[pbmserv-dev] Re: Backgammon Standings

[Randall Bart <barticus@att.net>]

'Twas 11:59 PM -0500 on Thursday 3/11/2004 when 
owner-pbmserv-dev@gamerz.net wrote:
> 3 - Play only with prearranged opponents (don't call
> me, I'll call you).

This would be for information only, since the server doesn't match 
challenge commands to players.  Ever notice text on the first move is 
preceded with "Challenger writes"?

I don't like the idea of players sitting at a high ranking without 
playing.  However I don't like the idea of pulling someone out of the 
rankings suddenly, nor do I like the idea of someone returning a year or 
more later and suddenly being at the top.  I prefer a system where the 
rankings of inactive players slowly degrade.  Something like:

Keep track of the last time the player made a move in each game.  Run a 
weekly program (with the weekly nag/forfeit program) which degrades player 
rankings.

For players 2000 and above:  Lose one point if you haven't moved in the 
last week, lose two points if you haven't moved in the last two weeks, lose 
three points if you haven't moved in the last four weeks.
For players 1900 to 1999:  Lose one point if you haven't moved in the last 
week, lose two points if you haven't moved in the last two weeks.
For players 1800 to 1899:  Lose one point if you haven't moved in the last 
week, lose two points if you haven't moved in the last four weeks.
For players 1700 to 1799:  Lose one point if you haven't moved in the last 
two weeks.
Ratings under 1700 don't degrade.

This system isn't carved in stone.  I submit it to stimulate 
ideas.  Obviously the system can be manipulated.  A player can accept the 
occasional game and move very slowly.  I could come up with a much more 
elaborate system, but no system is perfect.

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