WJPalmer1
Posts: 81
Joined: 9/20/2004
From: Colorado Springs
Status: offline
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From recent posts it doesn't appear that we're a very trusting group. Personally, I don't experience the same extreme reaction as those who demand that PBEM carry the same level of security as online credit card transactions in order for us to enjoy the experience. But I also recognize that everyone would feel at least slightly warmer and fuzzier toward our colleagues with some pro-integrity incentives in place. And, of course, it is worth considering whether, as a computer gaming community, we REALLY want Marshall spending his time developing an air-tight system of combat resolution rather than say, figuring out cool ways to minimize file exchanges & speed play?
With more and more Matrix gamers using PBEM, perhaps a more efficient mechanism would be to have players’ conduct self-regulated in much the same way Ebay requests buyers & sellers to police their own transactions -- through feedback. And, like Ebay, such a system could be used for aspects beyond just whether someone cheats. Characteristics such as promptness and politeness, also important to an enjoyable gaming experience, could also impact feedback received by a player. Such a system could span all Matrix games with PBEM capability. Here’s how something like this might work:
•A new PBEM game (for any Matrix title) is registered with Matrix
•Players agree to abide by a code of conduct established either by themselves, Matrix or some combination of the two, which establishes expectations as to integrity, promptness, handling disputes, etc.
•At the end of the game, players post overall feedback for each other ala Ebay (i.e., positive, neutral, negative together with a short comment field). This would be open and available on the Matrix system to other players
It would still, of course, be possible to cheat, stall or be obnoxious – at least once. Those who make a practice of anti-social behavior would soon find it hard to join a game. It would also provide a reference system for gamers looking to start new games with players who have a proven track record of integrity and reliability.
This type of system works exceptionally well for Ebay where users have much less in common than gamers and much more reason to “cheat” with real $$ on the line. And I bet it would be good for Matrix by making PBEM more attractive to everyone and, thereby, expanding its markets.
Bottom-line, once established such a system should be relatively low maintenance thereby freeing developers to do their real job: making EiA even better!
< Message edited by exp101 -- 1/15/2008 9:51:25 PM >
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PBEM Security: An Alternate Approach - 
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