Battlefield 6’s matchmaking system is set to incorporate a “skill factor” alongside other considerations such as ping, player location, and server availability, sparking discussion within the gaming community regarding skill-based matchmaking (SBMM).
According to recent reports from a press event, EA confirmed to CharlieIntel that the upcoming shooter’s matchmaking will prioritize a combination of ping, the player’s geographical location, the availability of servers, and “some” skill factor, which will vary based on the game mode being played. While factors like proximity to servers and region switching due to high demand are common in online gaming, the inclusion of a “skill factor” has drawn attention and raised questions among players.
SBMM has been a contentious subject in various first-person shooter (FPS) communities, notably in titles like Call of Duty and Apex Legends. Proponents of SBMM argue that it helps balance the competitive multiplayer landscape, particularly for newer players, by grouping similarly skilled individuals. Conversely, critics contend that it can diminish the casual, random nature of unranked play and negatively impact the overall experience for some players. The debate has been so pronounced in the Call of Duty community that some players even submitted requests to publisher Activision earlier this year to ascertain their unofficial ranks.
Despite the concerns, it’s essential to note that skill is presented as only one of several factors influencing matchmaking in Battlefield 6, and the precise extent of its influence remains unclear. The game is also set to introduce a “server browser solution,” which players will likely monitor closely to see how the new matchmaking parameters integrate with it.
Some community members have drawn distinctions between the reported Battlefield 6 system and the SBMM implementations seen in other franchises. One respondent commented, “FYI For COD Fans, These exact parameters have always existed in Battlefield and this is NOT SBMM akin to Call of Duty. Nothing like it at all. This is simply how the game balances teams, players from all skill brackets will be in one lobby.” Another individual light-heartedly remarked, “Entire COD Community has PTSD from the last decade of releases hahaha.”
Beyond matchmaking, more details have emerged about Battlefield 6, including its battle royale mode. Leaks suggest this mode will be set in California, with players inserting via a CH-47 Chinook helicopter. The destructive ring in this mode is reportedly composed of a compound identified as “NXC.” Contrary to some earlier rumors, Battlefield 6 will not carry an $80 price tag.
Battlefield 6 was initially announced in 2021 and is slated for release on October 10. It will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S. Currently, there are no plans from EA to bring Battlefield 6 to the Nintendo Switch 2. Following the somewhat lukewarm reception of Battlefield 2042, fan reaction to what has been revealed about Battlefield 6 so far appears to be largely positive, with EA notably not attempting to remove leaked assets for a significant period.
