Multiplayer Etiquette

[sergeant rock 3]

I'd like to get everyone's opinion on OFP Multiplayer etiquette.  As I've witnessed on several OFP dedicated servers, there is a complete lack of class, sportsmanship, and respect.

I'll start by making a few suggestions that you may or may not agree with...these are open for debate and all constructive criticism is welcome:

1. If you connect to a server and a game has already started, even if they are still in the briefing, say "Hello" and wait for the next match.

2. If it is too long until the next match, and you're anxious to play, find another server.

3. Do not start screaming at everyone to restart the game just because YOU signed on.  Don't you think that's a bit arrogant?

4. Avoid idle chatter in the waiting area while a game is in progress.  Not only does this interfere with in-game communication, but God knows we don't need the additional lag.

5. Don't connect to a game in progress and drone over and over "How long till next game?".  Assume its 30 minutes as that is the standard.  Check the TIME counter in the waiting area to see how long you have to wait.

6. At the end of every match, it is good form to tell everyone "Good Game" or "gg".

7. The most brutal and unforgiving breach of etiquette is to turn on your voice comm to start and argument, or start swearing at people for not restarting a game in progress.

8.  If its a co-op match, and only 1 guy is left alive, don't make him restart if he doesn't want to.  Why should his game end because you suck and got killed trying to be Rambo?  If he's understanding, and experienced, he'll probably suggest the restart anyway.

9. Make sure you vote on a map that is big enough to accomodate everyone in the waiting room.  I was witness the other day to an incident where the map voted for was about 6 slots shy of the full room. I watched in amazement as people quickly dragged their names over to get in the game, and then preceeded to "#vote kick playerX" to the unlucky people who weren't quick enough.

10. I think, we, as experienced players of the game, have the privelage and opportunity to foster its growth and popularity.  My point is, when a "newbie" signs on to a game and is a little unsure of how things work, the best thing to do is educate.  Teach him once and I'm sure he'll catch on quick.  I've seen people berate the "newbie" to the point of wasting time we could all be playing.  Remember, just because you bought the game first doesn't make you anymore worthy of playing than the new guy.

11. The one grey area that needs a "policy" is High Ping Bastards or HPBs.  Do we know, based on the new netcode, that a person with a high ping will slow the game for everyone or just himself?  I certainly know from experience that you don't want an HPB flying your chopper or driving your tank!  I think the issue here may be user education.  If you connect to a server and your ping is over 400...you're probably connecting to the wrong server.  You might want to try connecting to something a little closer geographically.  But I ask you, at what point to we forcibly kick an HPB? I've usually considered 600+ the "ZONE".  It just takes them to long to download maps and the like.  Discussion?

Maybe I'm just getting more idealistic with age, but I love this game, and want to improve it for everyone.  I think the more experienced players owe it to the community......

[RN Malboeuf 12]

to bad 80% of the newbies that log on to a server don't read these forums

[Mister Frag 0]

Sergeant Rock made some excellent points, and I agree with RN as well.

Maybe the solution lies in adding a URL to the Message Of The Day that gives server information and lays down the law in the form of Sergeant Rock's rules? Anyone who violates the rules should then not be surprised to get kicked.

[theavonlady 2]

May I suggest you consider the following points, taken from respected DF2 server host Tubettiland. Try to keep it simple:

1. Remember - it's a game .

2. No foul language. Don't bother arguing. It won't help, but visiting here might: <a href="http://www.cusscontrol.com/

3." target="_blank">http://www.cusscontrol.com/

3.</a> No offensive names. You won't be warned - just banned.

4. No Trash Talk. See #2 above.

5. SNIP - IRRELEVANT.

6. The use of trainers and cheat programs is prohibited. If caught, you will be deregistered and banned.

7. Remember - it's a game.

[Unl33t 0]

That's because it's on the Internet.

I read from some game magazine a long time ago this quote

"The only problem with the internet is, It puts in connection with 90% of the worlds bigest wankers"

[Sandman 0]

Good points Sgt. Rock! I agree fully.

When I´m on the net I try to behave like I do in any offline event or happening - for me its not a difference. Most (dumb) people think that they are all icognito when they are online - well, guess what - You´re NOT!

[Ijustwannaknow 0]

No Spawn Camping!!!!

Watch for a queer called angry radish. He loves to do that.

[sergeant rock 3]

    Yes, spawn camping is a big no-no.  However, the "base raping" tactic, is questionable.  I kinda sit the fence on this one......war is about reducing your opponents ability to make war, and that's what this accomplishes, however, it seems to be poor sportsmanship in online gaming.

    I doubt these suggestions will ever truly take hold.  The game is too dynamic with new users coming online all the time.  I think perhaps public servers will aways be the stomping grounds of immature, dimwitted, knuckleheads.

[sergeant rock 3]

    Yes, spawn camping is a big no-no.  However, the "base raping" tactic, is questionable.  I kinda sit the fence on this one......war is about reducing your opponents ability to make war, and that's what this accomplishes, however, it seems to be poor sportsmanship in online gaming.

    I doubt these suggestions will ever truly take hold.  The game is too dynamic with new users coming online all the time.  I think perhaps public servers will aways be the stomping grounds of immature, dimwitted, knuckleheads.

Guess I should just play on well-moderated, private, or clan servers......

(Edited by Sergeant Rock at 2:36 pm on Nov. 28, 2001)