the obvious positive is that it means new players aren’t made to feel as if they can’t compete against people who were around since before the beta.
In addition, it also means that players who are very good actually feel challenged, and get to put their skills to the test against people of a similar level. Both of these should – in theory – mean players will stick around longer with the game.
READ NOW: How to play Tier 1 on MW2.
However, there have been those who argue against the practice, including some prominent names in the Call of Duty streaming community.
As reported by Dextero, streamer CouRage slammed the beta for including SBMM as he claimed it forced all players to play the same way, and that it punished experimentation.
“It truly is a shame I can’t use ANYTHING but the most meta class setup or else I’ll go triple negative in these extreme SBMM lobbies in MWII,” he tweeted.
Similarly, prominent FPS streamer TimTheTatman explained on YouTube that he wouldn’t be streaming the game at all due to the inclusion of SBMM, arguing that the feature should only be used in a Ranked Mode.
“I just don’t have fun playing Quick Play in Modern Warfare. The only reason I play is for the camos. I’m not going to stream something I don’t have fun playing,” he said.
At the time of writing, neither Activision nor Infinity Ward have said they intend to address SBMM at all, so for now it looks like it’s here to stay.
While you’re here, Modern Warfare 2 is available now on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC.
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