Call of Duty is currently navigating through challenging times, and it's not solely due to the reported decline in player numbers, as indicated by SteamDB. As the second season of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 approaches, the developers have been vocal about their ongoing efforts to combat cheating. Since the introduction of the ranked mode in November 2024, they've suspended over 136,000 accounts. The team is also working tirelessly to enhance their anti-cheat systems, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining a fair playing field.
In addition to tackling cheating, the developers have promised improvements to server configurations, aiming to enhance connection quality for a smoother gaming experience. However, these assurances have been met with skepticism rather than optimism. The situation is dire when even prominent content creators publicly challenge the developers' claims. Reddit is rife with posts from players who report no tangible improvements in server quality or matchmaking, further fueling the discontent.
Player fatigue with Call of Duty is palpable, and terms like SBMM (Skill-Based Matchmaking) and EOMM (Engagement Optimized Matchmaking) have become sources of frustration within the community. This crisis of trust is glaringly evident, leaving it uncertain how, or even if, Activision will be able to restore confidence among its player base. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but the developers' continued efforts to address these issues may yet turn the tide.
