Competitive gaming, concerns over matchmaking manipulation have become increasingly prevalent. One player, known as auAWBZ, has sparked a discussion around the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), “two boxing,” and the controversial Warzone Agent tool, raising questions about the boundaries of fair play.
The use of VPNs to manipulate matchmaking has been a point of contention in the gaming community. auAWBZ acknowledges using VPNs to “lobby shop,” explaining that this practice allows players to connect to servers in regions with a perceived weaker player base, increasing their chances of encountering less skilled opponents.
“It's not hacking, I don't think it's hacking, but it is pretty stupid because they can just back it out and shit,” auAWBZ states. While not technically considered cheating, the impact of this behavior on the competitive integrity of the game is undeniable.
Another tactic discussed by auAWBZ is “two boxing,” which involves using multiple devices or accounts to gain an unfair advantage in the matchmaking process. This practice allows players to manipulate the matchmaking system, potentially securing more favorable lobbies.
“That lobby was fucked,” auAWBZ exclaims, referring to the perceived imbalance created by this tactic. The use of multiple devices or accounts to circumvent the intended matchmaking algorithms is a clear violation of the Call of Duty terms of service and can be considered a form of cheating.
The Warzone Agent, a tool designed to provide players with information about their opponents' skill levels, has also been a topic of discussion. While auAWBZ acknowledges that the tool is not technically considered cheating, he recognizes the potential for it to be used in a way that undermines the competitive experience.
“It's not cheating, cheating like aimbot and walls and stuff, but it's cheating as in like, you know who's in the lobby, you play differently,” auAWBZ explains. The ability to access this type of information about opponents can allow players to make strategic decisions that give them an unfair advantage, effectively “cheating” the intended matchmaking system.
The Call of Duty Security and Enforcement Policy clearly outlines that the use of any unauthorized software or methods to manipulate the game's data or gain an unfair advantage is considered a violation and can result in severe penalties, including temporary or permanent suspensions.
The policy states that “Any user who utilizes any code and/or software not authorized by Activision that can be used in connection with the game and/or any component or feature thereof which changes and/or facilitates the gameplay or other activity, including to gain an unfair advantage, manipulate stats, and/or manipulate game data, is subject to penalty.”
Activision, the publisher of the Call of Duty franchise, has the ability to take legal action against individuals or organizations that are actively undermining the competitive integrity of their games. By subpoenaing Discord to preserve the data or other platforms where these practices are discussed or coordinated, Activision can gather evidence and potentially pursue legal action to deter and disrupt these matchmaking manipulation efforts and ban users using it.
This legal approach could send a strong message to the gaming community, demonstrating Activision's commitment to maintaining a fair and competitive environment. While it may not completely eradicate the problem, targeted legal action could at least put a significant dent in the operations of those engaging in these unfair practices hence us not caring about showcasing the link and player count using it.
The Call of Duty terms of service are consistently displayed to players after each update, making it abundantly clear that any attempt to circumvent the game's systems or gain an unfair advantage is strictly prohibited. The security and enforcement policy states that extreme or repeated violations may result in permanent suspension of all associated accounts.
Given the clear and repeated violations discussed by auAWBZ, these players should face immediate and permanent bans. Activision must enforce a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to matchmaking manipulation, sending a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated in the competitive gaming landscape.
As the gaming industry continues to grapple with the challenges of maintaining a fair and competitive landscape, the discussion around matchmaking manipulation remains a critical issue. While the use of VPNs, “two boxing,” and tools like the Warzone Agent may not be considered “traditional cheating”, their impact on the competitive integrity and terms of service of the game cannot be ignored.
Game developers and the broader gaming community must work together to develop robust solutions that address these emerging threats, ensuring that the competitive experience remains a true test of skill and talent, rather than a playground for those seeking to gain an unfair advantage.