Former Halo 2 and 3 UX design lead, Max Hoberman, criticizes skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in modern gaming, claiming it causes stress and segregates high-level players. SBMM, which determines how players of similar skill are matched, has sparked controversy in the gaming community. Hoberman, who designed SBMM for Halo, believes it is being poorly implemented by other developers.
In a Twitter thread, Hoberman explained his approach to SBMM in Halo 2 and 3, emphasizing the importance of both fun and challenging matches. He disagrees with the current trend of strictly matching players of the same level, as it eliminates variability and increases stress. Hoberman intentionally allowed for a range of skill levels to be matched, recognizing that evenly matched games can be the most stressful.
A Gamesradar article praised SBMM for enhancing the first-person shooter experience, but Hoberman disagreed. He argued that segregating high-skill players and subjecting them to long wait times is a form of discrimination. He believes there are better alternatives and considers derogatory views from game developers as a cop-out and a disservice to players.
Halo 2 revolutionized online multiplayer gaming in 2004 by introducing customizable playlists that catered to different player preferences. However, Hoberman laments that SBMM is now being strictly implemented across all playlists, preventing players from casually enjoying the game with friends, even in unranked modes. Many players share this sentiment, expressing that first-person shooting games have lost their fun factor.
Overall, Hoberman’s critique highlights the negative impact of SBMM in modern gaming. While it may have its merits, the current implementation fails to strike a balance between enjoyable and challenging matches. The gaming community calls for more variety and flexibility, allowing players to have a diverse and engaging experience.
Source: DOTESPORTS
