Black Ops 7: Open vs. Standard Playlists - Matchmaking Differences
Call of Duty is introducing a groundbreaking change to its multiplayer formula with the launch of Black Ops 7. For the first time, developer Treyarch is splitting the core experience into two distinct matchmaking philosophies, dubbed "Open" and "Standard" playlists.
This move directly addresses years of community feedback regarding skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) and connection quality, offering players unprecedented control over their online experience.
What is the Standard Playlist in Black Ops 7?
Think of the Standard playlist as the evolution of the matchmaking system seen in recent Call of Duty titles. This playlist heavily incorporates skill-based matchmaking, or SBMM, as its primary driver for creating lobbies.
The system works by analyzing a wide range of your in-game performance metrics—such as your score-per-minute, kill/death ratio, and objective play—to assign you a hidden skill rating. When you search for a match in the Standard playlist, the game’s goal is to place you in a lobby with other players who have a very similar skill rating.
The main objectives of the Standard Playlist are:
- To create balanced matches: Every game is intended to be a close, competitive fight where both teams have a roughly equal chance of winning.
- To protect new players: By matching newcomers with others of a similar skill level, it prevents them from being constantly overwhelmed by veteran players.
- To provide a consistent challenge: For high-skill players, this ensures they are always being tested against opponents of equal or greater skill, making every victory feel earned.
This is the playlist for players who crave a highly competitive environment, want to constantly test their abilities, and prefer matches that are consistently challenging from start to finish.
What is the Open Playlist in Black Ops 7?
The Open playlist is Treyarch's direct answer to community requests for a more connection-focused matchmaking experience. While the Standard playlist puts your skill rating first, the Open playlist flips the script and makes your connection quality the number one priority.
When you queue for a game in an Open playlist, the matchmaker will first look for games with the lowest possible ping and the most stable connection for you. The goal is to provide the smoothest, most responsive gameplay possible.
According to a recent clarification from Treyarch, player skill is still a factor, but it is "minimally considered" in the Open playlist. This means that while the system may avoid extreme mismatches, like placing a brand-new player against a full team of professionals, the primary focus remains on connection. The result is lobbies with a much wider variety of skill levels. One match, you might be the top player, and the next, you might be fighting for survival. This variability is a core part of its design, echoing the lobby experiences of older Call of Duty titles.
The main objectives of the Open Playlist are:
- To prioritize connection quality: This aims to reduce lag, improve hit detection, and create a smoother gameplay experience overall.
- To create diverse lobbies: Players will encounter a broad spectrum of skill levels, leading to more unpredictable match outcomes.
- To offer a more relaxed experience: By de-emphasizing skill, the pressure to perform at your peak in every single match is lessened, allowing for more casual and experimental playstyles.
This playlist is ideal for players who value a lag-free experience above all else, enjoy the random nature of mixed-skill lobbies, and want a more laid-back environment to enjoy the game.
Open vs. Standard: Which Playlist Should You Choose?
With two distinct options available at launch, the choice comes down to personal preference and what you want to get out of a play session.
You should choose the Standard playlist if:
- You want every match to be a competitive nail-biter.
- You are practicing for ranked or competitive play.
- You enjoy the feeling of consistently outplaying opponents at your own skill level.
- You are a new player and want a more protected environment to learn the game.
You should choose the Open playlist if:
- A high-quality, low-ping connection is your top priority.
- You miss the variety and unpredictable nature of classic Call of Duty lobbies.
- You want a more casual and less stressful multiplayer experience.
- You enjoy the potential for high-performance games against a mix of different player types.
This new system represents a significant shift in Call of Duty's online philosophy. By empowering players with choice, Treyarch is attempting to create a more welcoming ecosystem for everyone, from the casual fan to the aspiring pro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the Open Playlist have any skill-based matchmaking at all?
A: Yes, but only a minimal amount. Treyarch has confirmed that skill is a very low-priority factor in this playlist. The system's main goal is to find you a match with the best connection possible.
Q: Will both playlists be available for all game modes?
A: It is expected that all core game modes will be offered in both Open and Standard playlist variants. However, dedicated ranked or league play modes will almost certainly be locked to the Standard playlist to ensure competitive integrity.
Q: Can I switch between Open and Standard playlists freely?
A: Yes, you can choose which playlist type you want to queue for at any time from the multiplayer menu, allowing you to tailor your experience on the fly.