FORUMS_

I have sympathy for gamers who have been affected by the “local glitch”. Losing game progress is never fun, especially if it’s avoidable; the impetus of this post.

Long term viability of many businesses, small and large, is improved through developing goodwill with its customers. A cornerstone of goodwill is communication. Sometimes you need to address adverse issues. Admitting to faults (we all make those), in a clear and honest manner alleviates angst. Unfortunately, many gamers only seek out forums, or other media, when a problem becomes evident to them. 100,000”s (guess) would still be unaware of the local glitch. So, allow me the gumption/arrogance of ghost-writing for 3arc/activision. The following could easily appear as part of “message of the day”

“We have become aware of a glitch causing a player to lose progress within multiplayer. This occurs randomly to players after leaving local playlist. To those players already affected we apologise. We are currently working to remedy the situation. We advise against playing local playlist until further notice.”

I came to this forum after BO2 launched because I needed tips on how to improve my connection. I may have grown up with computers, now 32, but I always seek the help of those who know better. Unfortunately for me, my gaming experience continued to be poor (80% behind, 10% level, 10% on top). Feeling my outcomes were based more on connection than play, I put BO2 away. I enjoyed the following month without beating my head up against a wall   I played last night to find a not perfect, but more consistent gameplay – much more enjoyable. But, I can sympathise with those who feel their connection has worsened of late. It doesn’t sit well with me that D.V was still asking for video proof of lag issues 2 months after launch; this does not evoke customer confidence (IMO). It would be far better PR to let gamers know that the lag issue (granddaddy of them all) was being worked on.  Something along the lines of: 

“Lag within multiplayer.

Addressing lag within online multiplayer games is a constant issue for all game developers. The problem being that the internet is an imperfect medium. Distance between connections and the differing strengths of connections means that no two connections will ever be identical. In BO2 we have the challenge of developing an online experience that caters for up to 18 gamers at any given time. We are constantly looking to improve the online game experience for everyone. To maximise your own connection to BO2 we suggest following guidelines contained here (…link)” 

The above ghost-writings are deliberately simple. I can fully understand why 3arc/activision keep specifics that they are working on “in house” – no need to confuse anyone. But, simple and honest communication can alleviate angst. I thank all those in the forums who have helped me improve my gaming and flagged issues (ie local glitch) – through simple communication. In my opinion 3Arc/Acti should be on the front foot in communicating issues, rather than leaving them to mediums such as this forum. Microsoft, 3arc, and Activision are not bound to improve services – all can withdraw content at any time for no reason (read fine print). These businesses all have the right to make a profit in selling their product.  However, common decency should never be overlooked.

Why did I post the above?....because it was cheap, simple, and quick. (And it's raining; 2-300 mm expected over next few days)

................................................................................ ................................................................................ ......................

Added: The next ghost-writing is all about 3arc/Acti getting on the front foot when it comes to addressing the unsocialable behaviourr of gamers who are selfish and immature. The rules already exist in TOC, but some gamers treat them as nothing more than window dressing. Boosters and offensive emblem makers are caught - how - by the monitoring by fellow gamers. Using Message of the Day can be used as the most direct method of communication. Making issues OVERT, not hiding in the fine print, would only deter those who flaunt the rules. You'll still have your rebels, but a warning of this nature only strengthens your ability to deliver harsher punishments. I, for one, am sick of seeing offensive emblems (10% rough guess), then report. I'm not a prude, I just keep my Rock n Rollin for my family and mates. Maturity has nothing to do with age - everything to do with respect IMO.

" Every gamer has the right to enjoy BO2. If you chose to break the rules you will be punished. Offensive language, offensive emblems, boosting, or cheating of any nature will not be tolerated."

In short - Not addressing adverse issues will only backfire in the end. 3arc/Acti get on the front foot using Message of the Day.

                              PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN A CURE.

Message was edited by: FalconR6.  The replies given to this tread and to Pereverto's post show that the support regarding this issue is as close to unanimous as you could expect. An important topic that BO2 should not ignore.