New Players / Player Retention and "getting the word out" about BGTSCC

[gedweyignasia]

Having read my first post on this thread again, it seems I was coming accross as being a bit naive or idealistic. So I will add the following to provide a bit of clarification to my first post.

To postpone entropy there needs to be change.
Change requires resources and an effort among enough people willing to want to change.
We arguably have resources but we do not have an effort by people willing to change.
Sure we make small changes, we update mechanics at times, we complain a lot and we make endless suggestions. But the actual effort to change or even the willingness to change, to avert entropy, is simply not there.

Hypothetically speaking, if we were serious about changing/adapting/evolving the server to one that better caters to new players, we would first need to focus on the servers overall philosophy. Once there is a general consensus on that front, we could then work on altering what mechanics needed to change in order to facilitate this changed/adapted/evolved way of approaching the game.

It would take work, and cooperation – with no guarantee that it would work.

But I have to ask at this point- without a commitment to actually invest in changing/adapting/evolving by us veteran players, DM's and Admin, then what is the actual purpose of this thread other than to hear ourselves talk?

Why dont we just accept that there are not enough of us willing to try to change, and simply enjoy the game as is, while it eventually comes to a natural end state?

Those are not rhetorical questions.

I think there's a lot of resistance to radical change because it jeopardizes our current playerbase. Making changes for some theoretical new player population (which might exist in the first place, might have other blockers besides the things we change, might not even like those changes, etc.) is a hard sell. Those discussions get more complicated when people argue that changes that they don't personally want will be bad for newcomers. (That is, people potentially arguing in bad faith, because it pushes things in a direction they don't prefer.)

Basically, unless you can generate some viral TikTok content of BGTSCC or something, we can probably expect the community to continue shrinking. All good things come to an end, or whatever.

[Steve]

But I have to ask at this point- without a commitment to actually invest in changing/adapting/evolving by us veteran players, DM's and Admin, then what is the actual purpose of this thread other than to hear ourselves talk?

Why dont we just accept that there are not enough of us willing to try to change, and simply enjoy the game as is, while it eventually comes to a natural end state?

I think there are enough members in this BGTSCC community to make positive changes. It might be better to ask the question as: Do the current admins and Heads of the Server also agree this is necessary and agree on what to actually do to improve? Because though I believe there are many that can put in the work, both big and small efforts, if that work isn't really wanted or agreed with, than there isn't any purpose to this, and we are just talking in circles.

But let's not be negative from the get go. Perhaps behind the scenes, those with real power to make changes are discussing? Maybe someone can tell us?!?

Anyway, if there are even just a handful of passionate players who can do little-to-big efforts to advertise the Server, positively promote it, and help keep it a "living" server both IC and OOC, than we just do it. Results will follow.

[Steve]

Basically, unless you can generate some viral TikTok content of BGTSCC or something, we can probably expect the community to continue shrinking. All good things come to an end, or whatever.

Well, the point of this thread is to try and change that. There are plenty of ways to generate content that promotes BGTSCC, TikTok being just one.

It starts with being serious about it. And having a mission.

[renshouj]

I think there are enough members in this BGTSCC community to make positive changes. It might be better to ask the question as: Do the current admins and Heads of the Server also agree this is necessary and agree on what to actually do to improve? Because though I believe there are many that can put in the work, both big and small efforts, if that work isn't really wanted or agreed with, than there isn't any purpose to this, and we are just talking in circles.

But let's not be negative from the get go. Perhaps behind the scenes, those with real power to make changes are discussing? Maybe someone can tell us?!?

Changes are certainly welcome, it's mostly about getting a consensus on what change is to be done, and someone to work on them. And on that note, the server currently is at a lack of coding devs, Dalo being the last one truly active and available to make big changes, so if anyone reading knows how to code and is willing to learn how to do it for nwn2, applications are more than welcome.

[Steve]

I just threw this up over at Greenwood's Grotto discord channel. It occurred to me some others here could use the text, tailor the text, and place it in other places, in order to drum up some new/old blood for BGTSCC.

Don't shoot the messenger!

Hello! I am promoting an online community of gamers playing in the Forgotten Realms setting. If you are a fan of the Forgotten Realms by way of Pen-and-Paper D&D, or FR novels, or comics, or even a fan of the D&D movie(s) or the Baldur’s Gate III game…the Baldur’s Gate: The Sword Coast Chronicles game server might just be for you! Come join us!

10 reasons why to consider gaming on BGTSCC (Baldur's Gate: The Sword Coast Chronicles) persistent world (PW) set in the Forgotten Realms:

• Rich Lore and Setting along with Established Ruleset: BGTSCC is set in the iconic Sword Coast region of the Forgotten Realms—current in-game year is 1360 Dale Reckoning—a well-established and beloved setting from Dungeons & Dragons lore. It is an attractive setting supporting players who enjoy exploring a world with a deep and rich history. The Server runs using the Neverwinter Nights 2 game engine, D&D 3.5e ruleset, and a 24/7 player experience online.
• Dedicated Community: BGTSCC has a small but dedicated—50+ players currently—and active player base that contributes to a vibrant and immersive roleplaying experience, joining in from all over the World. New players are always welcome to grow and improve the community through knowledge, interest and support for the Forgotten Realms, both In-Character (IC) and Out-of-Character (OOC).
• Quality of Role-play: BGTSCC is a role-play Server first and foremost, but is available for all types of players, from low-to-high engagement RP. Storylines, well-developed characters, and adherence to established lore from the Baldur's Gate setting can contributes to an immersive experience.
• Player Agency: BGTSCC places a strong emphasis on player agency, allowing players to shape the course of the server's narrative through their actions and decisions. Player characters can become involved in conflicts, form alliances, and influence the political landscape of the Sword Coast.
• Intricate Storylines: The server features intricate and dynamic storylines crafted by a team of experienced Dungeon Masters (DMs) AND players, storytellers all! Storylines, events and campaigns often involve political intrigue, epic quests, and character-driven drama, providing players with a diverse range of role-playing opportunities.
• Active Administration: Responsive and fair administration can contribute significantly to the positive experience of players. BGTSCC has an active Staff team who work to uphold rules for fair gameplay, and work to consistently and promptly address player concerns.
• Regular Updates and DEVelopment: BGTSCC aims for regular updates to the content of Areas, Feats and features, bug-fixes to existing Content and/or NWN2 OG systems. With over 15 years of activity and investment, BGTSCC is a robust and stable game server. With contributions from a community of dedicated volunteers, the Server gains in quality and quantity every year!! BGTSCC is always looking to work with talented players/devs who are interested in growing the Server, together.
• Balanced Gameplay: A well-balanced gameplay experience, where various character builds and play-styles are viable, can contribute to the enjoyment of the game. BGTSCC strives for balanced gameplay mechanics.
• Attention to Detail: The creators and administrators of BGTSCC have put a lot of effort into creating a detailed and rich game world. This could include meticulously crafted environments, custom content, and lore consistency. BGTSCC has 2 active Servers that split the game world between a Baldur’s Gate city and south along the Trade Way on one Server, and the Northern Trade Way plus Underdark on the second Server.
• Customization Options: BGTSCC offers a variety of customization options for characters, such as diverse races, classes, and character progression paths. Recent additions include Character customization through an detailed Appearance Changer (outfits customization), Leveling paths via Classes and PrCs/Kits, Player Character housing, Spells, Domains, Combat Actions…and more!

If you are interested in what Baldur’s Gate: The Sword Coast Chronicles has to offer, please visit at www.bgtscc.net and/or look over the Wiki at wiki.bgtscc.net for more information. Also, with Neverwinter Nights 2 (NWN2) game necessary to play online, the best place to acquire it is via GOG.com if one does not own or can acquire a physical copy. More often than not, GOG has the full package on sale, for a good price (sometimes below $10).

You can also find the community over on Discord under “BGTSCC”: https://discord.gg/YSfTGQJD

Please excuse if this is the wrong place or not allowed to “look for a group(s)” or individuals who might have an interest in this type of CRPG experience.

Cheers, and thanks for reading.

[gedweyignasia]

Basically, unless you can generate some viral TikTok content of BGTSCC or something, we can probably expect the community to continue shrinking. All good things come to an end, or whatever.

Well, the point of this thread is to try and change that. There are plenty of ways to generate content that promotes BGTSCC, TikTok being just one.

It starts with being serious about it. And having a mission.

What I'm trying to say is that it'll require something that has a colossal number of impressions, because there's a very high barrier to entry and a lot of issues with lowering that barrier. So your conversion rate from views to new players is going to be very, very small, and we need to plan for that if we're trying to be realistic.

[TheBorderPrince]

Frankly I agree that trying to find new players at this point of NWN2's lifetime trying to find fresh players is sort of a lost cause.

I don't say that increasing server population and prolonging its life somewhat is not possible, but I feel like convincing old players to return and enacting some measured to improve their retention (though I'll be honest, I can't say I could point to any specific measures) would probably give better effect per effort invested.

[Gnomocratic]

It all boils down to lack of leadership, it's a pretty easy solution, change server ownership.

Before letting it die might as well give it to someone that wants to do something with it and has the skillset to see it through.

I don't mean me, but like, AoS would probably take that offer faster than you can say "ded"

Of course then you have to contend with all the people arm chairing their refusals because of a decade of personal dramas but at the end of the day, are they doing anything about it?

[Gnomocratic]

On the topic of asset reduction, just reducing all textures bigger than 1024x1024 to that and using proper compression will probably reduce server hak sizes by a significant portion. Easy batch script job.

20 gb of haks isn't a barrier to entry though, maybe a slow download is, modern video games are often in the 50-150 gb ranges, BG3, Ark, RDR2, GTA, etc
Filling a server of 96 is an easy job, RPing has never been more popular, thousands watching gamers do it on twitch, DnD has never been more popular, BG3 came out not too long ago. There have never been more gamers, popular games on steam are easily reaching peaks in the hundreds of thousands of concurrent players.

The problem is that BG became a very subpar action RPG and not a RPing platform. You could easily fill multiple 96 player instances by doing things properly.

[blazerules]

It all boils down to lack of leadership, it's a pretty easy solution, change server ownership.

Before letting it die might as well give it to someone that wants to do something with it and has the skillset to see it through.

I don't mean me, but like, AoS would probably take that offer faster than you can say "ded"

Of course then you have to contend with all the people arm chairing their refusals because of a decade of personal dramas but at the end of the day, are they doing anything about it?

Leadership/"ownership" is not... development team though? That's a different department entirely. AoS is working on a different thing entirely anyways, let them cook.

I do agree with server size bloat though. You'd think we're a COD developer with how bloated the server is. Its good that we have a lot of stuff but I guess NWN2 compression is just bad.

[Gnomocratic]

Leadership is definitely development. Leadership with vision that can execute. It's energizing.

I could argue this a million ways but you can just remember BGTSCC has been trying other forms of leadership and it's been a complete failure.

Another thing I will say, having people with an "official" voice saying stuff like "the community's death is inevitable" is a self fulfilling prophecy.
No player new, old, returning or otherwise is going to put a single minute in a server like this knowing all their time and progress will be lost because it's "a dying server". This is all basic shit.

The general feeling of the server population is a social construction that you have to build deliberatively. A generally pessimistic outlook makes hanging around BG feel like an activity that drains energy, the opposite is the positive consensus that builds excitement, draws emotion, makes for a much more satisfying experience that players will return for: engagement basically. This builds upon itself and has a snowball effect.

And they're saying the only active coder left is Dalo, that's unheard of in the history of the server.

[renshouj]

And they're saying the only active coder left is Dalo, that's unheard of in the history of the server.

Might be unheard of, but it is true at the moment. I know I have the "developer" tag, but that's because I'm an Area builder, and both coding devs and area builders have the developer tag.

[Steve]

Simply put: don’t complain. Do something positive, if that is your actual desire for the Server. Else, kinda, STFU.

If leadership is lacking, be a leader. If RP is lacking, bring in more RP. The point here is that if you find BGTSCC valuable in what it has to offer, be supportive. It’s that simple.

[Rinzler]

I recommend good faith introspection as to why players are quitting in the first place. Focus on marketing once you’ve stopped the bleeding and have a product that is conducive to player retention.

My 2 cents

[selhan]

I'm gonna go ahead and state my opinon...

1. I'm not one that dwells on people that left or stop playing for what ever reason they have. To each their own. They have their reasons and its surely not mine. If they leave or quit, then they leave or quit. Am I suppose to stop playing because they quit? Nope. Will I just stand by and do nothing as population decreases? Nope . I will go out of my way on the same platform or beyond trying to invite others to try the game I enjoy playing. Because at the end of the day the more people that do play allows me to have more fun.

2. The fact is, theres no way that there will be a time everyone is satisfied. Not in Real life and surely not in a game. Everyone got their own opinions, mindset and two cents. Am I saying everything on this server is perfect for me as a player? Nope. Theres things that bother me, things I've addressed, somethings get attention too, others cases I hear crickets and other times I get some BS response. But I ain't gonna let that stop me from enjoying what I like to enjoy, and I do consider other players that enjoy me being around to play with. Its why I dont dwell on others that quit and leave, if they couldnt take into consideration what I had going on with them then screw it, obviously they didn't care in my opinion. So I will just find someone to replace that void of fun. Simple 123 EZ , the goblet empty then refill it. If no one wants to drink then I will go find someone that will.

3. Of course leadership is a factor in any given thing. Just like factions on the server. You got good leaders that do stuff and bring fun to others, then you got leaders that's no better than squat piss and empty buckets. But just as much as people will comment on the struggles of the server, how yall think the leaders feel working and trying to keep it running and trying to improve things when all they hear or have to face is complaints and struggles? Quite demotivating in my eyes. No we dont just have one coder, but sen wasn't lying. Theres one "active" coder "At the moment". This is an old game with a lot of things very difficult to work with for them. I know it cause I can see their raging frustrations sometimes and they go through it because they were trying to compliment a players issue or request.

Just yesterday there was a total of 58 players online. 18 of them in one event. Its not a daily thing but hell it surely been a very long time since we had that much online. Not too bad in my opinion. But I do give respect to Steve for his efforts, I seen what he doing else where trying to promote others to join the server. I just hope when new people to come and play, the ones currently here dont ruin their fun just because they not happey. Thats dirty cheap and foul in my opinion.