Epic’s launch of Gears of War 2 went well for the developer, with strong sales and positive reviews. However, multiplayer fans have reported experiencing longer-than-usual waits to be matched up with other players in the lobbies of the online component.

Epic has addressed this issue, saying a fix is imminent (though no time frame is given). Rod Ferguesson, senior producer, posted this in their forums:

"We’re aware that some folks are experiencing longer-than-ideal wait times while using the skill-based Public matchmaking in Gears 2 multiplayer. We’re working on some solutions but it’s a complicated issue as there isn’t any one problem; it’s a combination of factors. Clearly, scale is one of them as we’ve had millions of successful matches played online so far, however a small percentage of players are having issues, which is unacceptable. We’re working closely with Microsoft to address the matchmaking issues, I promise you that it is our #1 priority, and we hope to have an update soon."

Notice no specific time frame is given. In addition to the matchmaking issues, Epic has put up a post on the Gears website explaining the game’s multiplayer ranking system.

Gamers who have spent time with Gears 2 online will notice small rank insignia next to their names in multiplayer lobbies. This is your skill ranking, and the game has five of them. The progression is not based on "experience," per se, but rather on wins. Wins against lower-ranked opponents are worth less than victories over higher-ranked foes. Also, quitting games (frowned upon in most Xbox Live matchmaking) will lower a player’s rank.