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Feature Bundles & updates

Archive: 84 posts

Feature Bundles (http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/xperience.php?go=shop&cat=3) are a new idea, spun off of an old classic. Previously, we offered profile upgrades, which allowed members to add additional features to their profile. However, this came with an associated status, which we want to avoid. Our goal with Feature Bundles is to allow these same sort of upgrades without creating an atmosphere of superiority. This will also allow us to offer features separately, which should help expand the options in the shop quite a bit. Expect changes over the next few days.

Also, everyone who bought a profile upgrade still owns the corresponding bundle. You haven't lost any feature in this process, aside from the color of your name.

We've also made a few other changes:


First of all, Post Count is not displayed in your postbit, and it is not browseable through the members list either. You can still see post count by going to a user's profile, but we didn't want it to be a quick way to judge another member.
Along those same lines, rep gems are gone. Rep still works just fine, but we've removed the ability to see what another user's rep is at a glance. We wanted rep to be a sort of "feedback" system, not a way to judge other members. Because of that, it's not visible anymore.
Join Date was removed to clear up the postbit a bit, as were the Instant Messaging icons and the blog listing; however, you can still see all of these by heading to a user's profile.		2009-01-22 03:14:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

I'm all for everyone's voice should be heard equally and I don't care about the post count not being shown, but I think the rep gems should still be visible since it hints that that person is somewhat more helpful, or has come up with intuitive ideas.

Not to sound like a baby, or a show-off, but I want to be recognized for what I've done.		2009-01-22 03:18:00

Author:
Trap_T
Posts: 431

Once again, a fine addition/upgrade to the site. Good job CC!2009-01-22 03:18:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

So, our name colors are gone?2009-01-22 03:20:00

Author:
Sage
Posts: 2068

Pretty much. The only ones with colors are now...


Administrators - Super Moderators - Distinguished Users.		2009-01-22 03:22:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

wait name color is gone? 0.0 drat, oh well.

Cheers!		2009-01-22 03:23:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Thanks! I liked the Rep thing though, but I am ALL for clearing things up, and removing post count is something that all forums should do. There is no need for it.

I'd remove the gallary thing too. I don't see it having any reason there.		2009-01-22 03:24:00

Author:
LightGrenades
Posts: 218

Pretty much. The only ones with colors are now...


Administrators - Super Moderators - Distinguished Users.

I'm not sure if I like that...

And what's up with RAINFIRE's name?		2009-01-22 03:25:00

Author:
Sage
Posts: 2068

lottery winner but its black as well now2009-01-22 03:26:00

Author:
EvilTikiGod
Posts: 159

Yeah... RAINFIRE is some sort of hacker... His name has been like that since I saw him... I don't know what the heck is up with his name though.2009-01-22 03:26:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

And what's up with RAINFIRE's name?
There were some usergroup issues, and I overlooked RAINFIRE. Fixed.		2009-01-22 03:27:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

wow....i am very impressed with the changes made i am pretty sure that maybe now there wont be as much drama going on over postcounts, rep, and etc. i think the admins,super mods, and mods made some very excellent decisions and that they will be of good use for the site......as i hope so anywayz good job to all that helped out with the changes, hope it all works out for the best for everyone on here......2009-01-22 03:27:00

Author:
Lil-Pingin
Posts: 396

Why are Blogs gone? They don't have anything to do with this do they?2009-01-22 03:28:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

Not many people care about the little box picture under our names. The color separated us from the regular members, showing them we have seniority. And now it's gone? 2009-01-22 03:28:00

Author:
Sage
Posts: 2068

_ignored...2009-01-22 03:29:00

Author:
Trap_T
Posts: 431

Why are Blogs gone? They don't have anything to do with this do they?
Ah, I knew I overlooked something. That was removed because it was causing issues with the changes I made. If anyone noticed, there was a huge box in the postbit that absolutely destroyed the page.		2009-01-22 03:29:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

Not many people care about the little box picture under our names. The color separated us from the regular members, showing them we have seniority. And now it's gone?

i agree that you have a point about that but way too many people was getting too carried away with having the different colored names, so i think the change is a great thing for the forum.....		2009-01-22 03:30:00

Author:
Lil-Pingin
Posts: 396

Nice change.

Colors should be reserved for staff only... and contest winners, as a temporary prize.

Post count being gone; big plus. I hate people that gasm over their post count.

Rep being gone doesn't bother me but it looks like a few people are a bit bummed. *points to Trap_T* (There, now you're not totally ignored. =P)

All in all, though... things look a bit cleaner, now.		2009-01-22 04:41:00

Author:
Comatoes
Posts: 76

Nice change.

Colors should be reserved for staff only... and contest winners, as a temporary prize.

Post count being gone; big plus. I hate people that gasm over their post count.

Rep being gone doesn't bother me but it looks like a few people are a bit bummed. *points to Trap_T* (There, now you're not totally ignored. =P)

All in all, though... things look a bit cleaner, now.

Thank you.. for acknowledging my.. existence. 		2009-01-22 04:47:00

Author:
Trap_T
Posts: 431

I agree with Trap_T, rep shows whether someone is a good member or not, and as such there is little sense in having it hard to access. It's something you can judge members with, usually. Other than that, good changes.2009-01-22 05:41:00

Author:
BassDeluxe
Posts: 984

i still have mine... shhhh

Cheers!

EDIT: nevermind, my multicolored name is gone... oh well, it was cool while it lasted.

Cheers!		2009-01-22 05:56:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Reputation hasn't completely disappeared. If you go to a user's profile page you can still see how many gems they have, and individuals can still see how much reputation they personally have.

You can still see a person's post count number quickly by clicking on their user name if they post. That information has not changed either.

The reason behind all these changes is that some users were having "ego issues" over the reputation system, post count, and having "gold" or "elite" status.

All of those things are still there, they are just renamed or a bit more hidden, so that people don't overvalue such small things. A person have have 20 posts and be producing more quality than someone with 2,000 posts. A person might have a lower reputation than someone else but is still contributing to the community in postive ways.

We by no means want to punish good users. It's just some people were being silly with regards to a bunch of numbers. 		2009-01-22 06:16:00

Author:
Elbee23
Posts: 1280

Yay. Finally got them useless tidbits that acted as bragging rights gone. -__-
I like it.

Now the next step is to stop people making threads just to say "OMG i haz 3000 poststs!1!!".
Yes, I'm looking at half of you.		2009-01-22 06:20:00

Author:
ScytheOfGrim
Posts: 438

Reputation hasn't completely disappeared. If you go to a user's profile page you can still see how many gems they have, and individuals can still see how much reputation they personally have.

You can still see a person's post count number quickly by clicking on their user name if they post. That information has not changed either.

The reason behind all these changes is that some users were having "ego issues" over the reputation system, post count, and having "gold" or "elite" status.

All of those things are still there, they are just renamed or a bit more hidden, so that people don't overvalue such small things. A person have have 20 posts and be producing more quality than someone with 2,000 posts. A person might have a lower reputation than someone else but is still contributing to the community in postive ways.

We by no means want to punish good users. It's just some people were being silly with regards to a bunch of numbers.

You could put it like that, but in another way you've taken away half of the stuff that makes the forum so fun (for me anyway). Other than a few users abusing the system, I think it all worked well. Of course the discussion is still there, but things like rep and status really boosted the entertainment I got from the forum. I think I'm in the absolute minority anyway so whatever.		2009-01-22 06:27:00

Author:
UmJammerSully
Posts: 1097

So my name... isn't blue anymore?..
Can other people who buy these bundles get differnet colour names?
;_;		2009-01-22 07:26:00

Author:
TheArmedReaper
Posts: 1543

To be perfectly honest, I don't like any of these updates.

Ah well, it's not up to me, and other people seem to like it, so it's cool. 		2009-01-22 07:46:00

Author:
Bear
Posts: 2079

I don't think removing join date was the best idea :l2009-01-22 07:48:00

Author:
Boomy
Posts: 3701

Uhhhhhhh...2009-01-22 09:00:00

Author:
Unknown User

Yeh I agree2009-01-22 09:01:00

Author:
Boomy
Posts: 3701

Not many people care about the little box picture under our names. The color separated us from the regular members, showing them we have seniority. And now it's gone?

Seniority? All it showed was some users were better at geting the points needed to upgrade. Mine took about a month from joining while others that joined at the same time or earlier took longer.		2009-01-22 10:26:00

Author:
Rabid-Coot
Posts: 6728

I honestly liked it showing the post count/join date. I understand the name colour change, so that's cool, but i'm not so sure about the rest to be honest. I seem to be in a minority here anyway.

EDIT:
Hmm, after some use it's grown quite against me. Every other forum I've used and seen, Post Count is on display, and usually join date. I like them to be their. And it's not like I have a massive post count when you do compare my post date, so it's not like i'm trying to show off or anything. I also like how I can keep track of my post count easily too. Just means I have one more click to do now, which is annoying.

Also, I think without the REP GEMS on show... REP is now pointless. I'll feel much less inclined to use it now :/
REP helps show good users. Not elitism. I don't understand why this was taken away. Yeah, it's judging people, but it's from a reliable system. Post Count isn't reliable, in that it just takes time. REP is something that you earn.		2009-01-22 10:35:00

Author:
ryryryan
Posts: 3767

@ Chaz & ryryran

Your not in the minority TRUST ME

Your just in a minority of people that actually say what they feel and not suck up, as they're afraid what might happen with the MOD's

Not saying that anyone has the right to be disrespectful in anyway. But just say what you think about things and not what you think others would like you to say.

But I do see why the staff has done this and it will probably be for the good in the long run.

BUT I'M JUST GONNA STATE NOW THAT I TOTALLY HATE THE CHANGES

That's not me being argumentative.
Whatever I say will not change a thing and I'm sure there are loads of members that will like the change.
Just as Chaz said, that is what made this site fun jesting with others in SPAM CAN over details like rank and post count and things.
It also gave new members something to strive towards.
I'm not a member that is JUST here for the laughs and I participate in as much as I can with site projects.

But I think this site is turning into a site for well constructed and helpful posts ONLY and is loosing the fun element in my opinion.
It might as well just be the Wiki we were talking about and you guys just edit the information.

LittleBigPlanet is a great game as it incorporates the SERIOUS with the FUN.

And I think this site has always struck that same chord and that's why you have so many good/dedicated users.

Just saying if you keep taking away too much of the fun element then you will start loosing these members.

Not me as I have nowhere else to go:blush:
And I still LOVE this site whatever you do.

It's just a shame that (as always in life) the few idiots spoil it for the rest of us
ANYWAY THAT'S JUST MY OPINION

WHAT'S YOURS...............		2009-01-22 11:31:00

Author:
dorien
Posts: 2767

@ Chaz & ryryran

Your not in the minority TRUST ME

Your just in a minority of people that actually say what they feel and not suck up, as they're afraid what might happen with the MOD's

Not saying that anyone has the right to be disrespectful in anyway. But just say what you think about things and not what you think others would like you to say.

But I do see why the staff has done this and it will probably be for the good in the long run.

BUT I'M JUST GONNA STATE NOW THAT I TOTALLY HATE THE CHANGES

That's not me being argumentative.
Whatever I say will not change a thing and I'm sure there are loads of members that will like the change.
Just as Chaz said, that is what made this site fun jesting with others in SPAM CAN over details like rank and post count and things.
It also gave new members something to strive towards.
I'm not a member that is JUST here for the laughs and I participate in as much as I can with site projects.

But I think this site is turning into a site for well constructed and helpful posts ONLY and is loosing the fun element in my opinion.
It might as well just be the Wiki we were talking about and you guys just edit the information.

LittleBigPlanet is a great game as it incorporates the SERIOUS with the FUN.

And I think this site has always struck that same chord and that's why you have so many good/dedicated users.

Just saying if you keep taking away too much of the fun element then you will start loosing these members.

Not me as I have nowhere else to go:blush:
And I still LOVE this site whatever you do.

It's just a shame that (as always in life) the few idiots spoil it for the rest of us
ANYWAY THAT'S JUST MY OPINION

WHAT'S YOURS...............
Wow... Epic win man, I couldn't of put it better myself.		2009-01-22 11:45:00

Author:
Unknown User

@ Chaz & ryryran

Your not in the minority TRUST ME

Your just in a minority of people that actually say what they feel and not suck up, as they're afraid what might happen with the MOD's

Not saying that anyone has the right to be disrespectful in anyway. But just say what you think about things and not what you think others would like you to say.

But I do see why the staff has done this and it will probably be for the good in the long run.

BUT I'M JUST GONNA STATE NOW THAT I TOTALLY HATE THE CHANGES

That's not me being argumentative.
Whatever I say will not change a thing and I'm sure there are loads of members that will like the change.
Just as Chaz said, that is what made this site fun jesting with others in SPAM CAN over details like rank and post count and things.
It also gave new members something to strive towards.
I'm not a member that is JUST here for the laughs and I participate in as much as I can with site projects.

But I think this site is turning into a site for well constructed and helpful posts ONLY and is loosing the fun element in my opinion.
It might as well just be the Wiki we were talking about and you guys just edit the information.

LittleBigPlanet is a great game as it incorporates the SERIOUS with the FUN.

And I think this site has always struck that same chord and that's why you have so many good/dedicated users.

Just saying if you keep taking away too much of the fun element then you will start loosing these members.

Not me as I have nowhere else to go:blush:
And I still LOVE this site whatever you do.

It's just a shame that (as always in life) the few idiots spoil it for the rest of us
ANYWAY THAT'S JUST MY OPINION

WHAT'S YOURS...............

I couldn't agree more with you Dorien, my man. You pretty much summed up my thoughts quite nicely. I'm going to +rep you for this, even though it won't matter if I do it or not, you already got the "feedback".

See where I'm going with this? What's the point of the rep system, for example, to be present at all at this stage. I might as well just quote the person and compliment them on a good post then and there. It's not going to matter if I actually end up rep'ing them or not.

What Dorien said about the post count, and about new members having something to strive for is more than correct. It's absolutely necessary. Maybe it's not necessary to have your post visible, but it is necessary to have whatever it takes out there in the open in order to attract these new members and try to push them to reach your standards. Who doesn't want to be a well known poster?

Again, what Dorien mentioned about the fun factor is completely true. The one main aspect of this site that I adored was the fun side of things. It matched all too well with what LBP is all about, and I agree with Dorien when he states that it is that mix of seriousness and fun that acted as a catalyst for major attraction.

In my opinion, around the time I joined, the site was perfect. It didn't have many flaws because it was kept simple. Simple and fun. What's the point of a community when all we're going to have is serious business? This seriousness is ruining the more than great potential of this site, and I can't just sit back and watch this happen.		2009-01-22 11:50:00

Author:
Stix489
Posts: 2080

I'm going to look at this from the bottom end (where I spend my days rolling in the filth) - While I understand that join dates prove nothing, I think alto fo the other features did - they showed members who I could rely on for honest opinions or people who generally know what they're on about - I'm not saying new members dont, but there is more chance they wont have a clue

As for rep, rep had no elitism attached to it as far as I could see, once again it proved who was a useful member of the community

as for coloured names and other sparklys, they gave me a reason to join in (I mean this is a great forum, but the idea of becoming more recognised the more you took part was a good incentive over the many other forums out there)

Like I said I never had any of the frills of these systems, a low post count, low rep, no packages - nothing

all I feel now is "is it worth contributing as much as I did", I know its very selfish - but I was looking forward to being rewarded for my efforts.

as far as I can tell there were a few people taking advantage and you've simply whitewashed everything.		2009-01-22 13:19:00

Author:
Mrgenji
Posts: 803

I don't have a lot of opinion over these changes either way, but I'm not totally sure how these changes ruin any of the fun. It looks like the LittleBigExperience points and level are still there, so there is still a goal for new users to strive for.

I was a little irritated sometimes how newer users were treated, and maybe these changes will make it a little more fun for new users.

** If you want to make the experience fun, that's easy: ** everyone pick some showcased levels from new users and make them feel welcome by playing their games and giving them good constructive feedback. Make them feel part of the community. Also, if you are a seasoned popular level creator, go ahead and reply to messages from someone who's name you don't recognize. This will make them have more fun - if they have played your level in LBP it will make them feel all warm and gooey inside.

(when I first got on this site there were a few authors that I directly asked questions to, and it was pretty obvious they were going out of their way to post around me - but, I'm not really a super-sensitive person so it didn't matter that much)

Whether this site is serious or fun is going to be determined by the attitude of the people using it: ** are YOU adding to the fun or do you take yourself too seriously? **

(by the way, if everyone treated others this way, there probably wouldn't be a reason to get rid of some of this stuff).		2009-01-22 13:23:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

While this is a lot better off then what I was told we were getting rid of elites due to my "contacts on the inside: Read: Peanutz"... I'm still not too sure about the change :/.

Still, at least I can still change my user title... for what it's worth :/.

Oh, and also... did I get Clank perma?

... if so, that's the second major user I've been indirectly involved in the banment of :/.		2009-01-22 13:48:00

Author:
RockSauron
Posts: 10882

While this is a lot better off then what I was told we were getting rid of elites due to my "contacts on the inside: Read: Peanutz"... I'm still not too sure about the change :/.

Still, at least I can still change my user title... for what it's worth :/.

Oh, and also... did I get Clank perma?

... if so, that's the second major user I've been indirectly involved in the banment of :/.

I read Clank is banned temp. I'd hope so anyway. But after getting instantly banned again I don't know what he'll be like when he comes back :S Hope he doesn't leave.		2009-01-22 13:53:00

Author:
ryryryan
Posts: 3767

I read Clank is banned temp. I'd hope so anyway. But after getting instantly banned again I don't know what he'll be like when he comes back :S Hope he doesn't leave.

... I hate confidental info :/

So, ANYWAY, back on topic...

... Is this really because of Clank?! To prevent another Clank... we've destroyed what created him into being angry at being called a spam bot... or...

... I'll shut up now :/		2009-01-22 13:55:00

Author:
RockSauron
Posts: 10882

... I hate confidental info :/

So, ANYWAY, back on topic...

... Is this really because of Clank?! To prevent another Clank... we've destroyed what created him into being angry at being called a spam bot... or...

... I'll shut up now :/

Hmm... i don't really relate this with Clank being banned, but maybe it has something to do with it? I dunno.		2009-01-22 14:00:00

Author:
ryryryan
Posts: 3767

That was my point that everyone is different and have different opinions

But I was impressed with MrGenji's post, as I am impressed with his work in lbp after viewing his part of the level he has done in the LBPC Community Level we are creating (and started it off excellently, I might add ).
See if newer members were looked down upon then why would a newish member like MrGenji have so much responsibility in starting off an important project like that.
If others do feel looked down upon by longer standing members then I can only apologise for this. But I have in no way ever done this. But I do understand it may be in some peoples nature to do this.
But the colour of someone's name and they're post count being visible will not stop them thinking they're superior to other members and they would just act the same regardless.

The reason I was impressed with MrGenji's post was that he is a newish member that did not have a profile upgrade yet still agrees with me.
His side of the story shows exactly what I was trying to say about a new member wanting to have something to strive for.
Those things taken out of our postbits were just a quick representation of what the member is like and others feel more inclined to ask a recognised member for help or their opinion on something.
Obviously their are some members that will be exceptions to this rule and may have only earned their status from abusing the system. But I still think it was a good indication of a user.		2009-01-22 14:16:00

Author:
dorien
Posts: 2767

Some nice thoughts. Good work Cartman.2009-01-22 14:19:00

Author:
mongoose7
Posts: 473

Awesome, Finally that blue color gone at Creative's name =D
He looked better in gold, but now he's black ...

but seriously, what's so cool about a gold or lightblue name?
nothing 		2009-01-22 14:22:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

Awesome, Finally that blue color gone at Creative's name =D
He looked better in gold, but now he's black ...

but seriously, what's so cool about a gold or lightblue name?
nothing

I'm not so bothered on that. It's showing the post count, join date, and mostly the REP gems. It's just part of like every forum on the internet, and it's good to show imo.		2009-01-22 14:24:00

Author:
ryryryan
Posts: 3767

I'm not so bothered on that. It's showing the post count, join date, and mostly the REP gems. It's just part of like every forum on the internet, and it's good to show imo.

What you mean?O_o		2009-01-22 14:27:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

I'm agreeing with the people on this page. I don't really see why all those pointless changes were made... What was wrong with having a blue name. That told newcomers that THEY knew what they were on about. You cant get 2,500 (Or 1,750) XP in a snap of your fingers. I was striving for that blue name! I dreamed of the day where I would have a light blue name, and I knew that once I got it I would feel a sense of pride. They whole forum could see that I was a contributing member and that they could come to me for help.

I don't however, feel like spending 2,500 XP for things like a bigger avatar space requirement, seeing peoples post count and such. All of the very useless yet fun things on a forum. I knew that my friends like Creative, KAPBAM, Forsaken and all of them would congratulate me on my 1,000th post. I will probably miss it now... Just like my 300, 400, 500, AND 600.... I guess I'm forgetful but you know. Sure, they weren't needed or essential at all, but on the other hand why couldn't they just stay?

I can feel it coming on. WARNING! EDUCATED RANT!

Cartman, I know you just wanted to better the forum but it was PERFET the way it was. Thats how I feel and I'm sure MANY others feel the same way! EvilTiki did a great job, but the editing went overboard. You should have just trimmed the fat when instead you kind of hacked it into pieces with a shovel... Expensive pieces :[.

Please Cartman, I hope you realise how many users are missing out on all of the regular forum features simply because they dont have enough EXP.		2009-01-22 14:28:00

Author:
Unknown User

Oh yeah, another thing. The post count helped me choose which levels to leave feedback on, because if someone joins and posts about their level without the intention of staying and becoming a dedicated member. Sure - I can go to their profiles and check but what's the point? It's not right there so I can't really be bothered in most cases.

Obviously I won't determine this decision based soley on post count, but it certainly helped me decide. I also hate how the trophies are now "bundles" to prevent a sense of elitism... No-one felt like that. People were happy when they purchased a trophy because they worked to get them. On the subject of trophies "bundles", there isn't actually a big difference between Silver and Gold (or whatever they're called now) because of the changes so it renders them redundant.

I'm not saying these changes are all bad, but I feel that the forum was better when it was fun (I'm not saying the forums aren't fun now; far from it) and laid back. All these changes because a minority of people complained about some things is, quite frankly, absurd.

If it ain't broke, it doesn't need fixing.

This post was dedicated to Chaz; who thinks all my posts are one liners.		2009-01-22 14:30:00

Author:
Unknown User

I agree with some of the changes and not others.

I feel removing the post count is good, this information was completely irrelevant to a member's standing in the community and only encouraged childish behavior in some.

I don't know about removing the name colors. I was striving to get the Elite upgrade myself someday, it encouraged me to use every feature of the site in order to earn exp for it. Unfortunately I also think it encouraged people to spam or post meaninglessly (and revive long dead threads).

I don't agree about the removal of the join date and rep gems. The join date allowed someone to see if another user was relatively new to the forums and could then welcome them or link them to useful information that they may not know about without having explored the forums as long as others have.

The rep gems should be kept, if only as a way to tell if someone has a good reputation or not among the rest of the community. I think 99% of the members had one green or gray rep gem anyway. It also encouraged me to use the rep system. I know some users have tried to abuse this though.

What I feel could be removed is the Gallery link underneath people's names. I don't know about everyone else, but I never once have been tempted to click it. I would much rather access galleries through a user's profile than through a post.		2009-01-22 14:31:00

Author:
Gilgamesh
Posts: 2536

I don't however, feel like spending 2,500 XP for things like a bigger avatar space requirement, seeing peoples post count and such.

I think you may misunderstand the ultimate package, or whatever the new elite is. It doesn't let you see post count/REP gems. Noone can unless they go on profiles.



If it ain't broke, it doesn't need fixing.


I was actually gunna put that in my next post.


I feel removing the post count is good, this information was completely irrelevant to a member's standing in the community and only encouraged childish behavior in some.


Hmmm, i still think Post Count should be shown. Creatives example was a good reason why.

I also agree with your gallery mention. I've never clicked someones gallery. Blog however was more useful.

Also, it was just nice to have a quick source of information about the user under the name.		2009-01-22 14:43:00

Author:
ryryryan
Posts: 3767

i say i'm gone 1 day and i'm back to chaos, WELL my 5 cents bring them back /Thread2009-01-22 14:48:00

Author:
Thee-Flash
Posts: 3154

Here's an idea

Have a poll added to this thread.

Those For, Those Against the new changes.

A poll is anonymous so no one would be bashed for their opinions if they were worried about that.

I was gonna start one myself, but lets be honest that would've got closed in a second.

This site is renowned for the Staff listening to it's members.
That sometimes has to be about more important things than just "Can I please have this sticker added to the Shop"

This will never happen, but I just wanted to put it out there.		2009-01-22 14:56:00

Author:
dorien
Posts: 2767

I think you may misunderstand the ultimate package, or whatever the new elite is. It doesn't let you see post count/REP gems. Noone can unless they go on profiles.



I was actually gunna put that in my next post.



Hmmm, i still think Post Count should be shown. Creatives example was a good reason why.

I also agree with your gallery mention. I've never clicked someones gallery. Blog however was more useful.

Also, it was just nice to have a quick source of information about the user under the name.

WHAT? Then what's the point? I thought "See more Detailed user activity" was post count... Darn it! This is a dark couple of days for LBPC. Atleast for my perspective. What was wrong with the post count anyway? It in no way showed eliteness, simply dedication.

Edit:
Dorien's right. We should have a poll. It should be put as one of those new announcements. It needs to be voted upon from all of the caring members.		2009-01-22 14:56:00

Author:
Unknown User

Ok, i agree with the poll this reminds me of the quest in fallout 3 trouble in the homefront * FREAKY *2009-01-22 15:02:00

Author:
Thee-Flash
Posts: 3154

I feel so... the same flash. Help me :[. I know it sounds terrible, sorry. I'm probably just overreacting. I dont want to sound mean, but please cartman, bring it back. It's not hurting anybody :[. I usually agree to whatever you do to the site, you might know that. Probably not... I realize that you know best, but this time I just can't see it CC. Sorry mate.2009-01-22 15:08:00

Author:
Unknown User

Dorien's right. We should have a poll. It should be put as one of those new announcements. It needs to be voted upon from all of the caring members.

And I think all the caring members would be the ones who are most active, who have earned their colours/posts/rep. Now it looks like it it seems these Caring members have been punished...ho-hum

anyway, I agree with the poll		2009-01-22 15:20:00

Author:
Mrgenji
Posts: 803

this update sucks. i mean the point of rep, experience, post count and stuff was for fun.

also i agree with a poll		2009-01-22 17:04:00

Author:
Don Vhalt
Posts: 2270

And I thought this forum would be a little more mature...2009-01-22 17:06:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

You know what? I don't actually care about the removal of post count and such, it was just some pointless feature. Now, after getting rid of the rep gems, I'll never use reputation again. Reputation is nothing without the gems and might aswell be removed completely. New users will never even care about reputation now, and especially won't use it. I don't want to know reasons why it should be removed, there's guaranteed to be more reasons why it should be brought back.

Haha, and you know what makes me laugh the most, I don't actually care about all the extra qualities of having gold and elite, I just love having a coloured name. This makes it pointless for me to work towards elite now, so I guess I'm just going to buy a ton of stickers instead.
Yeah, I'm sure you all disagree with me on this, but I had just been given gold, and the gold colour was beginning to grow on me.

Like I said in my previous post, my opinion doesn't matter, as most people are pleased with these updates. 		2009-01-22 17:11:00

Author:
Bear
Posts: 2079

Can someone explain me "what" gems?
They are still there for me?		2009-01-22 17:13:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

i felt like this was a bad thing right away I guess since I wasnt letting it get to my head. Its pretty unfortunate that some people abusing it or letting it go to their head ruin it forever. But these things should deffinitly deturr that kind of behaivor and prestigious members will still be recognized; a good add on ...although the colored name was cool but with this revamp that would be agaisnt the new found values2009-01-22 17:29:00

Author:
Hamsalad
Posts: 2551

Ok, first off, could the people saying their opinion doesn't matter stop saying that?!? Your opinion always matters, the more people voice their opinion, the more the people in charge know what you're thinking/what you want.

Here's mine. I like some of this, but the fact that it's ALL gone is bad. I believe the Rep gems were worth keeping. There can be abuse, but correct me if I'm wrong, there hasn't been much. They were used by the community to show others their posts/comments/whatever were appreciated. This feature WILL die if the gems remain gone, and I liked it alot. I thought it neat to see others getting 2 gems. This wasn't some flashy name colour, this was a community based reputation system, and I think it should come back.

As for abuse (which is surely the main underlying reason for these changes), well abuse is common to every single aspect f human nature. As in it exists everywhere and no matter what you do there will be some form of it present. Simply cutting everything down does seem extreme and to me shows a bit of a lack of care to find a better solution. If school children start dirtying each other during art class because you gave them paint to play with, and the parents complain... Do you cut any sort of drawing/painting from the art class, or do you perhaps find a less messy way for the kids to express themselves, i.e. coloured pencils!

What I'm saying is that cutting out features feels harsh and cold, which isn't what I think of when I think of this community (heck I spend way too much time here, for a reason!). Not all these features were necessary, but they were fun. I also think the new bundle stickers are boring. They look like every other windows based icon, and that to me sounds like the beginning of the end. This site has it's own flavour to it, I would like to see it preserved at all cost. Like Creative said, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I don't think there was significantly enough abuse to justify this level of cutting of features.

Features I think should absolutely come back: Join date on "posting profile" (however you want to call our regular posting profile column), same for rep gems, and a much more LBPC looking bundle sticker (for all bundles)... And you know what, calling them trophies made alot of sens because of the PS3. Perhaps giving them unique names (rather than gold - elite - etc) would go better with the current update, but BUNDLES sounds horrible.

Ok so that's my take on it. I don't think making changes in the general direction you were going with this was a bad idea, but hacking it all for nothing exciting in exchange is what makes this not all that it could be.		2009-01-22 18:18:00

Author:
KAPBAM
Posts: 1348

Oh yeah, another thing. The post count helped me choose which levels to leave feedback on, because if someone joins and posts about their level without the intention of staying and becoming a dedicated member. Sure - I can go to their profiles and check but what's the point? It's not right there so I can't really be bothered in most cases.

Obviously I won't determine this decision based soley on post count, but it certainly helped me decide. I also hate how the trophies are now "bundles" to prevent a sense of elitism... No-one felt like that. People were happy when they purchased a trophy because they worked to get them. On the subject of trophies "bundles", there isn't actually a big difference between Silver and Gold (or whatever they're called now) because of the changes so it renders them redundant.

I'm not saying these changes are all bad, but I feel that the forum was better when it was fun (I'm not saying the forums aren't fun now; far from it) and laid back. All these changes because a minority of people complained about some things is, quite frankly, absurd.

If it ain't broke, it doesn't need fixing.

This post was dedicated to Chaz; who thinks all my posts are one liners.

Taking post count into account in any form or another as a basis (or even as an added extra) to form an opinion and come to a decision whether to give feedback or not is a sign of immaturity.
Why don't you just help that person for the sake of helping?
Why does the person have to stick around if you're going to help them?
Not everyone joins a forum to spend years on it. Most people join a forum, ask a question or two, receive their feedback, thank the community and then leave.
That's what the basis of a forum is: to ask a question and receive a response.

Those that do stay around in the forum are the ones that are to provide the answers, and this number will always be less than the number of questioners.
To refuse to provide feedback just because a person won't stay around is childish, and even taking it into account slightly is stupid.
Post counts are irrelevant to everything, they only somewhat show how active a user is, but that's rendered useless since this forum has that "activity" percentage.

Oh, and using simple logic: no, the minority is the group that doesn't mind the "upgrades".
Since, as I already said, those that are most active in the forum are going to be the first ones to see this, and they're going to be the ones to (for the most part) disagree with the changes because it "hampers" them. The number of people that like the changes is limited to newer members that did not have the real opportunity to experience the older system, and therefore weren't able to reap the rewards, and added to that small number are the few that never cared for the upgrades.

Since the majority would want the older system back, I suggest Cartman complies instead of having to face the masses head-on, sometimes it's better to let things flow, despite there being numerous negatives.
One thing I do wish would die a horrible death: threads about "My thousandth post".		2009-01-22 18:26:00

Author:
ScytheOfGrim
Posts: 438

Ok, first off, could the people saying their opinion doesn't matter stop saying that?!? Your opinion always matters, the more people voice their opinion, the more the people in charge know what you're thinking/what you want.

Here's mine. I like some of this, but the fact that it's ALL gone is bad. I believe the Rep gems were worth keeping. There can be abuse, but correct me if I'm wrong, there hasn't been much. They were used by the community to show others their posts/comments/whatever were appreciated. This feature WILL die if the gems remain gone, and I liked it alot. I thought it neat to see others getting 2 gems. This wasn't some flashy name colour, this was a community based reputation system, and I think it should come back.

As for abuse (which is surely the main underlying reason for these changes), well abuse is common to every single aspect f human nature. As in it exists everywhere and no matter what you do there will be some form of it present. Simply cutting everything down does seem extreme and to me shows a bit of a lack of care to find a better solution. If school children start dirtying each other during art class because you gave them paint to play with, and the parents complain... Do you cut any sort of drawing/painting from the art class, or do you perhaps find a less messy way for the kids to express themselves, i.e. coloured pencils!

What I'm saying is that cutting out features feels harsh and cold, which isn't what I think of when I think of this community (heck I spend way too much time here, for a reason!). Not all these features were necessary, but they were fun. I also think the new bundle stickers are boring. They look like every other windows based icon, and that to me sounds like the beginning of the end. This site has it's own flavour to it, I would like to see it preserved at all cost. Like Creative said, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I don't think there was significantly enough abuse to justify this level of cutting of features.

Features I think should absolutely come back: Join date on "posting profile" (however you want to call our regular posting profile column), same for rep gems, and a much more LBPC looking bundle sticker (for all bundles)... And you know what, calling them trophies made alot of sens because of the PS3. Perhaps giving them unique names (rather than gold - elite - etc) would go better with the current update, but BUNDLES sounds horrible.

Ok so that's my take on it. I don't think making changes in the general direction you were going with this was a bad idea, but hacking it all for nothing exciting in exchange is what makes this not all that it could be.


very well put exactly what i expected out of you when i saw you posted. I really agree thinking about this more. When I first joined this community (not to long ago) I thought it was a very fun and friendly place which it still is. And I love the post count and it really does reflect whos dedicated; I really think since the instances of abuse and such are so rare you should individually punish those who disobey / abuse and dont punish everyone else its just not fair.		2009-01-22 18:52:00

Author:
Hamsalad
Posts: 2551

I find this quite interesting actually. I belong to other forums and similar events occurred where changes were made that many weren't happy with.

In one of the forums they had a 'Karma' system where you could either give good or bad karma to someone by clicking a button under their avatar. Eventually people started complaining about having negative karma so the forum decide to get rid of the karma system and just have a 'Commend' button that would boost your Honor points. So no more bad rep.

In another forum where people's post count was viewable, they had the post count removed because people were judging others based on that alone. Calling people noobs cause they had low post counts.

Like with just about anything else, it has it's pros and cons. It might be good to have features like that so one can distinguish who are the members who have knowledge/experience with something. It might also create some conflict as it was stated before -


...creating an atmosphere of superiority...		2009-01-22 18:55:00

Author:
itorres32
Posts: 31

I want the ultimate bundle to have a discount....2009-01-22 19:04:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

Taking post count into account in any form or another as a basis (or even as an added extra) to form an opinion and come to a decision whether to give feedback or not is a sign of immaturity.
Why don't you just help that person for the sake of helping?
Why does the person have to stick around if you're going to help them?
Not everyone joins a forum to spend years on it. Most people join a forum, ask a question or two, receive their feedback, thank the community and then leave.
That's what the basis of a forum is: to ask a question and receive a response.

Those that do stay around in the forum are the ones that are to provide the answers, and this number will always be less than the number of questioners.
To refuse to provide feedback just because a person won't stay around is childish, and even taking it into account slightly is stupid.
Post counts are irrelevant to everything, they only somewhat show how active a user is, but that's rendered useless since this forum has that "activity" percentage.

Oh, and using simple logic: no, the minority is the group that doesn't mind the "upgrades".
Since, as I already said, those that are most active in the forum are going to be the first ones to see this, and they're going to be the ones to (for the most part) disagree with the changes because it "hampers" them. The number of people that like the changes is limited to newer members that did not have the real opportunity to experience the older system, and therefore weren't able to reap the rewards, and added to that small number are the few that never cared for the upgrades.

Since the majority would want the older system back, I suggest Cartman complies instead of having to face the masses head-on, sometimes it's better to let things flow, despite there being numerous negatives.
One thing I do wish would die a horrible death: threads about "My thousandth post".

I just want to let you know that I totally disagree with you and I find your comments quite disrespectful.
I posted earlier in the thread, that I think the features that were removed were a bad thing in my opinion.
Not once in that post did I attack anyone and belittle anyone.

With your comments:
"is a sign of immaturity"
"is childish"
"is stupid"

I feel that you are attacking Creative/SilentPredator and anyone else that did use post count as a means to help with making a decision.
LIKE ME!!!!!!!

I am known for posting to everyone in the Intro thread. When I do this I first look at the OP date and then at the post count. This gives me a good indication on what sort of member they are. If they have been at the site for say 2 days and they have 150 posts then straight away I can tell they are a SPAMMER lol and the majority of their posts have probably been in the game forums and are probably the type of member that enjoys a more light hearted reply.


Just trying to say that you don't have to be abusive towards other members to get your point across.
For evidence of this I suggests you take note of KAPBAM's well constructed and yet opinionated post above.

I hate the way you seem to post in a way that you are of a superior intellect than everyone else.

Thanks		2009-01-22 19:11:00

Author:
dorien
Posts: 2767

** Interesting concept ** People who shout the loudest are usually the ones that get their way, even if they are not in the majority. So, let's say a manufacturing company makes a hammer, but they keep getting complaints from people saying the handle is too soft. So, they end up making a change only to realize that the vast number of people were perfectly happy with the old hammer, so their sales drop.

My (someone hidden) point to Confused Cartman is this: if you see an issue on the forums arising, maybe instead of going through the work to fix the issue you could reach out and ask the members what they think of the issue. Then, maybe do a quick survey to find out who feels the same. Less work for you, keeps people in the loop, the vast majority of people are happy. Members are also then on notice that there is a problem, and may behave themselves a little more.

Just a thought.
2009-01-22 19:12:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

My opinion.
Loose post count.

Keep Rep/Join date.		2009-01-22 19:14:00

Author:
Boomy
Posts: 3701

Ok first off, one thing I'm happy is gone is the post count, that can significantly vary for anyone and I don't see it as something that you can judge someone by. Second, the join date I think is good, just because it gives you an idea of how familiar a person might be with the forum. I might actually explain something in greater detail to someone new rather than someone who's been around for ages and has probably seen other post related to his question in the past... Join date to me is kind of like forum age if you will, with no effect on my regards to you, but can be helpful to know at a glance.

Also I quite agree with itorres, a non-negative tweak to the rep system could be all that is needed to make it better. I still think the gems are going to be missed.

EDIT: CCubbage, that's an excellent point. Feeling out the crowd is excellent practice. They don't do extensive market studies for nothing It would indeed mean more productive updates. The community is large now and you could get great feedback by announcing ideas before implementing them, which would steer further updates in more happy-for-most directions 		2009-01-22 19:23:00

Author:
KAPBAM
Posts: 1348

What gems?!2009-01-22 19:24:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

I just want to let you know that I totally disagree with you and I find your comments quite disrespectful.
I posted earlier in the thread, that I think the features that were removed were a bad thing in my opinion.
Not once in that post did I attack anyone and belittle anyone.

With your comments:
"is a sign of immaturity"
"is childish"
"is stupid"

I feel that you are attacking Creative/SilentPredator and anyone else that did use post count as a means to help with making a decision.
LIKE ME!!!!!!!

I am known for posting to everyone in the Intro thread. When I do this I first look at the OP date and then at the post count. This gives me a good indication on what sort of member they are. If they have been at the site for say 2 days and they have 150 posts then straight away I can tell they are a SPAMMER lol and the majority of their posts have probably been in the game forums and are probably the type of member that enjoys a more light hearted reply.


Just trying to say that you don't have to be abusive towards other members to get your point across.
For evidence of this I suggests you take note of KAPBAM's well constructed and yet opinionated post above.

I hate the way you seem to post in a way that you are of a superior intellect than everyone else.

Thanks

You placed my words in a totally different sense and concept than they are intended for.

Anyone that doesn't give feedback on a level just because of the thread starter's post count is childish and judgmental.
Taking a post count into account when deciding to provide feedback or not is immature, whether you like it or not, and whether you agree or not.

The whole idea behind F4F is to make people give feedback in the hopes to help themselves, so people are, in fact, giving feedback for themselves. This concept is wrong.
Giving feedback to get feedback is a benefit, and not the reason that you give feedback. You give feedback to better the person presenting their level. It's supposed to be a selfless thing, but because of the way we have taken a business-like attitude to everything, we've become materialistic.

If you can't understand this, and base your feedback upon the reliability of the thread starter to give back feedback, then you are immature.

If you chose to apply those words to yourself, then that's not my fault, even though I would have thought that you're probably the most selfless member here.
Post counts are not to be taken into account when deciding whether to provide feedback or not, that is what I was referring to.		2009-01-22 19:24:00

Author:
ScytheOfGrim
Posts: 438

I find this quite interesting actually. I belong to other forums and similar events occurred where changes were made that many weren't happy with.

In one of the forums they had a 'Karma' system where you could either give good or bad karma to someone by clicking a button under their avatar. Eventually people started complaining about having negative karma so the forum decide to get rid of the karma system and just have a 'Commend' button that would boost your Honor points. So no more bad rep.

In another forum where people's post count was viewable, they had the post count removed because people were judging others based on that alone. Calling people noobs cause they had low post counts.

Like with just about anything else, it has it's pros and cons. It might be good to have features like that so one can distinguish who are the members who have knowledge/experience with something. It might also create some conflict as it was stated before -

I also under stand where your coming from

But when you have had the chance to stay here a bit longer then you will realise this is not like any other forum and no member is ever discriminated because they are new.
The people here are friendly and if ever there has been a moment when a member has called anyone a noob or tried to belittle anyone for some reason. Then they're jumped on and told not to be stupid on the forums and to respect the rules and members.
People have tried a few times and it only takes a few posts of disrespect towards someone or staff and the member is BANNED

I no it seems like it's a bit mad at the moment, but a lot of people that call this place home feel like they have been betrayed but having these features taken away

It's normally a nice shiny happy place were we all get on and hold hands and stuff		2009-01-22 19:30:00

Author:
dorien
Posts: 2767

Lol, I'm about to call the typo police on you Dorien xD hehe, but I imagine it's because you feel greatly about this and are typing fats... -_O Lol see what I did thar? /off-topic2009-01-22 19:37:00

Author:
KAPBAM
Posts: 1348

What gems?!

The rep gems under your name (or were), those little green blocks		2009-01-22 20:23:00

Author:
Mrgenji
Posts: 803

The rep gems under your name (or were), those little green blocks

oh....those don't matter for me.
thanks for clearing up, atleast SOMEONE that does 		2009-01-22 20:26:00

Author:
oldage
Posts: 2824

Taking post count into account in any form or another as a basis (or even as an added extra) to form an opinion and come to a decision whether to give feedback or not is a sign of immaturity.
Why don't you just help that person for the sake of helping?
Why does the person have to stick around if you're going to help them?
Not everyone joins a forum to spend years on it. Most people join a forum, ask a question or two, receive their feedback, thank the community and then leave.
That's what the basis of a forum is: to ask a question and receive a response.

Ahh yes, but here is a question to that, if a new member wanted to ask a question who would they ask? They would want to ask a senior member, the post count helped this A LOT i would say, but you do have a good point, just help who you can, it is the people that we help are the ones that should be concerned not us (even though most likely they do not know the old system).


Those that do stay around in the forum are the ones that are to provide the answers, and this number will always be less than the number of questioners.
To refuse to provide feedback just because a person won't stay around is childish, and even taking it into account slightly is stupid.
Post counts are irrelevant to everything, they only somewhat show how active a user is, but that's rendered useless since this forum has that "activity" percentage.

Oh, and using simple logic: no, the minority is the group that doesn't mind the "upgrades".
Since, as I already said, those that are most active in the forum are going to be the first ones to see this, and they're going to be the ones to (for the most part) disagree with the changes because it "hampers" them. The number of people that like the changes is limited to newer members that did not have the real opportunity to experience the older system, and therefore weren't able to reap the rewards, and added to that small number are the few that never cared for the upgrades.

Since the majority would want the older system back, I suggest Cartman complies instead of having to face the masses head-on, sometimes it's better to let things flow, despite there being numerous negatives.
One thing I do wish would die a horrible death: threads about "My thousandth post".

Yeah... umm... *starts to tear up a little*... that might have been my fault and now i feel horrible for doing it, you know with the entire sick to the stomach kind of feel... *runs off and crys in a corner*

Ch*sob*eers!		2009-01-22 20:35:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Does anyone else need a beer?2009-01-22 20:56:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

yeah... i think i do, i need to go drown myself in liqour.2009-01-22 21:03:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Ugh... i'll echo the sentiments of Boomy:

Keep the post count in the profile section.

Bring back the rep gems.

Join date... I could care less... the rep gems will pretty much explain whether someone has been around for a long time, or not.		2009-01-22 21:13:00

Author:
Comatoes
Posts: 76

I really don't see the point of this I mean there wasn't any abuse except maybe clank with the rep. I really don't see the point2009-01-22 21:42:00

Author:
Don Vhalt
Posts: 2270

I made a 1000 post thread... *starts to cry again and runs out of the thread (room)*

Ch*sob*eers!		2009-01-22 21:46:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Ok first off, one thing I'm happy is gone is the post count, that can significantly vary for anyone and I don't see it as something that you can judge someone by. Second, the join date I think is good, just because it gives you an idea of how familiar a person might be with the forum. I might actually explain something in greater detail to someone new rather than someone who's been around for ages and has probably seen other post related to his question in the past... Join date to me is kind of like forum age if you will, with no effect on my regards to you, but can be helpful to know at a glance.


Great point, I personally think post count and join date should stay. It gives you a better perspective of a user and how tailor the tone of your reply.

This change could also create more cliques. If someone is new a lot of users here tend to extend a welcoming hand, if they don't realise a person is new this might not happen as often.

I'm not saying I'm against the changes, just brainstorming worst case scenarios.		2009-01-22 22:17:00

Author:
EastwoodAndy
Posts: 70

I agree with some of the changes. The post count I am fine with. I feel that the coloured names may have intimidated the newer members, making it difficult for them to establish themselves on the forum.

The rep gems should be brought back and the profile stickers should be changed back to the trophies.

I have no opinion on the join date. The gallery is useless and should be replaced with the blog.		2009-01-22 23:38:00

Author:
Killian
Posts: 2575

As previously mentioned, there has been no loss of privileges or abilities; this is purely an aesthetic change. In any case, thanks for all of the feedback, but we will not be reverting to the previous setup at any point in the future. There may be changes based on the feedback, but we will not be re-including rep gems, post count, or name color in any future changes. Those will remain gone from the postbit.2009-01-23 00:01:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729


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