Final Fantasy XIV recently released a new 5v5 player vs player mode called ” Crystalline Conflict. And while for the most part it seems to be going well and people are happy with it, the team behind the game isn’t that happy with how some people are behaving in the mode, so they’ve taken the time to address the issues in this mode in a blog post.
Writing on the game’s websiteDirector/Producer Naoki Yoshida has, in his most parental tone, expressed how disappointed he and the entire team are with some of your behavior, reminding everyone (and I’m slightly/completely paraphrasing here) that you might be pulling that troll multiplayer shit elsewhere could , it’s definitely not welcome Final Fantasy XIV
Yoshida first addresses the issue of “uncooperative/lethargic behavior”:
All PvP content, including Crystalline Conflict, is intended as a combat/skill competition between players. Competitors must do their best for the fight and for that reason uncooperative or lethargic behavior is forbidden. Let’s strive to do our best even in defeat-threatening situations, whether you’re interested in the rewards or not.
Motivating! Next he turns to “taunting,” “insulting,” and “slanderous” language:
Taunting, abusive or defamatory language in chat is not only prohibited in Crystalline Conflict but in all PvP content. The following examples of use of target markers/emotes and other behaviors are also considered taunting behavior and fall under Prohibited Activities.
– Repeatedly using the Quick Chat phrase “Well done!” in an awkward situation
– Repeatedly using the quick chat phrase “Good match!” before the outcome of the game is even decided
– Repeating a certain quick chat phrase excessively
– Persistently placing a negative objective marker on another friendly player
– Use and repeat an emote on a downed opponent
– Launching fireworks at a downed enemy
– Using tell or other methods to harass/criticize a player directly outside of their duty after a game has ended
– Slandering other players through out-of-game means such as e.g. social media
The above is not an exhaustive list of what constitutes taunting/abusive behavior; Most important is how your actions affect the recipient and others around you, as well as your intent behind them.
That’s wonderful. All too often, these kinds of statements from teams are carrot-free, focusing solely on the disciplinary side of things. It’s nice to see a team step back and look at the bigger issues and think yeah most of these players are probably inherently good people who are stuck in a moment that even when things are we should believe worst of all is that each of them is also able to do their best.