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Why a solo queue/swf split is necessary for fair matchmaking

Players Demand Solo Queue and SWF Split | Matchmaking Fairness at Stake

By

Emily Thompson

May 1, 2026, 04:10 PM

Updated

May 1, 2026, 05:20 PM

2 minutes of duration

A gamer facing a decision between solo queue and SWF options in a matchmaking menu. The screen shows player choices highlighting solo and team play.
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A rising chorus of players is advocating for a split between solo queue and SWF (Survive With Friends) matchmaking. Citing ongoing frustrations, they're pushing for changes to level the playing field for killers, intensifying the debate on game balance.

Current Matchmaking Frustrations

Many believe matchmaking heavily favors SWF teams, which hinders fair play.

"SWF completely destroys the core balance of the game," a player remarked, reflecting a common sentiment.

Players argue that killers should have a say in whether they face these coordinated teams. Some feel solo queue survivors are at an unfair advantage since they donโ€™t have the same communication tools as those in SWF squads.

Perspectives from the Gaming Community

Several trending views from players highlight key issues:

  • Lobby Dodging: Commenters noted that lobby dodging is prevalent. "You can simply leave a lobby if you suspect itโ€™s a SWF," one player pointed out.

  • End-of-Match Reviews: A suggestion surfaced for incorporating post-match reviews, allowing killers to see statistics on whether they faced solo or SWF teams, adding to their decision-making processes.

  • Concerns over SWF Impact: Critics argue that removing or restricting SWF matchmaking could lead to dissatisfaction among groups wanting to play together. As one commenter put it, "If this were implemented, survivors wouldn't be able to play with friends anymore."

Impacts on Queue Times and Game Experience

Proponents believe that clearer matchmaking options could boost both competitive balance and player motivation. The prospect of higher blood points for engaging SWF lobbies would be an attractive incentive for killers.

However, concerns about extending queue times persist. Many fear that it could deter casual players.

"Killer queue times would be long if weโ€™re rejecting most SWF teams,โ€ remarked one player. โ€œThis isnโ€™t feasible for casual players."

Key Insights

  • โ˜… Players push for a split to balance out matchmaking.

  • โš ๏ธ Concerns grow over potential longer matchmaking waits.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "SWF teams arenโ€™t always sweat squads"โ€”a player addressing misconceptions.

The push for a revised matchmaking structure remains hotly debated, as many gamers express a need for change while others are skeptical about the proposed solutions. As the discussion unfolds, developers may face pressure to respond to these growing demands for fairness.