Open Moshpit: A Milestone for Black Ops 7 Beta
The Black Ops 7 (BO7) beta has become a talking point in the ongoing debate over Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM). For months, players have urged Treyarch to rethink matchmaking in non-ranked modes, arguing that SBMM makes casual games feel like high-stakes scrims. The introduction of an Open Moshpit playlist, described by developers as “classic matchmaking where skill is minimally considered,” represents a significant shift. In practice, the mode pools players of varying skill levels together, creating lobbies that feel less scripted and more balanced.
What Open Moshpit Changes About BO7
Open Moshpit strips back the emphasis on ranking and consistently pits players against others who aren’t filtered by a strict skill tier. The result, according to beta players, is a more relaxed, varied experience where teamwork, map awareness, and individual skill have room to shine without being overshadowed by relentless matchmaking pressure. This is especially noticeable in modes that historically relied on forced optimization, rather than spontaneous, fun play.
Why Players Embrace SBMM-Reduced Playlists
Casual players often felt disadvantaged by SBMM in ways that undermined enjoyment. In mixed lobbies, the level gap could be stark, with standout performers climbing into rooms where even repeat players found themselves outgunned. The Open Moshpit changes address this by creating lobbies that resemble traditional, unpredictable matches—where a single lucky run or a clever strategy can tilt a game without being drowned by a constant power imbalance.
Reaction Across the Community
Reaction to the Open Moshpit has been overwhelmingly positive. Content creators and well-known players in the Call of Duty community voiced support, with fans calling for the mode to become a permanent fixture in the final game. A notable reaction came from a prominent FPS personality who described the Open Moshpit as a refreshing change from the previous, more stilted experience—calling on developers to keep the playlist accessible beyond the beta period.
What This Means for the Future of BO7
The beta’s success with Open Moshpit has sparked a broader discussion about whether SBMM should be an across-the-board feature or reserved for ranked play. Some players argue for a tiered approach: keep SBMM in competitive modes while offering unranked playlists with more relaxed matchmaking in core and hardcore options. If Treyarch maintains the Open Moshpit as a standard feature, it could reshape player expectations and set a precedent for future Call of Duty releases.
Engagement and Feedback: Your Turn
As the community enjoys the current beta environment, developers are watching closely to see if this model keeps players engaged and returns to social media conversations with a net-positive sentiment. What are your impressions of the Open Moshpit in Black Ops 7 Beta? Do you want this playlist to be permanent in the final release, or should matchmaking revert to a more traditional system? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
