Warzone 2.0 Season 1: Players Skeptical About SBMM Nerf Changes

In a significant shift for gamers, Warzone is poised to implement Open Matchmaking in its upcoming Season 1, taking cues from Black Ops 7. This change, effective from the update on December 4, positions skill as a “minimal consideration” in lobby formations, broadening the competition spectrum for players.

The integration with Black Ops 7 will not only include a range of new firearms from multiplayer into the battle royale experience but also introduce this innovative matchmaking system. During a Dev Talk on November 26, representatives from Raven Software confirmed this new feature is part of the crossover.

Open Matchmaking first made its debut during the beta of Black Ops 7 and continued through the full game launch. This approach was implemented in response to widespread concerns voiced by players regarding Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM), which many believed detracted from the gaming experience for higher-skill players by creating lobbies that felt unfairly balanced.

The philosophy behind Open Matchmaking aims to diversify player skill levels within matches, allowing for a more varied gameplay experience. Instead of facing off predominantly against similarly skilled opponents, players can now expect a mix of abilities in each game.

Call of Duty: #Warzone Dev TalkWe’ve seen a bunch of questions pop up since the launch of #BlackOps7 and Pete is here to answer some of them as we draw closer to Season 01. Our team is super excited for everyone to drop in on December 4th. Here’s to an awesome year ahead! 🥳 pic.twitter.com/VE1uVUyDUZ

— Raven Software (@RavenSoftware) November 26, 2025

Mixed Reactions to Open Matchmaking

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Open Matchmaking, a contingent of players remains skeptical. While some have commended the decision, many are cautious regarding its effectiveness based on early observations from Black Ops 7.

Since its release, numerous gamers and prominent streamers have expressed doubts about the implementation. Though the new system is viewed as a less punishing alternative to its predecessor, reports persist of players being placed in more challenging lobbies, particularly after a series of impressive performances.

This situation has prompted concerns about the true impact of skill in matchmaking, especially given the ambiguous wording of “minimally considered.” Some players feel that the experience may not differ significantly from before. A user on X commented, “Yeah. So basically nothing different LOL, ” while another remarked, “LMAO if it’s anything like BO7 MP, then it’s essentially the same s**t we’re playing now.”

One frustrated player stated, “This is a joke, this whole minimally considered thing is a LIE.” As anticipation builds leading up to the launch of Warzone Season 1 on December 4, gamers are keen to see how the matchmaking landscape is redefined, coinciding with the introduction of the new Haven’s Hollow Resurgence map.

For further insights, check out the detailed analysis here.