Ubisoft’s Call of Duty Rival XDefiant Ditches SBMM, Says It’s No Fun At All

Is SBMM Good or Bad for FPS Casual Playlists?

The debate surrounding skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in first-person shooter (FPS) games is a long-standing one. While some players argue that SBMM provides a balanced experience by matching players of similar skill levels, others find it detrimental, particularly in casual playlists. The core argument against SBMM centers on the idea that it removes the “casual” aspect, turning every match into a highly competitive, stressful encounter. This leads to a feeling of constant pressure to perform, which can discourage casual players from enjoying the game.

Ubisoft’s Stance: No SBMM for a Fun Experience

Ubisoft is taking a firm stance against skill-based matchmaking in XDefiant’s casual playlists. Their reasoning is that SBMM makes every match feel repetitive and intensely competitive, which detracts from the fun and relaxed atmosphere they aim to create. Ubisoft believes that casual playlists should be a space where players can unwind and enjoy varied gameplay without the pressure of constantly facing opponents of the same skill level. This philosophy sets XDefiant apart from titles like Call of Duty, which heavily utilize SBMM.

Activision’s Defense of SBMM in Call of Duty

Activision, the publisher of Call of Duty, defends the use of SBMM by arguing that it creates a more equitable experience for all players. According to Activision, SBMM prevents extreme skill disparities within matches, ensuring that lower-skilled players aren’t consistently overwhelmed, potentially leading to them quitting the game. This, in turn, maintains a healthy player base and minimizes matchmaking wait times. Activision acknowledges concerns about high-skilled players feeling like they only face “sweaty” lobbies, but they believe some SBMM is necessary for overall game health.

The Argument Against “Sweaty” Lobbies

One of the most common complaints from skilled players about SBMM is the prevalence of “sweaty” lobbies, where every match feels like a high-stakes tournament. This can be exhausting for players who simply want to relax and enjoy a casual game. Without SBMM, these players would encounter a wider range of skill levels, leading to more varied and unpredictable matches. This variety can be refreshing and prevent burnout, as not every encounter requires maximum effort and concentration.

XDefiant’s Approach: A Competitive Ranked Mode

Ubisoft isn’t completely abandoning competitive play; instead, they’re channeling it into a dedicated ranked mode. This allows players who crave intense, skill-based matchups to find them in a separate environment, while the casual playlists remain free from SBMM’s constraints. This dual approach aims to cater to both casual and competitive players, providing options for those seeking a relaxed experience and those who desire a challenging, skill-driven environment.

Attracting Disgruntled Call of Duty Fans

XDefiant’s decision to forgo SBMM in casual playlists is a strategic move to attract players who are dissatisfied with Call of Duty’s matchmaking system. By offering a more relaxed and unpredictable casual experience, Ubisoft hopes to appeal to players who are tired of the constant pressure of SBMM and are looking for a more enjoyable alternative. This deliberate design choice positions XDefiant as a haven for players seeking a less stressful FPS experience.

Mark Rubin: A Familiar Face at the Helm

The development of XDefiant is led by Mark Rubin, a former executive producer at Infinity Ward, the studio behind the Modern Warfare series of Call of Duty games. Rubin’s experience with the Call of Duty franchise gives him a unique perspective on the SBMM debate and the needs of FPS players. His involvement in XDefiant suggests that the game is being developed with a deep understanding of the genre and a focus on addressing player concerns.

Launch Details and Platforms

XDefiant is scheduled to launch its pre-season on May 21st. Players can access the game on PC via Ubisoft Connect, as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. Notably, the game will not be available on Steam or the Epic Games Store at launch. This platform exclusivity is an important consideration for players when deciding where to access the game.