2 questions still unanswered: (I'm also unfamiliar with Alice, which maybe be a good thing, or it could be a bad thing)
How are you connected? (WiFi -> Router -> 16 Mbps Cable Modem, 1 Gbps network card -> 1 Gbps switch -> 1 Gbps Router -> 16 Mbps DSL Modem)
Do you have the same issue when joining a friends game?
I recommend talking to an EA Game Advisor
After you know the answer to those two questions and ask about "Periodic Long Matchmaking sessions". I'm not sure I have it phrased right. Periodic, because your 2 and 3 minute ones are about expected.... 9 and 10 are outside the typical amounts.
Matchmaking is the term they use when trying to find a game in session, or join a lobby.
Also important, when talking to the EA Game Advisor, is what settings you have used, Unknown/Unknown/Gold ? And the time of the day.
I'm sure some settings and times of the day are busier than others. I have no idea when those would be, as this is a global game, and gamers themselves tend to play at all hours. But they may have those metrics, or even know typical matchmaking times...
