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00:00:00 – 00:18:52
The video delves into the intricacies of skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in Modern Warfare 2, elucidating the hidden "silent rank" system based on player stats from previous Call of Duty games. The speaker emphasizes the common misconception among players regarding their true skill level and offers insights into managing Skill Rating (SR). They propose strategies like using non-optimal setups or weaker guns initially to manipulate the matchmaking algorithm, thus securing easier matches and enhancing the gameplay experience without advocating for reverse boosting. The recurring theme is the balance between enjoyment and performance by experimenting with different weapons and approaches. Ultimately, the speaker underscores the variability of enjoyment and the need for players to find a personalized approach to maximize their gaming pleasure.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the creator discusses the skill-based matchmaking algorithm in Modern Warfare 2. They aim to simplify the explanation to avoid confusion, emphasizing that they do not support reverse boosting. The algorithm tracks player stats from previous Call of Duty games to determine a hidden skill rank, referred to here as “silent rank.” This rank ranges from Grandmaster at the top to Copper at the bottom. The creator notes that many players misjudge their rank, often underestimating their skill level. They explain that having a kill-death ratio (KD) of one or higher places a player in the top 20% of all players.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses strategies for managing Skill Rating (SR) in gaming to ensure a more enjoyable experience. They explain that while the algorithm aims to create balanced matches, it often pits players against strong opponents. To counter this, they suggest thinking in terms of numbers and performance, advocating for a system that considers individual enjoyment. The speaker also shares their personal approach to maintaining a balanced SR, which involves choosing less optimal game setups for initial matches. This method is meant to temper expectations and performance, allowing a more relaxed gaming session.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses strategies to manipulate matchmaking algorithms in online games. They explain how using a weaker gun can lower their in-game performance, causing the algorithm to place them in easier matches. The process involves deliberately performing poorly in initial games to be matched with less skilled players. Over time, if a player doesn’t perform well, the algorithm adjusts by placing them in progressively easier lobbies. The goal is to eventually be in matches where it’s easier to perform well, making the gameplay more enjoyable and ensuring longer playtimes, which benefits the game’s monetization strategies with increased engagement.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses how the game’s skill-based matchmaking algorithm works. Initially, players are placed at a higher skill level, leading to challenging games. However, after several tough games, the algorithm adjusts, making matches easier. The speaker advises using unconventional or less effective weapons in early games to lower the algorithm’s difficulty assessment, making subsequent games easier when switching back to better weapons. They explain that this approach helps in creating better footage for videos. The speaker also touches on the controversial topic of reverse boosting, warning that it leads to temporarily easier matches but the algorithm will eventually adjust and raise the difficulty again. They emphasize that consistently trying hard, even with non-meta weapons, is a preferable strategy.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses their experience with Call of Duty, emphasizing that their content is not about improving gameplay but about ensuring a more enjoyable experience. They highlight the variability of enjoyment and the often harsh matchmaking system, which can make players feel targeted. The speaker recaps their personal observations and theories about the game’s mechanics, particularly how it sometimes seems to adjust the difficulty based on player performance. They mention lacking concrete proof for these theories, as they’re based on in-game experiences. The speaker advises players to experiment with different weapons and challenges to add variety and enjoyment to their gaming sessions, rather than focusing purely on meta weapons or strategies.
00:15:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the concept of ‘beast mode’ in a game like Call of Duty and the tendency of players to avoid playing against opponents of similar skill. They highlight the idea that players often want to showcase their skills against less skilled opponents but stress the importance of finding a middle ground. The speaker notes that over time, the game adjusts the skill ranks (SR) gradually, allowing players to perform better. However, they caution against intentionally lowering SR too much, as it may lead to playing against significantly weaker opponents, which can weaken the player’s skills over time. The gradual adjustment in SR aims to prevent players from noticing immediate changes but can lead to cycles of improved performance followed by tougher competition, potentially resulting in a false sense of improvement.
00:18:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses their approach to gameplay in Modern Warfare, emphasizing the importance of experimenting with different weapons to enhance the gaming experience. They mention how using unfamiliar weapons can result in poor performance initially, but over time, this variety makes the game more enjoyable. The speaker also touches on the skill-based matchmaking algorithm and encourages viewers to find ways to get more enjoyment out of Modern Warfare.