This article will help guide you through the updated matchmaking screens in the 16.0.0 update. Make sure you're game is updated so you have access to these new features! Once you've got the update, select Play and then Online to be taking to the new Matchmaking menu.
(Psst! We have a video walkthrough over on Youtube, too!)
Creating a game lobby
From the Matchmaking menu, choose Create Game. This will take you to a new screen where you can select from a variety of options to get you started. For extra fun, try changing the number of players up and down and watch the left side fill up the Crewmates!
On the General tab, you can select the game mode (Classic or Hide & Seek), the map, how many players can join the lobby, the experience level tag, and the server.
The Chat tab lets you change the chat type (Free Chat or Quick Chat) as well as the language. Additional game settings, such as roles, player speed, and number of Impostors, can be selected from inside the lobby.
Once you're happy with your choices, select Create at the bottom of the screen. A confirmation page will show you your selections and ask you to Confirm. Once confirmed, your lobby is open and ready for Crewmates to come on in!
Finding a game lobby
From the Matchmaking menu, choose Find Game. You should see a fancy looking menu like the one below (isn't it pretty?)!
On this screen you'll see a selection of active lobbies you can join right away. Each lobby shows you the map, how many players are currently in the room, player speed, and if Roles are on or off. Tap the lobby bar to join immediately! You can also see more details by tapping the More button on the right side of the lobby bar and select Join Game if everything looks good!
If you'd like to search for something specific, select the Filters tab on the far right side of the screen. This will open up a new menu where you can make all kinds of choices to find exactly the game you'd like to play! Everything from the mode and map to more nuanced options like voting time, player speed, and visual tasks on or off are yours to search.
Remember, the more options you have turned on, the fewer results you're gonna find, so pick only the ones that are really important to you. The search is automatic and will update as you make your choices. Simply tap on the Filters tab a second time to slide it away and see what lobbies you found. Nothing comes up when you search? Unselect a few options to update your search or hit the Clear Filters button to start over.
Joining a friend's game
From the Matchmaking menu, choose Enter Code. This will take you to the screen where you can enter a lobby code. Type it in the black box at the top and...that's it! If you've entered a valid code, the details should be handled for you automatically. No need to switch servers or chat type (but remember, if you're trying to join a Free Chat lobby, you must have access to Free Chat on your account)!
You can see the name of the host, how many other players are currently in the lobby, what server the game is on, and the chat settings. If everything looks good, select Join Lobby and get in there!