With Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 launching on November 14, Treyarch has shared a detailed overview of the game’s matchmaking system, following October’s open beta. The developer says feedback from that beta heavily influenced the structure of multiplayer lobbies and playlist matchmaking.
Open Matchmaking Takes the Lead
At launch, most playlists will use Open matchmaking, where skill levels are only minimally factored in. This setup is designed to replicate the beta’s experience, prioritizing fast connections and diverse matchups over tightly balanced skill tiers.
Players who prefer to face similarly skilled opponents will still have options. A rotating Moshpit playlist will use skill-weighted matchmaking, giving fans a more competitive feel while maintaining flexibility in how they engage.
Ranked Play and Persistent Lobbies
Ranked Play will not include skill-based matchmaking at launch but will adopt it starting in Season 02. Each playlist will clearly display its matchmaking type, ensuring players know what to expect before joining a lobby.
Another notable feature returning to the series is persistent lobbies, allowing players to remain with their current teammates between matches instead of being reshuffled each round.
Community Split on Matchmaking Direction
Community feedback remains mixed. Some players applaud the primarily Open matchmaking approach as a return to the franchise’s more casual roots, while others worry that the introduction of a skill-based Moshpit might indicate a gradual shift back toward full SBMM systems.
Treyarch stated that matchmaking may evolve post-launch, depending on community sentiment and performance data. The studio plans to monitor gameplay closely and make adjustments over time.
Post-Launch Plans and Classic Map Return
Following the game’s release, Treyarch confirmed post-launch updates will arrive in the following weeks. Among the highlights is the return of the fan-favorite Nuketown map, alongside new modes and playlist expansions aimed at keeping multiplayer fresh through the holiday season.
As the countdown to launch continues, all eyes are on Treyarch to see whether this matchmaking balance satisfies both competitive and casual players alike.
