Getting Everyone Involved

[Sigma]

I think the reason that our team's been pretty inactive is because no one has anything to do. We all just kinda sit back and watch Dave play the save, and nod in agreement whenever someone makes a suggestion. Well I think I might have the solution.

If we create several "unofficial" positions, such as a Science advisor, military chief, governors, etc., then people will have something to do in the game, a "role" so to speak. They don't have to have any power to make decisions, they don't even need to be elected. The job would be to gather information, report it in that office's thread, suggest actions, and facilitate discussion. For instance, a Science advisor could look up the next techs that can be researched and the length of time for each, and come up with a strategy of what to do next, and maybe a long term one as well. That would in turn generate discussion and get people involved in the game.

What do you think about this? I know that if I actually had a position, I would pay attention to the game and actually be involved. Right now, I'm just kinda watching, because I really don't even know what's going on. And if you like the idea, what are some other positions we could create, so that way everyone could have something to do?

 

[dutchfire]

I like the idea, but until we get some more cities, meet other civs and all, it isn't very usefull.

 

[Zeikko]

I'm only watching too. And i feel like i've nothing to do. But don't know if i wanted any position or responsibility. But maybe your thing could work, but can't you do all that without any unofficial position? Like think about next techs and all.

 

[DaveShack]

I could go on strike, and then someone would have to be active.

I'm very uncomfortable chugging along and playing turns without much input. The only MP game I've ever come close to finishing is the pitboss game, and I'm getting killed in that one. My team got an undefended worker snatched in the C3C MTDG because we were thinking AI and left both the worker and a city undefended. Hopefully this game will go better.

 

[Theoden]

But maybe your thing could work, but can't you do all that without any unofficial position? Like think about next techs and all.

We could do it without any positions, but being responsible for a certain area gives some motivation to participate more.
At least on my civ3 MTDG team my experience has been that those who hold a position generally are more active, not only concerning the area they are responsible for, but also generally in the team discussions.

@Dave
While it certainly is a bit worrying that the participation is limited, I think our team forum will liven more up as soon as the game progresses a little farther and we have to make more decisions.