In a recent video, Death and Gaming tackled one of the most persistent Marvel Rivals controversies: the claim that the game uses Engagement Optimized Matchmaking (EOMM) to manipulate outcomes and keep players “addicted.” He argues that this theory is not only untrue but also harmful to player mentality and the community’s priorities.

Why EOMM never made sense for Marvel Rivals

Death and Gaming points out that EOMM is supposedly designed to keep players hooked, yet Marvel Rivals has seen a large drop in active players since launch — hardly the sign of an “addictive” system. Streaks of wins or losses, which some players cite as “proof,” are natural in a team-based game where player decisions and coordination have a direct impact.

He dismisses other common arguments as well:

  • Patents – Game studios file patents all the time without using them.
  • Development costs – Companies frequently invest millions into projects or systems they never implement.
  • Past tech – Just because a similar system existed in a previous game doesn’t mean it’s used in Marvel Rivals.

How belief in EOMM hurts players

According to him, the belief in EOMM actively damages gameplay. Players convinced the system is rigged are more likely to give up early, especially in a game where momentum and ultimate economy heavily influence match flow. Losing the first fight often means the other team gains ultimate advantage, which can snowball. Understanding and managing that dynamic is more productive than assuming hidden manipulation.

He shares examples from his own matches where refusing to surrender and regaining momentum led to comeback wins. In his view, many players lose winnable games simply by mentally checking out too soon.

Why matchmaking feels bad without EOMM

Death and Gaming attributes most frustrations to rank resets and lack of placement matches. Without placements, returning high-ranked players can be thrown into low-rank lobbies, creating lopsided games. This imbalance persists across all tiers until enough matches are played to sort players into appropriate ranks — only for the cycle to restart with the next season reset.

Instead of months spent debating EOMM, he believes the community should have focused on requesting placements and rank stability, changes that could meaningfully improve match quality.

The role of content creators and controversy

He also criticizes how some YouTubers use the EOMM topic as clickbait, prioritizing attention and revenue over accuracy. Controversial topics drive views, even if they fuel misinformation and negativity, whereas educational content on improving gameplay often gets less traction.

Enjoying the game despite matchmaking flaws

Death and Gaming emphasizes that Marvel Rivals is still a fun, skill-based game, with plenty of room for improvement and new content. Players should refocus on the fun of mastering heroes, learning positioning, and making smart plays — not just on winning at all costs. Losing is part of any competitive game, and even top players drop matches.

His advice: be proud when you play well, even in losses, and move on to the next match. Recognize that you can influence your outcomes through better play, and focus on what you can control rather than chasing conspiracy theories.

Source: Death and Gaming on YouTube

FAQ

Q: Does Marvel Rivals use EOMM?
A: No. According to the developers and Death and Gaming, the game uses skill-based matchmaking, not EOMM.

Q: Why do I have long win or loss streaks?
A: Streaks are normal in team-based games, especially when player performance, hero picks, and coordination vary match to match.

Q: If EOMM isn’t real, why does matchmaking feel unbalanced?
A: The main culprits are lack of placement matches and frequent rank resets, which mix players of widely different skill levels until the system sorts them out.

Q: What’s the biggest problem with current matchmaking?
A: Rank instability. High-ranked returning players can end up in low-ranked lobbies, skewing match quality.

Q: Why does the community focus so much on EOMM instead of solutions?
A: Controversial topics like EOMM generate more attention and views for content creators, even if they don’t lead to constructive changes.

Q: How can I win more games?
A: Learn ultimate economy, maintain momentum, avoid giving up early, and focus on improving your own play rather than blaming hidden systems.

Q: Is Marvel Rivals still worth playing?
A: Yes. Despite matchmaking flaws, it remains a fun, skill-based game with regular content updates and opportunities to improve.