Modern Warfare 4: Is Open Matchmaking Hiding Behind 'Popular Modes'?

Since the release of Modern Warfare 4, the community has once again been fiercely debating Skill-based Matchmaking (SBMM). Many complain about lobbies where every round feels like a sweat-fest. Now, a menu trick that PC Games has tested is making the rounds.

What is the menu trick for more relaxed lobbies in Modern Warfare 4?

You can start certain multiplayer modes either via the classic Quick Play or through the 'Popular Modes' category. It should theoretically make no difference, as Team Deathmatch remains Team Deathmatch. However, the testers at PC Games had the impression of two different experiences:

Through Quick Play, matches felt more demanding; after each match, they encountered new opponents and teammates.
Under 'Popular Modes,' they repeatedly encountered the same player names.
Some matches even started before the lobby was full.

This is reminiscent of the old days of Modern Warfare 2 or the first Black Ops titles, when you played multiple rounds against the same people.

Is Open Matchmaking Really Behind 'Popular Modes'?

Already in the beta, players could choose between Quick Play and the so-called Open Moshpit, for modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint. At release, the playlist explicitly labeled as Open Matchmaking disappeared from the menu. Some players now suspect that it lives on under the inconspicuous name 'Popular Modes.' Infinity Ward has not officially confirmed this yet.

Important: Open Matchmaking does not mean that player skill is ignored. It just carries less weight in lobby formation. And even a lobby with persistent players can still be compiled based on skill. Therefore, PC Games' observations are an indication, not proof.

What does Infinity Ward say about matchmaking?

In an interview with IGN, Multiplayer Lead Joe Cecot stated that he doubted matchmaking could ever be perfected. Infinity Ward analyzes data to understand how decisions impact different player groups, with the goal that every match becomes a good one. He did not reveal how the factors are weighted in Modern Warfare 4.

Is it worth trying for you?

From our perspective, yes: It costs nothing to choose a different path in the menu. But don't expect a miracle. New players can find the most important information in our report on the Launch of Modern Warfare 4, and our article on its best Metacritic score in 15 years fits the mood of the specialized press.