Marvel Rivals has literally made a sensation in the gaming world. Where most other multiplayer shooter games are failing, this title from NetEase seems to have everything uphill from now on. With over 35 Marvel characters, this hero-shooter has already made its mark in the gaming fraternity.
However, the grass is always greener on the other side, and Marvel Rivals proved this as well. Despite getting so much popularity, fans are heavily disappointed with an important aspect of the game, and if the developers aren’t bothered about this, then it would be difficult to hold on to this gigantic success.
There are different kinds of matchmaking systems in the world of video games, for example: Call of Duty uses Skill-based Matchmaking System (SBMM), on the other hand Destiny 2 uses Connection-based Matchmaking System (CBMM).
However, none of these matchmaking systems were as controversial as Marvel Rivals‘ alleged Engagement Optimized Matchmaking System (EOMM). So, why is this system stirring controversy? To put up in a single sentence, EOMM exploits players’ emotions to increase studio revenue. Even popular streamer Nickmercs believes this system forces “you lose just to keep you playing.”
“When you win too many times in a row…your account gets flagged…and now it’s only with the dumbasses and the morons so you lose just to keep you playing”
Nickmercs says the matchmaking algorithm decides if you get good or bad teammates so you play longer pic.twitter.com/3f8lMI3Vv4
— Marvel Rivals Intel (@RivalsAssembled) February 3, 2025
The contentious EOMM algorithm, which is frequently employed in competitive online games, is made to put player engagement ahead of fairness. The system creates scenarios where players encounter a mix of wins and losses rather than making sure matches are balanced.
Marvel Rivals Matchmaking Algorithms – Is It Fair?
byu/Salty_Baboon inmarvelrivals
Games that use EOMM aim to keep players interested by allowing them to experience both the excitement of winning and the anguish of losing. And this system does that by putting you on a team of less-skillful players to make your defeat inevitable.
It is said that Marvel Rivals employs this technique to boost players’ spirits upon first logging on. Due to the player’s consideration of the long-term gain, it allegedly coerces them into purchasing more skins by making them feel the enjoyment of the game.
In addition to the sharp fluctuations in wins and losses, the game’s noticeable indications of EOMM include the disproportionate number of bots participating in the round, which can fluctuate along with their skill level if situations demand it.
There is no definitive answer to the question, “Which matchmaking system is the best?” Players have different opinions on this. For instance: some people like CBMM because they prefer a good connection with their fellow players rather than getting kicked out. On the other hand, for players who are more competitive and like to get head-to-head with formidable players, SBMM has to be their go-to matchmaking system.
But none of them would be satisfied with EOMM for sure as this matchmaking system is alleged to be unfair and unethical. After a frustrating loss, players are allegedly drawn back into the game and motivated to win the next one by Marvel Rivals‘ purported psychological reward loop.
It also goes beyond the mere existence of bots in the game. The game can also change the hitboxes of both you and your opponents, the amount of damage dealt, and other technical adjustments without leaving any evidence if it so chooses.
It is crucial to remember that there is currently no evidence that Marvel Rivals uses these kinds of mechanics. But like this one player, thousands of players have come to the conclusion that EOMM might simply be a part of the game.
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