Battlefield 6’s custom search feature was designed to make finding your preferred maps and modes easy, a quick alternative to sifting through the Portal server list. However, many players are finding this isn’t always the case. The matchmaking system frequently places them into unintended games, automatically broadening the search if it perceives a long wait time. This has led to frustration, prompting developers to consider an option that would allow players to patiently wait for their exact selection.
Kevin Johnson, Battlefield 6’s global community manager, clarified on X that this behavior is, to some extent, intentional. He explained that while the system prioritizes desired maps within a player’s region, it will broaden its search to find alternative matches quickly, aiming to get players into a game faster rather than making them endure prolonged waits.
Despite Battlefield 6’s standing among popular multiplayer titles, continually landing in undesired maps can quickly diminish a player’s enjoyment. This sentiment was echoed in a conversation between prominent Battlefield YouTubers ‘Westie’ and ‘Squid-G.’ Westie lamented being repeatedly placed in Mirak Valley when attempting to find Conquest on Operation Firestorm. Squid-G shared a similar frustration, noting, “I searched for Manhattan Bridge and got Cairo. What’s the point if it doesn’t do what you asked for?” This highlights the core problem: the matchmaking isn’t reliably fulfilling player requests.
Joining the discussion, DICE producer Alexia Christofi directly asked players: “If there was a toggle for ‘happy to wait to get what I want,’ would you use it?” Both YouTubers emphatically confirmed they “absolutely” would, a sentiment shared by many. The author agrees that if a player dedicates time to selecting a specific map via custom search, they are typically willing to wait longer to secure that exact match.
Christofi acknowledged that this feature has been a topic of internal debate at DICE. She noted the delicate balance between quickly putting players into a game and ensuring they get their precise preferences, stating, “if we could offer players the choice I’d be happy.” She also mentioned plans to introduce a way for custom search settings to save, preventing players from having to re-select their favorite game types repeatedly.
While this optional toggle is a welcome idea, it inevitably brings up the question of whether a more conventional server browser would be a better long-term solution. Westie posed this exact question: “Why can we not have a server browser then?” Currently, players can create or join custom servers via the Portal system, but these operate independently of general matchmaking. This means a custom match cannot automatically be filled by players using the quick play search, creating a disconnect.
Lead producer David Sirland responded to these concerns, indicating that the team views Portal as a foundation for implementing persistent servers and a more controlled player environment. Christofi further assured players that numerous improvements for Portal, server browsers, and community features are on their roadmap. She emphasized, “We just need to find the time to do them amongst everything else we want to do. But I am definitely watching and listening.”
Regardless of your preferred playstyle, we’ve compiled comprehensive guides to enhance your Battlefield 6 experience, including insights on the top weapons to dominate the battlefield and other essential tips. We’d love to hear your thoughts on Battlefield 6’s matchmaking tools so far.