Matchmaking in Call of Duty multiplayer has always been a key focus for Activision, and they are constantly working to improve the experience for players. In a recent white paper, Activision delved into how skill is incorporated into the matchmaking algorithm, highlighting its importance in creating fair and enjoyable matches.
Skill is just one consideration in the matchmaking process, but it plays a significant role. Activision defines skill as a player’s ability to perform against others in a given game mode, based on their previous performance. The matchmaking algorithm calculates skill based on a player’s relative performance in each match. This skill calculation involves carefully selected parameters to ensure accuracy and efficiency. However, skill is not the sole factor in matchmaking. Other important elements include ping times (connection speed), time to match (waiting time), playlist diversity (variety of maps), and player preferences (game modes and input devices).
Ping time and time to match are critical factors, as players want a lag-free experience and don’t want to wait too long for a match. Playlist diversity is also important, as players want to play on different maps. Activision allows players to customize their Quick Play settings to select preferred maps and modes. Skill and performance matter as well, as players want to have an impact on the game and be matched with opponents of similar skill level. Input device (controller or mouse and keyboard) and platform (PC or console) also play a role in matchmaking.
Activision has conducted extensive testing to understand the impact of skill in matchmaking. They found that a wide skill gap between players led to a higher likelihood of players quitting matches. Low- to mid-skill players were more likely to leave the game in greater numbers. Balancing skill against other matchmaking factors, such as ping and time to match, increased player engagement and enjoyment. When skill is utilized in matchmaking, 80% to 90% of players experience better match outcomes and stick with the game longer.
However, completely removing skill from matchmaking would have negative consequences. Activision ran tests to loosen skill constraints and observed a decrease in the number of players playing the game and an increase in match quit rates. On the other hand, tightening skill had negative impacts on high-skilled players. Achieving a balance in matchmaking is crucial to providing a fair and enjoyable experience for all players.
Team balance is also vital in matchmaking. The goal is to make match outcomes as unpredictable as possible to avoid blowouts, which are known to negatively affect player enjoyment. Larger parties have an advantage, so the matchmaking system tries to balance teams based on skill and minimize skill disparities. However, parties with high skill disparities are difficult to match fairly, and the system aims to find a middle ground to provide a fun and fair experience for all players.
Activision’s testing capabilities have improved over the years, allowing for more accurate and efficient experiments. They continue to explore different approaches to matchmaking and conduct tests to find optimal configurations that improve player engagement and enjoyment. The long-term health of the player base is a priority, as a negative feedback loop where low-to-average skill players continually leave the game can lead to a less welcoming experience for new players and a decline in the overall player pool.
In conclusion, Activision is committed to providing a fun and competitive experience for all players in Call of Duty multiplayer. Skill is an important factor in matchmaking, but it is balanced with other considerations to create fair and enjoyable matches. Through extensive testing and experimentation, Activision aims to continuously improve the matchmaking process and ensure the long-term health of the player base.
