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The topic everyone loves to hate is back in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Skill-Based Matchmaking, or “SBMM,” appears to have made a reappearance in this weekend’s multiplayer Alpha. While not totally confirmed, fans have come to know when the feature is present in the game. After a few hours of playtime in the Alpha, the community tweeted nonstop about the inclusion of SBMM. So much so, that the term actually trended nationally on Twitter, proving once again how strong the Call of Duty community can be.

SBMM trends on Twitter after Black Ops Cold War Alpha

Skill-Based Matchmaking is not a new topic of discussion for the community. The feature has been a controversial mainstay since Call of Duty: WWII, and it’s staying that way for the time being. A majority of fans have made it perfectly clear that they don’t want this mechanic in Call of Duty.

If you’re not familiar with what SBMM is, here’s a quick rundown. Essentially, this feature matches you up with players of similar skill and casual playlists. Most fans don’t like this mechanic since it prioritizes skill over connection when matchmaking and casual playlists shouldn’t be treated like a Ranked playlist.

However, even though fans make their feelings known every year, developers continue to include it. It’s become more strict over the years as well, which has caused an even bigger uproar from the community. Although, there’s been perhaps no bigger one than today when SBMM trended on Twitter shortly after the Black Ops Cold War Alpha went live.

There was even a “copypasta” going around about Skill-Based Matchmaking. Started by 100 Thieves member Froste, this short blurb about SBMM quickly spread around Twitter and helped put the term on the trending page.

Unfortunately for fans, SBMM most likely isn’t going anywhere in Call of Duty. Developers have implemented the feature in every game for years, and there’s no reason to stop now. However, the general consensus remains that Skill-Based Matchmaking belongs in a Ranked playlist only. Casual playlists should be a moshpit of differently skilled players. While the feature does help out new players, the veterans are left with unbearable lobbies.

What’s your stance on SBMM? Let us know, and stay tuned to Daily Esports for all Black Ops Cold War news.