Why Does Warzone 2 Take Forever to Find a Match?

The frustrating wait for a Warzone 2 match to start can be a significant buzzkill. You’re geared up, ready for action, but seemingly stuck in an endless lobby loop. The reasons behind this issue are multifaceted, stemming from a combination of server load, matchmaking algorithms, network problems, and even your own system’s configuration. In essence, the seemingly long wait times are not a simple error but rather the result of a complex interplay of different factors attempting to create a balanced and engaging gaming experience. Essentially, Warzone 2’s long matchmaking times can typically be attributed to the following core issues:

• Server Load: When a large number of players are trying to connect simultaneously, particularly during peak hours or after updates, the servers can become overloaded. This results in longer queue times and can even cause the game to get stuck on the Server Queue screen.
• Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM): Warzone 2 employs a skill-based matchmaking system that attempts to match players with opponents of similar skill levels. While this aims to create balanced matches, it can lead to longer wait times as the system searches for players who closely match your specific skill metrics, like K/D ratio, score per minute, and other performance data.
• Network Issues: Problems with your internet connection, such as inconsistent network performance or a bug that disrupts the internet connection can directly impact the matchmaking process. If your network is slow or unstable, it can be challenging for the game to find and connect to a suitable match.
• Shadow Bans: A shadow ban can result in significant delays in matchmaking, causing you to be placed in lobbies with very high ping and difficulty finding matches. This usually happens if the system detects unusual activity or rule violations, but sometimes can be a false positive.
• Player Population: A lower player count can result in the matchmaking system taking longer to find suitable players. This is particularly true at non-peak hours, or when a game has had a decline in its player base.
• Geographical Matchmaking: The game seeks to match you with other players with low pings, so it searches for suitable games near your location. If there are fewer players in your region, this can cause a longer wait.

Understanding these underlying issues is the first step in addressing the problem. Let’s explore ways to troubleshoot and improve your Warzone 2 matchmaking experience.

Troubleshooting Steps for Long Matchmaking Times

While not all matchmaking issues are within your control (like server load), there are several steps you can take to potentially improve your situation.

• Restart Your Network Devices: A simple reboot of your router/modem can often clear any network inconsistencies. Unplug the power cord from both devices for at least one minute before plugging them back in.
• Restart Your PC or Console: Rebooting your personal computer or console can resolve temporary software glitches and improve game performance, which indirectly affects matchmaking speed.
• Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure your internet connection is stable and functioning correctly. Consider running a speed test to verify download and upload speeds. A stable and robust connection is essential for swift matchmaking.
• Change DNS Server Settings: Consider switching to a popular DNS server, like Google’s, which may offer geographically closer options, improving your connection and potentially reducing lag.
• Disable Crossplay (If Applicable): Some players have reported improved matchmaking times after disabling crossplay. This can limit the pool of potential players but sometimes speeds up the process.
• Play During Off-Peak Hours: Try playing during times when fewer players are typically online, as this can reduce server load and speed up matchmaking. This will vary depending on your region.
• Check for Game Updates: Make sure your game client is up to date, as new updates often contain bug fixes that might address matchmaking issues.
• Avoid Playing with Very High Skill Group: If you are playing with a high skilled group, the algorithm will look to match you with other similar skilled groups. Sometimes playing solo or with lower skilled friends can improve wait times for matches, if you have a very high skill level.

Understanding the Skill-Based Matchmaking System

The skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) system in Warzone 2 is a key factor in how quickly and with whom you’re matched. Here’s how it generally works:

• Skill Metrics: The system considers a combination of player performance metrics, such as your kill/death ratio (KD), win/loss ratio, score per minute (SPM), and accuracy.
• Matching Similar Players: The game attempts to match players with opponents who have similar skill levels based on these metrics, which aims to create balanced matches that are more engaging.
• Level and Experience: While it isn’t the sole factor, your player level can influence who you are matched with. Players with high levels, such as Level 250 in Warzone 2, may be matched against other high-level players.
• Geographical Location: It does take your location into account, which helps ensure players get low ping connections and smooth gameplay.

While SBMM aims to create a balanced experience, it can sometimes contribute to longer wait times, as finding a perfect match might not always be instantaneous.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Warzone 2 Matchmaking

Here are some frequently asked questions to further help you understand the complexities of Warzone 2 matchmaking:

1. How is Warzone 2 matchmaking done?

Warzone 2’s matchmaking uses players’ in-game data such as K/D ratio, score per minute, and other performance metrics to match players with similar skill levels.

2. Why does it take so long to queue in Warzone?

It often takes a long time to queue because the game is attempting to find a lobby that fits the skill parameters of the players in the group while also dealing with server load during peak times.

3. How rare is it to win in Warzone 2?

With 150 players in a typical match, your odds of winning a solo match are approximately 0.67%. This is quite low for the average player.

4. How do I get easier lobbies in Warzone?

Several methods can potentially lead to easier lobbies, including playing early in the day, researching the best geographical location to play in, disabling crossplay, or playing with a full squad of lower skilled players.

5. Why is my Warzone lobby so slow?

Slow lobbies may be due to your PC’s DNS server settings. Switching to a public DNS server like Google’s can improve connection and speed.

6. Am I shadowbanned in Warzone 2?

If you are unable to find matches or consistently have high ping despite a stable internet connection, you may be shadowbanned.

7. Why won’t Warzone start a match?

Unplug your modem and router from the power supply for 1 minute, then plug them back in, and relaunch Warzone.

8. How do you start a Warzone 2 match?

You can start a public match through the main game menu. You can also start a Private Match by navigating to the game mode on the Play menu but this requires at least 50 players.

9. Why is my Call of Duty Warzone 2 not signing in?

The ‘Your profile was signed out’ error occurs when the game can’t link to services. Try changing your in-game voice channel and consider restarting your system.

10. How do you get bot lobbies in Warzone 2?

Creating a new account might place you in lobbies with bots initially as you will be seen as a new player. However, these will not last forever and the difficulty will increase over time.

11. Where are the easiest CoD lobbies?

Some locations are often associated with lower skill players, like Hawaii, Egypt and Argentina, and trying a server there might help you get easier lobbies if you are skilled.

12. How are CoD lobbies determined?

Lobbies are determined by a complex algorithm that looks at factors such as kill/death ratio, wins, headshot percentage, average kills and in-game movement.

13. What does SBMM stand for?

SBMM stands for skill-based matchmaking, a system that aims to pair players with opponents of similar skill levels.

14. Is SBMM based on score per minute?

Yes, SBMM uses score per minute (SPM) along with other metrics like kill/death ratio and total playtime.

15. How often do jailbreaks happen in Warzone 2?

Jailbreaks typically occur in the late game during the third or fourth circle but do not happen in every match.

Conclusion

Long matchmaking times in Warzone 2 can be incredibly frustrating, but understanding the various factors at play can help you take steps to potentially mitigate the problem. By troubleshooting your network, considering the impact of SBMM, and trying some of the recommendations listed above, you can improve your chances of getting into a match faster and get back to the battle. Keep in mind that some issues, such as server overload, are not always under your control, but proactive troubleshooting on your part can significantly improve your experience.