Blind Matchfinder

Subject: Blind Matchfinder Wed Aug 08, 2007 3:10 pm

*Long Read*

For those of you that have been with us since our initial launch in late 2003, you have undoubtedly seen a world of change. We here at GameBattles are proud of the constant evolution of both the services that GameBattles provides and the manner in which we promote and sanction online competition.

However, up until this point we have offered very little change aesthetically and in the rush to accommodate our rapid expansion, have neglected to refine certain elements of our product.

Thanks to the hard work of both GameBattles founder, Chip Kellam, and the entire MLG/GB Development team (and in particular some extensive graphic design work from Shawn Borsky), MLG GameBattles is proud to announce that a redesign launch is just around the corner.

How close? I could tell you, but then I would have to kill you, and I'm starting to warm up to you so let's not go there. But let's just say you won't be waiting too long!

While we think you will agree that new site is quite attractive and functional-- a site you can really take home to Mom and Dad-- there are numerous feature changes that will affect the dynamics of seasonal competition.

How many you ask? Twelve.

For the next twelve days I will give you the inside track on a new feature each day, so make sure to check back everyday to stay in the know! Also, when the new site launches, be sure to check out my blog on the GB redesign development process which features over a year of mock-ups and test pages leading up to the final design.
Day 1: The New Match Finder

Often imitated but never duplicated, the GameBattles Match Finder has served our users well over the last four years. While at times it has given us issues, locked up, and generally been a thorn in our General Manager's side, it has served as an essential backbone for the promotion of competition.

While we love our Match Finder, we are proud to announce some new changes to its functionality that will debut with the relaunch.

For starters, you will now be accepting the match blind. That is to say that Match Finder will no longer list the team's name, clan ID#, or rank. If you like the specified parameters and click the match, you have accepted it and are obligated to fulfill the challenge.

What can you see? Just the team's XP level and the desired gametype, roster size settings, maps.

Why is this a good thing?

We are always aiming to streamline the competition process and we understand that one of the most frustrating elements of the quest for a match is the endless negotiating via AIM or email.

The new Match Finder system aims to prevent teams from "spamming" the list with multiple postings. As each posting is an acceptable match, should an interested team view that challenge it is considered accepted and will be migrated to both team's outstanding challenge section.

For example, if "Team X" posts a Match Finder listing at 6pm, 7pm, and 8pm-- those are three potentially open matches (should someone choose to accept) and if they fail to fulfill an accepted match they will face the consequences as set forth in our Arena rules.

We at MLG GameBattles know that you want to spend your time playing-- not negotiating. We feel that the new system will not only help grease the wheels of competition, but will also provide an even distribution of skill levels. Teams will no longer be able to look and say "wow, they are number two, let's avoid them." If you like the conditions specified and view the challenge, it has been accepted.

Key points:
# You will no longer be able to see the team's rank/name on Match Finder

# You CAN still send a challenge to a team directly, this ONLY applies to Match Finder functionality.
# Clicking on a challenge on Match Finder will ACCEPT the match

# Posting more than once on Match Finder will obligate you to more than one match

# Check back for a new feature break down each day

We hope that you will embrace this change and we are positive that it will help promote fair gameplay. Check back each day for a different feature break down and look for the MLG GameBattles relaunch soon. We are excited to bring you a new look coupled with many exciting new/revamped features.
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Wanton Soup Chef Age : 21 Joined : 31 Mar 2007 Posts : 291

DUMB
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Subject: Re: Blind Matchfinder Wed Aug 08, 2007 3:54 pm

Why? It stinks for the sucky clans...
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Subject: Re: Blind Matchfinder Thu Aug 09, 2007 12:02 pm

Not really b/c you can still see the level of xp they are on
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