Hey guys,

With Matchmaker now in its second week, it's time to change some of the ACC's policies on timeouts, as well as clarify some other stuff.

Timeouts and the Matchmaker:

When it comes to the Matchmaker system -and more people should sign up for that- we're going to introduce a three strikes system: If you ever time out from a Matchmaker match thrice, the time has come to remove you from the random match generator. Mostly, we're introducing this because because at some point, someone's gonna go AWOL, and when that happens I don't want them to be put up against the rest of you and TO for a couple dozen rounds until they return to activity. :P

Someone removed from the list can sign up again as per usual: You just need to show that you still at least intend to continue on ACCing.

A related Matchmaker note: Don't forget that if your opponent times out or you simply want to have more matches, it's totally fine to just challenge one of the other people currently having Combat Centre matches. They're currently in battles, so you know that they're at least somewhat interested in the ACC. Make use of that knowledge to go out and pwn. :P

Warnings

One of the things I've been hearing a lot from several combatants is how often, timeouts sneak up on them. One moment you're totally fine; the next, BAM, TO'd FOOL! This, understandably, is frustrating, especially since timed out matches are usually deleted entirely if there's not a Vendetta going on, and thus everyone involved loses their work.

So, to remedy this, the inestimable Sashar suggested that we create a warning system. Staff discussion ensued, I grabbed some old Excel stuff I had lying around, and we created a system that kinda-sorta keeps track of how close to timing out matches are.

So, here's the deal. If you come within 24 hours of timing out, and we notice it in time, we'll send you an email reminder that your match is due. That way, you'll know that you have to post, fast, or failing that request some sort of extension.

Now, keep in mind, this system is done by Googledocs and the amazing power of our Mk. I eyeballs. We won't always be in time, much less always tell you that it's going to be exactly 24 hours. We'll try and, 'cause we're cool like that, probably get things done to you as timely as we can. But we're not machines, so, uh, bear with us. :P

Extensions:

With this added in, there's also a minor change to extension requests.

The old system for requesting an extension was to email your opponent and myself with the request, have the opponent nod agree, and then have me add some sort of note to the battle.

A few things are about to change about that:

First of all, from now on all extension requests should be sent to [Log in to view e-mail addresses] . If you send it to me, I'll probably forward it there for a few weeks (or until I run out of patience and start spitting acid and smiting people), but the general idea is that you send it there. Said email address auto-forwards to the Staff, so that everyone knows and can edit in extension as necessary. Remember, when you request an extension, to mention the amount of time you want your match extended.

Second change is how we treat Timeouts if someone has requested an extension: If you're close to timing out, and have requested an extension, we won't close the battle even if the match does go into over-time. We'll keep it that way until about 24 hours. After that, however, if your opponent has not responded (or simply does not agree to give you the extension), we'll count it as a Timeout from you, even if you've posted within the extra hours they've been given for a reply. If you manage it regular time limit (that is, you turned out not to need an extension after all), you are, of course, entirely in the clear.

Obligatory Matchmaker Recruitment Drive:

Because it's awesome. Because it gives you a way to have battles without the headache of searching for an opponent. Because its the only place where you can win a Pendant of Blood for fiction. Because it lets you practice your ACC skills in a low-intensity environment. Because you'll have the chance to meet interesting new people and stab them in the face.

Remember, send your Name, rank, PIN, and favorite weapons selection to [Log in to view e-mail addresses] and [Log in to view e-mail addresses] to sign up.

Cheers,

-Tim