Creating Custom Matches in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (Xbox 360)

You cannot create a public match with custom settings in Modern Warfare 2 on Xbox Live. The game uses a strict matchmaking system (IWNet) that automatically places players into ranked lobbies based on skill, region, and playlist. You have no control over map, mode, or rules in public play.

What You Can Do

• Private Matches: From the main menu, select Private Match. Here you control everything: map, mode, time limit, score limit, friendly fire, killstreaks, player health, etc. Invite friends via Xbox Live party.
• Party Up: Form an Xbox Live Party with friends. The matchmaking will try to keep your party together in the same public lobby/team.
• Custom Game Modes (Community): Some community-run "modded lobbies" or "infection" games exist but require modded consoles/jailbreaks, violate Terms of Service, and risk permanent bans. Not recommended.

Note: Xbox Live Gold is required for all online multiplayer, including Private Matches on Xbox 360.