Open Moshpit Brings SBMM-Free Matchmaking to Black Ops 7 Beta
The Black Ops 7 beta has sparked a wildfire of positive sentiment among players thanks to a bold change: an Open Moshpit playlist that minimizes Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM). This new mode, described by Treyarch as offering “classic matchmaking where skill is minimally considered,” aims to mix players of varying skill levels in each lobby. The result is a noticeably different rhythm to multiplayer, with less predictable, more balanced-feeling matches that emphasize fun and play rather than constant competition against a handful of top performers.
How SBMM Affects the Experience—and Why Players Welcome a Change
SBMM has long been a point of contention in Call of Duty communities. When skill becomes the primary filter for who you play against, even casual sessions can feel relentless as you chase that next challenge or see a streak end in a high-skill lobby. The Open Moshpit shifts the focus away from raw performance metrics toward a more relaxed, mixed-skill environment. In practice, this means you’ll often find teammates across a spectrum of proficiency, with less pressure to perform at peak levels every round.
Community Reaction: A Resounding Support for Wider, Less-Tuned Lobbies
Players aren’t just celebrating a single lobby option; they’re rallying for a broader, game-wide approach. Under Treyarch’s post announcing the Open Moshpit, fans argued that SBMM should be rebalanced across all unranked playlists, not isolated to one mode. The sentiment reflects a desire for more accessible matchmaking that supports casual enjoyment while retaining competitive options for ranked play.
Why Creators and Pros Are Turning the Tide
Influential voices in the community, including content creators and prominent players, have voiced approval for the Open Moshpit. Notably, Shroud commented that the current iteration was “miserable” before the change and described the newer experience as “enjoyable.” This type of endorsement from high-profile figures carries weight, signaling that the beta’s direction could influence the final game release.
Impact on the Beta and the Road Ahead
With a strong positive response to the Open Moshpit, the future of Black Ops 7 appears to hinge on keeping this mode accessible or even expanding it. The community’s call is clear: if SBMM-free or lightly-tuned matchmaking can coexist with competitive modes, many players believe the game will feel more balanced and sustainable in the long run. While Activision’s team weighs feedback and performance data, the beta already demonstrates a potential blueprint for how standard playlists could function when skill weighting is minimized.
What This Means for Players Going Forward
For now, returning to a mixed-skill environment in Open Moshpit means casual players won’t feel outmatched as quickly, while seasoned players still have opportunities to showcase skill in other modes. The broader takeaway is a demand for flexible matchmaking that adapts to different player intents—whether you’re chasing a relaxed session with friends or a high-stakes ranked experience. As the beta evolves, the community will monitor whether Open Moshpit becomes the default, a temporary option, or a permanent pillar of Black Ops 7’s multiplayer lineup.
Have Your Say
What are your impressions of the Open Moshpit in the Black Ops 7 beta? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—does this approach hit the right balance between accessibility and competition?
