A new study shows that Duty Players are less likely to play if there is no skill-based matchmaking.
The studywhich was published online and noticed by GamesIndustry.bizdescribes an experiment the publisher conducted earlier this year without the knowledge of Modern Warfare 3 players and tested the North American player base.
According to the article, Activision conducted a “Deprioritize Skill Test” in the game for 50% of its player base, relaxing restrictions on skills in matchmaking, while the remaining half were given normal matchmaking.
Activision explained that it found that players affected by the Deprioritize Skill Test were less likely to continue playing. The results showed that player rate dropped for 90% of players, while players who quit increased to 80%.
Additionally, 10% of the highest-skilled players are said to have returned, but fewer players did so in comparison. The publisher explained that this, like interest, will have a “meaningful impact” on the player population over time.
“This is a concern for all players, including the top 10%, because if this pattern continues, players will increasingly drop out of the game,” it explained. “Eventually, a top 10% player will become a top 20% player, and eventually a top 30% player, until only the very best players remain in the game.”
It was further stated that the chances of the original top players not returning to the sport are becoming increasingly slim.
“Ultimately, this will result in a worse experience for all players as there will be fewer and fewer players available to play with,” Activision said.
“Furthermore, this test only deprioritized skill in the matching rules. If it were removed entirely, we would expect the player population to decline rapidly over a few months, resulting in a negative outcome for all of our players.”
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 was recently added to Xbox Game Pass for Console, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate after weeks of rumors. It will also be joined by Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 as a day one Game Pass release, launching on October 25.