Can you use VPN to bypass skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in MWIII?

Skill-based matchmaking, or SBMM, has always been a topic of criticism in the world of online games.In MWIII, the SBMM issue has once again made a comeback, as players are not very fond of matching up based on their skills, but this time they have allegedly discovered a way to ignore it by using a VPN!

In Modern Warfare 3, SBMM stands for skill-based matchmaking, a system designed to create game matches where players of similar abilities are grouped together in the same lobbies. This is accomplished by analyzing data like the K/D ratio and score per minute to pair users with opponents of comparable skill levels.

While SBMM can create a more balanced and competitive environment, it has also been criticized for potentially making the game tougher for more experienced players and limiting the variety of skill levels in matches.

VPNs can help players avoid SBMM by masking their IP address and appearing as if they are in a different region, potentially leading to more favorable matchups when playing.

Connecting the player client with relatively inactive regions will result in easier lobbies. Some VPNs that have been recommended for this purpose include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost.

Players can also use Botlobbies.com to connect to remote lobbies. However, it may require a subscription. It’s important to note that no method is 100% effective, and using a VPN to bypass SBMM may not work for everyone.

But that is not all; although Activision’s privacy policy doesn’t mention anything against VPNs, using one could be considered cheating, which could result in a ban. There have been reports of players getting permanently banned for using a VPN.

@CallofDuty @CODUpdates @charlieINTEL @SHGames Can ya start banning people that use VPN's on #CallofDuty ? because its basically "CHEATING" like "xProMvz" is not good at the game but he is good at Manipulating little kids. like come on now look at the lobby he is in lmfao pic.twitter.com/Fy7gHLR9PF

— BrandonReel (@TTV_BrandonReel) November 20, 2023

In addition, VPNs are also illegal in some regions, such as Russia and China, which is why using VPN software to play the game from these regions could result in severe legal actions against the user.

Players have expressed various concerns and viewpoints regarding SBMM in MW3, with some highlighting the following issues and sentiments:

• Impact on Gaming Experience:Some players have reported that SBMM has made matches overly competitive and less enjoyable, leading to an unenjoyable gaming experience and negatively affecting the overall gameplay.
• Connection Issues: There have been reports of network issues believed to be related to SBMM, impacting the overall gaming experience and leading to an unenjoyable time with the game.
• Desire for Adjustments: Players have expressed a desire for adjustments to SBMM to provide a more casual and less competitive experience in each lobby, suggesting methods to alter SBMM for more casual gameplay.

However, even after all these complaints, the devs have no ‘intention’ of removing the feature.

Note: We have more such stories in our dedicated gaming section, so be sure to follow them as well.

Feature image source: callofduty.com