Lecture Notes: Video Game Industry Concerns and Trends

Introduction

• Presenter expresses dissatisfaction with recent developments in the video game industry, particularly regarding Call of Duty (CoD).
• Mention of taking a break and feeling repulsed by current industry practices.

Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM)

• CoD developers conducted a controversial skill-based matchmaking experiment.
• The experiment involved using AI for matchmaking and creating in-game bundles.
• Presenter criticizes the AI-generated bundles and calls for more authentic content (e.g., licensing well-known properties like Terminator).

Issues with SBMM

• SBMM is seen as a way to protect less skilled players but at the expense of experienced players.
• The experiment lacked transparency and did not provide clear data or methodology.
• Presenter argues that SBMM is primarily for monetization rather than player retention.
• Example used: Burger King analogy to explain the sudden change in player experience.

Comparisons to Other Games

• Ex Defiant: Recent balance pass on weapons praised.
  • Weapons feel balanced and viable.
  • Unique characteristics of weapons maintained.
  • Specific mention of buffing the AA2 weapon.
• X Defiant vs. CoD: Presenter finds X Defiant's open matchmaking system more honest and less manipulative.

Community Reactions

• Mixed reactions from the community about SBMM.
• Some players leave due to unfair experiences, while others stay and adapt.

Industry Insights

• Insights from industry figures like Robert Bowling and Mark Rubin.
  • Bowling: SBMM has evolved over time with more focus on monetization.
  • Rubin: Confirms minor SBMM in older CoD titles, but emphasizes it was minimal and ping-based.

Personal Experience and Recommendations

• Presenter shares personal experience with adapting to game mechanics and improving through practice.
• Critique of the