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SBMM Makes a Comeback in Black Ops 7’s Featured Playlists

Skill-based matchmaking has long been one of the most controversial topics in multiplayer shooters — and now it’s once again taking center stage in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. With Season 1 underway, Standard Moshpit — the playlist built around SBMM — has been promoted to the Featured section of the multiplayer menu.

According to the developers, this decision comes down to one key factor:

More players are choosing SBMM playlists than open matchmaking options.

🎯 Why Standard Moshpit Was Promoted

Treyarch says they’ve seen “increased engagement” in Standard Moshpit, meaning competitive, balanced matchmaking is where players are spending their time. Rather than hide the mode deeper in the menu, the devs are making it easier to find.

What this means:

• Standard Moshpit is now front and center in Featured Playlists

• SBMM remains a core matchmaking system in BO7

• Players still have choice — depending on how they want to play

🎮 SBMM vs. Open Matchmaking: What’s Available?

Black Ops 7 still offers both matchmaking styles:

If you want: - Fair matches with similar-skill players
- Minimal blowouts or one-sided games
➡️ Standard Moshpit is now the easiest option

If you want: - More relaxed lobbies
- Potentially easier matches or varied skill levels
➡️ Other open playlists are still there

While open matchmaking hasn’t been removed, SBMM is no longer tucked away — it’s part of the main experience again.

🔥 Why Players Are Split on This Update

Some players hoped BO7 would pull back from SBMM after Treyarch emphasized open matchmaking during the beta. So this shift feels like a reversal to those who dislike competitive “sweaty” lobbies.

Common community frustrations include:

• Fear that open playlists don’t feel truly “open” anymore

• Casual players feeling pushed into harder matches

• Concerns that SBMM limits variety and fun

On the other hand, many players believe SBMM:

• Creates fairer gunfights

• Prevents constant stomping by high-skill squads

• Keeps each match competitive

It’s a debate as old as modern Call of Duty — and this update brings it back into focus.

🧠 What This Means Moving Forward

By placing Standard Moshpit in Featured playlists, Treyarch is signaling that SBMM isn’t going anywhere. Player choice still exists, but competitive matchmaking is being highlighted as the default experience.

Whether this improves the game depends on what you value more:

• Fairness

• Freedom

For now, the best move is to explore both playlist types and find what fits your play style — whether that’s sweating out every gunfight or just having fun with friends in more random lobbies.

🏁 Final Thoughts

SBMM’s growing presence in Black Ops 7 is sure to keep the conversation going — but it also shows the devs are paying attention to how players actually play. As Season 1 continues, the matchup between fairness and fun will be one to watch.

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