City of Heroes

Design Club: Why We Need Skill Based matchmaking

Skill-based matchmaking serves as a critical infrastructure for modern multiplayer gaming, functioning as the primary mechanism to ensure competitive integrity and player retention.

• Skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) is essential in modern multiplayer games to prevent 'smurfing' and the negative experience of high-skill players dominating novices, which is critical for player retention in free-to-play and refund-eligible titles.
• A petition calling for the removal of SBMM from Call of Duty has garnered over 16,410 verified signatures, reflecting a community desire for the 'casual' and unpredictable nature of classic multiplayer experiences.
• Matchmaking systems face significant transparency challenges because complex metrics—such as individual contribution in team-based MOBAs or asymmetrical point gains in racing games—are difficult to communicate clearly to players.