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A catalog of my experiences as an employee and citizen of Gaia.
Week Eighty-One: In Between Days
Hey guys,

So we're a week into the Summer Festival and the big water balloon fight is nearing a close. It's been an insane couple of weeks, and this one was craziest (even though I didn't spend as much time in the office).

I'm spending this Labor Day weekend trying to rapidly decompress from the stress of running events.

Slippery When Wet
This event had a few hitches, but all in all I consider it a success. We tried to take some of the best parts of past events, and then spent a lot more time focused on what is actually fun in terms of gameplay.

It's looks like I kicked a lot of the glitches in the butt, except for the glitch where items occasionally don't grant (although, that's tied to other issues on the site - not the event specifically).

The burden now falls upon our event team to make Halloween even better. Aieee, that's a really tall order gonk We have some cool ideas, though, and we're going to start development ASAP!

And Justice For All
One of the toughest parts of this event has been managing user personalities, mentalities, and speculation. After a number of glitches (and being one of the sole keepers of the secrets behind pumping, team size, and active members) I've had to act as referee for the event and make decisions which not everyone liked, but that was necessary to get on with the game.

During the run of this event, especially in the patchy parts, I found myself getting hundreds of PMs from users who decided that the more they PMed me with complaints, the more likely I was to give points to their team rofl There was even a thread on one of the teams' home forums called "EVERYONE PM FLEEP!"

The funniest thing, for me, is how many users thought other teams' users were hacking Gaia to increase their score. I had to make a sticky thread in the event forum saying that nobody was cheating, that the event was proceeding as intended, etc. etc.

The Score
One decision I made at the very last minute (because I thought it was important for users to have fun with this event) was to allow users to see a score breakdown, and to track their launch times.

Generally, I think that an understanding of how their actions affected their teams' score was a good thing and a necessary change. Users knew where to focus their efforts, they were able to organize their teams to work towards common goals, and they became more aware of the potential negative repercussions of hitting a particular team, or throwing water balloons instead of pumping.

I couldn't let them know EVERYTHING about the mechanics of the event -- like how "Active Members" are calculated or how pumping times are adjusted for each time. Too much of an understanding of these specifics would open this event far too wide for cheating and exploitation.

Even with the limited information we gave them, users have found ways to get the upper hand in a negative fashion. It also gave them a reason to complain to me with mountains of math based on nothing at all. A very popular example of this was users who calculated the "pumps per person" average on each team and complaining that Durem's was higher than everyone else's. Two things on the matter:

1) I got, without a doubt, the most # of complaints from team Durem, which wouldn't bother me so much except that they were so far ahead of everyone else most of the event.

2) The average pumps-per-person doesn't really have any relevance with regards to pumping times or launches. The event may indirectly change this value, but there are so many other factors involved that focusing on this will get you nowhere.

Rage Against With The Machine
One of the unfortunate aspects of this event (and something we'll hopefully have a better solution for in future events) is the amount of unacceptable hostility that's cropped up during the event.

On the one side, it's really cool that users are getting SO into the event. Some have taken it so seriously that when they thought the game was unfair, they were prepared to quit Gaia. All that tells me is that they take Gaia more seriously than anyone (I wonder if this type of user is actually less likely to quit than other users?)

On the much more obvious side, some of the behavior breaks Gaia's rules, is hurtful, and is just plain stupid. I'm upset that certain mean-spirited users decided to bring down the tone of the event in this way, and I'm apologetic to our moderation team who had to deal with the fallout from flaming in the event forums.

No Rest for the Weary
I usually don't like to include Gaia in my time off (well, mostly after 3 weeks of almost literally doing nothing but Gaia), but I decided that after this crazy week and last-week's half-written journal entry, I owed you guys my thoughts on the event so far.

That in mind, even though the event's not over yet, I'd like some feedback on a couple of things. You can either include it in your journal response, or PM it directly to me:

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Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

8. What would you have changed about the event?
PostPosted by: Fleep Sun Sep 02, 2007 @ 11:06pm



User Comments: [169] Viewing page 2 of 4 · Goto Page: « 1 2 3 4 »  [add]
Jessica Malatori
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 06:30pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

It was enjoyable.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

I thought it was a really cool idea!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

Yes, it should have been only 3 days long.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Haha yes indeed! I'm not complaining.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

I wasn't here for many past events, but it was better then Valentines and Easter...

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

A better form of it yes...

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

The tenacity and the LITERATE competitiveness that arose from this. I felt very patriotic about my chosen city.

8. What would you have changed about the event?

I'm not sure.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 06:41pm
Fleep if I just make a quick comment...

It was a huge oversight to not realize Moira's (and Edmunds) popularity for this website. Or maybe you guys did. Anyway, I think it was pretty obvious Durem would get a good lead even LONG before the competition began. I don't know... just something to consider in the future.

Durem gets ALOT of attention meanwhile... Aekea people tend to look over, Gambino's NPCs just kinda fade away (Where's Meredith?) and Barton is... Leon and Agatha.

Yeah.

Okay now:
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Somewhat... please see my comment above.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
No idea what you mean here. mad D:

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Not at all.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
Very good, successful, I like the water aspect.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Maybe... doing it in the exact same fashion though would be bad.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The team aspect, water balloons, the summery feel, Pools in town are neato.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Again... see above.

Also: There is so little talking in Event forums... most of it is bumping and what not. This is unchangeable, I feel but it's just a concern I wanna voice.



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Tevokkia
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 06:52pm
You guys did a really great job on this one, Fleep! heart Now go get some well-deserved rest!

Tevokkia's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Answers

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes, although it did give rise to a lot of team hostility, as competition sometimes does. I think the promise of an exclusive item for the winning team may have helped fueled that, as some users are going to feel left out, and once a team gets far enough behind, I can see some people just giving up rather than putting a lot of time into continued pumping when they know they won't get anything for it .

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I loved the media pack, even though my usual computer was down and I wasn't able to use it. That was a stroke of genius and should definately be brought back for further events.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
It's bordering on lasting too long. It's been what ... a week? Maybe four days would have been better, as long as at least part of it was on the weekend. Some users only really get weekend access, while others can only get on at school or the public library. I'm glad the competition ends today, though. That will give people a chance to really enjoy towns without fretting over not helping their teams enough.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I thought so. I was really looking forward to the manga, and had a lot of fun with the whole novelty of throwing balloons at people during the first few days of the event. The media pack was a nice surprise, too.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I thought it was really well done, and generally well-recieved. The whole team aspect was a fun twist, and you didn't give out too many items like some events have. The choices in items to give out was good; I can see a lot of people having fun with the squirt gun and puddle, and shirts were designed in a way that makes them easy to work into outfits even after the event. The scoring explanations were appreciated, as we rather enjoyed checking up on each of the teams to see how they were faring in each category. The wait between actions also wasn't too long; five minutes would have been pushing it, but three was just right to do an action, make a post or two, check your stats, and go do another action.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
I would, or at least something similar. I've heard rumblings of Olympics next year though, so if you're doing both I'm sure you'll have your hands full.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
No lie- I love my storyline updates. But if you're talking about the water event itself rather than the Summer Festival as a whole, I probably threw water balloons and pumped the most, but most enjoyed the changes to towns. I don't usually play in towns much, but I did go in for the sole purpose of playing with the water balloons, squirt guns, and the new emotes. I'd like to see us be able to keep them after the event is over.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Maybe it would cut down on team hostilities in future events if prizes were granted to teams that managed to reach a certain point goal rather than just to the team that had the most. That way, you've got a more friendly competition where you're still soaking the other teams and working with your team, and the team with the most points still gets bragging rights, but people aren't feeling left out and hostile towards other groups.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:04pm

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes, to a certain extent. I liked interacting with people I probably never would have had a reason to before. It was like a larger guild almost, a nice community aspect to it. But a lot of people took it too far, and that's sad. sad

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes I did! Although the flags were way too huge to be used in signatures, which is what I was hoping to do with them. But I did save it and I'll keep all the images for some good memories. mrgreen

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
No, but I am glad today's the last day. It's hard trying to do other things in the 180 second limit because I want to pump as much as I can. sweatdrop

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes I did. Although I enjoy the repetitiveness of it. I'm weird I guess? Lol.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
It was awesome! Having only joined in Dec of 06, I haven't really been able to participate in many events, so I was so happy for this because it was so fun!

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes, but not exactly the same. I think something to do with the 4 teams again would be awesome.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
I liked the feeling of belonging to a team and the teamwork involved. It wasn't just about the individual, we all had to work together to get our weapon to launch, things like that. I also liked that we got different items depending on what team we were on.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
The flaming. It ruined my spirits a little. But that's not really something that can be changed I guess. That's the users, not you. sweatdrop Hmm....I can't think of anything, it was too good!



Made.In.The.80s
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Kyoobistik
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:21pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes! I liked that aspect a lot. Although all of Gaia working toward one goal would have cut down on the hostility...I think that the competition created more hype and more people got excited about it, which is always a good thing. It also gave me a sense of togetherness to be on a team.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
YES! 100% Yes! It made it very easy to make cool graphics to support the team you were on. I've seen so many cool sigs and stuff made for this event!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Hmm. For me, yes, I suppose. I was able to get on almost every day and had plenty of time to fill my drench-o-meter and get all the prizes within a couple days.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yup. n.n

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I think that this is the best event we've had in a while!

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Sure! Or at least something similar to this.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Probably the sense of togetherness being on a team brought, and all the cool graphics and things people made.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I would have liked to see more items or gold given out instead of water balloons...I go in Towns fairly often, but I have way more water balloons than I'll ever use! Also, since there was a forum for all the teams, I think it would have cut down on hostility if each of the team forums were only accessible to members on that team.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:25pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

I liked being on a team and being able to pick a town I liked.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

The media pack was cute; I didn't use it because there wasn't room in my sig, but it could be useful for bumping.... For others' sake, yes, please do try to release fun things like this.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

Definitely not. This being the second week of fall classes for me, I had hardly any time to be online and barely got all of the items in time.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Yes. Very much so. Heck, the squirting kept me interested.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

This one has been a ton of fun! There have been events where I didn't have enough time to collect all the items and I was sad. crying

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

I'd like to see something like it, but never the exact same thing every year. (That's part of why I love Gaia Halloween celebrations. Something new and weird every year! I pray for equipable plush grunnies. wink )

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

The t-shirt and squirt gun are awesome. I want the other shirts, though.

8. What would you have changed about the event?

Make it possible to change teams if you need to (I set a secondary av on the wrong team by accident crying ), or even if you wanted to get all the shirts without having to buy them. sweatdrop



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greenferret
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:39pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
I did like how it was competitive but I think some people took it a little to far. stare

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes 3nodding

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
I think this was a good amount of time, especially for an event of this sort.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
It got a little bit boring after the manga was released. To long for me to wait for the rest of the event to unfold.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I'm not really sure because I have only been here since July of 2006, but I would have to say that this event pwned the Zurg events and the Easter 2007 event.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yep!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The shirts! I love those shirts. I also liked how you made flags for all of the towns.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I would have made it so that the team forums need to be off limit to other teams and that the main event forum could be the war zone.

Also I would like to see an event banner for the header and when we travel to different team forums that their town header would pop up. Its kind of weird when I'm pumping in Durem's team forum and I'm in Barton up in the header.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:41pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
I really enjoyed it. Some people took it a bit to far though, but as a whole I did enjoy working as a team with fellow Gaians.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I adored the Media pack. I collect Gaia art and images anyway, so this made it a lot easier for me. Plus I was able to use the pictures to make me a nifty banner. whee I'd love to see more in the future.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
I personally feel it did last a little to long. Many of the users have lost interest and have left only the most dedicated ones to pump.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes, I really enjoyed all aspects of the event. The manga was brilliant and a really loved the media pack.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
It was different and completely unexpected. I can tell the admins and devs put a great deal of effort into the event for us. I like being able to work as a team instead of against every other Gaian. It took a lot of stress away that was present in both the 05 and 06 Halloween events.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
I'd love too. It was fun. I also really enjoyed the addiction to towns.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Choosing a team and supporting them till the end regardless of out come. It was wonderful seeing so many people with pride for their teams. I was Barton. heart
(The shirts were really really cute too.)

8. What would you have changed about the event?
The length of the event, and the date it started. I feel it went on a little to long and that it was too close to Autumn. I think it should have been held more in June-July time.


I really really enjoyed the event, and I thought it was very cleverly planned. Thanks so much Fleep and Gaia staff. whee *waves a little Barton flag*



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`Kaede
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:42pm
ILYFLEEP~

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
yes, I loved it! It made it feel like there was more of a reason to participate, not just for items or whatever~

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I think it was a great idea, but I don't think I'll personally ever use them.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
at the beginning, I felt it should have been like two days~ but after a while, it was okay this length. so I guess either way would be fine, but longer than this wouldn't be a good idea. C:

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I wasn't really interested in the media pack~ but the rest was fine. like I said above, at the beginning it was kind of slow, but looking back, it was fine.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
this even was so much better than all the ones before, as far as I can remember~ with the competition &teams &items &&the manga... I loved it!

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
yes, but not exactly the same. maybe a bit shorter or something~ &a way to keep people from getting all upset about little things, but I don't really know how you would do that... x'D

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
uhm... a lot of things~ I loved the manga, the competition, &the team shirts, but everything was great!

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I might have made it a bit shorter~ but it was great, I don't really know what I'd want to change.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 07:48pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? NO.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Yes. And yes.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? In a way, yes. Clicking on pump or throw got boring after a couple of days.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga): Not enough to keep me interested in pumping/throwing balloons. That got old fast.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? Not as good as some, but better than others. Halloween 2005 was the best event so far.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? If it was different, yes. Not town vs. town.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The items and the plot update. I'm honest.

8. What would you have changed about the event? I wouldn't have pit the towns against each other.



Twizted Child Eve
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Chronx6
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 08:07pm
If we fight for life...

Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

Yes and no. I think it gave an edge to it that kept people into it but they got TO into it ^^' As I'm sure you noticed

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

Didn't look but if its what I think it is I'd say keep releaseing it. Those things tend to be pretty cool

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

Yeah by a day or two. Come the last day or two everyone was either: a) bored, b)'Ah Durem is gonna win. I give up), or c)Still to hyped up Oo but I don't think that had to do with the time ^^'

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Yes....but I would have liked to see...I dunno...more? Maybe more give away items, more actions you could do, something like that I guess :/ its hard to explain.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

Overall better because it seemed...smoother to me. But eh.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

Eh sure. A few things might need to be tweaked but I don't see why not.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

That it was a fight on some level I suppose...

8. What would you have changed about the event?

Not disclosed the prize aspect/said everyone will get something. Might have helped keep the anger down ^^'

Will we find what we want?
commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 08:24pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes very much so

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I loved the media pack. Definetly should be things like this for future events

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Mabe by a day or too

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
Best event this year

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes. very much so.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The competitiveness
(and towns)

8. What would you have changed about the event?
More items instead of baloons and gold?

All together, I must say that I loved this event.

Thank you fleep!



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Gamine
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 09:03pm
Wow...lots of responses, I think mine will probably get lost in the shuffle. Might as well throw my two cents in, though.

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes and no. On the one hand, that sense of "us against them" makes for a really fun event. But on the other hand, when you entrust that to tens of thousands of people who are notorious for taking things too seriously and getting really touchy...

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yeah, that was a really neat touch smile

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Honestly? Yes, a little bit, especially when it got to the point where my team was so far behind Durem that there was really no physical way to catch up. It was a foregone conclusion Durem would win even after the first day, so after I got my balloon items, there was really no motivation to pump. Plus, I didn't find any particularly compelling conversation in the forums themselves, so there was nowhere to encourage me to stay and chat. As enjoyable as the event was, it kind of got a bit..stale towards the middle of the week.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I guess. The manga was really good, but I didn't personally consider it part of the summer event itself. It's not as though reading the comic made me want to go and pump some more. I think the monotony of the pumping aspect itself was what eventually chased me off, not the lack of new content

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I liked it, but I still preferred stuff like Halloween 04. There's still that competition element, but there was no "winner" in the end, and people could switch sides at will to collect the prizes. All in all, I'd give it a B.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Maybe with some tweaking sweatdrop

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
It was different, it was unique, it had a fun concept, and the shirts are pretty cool =P

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Math is far from my strong suit, and I know you guys know your stuff, but it still felt like Durem's team size played a part in their winning. It got to a point where no one could catch up, and I know I'm not the only person who eventually thought, "why bother?". Maybe some more balances need to be put in place. I'd also prefer if it were shorter.


Thank you for giving us this opportunity to share our feedback, Fleep smile


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 09:11pm
I'm gonna answer the questions xD instead of just stalking your journal :B

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
I loved it, it was a change from just pushing buttons and talking, gave some umph to the event :3

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
the media pack was lovely <3 I think you should for sure release them for next events

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
the longer the event the more fun for me :] plus a better chance of getting the items

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
yes indeed, I'm still active :3 and interested


5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I think it was a really good change, and got the whole site involved :3

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Indeed

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The ability to join towns, the fact that the actual npcs took part in the event. I loved the weapons :]


8. What would you have changed about the event?
I think I would have made it a little more challenging to pump.
For example:
when you launched an attack at barton the gun would break but it wouldn't stop the process of pumping. I think if it actually made the pump bar go down it would be great :]


great job on the event fleep and all others <3



[!Cactuar!]
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Sheshira
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 09:13pm

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
I love the competitive aspect of the event. As others have mentioned it was unfortunate that towns did bring out the worst in each other. Not minding the spam (though only specifically related to bump and pump threads) it was the "go to hell" etc that I did mind. I think there was an overall confusion over what was "raiding" a town versus what was plain "flaming" I think that unfortunately there seemed to be an overwhelming lack of adhering to the T.O.S. regarding flaming which was annoying.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I thought it was a great way of creating community among each of the teams. I think it should be used for future events.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
I believe the time that the event took was appropriate. What I thought was the original length of the event, I thought it was certainly too long then I heard about it ending today and I think it was the right length for an event.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I certainly believe that Gaia did alot to keep Gaians happy. Everything was impeccable. It gave us something to salivate over (okay for me it was Edmund) such as the new bits of info in the plot, the sense of community via the media pack, and items were great (clothing is always loved).

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I do think that the way a person divided themselves was more complicated than in the past.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes, I would.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
I loved the water balloon fight aspect of it, and that it was divided into four towns.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Definitely need more reminders that despite it being an event, T.O.S. still needs to be adhered and obeyed and maybe clarification on what is "trashtalk" and "flaming" and what is an appropriate raid.


commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 10:03pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes.
2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
YES! If possible include graphics that weren't used in the pages, just to make it a bit diferent.
3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Nope.
4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I suppose...
5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
GREAT!!!!! This is the first big even I've been a part of it was fun!
6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes, but with changes.
7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The community. LOL.
8. What would you have changed about the event?
I would have put a little timer on the screen to say how much more time is left until I can pump again!



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treblesome trouble.
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commentCommented on: Mon Sep 03, 2007 @ 11:13pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
To some extent, yes. The competition was very chaotic and there seemed to be less use of strategy than anticipated; so the competitive aspect was essentially left up to the users only (no team captains, organization, etc.). However, it was fun to get psyched for our teams and get creative with the banners and such.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes! I think the media pack helped users to choose them over ones other users made (which spam up other websites such as photobucket with temporarily needed pictures, and were usually offensive and/or low quality).

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Not really. It's tricky because if it's too short, not everyone gets a chance; if it's a little longer than that, bugs come in; and after than people start to get bored again. Perhaps one day shorter. =]

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)?
Yes. The conspiracies also kept people interested--on thier toes with emotions... however depressing that sounds.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
It was more controlled by the users than past events, which sometimes proves to be a dangerous thing. But heck, in this particular event there's probably no way to make it more controlable. Overall, I loved the idea, but it was a bit too freelance for my taste.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Maybe, but I believe you can come up with something similar, but better. You would definetly have to add new things next time to keep people interested.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
That users who can't use towns can still participate. Plus that you have so many choices of how you want to play (throw balloons, try to get hit, pump, etc.)

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Less forum action, more towns. Users who play in towns typically wear their emotions on thier sleeves and the forums show it. Perhaps if collecting something around towns (or visiting the pools, etc.) could add points to our teams, it would balance out the chaos in the forums.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 12:25am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Definitely whee

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
The media packs were a great addition, and I would love to see them in future events.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Not at all 3nodding

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
I would have like to see more team specific items. Like, maybe a holdable, team colored balloon, or a team colored towel (dammit, I want a towel! It's a water festival, there should be towels! xd ) Other then that, I thought the amount of content was great.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I loved this event. I thought it was alot of fun, and it seemed like you guys had put alot of time and effort into it. I've enjoyed all of the events that I've been around for though, and they do just seem to keep getting better ^_^

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
YES!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Umm...The pools were awesome, and I loved the whole idea of it in general.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Hmmm... Maybe keep people from posting in each others bases? So to help reduce some of the taunting? I dunno...


I would like to make a suggestion for halloween if I could! Back in... I think it was '04 or '05, they had it so you had to be wearing a costume or Jack item to go trick or treating in the shops, and I would like to see that come back. I think that encourages people to dress up and get in the spirit. I know it kinda limits people who made a costume without one of the one's specifically meant as costumes, but there's always trick or treating in towns, or just throwing on a ghostie when you want to trick or treat whee



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 12:33am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? No, I don't because too many people take it to the extreme.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Personally, I didn't have much use for it. I'm sure in general it was liked and it should be continued.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? No, I think the event lasted a fair time.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)? Somewhat. It kept me interested enough to check and as I was already actively pumping when I could, there was a bit more to look at.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? The event as a whole was pretty good. I'm not a fan of competition but it was still fun to an extent. I really wish there had been rewards for pumping. It seemed rather silly that you got three items, water balloons, and gold for throwing balloons but you never got anything for pumping. It didn't seem to balance out the idea that it was such a great way to get points for your team.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? Yes, for the most part I would. I think you might want to tweak letting one team have so many more members despite that it supposedly doesn't affect the score.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The heart of Team Barton. We never did give up.

8. What would you have changed about the event? I would've given rewards for pumping. It wouldn't have been every 5 pumps but more like every 100 pumps got you something. It would've been an incentive to keep working. I think a lot of people got bored and gave up because they got nothing for pumping.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 01:00am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Not really. I've never really being into competitive stuff, and it caused a lot of hurt feelings. And needing three mules to get all of items isn't optimal (I have two sad ).

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Having it was nice, but it didn't really contain anything interesting.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? Sort of. Longer is generally better, as it allows more people a chance to do something. On the other hand, the team rankings stayed static for about half of it. I'd suggest breaking it down into day-long rounds.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga) Not really. The media pack was uninteresting, and the manga had little to do with the festival.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? Better than Easter, not as funny as Valentines, and less focused than any of them.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? I'd like to have something around this time of year (or even earlier), but not in this form.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The changes in Towns were nice.

8. What would you have changed about the event? Well, there weren't many items, and those there were aren't very interesting. Some sort of theme beyond a water fight would have helped with that. The way water balloons work promotes trolling, which is the opposite of good. The storyline, and the stuff in towns is neat, but none of it really ties into the forum war. It doesn't feel like you guys had a clear idea of what you wanted to do.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 01:18am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?


I did, specifically I liked that this event required TEAM competition. Events focused on individual competition usually do not appeal to me.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

N/A Did not use it.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
I think 3 to 4 days should be about enough time. The first two days people usually get too insane to actually enjoy the event, so giving it two more days makes everyone calm down a bit.
Now 5 days or more is pushing it. sweatdrop

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)?
Yes, definitely.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

Past events, seemed to me focused at making a "top 10" of individual users that had the highest ranking. If you were nowhere near that mark, you felt kinda left out.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

HO-YES!!!!!!!!!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
It sort of incorporated Towns the feature, with Towns in the world map. Towns, the was decorated beautifully, by the way. It was such a pleasant place to be!

In the forums, contrary to what you may think based on the whining pm's, Fleep, people did have a good time. It really promoted team spirit, and despite the first 2 days of intense taunting, I could see a good community spirit prevail.

I have never seen such great event-related art made by users: songs, signatures, banners.
It was truly a great experience.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Length. It was a tad too long.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 01:37am
Great job, Fleep! You and your team really got everyone involved with this event. I show we're at 95,000 users right now, so I don't know whether we hit our goal of 100k, but we sure tried. Edit: Yay, we hit over 101,000 users, so even those on non-winning teams will get a prize. whee ...as long as they were on sometime today.

And now, for your questions:

1. I am a Q&Aer, and, more fundamentally, a lurker. ninja Seeing the mean things some Gaians said during the event made me wonder whether the "competitive aspect" had been worth it. sweatdrop As Juno said in her journal earlier this week, "That is why we cannot have nice things, Gaians." confused

2. I did not take advantage of the Media Pack. My team (Barton) had already created 5 or 6 sig banners. I was particularly proud of "This is Bartaa!" and the one about our team spirit and fair play, but the ones highlighting support of Gaia's first town and Gaia's first shopkeeper (Ian) were also really great.

3. The event felt like it lasted too long when it seemed I was the only one pumping for hours during the middle of the night, which is when I am able to be online due to my work schedule. sweatdrop I pumped and pumped and pumped and pumped, and the number under the sadly-underfilled Mega-Soaker went up by 1 point. It was really discouraging, but I kept on pumping, because that's how we Bartans do it. crying Note: "Active Member" evidently had nothing to do with who was online, at least for my team. sweatdrop

4. I was busy working on the Water Gun prize and pumping for my team. I was really excited about the Manga release, though. I've really been missing Ian for the past couple of years.

5. The timer was necessary, although frustrating. People from other teams came into our home forum and said mean things a lot. Many of them were from Durem. Occasionally another Duremite would then pop in and apologize. I guess they were getting tired of their poor team spirit image.

6. It's a good time of year for an event. I would like to see it next year.

7. My favorite thing about the event? The good sportsmanship shown by my team. We focused on pulling together, and it doesn't look like we'll win, but we know we were good sports. 3nodding

8. I have a hard time believing the math worked the way it was supposed to, unless flaming in other teams' forums was supposed to make your team gun go off more frequently. sweatdrop If the Active Member number had reflected online status as part of its calculation, my late-night pumping would've felt worth more, I think.

There you go! More feedback than you had thought possible, very likely! sweatdrop Oh well, good luck to you and to your team, as well.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 01:38am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yeah, it was fun!

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? I didn't use it. But for people who don't know how to make stuff like that on their own then yes you should.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Just a tad, I think a week would of been good

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga) The first week, yeah

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? Well it has been one of the better events. The last really good event was halloween. But thats always my fave

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? Yes, or something like it but different. Just make it shorter...

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The competitiveness of it

8. What would you have changed about the event? Shorter


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:31am
Aww, poor Fleep... I think you guys did a fantastic job on the event! Screw all those other people who are complaining. scream heart

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes and no. I liked that we could each pick a team and get a friendly rivalry going with other Gaians, but a lot of people started taking it way too far. I think a lot of the flaming was a result of the fact that teams gained points for having water balloons thrown at them.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes, totally! heart

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
It did seem to go on for a little long - I think four or five days would have sufficed. But it's not that big of a deal on the whole scale of things.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Not quite enough - it's closely associated with my feeling that the event was just a little bit too long. It also seemed that the storyline update didn't directly tie in with the event.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
Definitely one of my favorites!

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yep!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
I absolutely loved that you guys gave us some information about the scoring. Not enough to allow people to manipulate the event, of course, but just enough to allow us to formulate some strategies for winning. I would definitely like to see this again in the future instead of some ambiguous scoring system. Blind speculation isn't very fun.

I also thought that the water balloons and pools in Towns were extremely well done, even though I don't really play Towns that often.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I think the idea of giving points to teams that got hit with water balloons was good in theory, but I would seriously question whether or not to put something like that in another event. It seemed to be the source of a lot of trolling and flaming, and for so few points in the whole scheme of things!



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:54am
Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes and No. It got a bit heated.
2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes. More would be great.
3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Nope. Was a good length.
4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes.
5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
It was slighty better.
6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Sure, why not.
7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
I liked the team shirts.
8. What would you have changed about the event?
Less hostility between the teams.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 03:08am
I've got a suggestion for you. You should post your favorite ideas in next blog.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 03:16am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? It's a double-edged sword. I like it, but it's the thing that's most likely to cause exploitation.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Hmm, it was quite cool, though I thought many of the better sigs/banners came from editing other sources.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? 2 weeks would have been too long, for pumpers, but I think this worked out fine.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)? Hard to say. The original release occupied me for ballooning, as did the manga release. However, once everything was 'out in the open' (i.e. no surprises left until the end of the event when we find out what the winning team gets), it's harder to maintain interest in the event as anything more than a background process.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? Very good, definitely in competition between this and the first Hallowe'en event for how enjoyable it was.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? With a few variations, I might not mind it, yes. Although I'm 'secretly' hoping for an Olympics event. ninja

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? Definitely the balloons and the flavour text for bombing someone. This is always the best part of events for me.

8. What would you have changed about the event? Mathematically, I would have probably removed the 'being hit gives points' mechanic from the game, but since I don't know what the full system is, I'm not sure I would if I knew how the other mechanics affected things. Doing so would also remove cause for people to try and grab the attention of others by being excessively rude, since they would no longer gain points for acting in that manner.

I probably wouldn't have had it as a zero-sum game, positive-sum instead, but with a definite improvement in reward for the actual victor. Zero-sum, in my mind, is cause for a great deal of schadenfraude.

Pumping as a game-action was somewhat lonely: possibly something to make it a little more communal? Flavour text (c'mon, we know Gaia loves its innuendos), perhaps.

Last but not least, I personally think it's a good idea to have very long-distance targets in games. The majority of items/rewards being achieved at 50 balloons was good; I probably would've added something at, say, 400 to 500 pumps, so those who really want a target to work towards (since the event is a week long) have one. With the four most recent events, once you had all the items, it became a little too repetitive. Not to mention that long-distance targets keep the "what's in the box?" suspense going for much longer. Although I can see that the "best team gets an item" is certainly in this direction: I just prefer things a little more personal, so you can say, "I worked hard for this."


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 03:31am
Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
In theory, yes. The reality of it is, no. However, this competition has been better then past ones.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes, and yes. :3

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
For gameplay like this, a week is pushing it, though doing it over a weekend doesn't really work either.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
It would have been nice to see more to the manga update and maybe some character/NPC interactions like we've seen at the balls.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
In general, I've liked this one the best out of all the events I've taken part in on Gaia--I would like to think that's saying alot as I've been here over 3 1/2 years now. However, the hostility and asshattery was a bit more pronounced then usual, though this is also a recurring problem with Gaia events that involve gameplay. The Halloween 2k5 Grunny event was almost as bad and openly hostile as this one was. The Halloween 2k4 event would have been great--had the game been explained at the beginning and the servers hadn't kept crashing keeping myself and a lot of others from playing at all.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Something similar to this would be fun! ;D Who wants to pass up a chance for free items and getting out of our normal threads to meet others?

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
I loved that there were both unique items and ones everyone gets for doing the same thing. Can't complain about earning gold either. Oh, and I'm loving the funny sayings when you hit people. Who's the Tank Girl fan?! KABLAMMO!

In happy fantasy world, I would have said the team spirit and friendly competition. Didn't turn out that way, sadly.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Honestly, there isn't anything the development team did wrong in this event--it had so many elements that made it fun and kept my attention. I thought it was about as good as events get: lots of well pixeled items and gold, storyline update that makes sense, image packs for us that are nicer then our screencaps... If you can find a way to cure internet asshattery, then it will be perfection.

Fabulous event guys, thank you! heart



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 04:02am
well i wont spam your messages with my thoughts as usual so here's what I thought

I really liked the event, BUT, there wasn't enough going. Just throwing water balloons is too little. Now I gotta admit, I did witness an awesome scripted phoenix wright roleplay and that was fun to watch. It was also nice that the event was competitive but at the same time, there was way too much fighting going on about it. Of course the more popular team is going to have more losers. This doesn't mean that certain team is made of all egotistical ariyan overlords... If only there was a way for the users to see that. it felt a bit like the olympics way back when (which the real ones start this friday I think biggrin *celebrates*) and that was good.

I dont think the even should be repeated. There should be an annual Summer Festival though, with more things to do. Such as the big balloon fight would be one of the events at the festival, like a real festival. And there could be pvp fighting tournaments, and swimming competitions or something. Okay, not so much swimming competitions, but something else. Balloon throwing just isn't enough. Also we should have gotten items for pumping for our team since it's hard work and takes a long time. And no more pushing dates back >: even though I know that's not your department, just saying..... August 31st and not sept 7th would have been nice. Now I have to hurry up and get my dorm unpacked so that I can get online that night... >>

The media pack thing was cool though. Definately loved it ♥ Well keep up the good work!


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 04:28am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes, also that you got the chance to mingle with others that supported the same team as you.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes; most definitely.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Maybe just a tad, but it still gave users the opportunity to participate if they had missed the first few days of the event.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga) Yes, but I feel the NPCs featured in the forum event, could've hopped in a bit more, encouraging the users(especially towards the end) to give it their all. (BTW, when is Josie going to get her own NPC account? gonk )

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I missed previous events so I can't make a fair comparison.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Sure

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
My team shirt.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
A lot of the users attitudes going to about to "support "their team. Also, setting a more clearer deadline, a lot of the users thought the forum event was ending when the goal of 100K users online, so a number of them stop pumping for their team.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 05:44am
Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
I loved it.. i thought it was great to have like a team sport thing and the event was one by the most loyal fans xd

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes i thought it was pretty awesome. i always love having gaia artwork from events and i thought it was a great touch.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
hmm maybe a little.. its seemed to get a little stale after a while and was just the same thing constantly

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
yeah the manga was awesome.. it didnt really seem connected to the event though.. but manga is always awesome

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
much more peaceful.. i didnt see as many angry gaians as with previous events and when ever someone tried to be mean and flame other teams people enjoyed pointing out they were stupid for doing so xd

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
yes very much. not exactly the same though. but another summer festival with some different games.. but the whole dodgeball type thing should stay

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
items.. ofcourse xd more things to customise ya avatar for an event are always fun

8. What would you have changed about the event?
i would have had seperate prizes for the pumping like with the bombing.. so then people would have bombed 50 times then pumped 50 times xd and maybe have had the water splash item as a prize for actually being splash like 30 times


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 06:06am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yeah, it was a lot of fun. Too many mean-spirited people on my team especially, though (Durem).

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Hell yes! I loved it. Thanks, guys.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Not really. It was a good test of endurance.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Definitely enough. It's been a great week.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I haven't participated in many, but this is my favorite so far.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes, please!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The teamwork, meeting people, forming friendships with people from other teams...

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I dunno. Maybe something to balance out the number of users per team.

Thanks, Fleep! I know it's been a hellish week for you. We appreciate all your hard work.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 06:11am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

Absolutely - Which is something I loved. Even though I was on the Gambino team, I loved the team spirit.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

Yup - it definitely came in handy!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

Mmm, only by a day or two.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Yes.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

MUCH better. Enjoyable, good fun. Loved the pools in town, and throwing water ballons is always awesome.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

yes, yes, yes. Please make this a yearly event.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

Throwing balloons at people ;D

8. What would you have changed about the event?

It got a little frustrating watching durem doing so well with so many people. I am not really sure how one would fix that, but I think I would love to see more NPC action!


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 06:44am
While I didn't get nearly as many PMs as you, I think I actually appreciated knowing that users were actually concerned about the event. I usually get just get demanding PMs and while an event didn't change that, I did end up getting more genuinely concerned questions than "omg so-and-so r cheating!! scream fix it!!!" But I guess, you probably got a lot of PMs "explaining" the event you coded to you, too. razz

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yes.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Yes, please do!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? Maybe a few days less might've been better. But lasting as long as it did allowed me to still participate even though I had a busy weekend.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga) I think something hooking us into the story more might have been better. Even if it was just a few posts of NPC banter in the main forum.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? This is the best event since the olympics in 2004. Period.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? I think a variation of it might be good, to keep it fresh. A tomato fight, for example, might be fun. xd

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? More to do than just posting, yet not an immense amount of work to accomplish anything. And multiple paths are good. If you wanted the items, you had to throw balloons. And if you wanted more points, you had to pump. Together it's a fair amount of work, but neither one was overwhelming.

8. What would you have changed about the event? The launch glitches. gonk Not the lots of launches at once one, but the ones that continued until someone stopped them. Yeah, it's not a "feature" of the event. razz But that would be my one complaint about it.



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Feather
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 07:04am
*spots cure reference*

1. Yes. Cool stuff. Some people are slightly too passionate, but not that I saw.
2. Yes, although the main work should be put into the event itself rather than glossing it up.
3. I felt it should have been about a quarter shorter than it was.
4. I like it when it all comes as one big release, personally. Maybe one new thing a day is better?
5. In comparison, better than previous events.
6. Maybe, but it'd need some reworking, such as more transparency in pumping and scores, as well as a progress bar that was updated faster.
7. Towns balloon fight. Pity it didn't add much to the actual forum event.
8. Made towns balloon fighting actually impact on the results.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 08:24am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yeah it was really fun, you have to choose between getting better yourself and getting the event items and the greater goal, which was not always easy.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I liked it, and liked what other users did with it, but I didn't use it myself

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
at the start of the event, I thought it was way to long, but then when you get pumping and throwing on monday, you wish it would last another week.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga).
I don't think the manga had anything to do with the my interest for the event, but perhaps thats also because I'm asleep when you're slowly releasing page after page.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I don't mind that you couln't get any items in towns. I liked this much better than the other event's that had you click in the forums (you know the zapping and all), but I also like going past the stores.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yeah that would be nice, or perhaps a winter version ?*hinthint* I would like to be able to pelt other gaian users with masive amounts of snow and winter is more a time to be inside although ofcourse you already have christmas but perhaps around beginning of february? After all summer is the time when most people go on holiday and now you timed the event with the starting of most schools also not perfect I think.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The teamspirit

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I would make the team forums only available for teammembers, so you would have to go to the general event forum to throw baloons at others and the content of the team forums would be much nicer.



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mattmagician
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 08:50am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yeah, it got a tad out of hand, but it was okay.
2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yeah, please do!
3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
maybe a bit, but not too much!
4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Manga=WIN. And it was pretty well responded
5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
Hm...i haven't been to a ton, but i like this so far of all the others i've seen.
6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yeah, no doubt!
7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The new art of Moira heart
8. What would you have changed about the event?
hm...
Maybe less time between throws?


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 08:53am
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes and no. I like the four way split of the event but I hated all the people crying about how Durem (my team *flexes*) was cheating. I lost count how many posts were breaking ToS and Guidelines its not even funny. A better eye should have been kept for these posts

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yeah I did but I didn't D/L it

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
While it did only last for 2 weeks, it was a very long two weeks.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Nope. With just the items that were got from hurling the balloons and one comic page being released much more was needed. Yes the squirt gun and balloons in the towns were cool, do we get to keep them or do we loose them after the event is over. Although I do like the pool, it feels kinda lame.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
Well since this my first event of this magnitude, I can't answer this.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes but with more control and Lanzer and L0cke participating domokun

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Like I said, the pool is nice and so are the water balloons and water guns. But please let us keep them. I got a ton of balloons I got to throw at my friends and I don't want them to go to waist

8. What would you have changed about the event?
More security in the posts and more content. And more mod participation from 2 specific mods



The Enforcer666
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 12:33pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

Yea, it was awesome, I had neer really gotten into an event before, but this made me want to.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

Yes and Yes. xp

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

It should've lasted longer! No great war really ends after all haha. If it lasted longer it probably would'vee stirred up alot more drama though.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Yea! I think its cool that Gaia is open to more things then just making themslves big, why not use the market to you and your members advantage?

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

Loooooves it, but it was alot more hostile, someone's feelings probably really got hurt, but its just a game.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

Yea, if I'm still around then.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Taunting the other team haha, I'm normally a nice and good person on the forums, but it was a time of war! It was fun t at least pretend to be the opposit.

8. What would you have changed about the event?

The time lapse in between, at first I was into the event, but towards the end I just dididn't want to take the time to wait honestly, plus it took me forever to even try to load towns.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 12:58pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Of course. I'm a very competitive person.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Media pack? You mean those backround things? Sure. I personally don't use them, but I guess if you can, why not?

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
Well, based on the way it worked (Durem takes the lead in the first day and no one catches up) I think so. But perhaps if the system worked a little bit differently....

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Of course. I wasn't as interested as I was on the first day, no doubt, but I still managed to get a few pumps in here and there each day.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I liked it. Most events are based on popularity (even though the most popular city still won) and I didn't think that Aekea would have a chance.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
SNOWBALL FIGHT! Of course.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
Well. I couldn't hit you with a water balloon, since we were on the same team, so hitting Cindy with a water balloon!

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Make a way to lower your opponents score. It'd make it more interesting. However, when you lower your opponents score, you don't raise your own.

That, and instead of posting with Leon, post with Rina. I would LOVE to hit her with a water balloon.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:03pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?Yes. Nothing like a bit of friendly rivelry.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Loved it.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
No. It was fine as it was. There was enough time for every one to get involved. Not everyone has time at the weekend which has traditionaly been when past events are held. Having it go over a whole week made it a lot more relaxed (at least for me xd )

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yes. For me the manga is always a fantastic thing to look forward to. The media pack was a pleasent surprize heart

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
One of the best ever! (Sorry but nothing will ever top halloween 2K4 that will always have a special place in my heart)
I know you mention the unpleasentness that some users resorted to but, you should have seen the grunny event for halloween 2K5. That really left a very unpleasent vibe on the site that lasted for months after. What I saw at the water fight was very mild compared to that.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes please 3nodding

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The team spirit for the different towns. It was great to see such a wide range of people working together.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
Errmm nothing that springs to mind right now.

Well done on a great event biggrin You deserve a huge hug!!


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:07pm
Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
yes, but i felt (as you and many others) that it got a little too out of hand. considering that this is a forum and everyone has the right of speech, i imagine that it would be very hard to control this, but i believe that a major cause of the "trash talking" was due to the ability to recieve points for waterballoons thrown at you.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
it was a nice option to have available, but nothing i couldn't have whipped out in illistrator in like 2 minutes. maybe something a little less generic would have been nice... possibly something like a "dress up" media pack with characters with interchangable clothing options to copy and paste on top of them?

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
maybe just a little bit. with most events that are 3/4 days long, there's a sense of urgency that i just didn't feel with this event.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
yes, i could barely keep myself away from checking the scores every few minutes.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
i think it went as well as could be expected... minor glitches were fixed in a relatively short ammount of time... again, "trash talking" due to the points gained for being hit.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
i think without the points for getting hit with a water ballon, the focus of the event would be more of a team spirit than a hostile tone in the forums.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
making event themed art and discussing it in the forums.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
only the points for being hit. possibly a way to pump in towns the way you can trick or treat or carol. maybe "borrow a cup of water"? and then certain # of cups = 1 bucket?



digital fetish
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:23pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yes! It was so fun to be cheering for your team! I'm glad it's just an event thing though, I wouldn't want it to last longer than that x_X

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? YES, OMIGAWD YES. It was soooo nice to have good quality versions of artwork!!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? I like the idea of it being longer so more people can participate - but by Saturday, Durem was obviously the winner, so the last two days felt useless ;_;

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga): YES! But I HATE SHORT MANGA UPDATES >.< It was too short! Nothing was answered! AHHHH I WANT MORE OF THE MANGAAAAA!!!

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? I joined in January, so this is my third (?) forum event. I liked the idea of different prizes, and how you had to work hard to get that final big item.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? YES!!! Barton will win next year for sure!!!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The separate town forums

8. What would you have changed about the event? Hmm... nothing really.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 02:38pm

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?

Yes, I enjoyed it quite a bit except for the bad sportsmanship.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?

The media pack was really awesome! And it really helped contribute a feeling of togetherness for the teams I think AND that the admins did something special for us users they weren't originally intending on doing. Even though you guys break your backs to do special things for us constantly, it kinda gives us a feeling of "You guys are so freaking awesome that not even Chuck Norris can compare" when you give us something a little extra, as opposed to "Squee! You guys rule, can we have your babies?" So, I'd really love to see the media pack for future events. Unless that is...you guys need to make babies eek

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?

No actually, unlike some of the past events that seemed to drag on, this one had enough content to keep one interested for the amount of time it lasted. There was enough prizes that you could either choose to do them in one day or pace yourself. You know, a little balloon throwing here, some pumping there. I really enjoyed it! Of course, the meter came back which had me screaming in a fangirl joygasm ^.^

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)

Yes! YES! YYYYEEESSSS! This is definitely one of my favorite events to date.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?

I loved it! It had a lot of stuff from past events that I loved, like the meter. There wasn't much of a sense of monotony like some of the past events that were based on random events to get the items THOUGH I do like events like that, for example the Tsubasa quest was awesome. Something that might be interesting to do is hold an event in the same manner you did this one, but maybe grant smaller prizes in a random event kinda way?

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?

Yes I would! I think it's a great event, fun and something to do when your bored on a hot summer day =^.^=

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?

The prizes and just the way that the event was played.

8. What would you have changed about the event?

Unfortunately, the only thing I would of tried to change was the bad sportsmanship, but that really couldn't be helped. So besides that, nothing! I loved it just the way it was.

Though maybe next year we could get pictures of ALL the NPCs drenched? I would loooovvveeee to see one of Sam getting hit by a balloon. *pervert moment*



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Sweet Angel Mary
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 03:37pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
it would've been better had the teams with less people had a chance, i did all those pumps and i get a runnerup item.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
i loved it, i'd like more pics to play with.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
yup it was too long

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
i love the new content, i'm hoping the new stuff this week will be just as good

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
hmm i wasn't here for past events

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
with a few modifications then yes i might

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
free items and lots of users coming together and creating giveaways etc to motivate others

8. What would you have changed about the event?
probably adding a way that the team numbers doesn't affect the score as much so the biggest team doesn't automatically win.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 03:59pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
At first I thought it was a great idea and would be interesting to try but then I saw such hatefulness come out in a lot of people that was hurting others. sad
Pitting Gaian against Gaian and all that stuff...

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Sure!

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
I don't think so because it gives everyone more of a chance to participate.
With the holiday weekend, families may be away, school starting ect so it cuts down on the amount of time some may have had.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Ok by me but you know how bored and how little attention spans some have, haha.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
It was fantastic this time around because the event didn't make Towns inaccessible like past events have and the special features in Towns actually worked this time and I got the feeling someone official was on hand to take care of problems instead of leaving us in a lurch all weekend (unlike the Easter event for example) Great job!!


6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Yes but perhaps without the competition. It seems to bring out the beast in some people.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
The different things in Towns biggrin

8. What would you have changed about the event?
The looooong wait time between pumping/throwing balloons.
I understand it may have had something to do with preserving the servers and certainly I appreciate that but how about 1 minute next time like the time for posting?



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Stellar Phoenix
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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 05:00pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yes. (: Even though it got a little out of hand, it was fun.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? Yes sir. But I would have liked the more of the NPCs. Oh well. It's a good idea though.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? Maybe a little. >O>;

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga) I was active the first couple of days, and loved the manga. But that was it. <O<;

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? I liked it a whole lot.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? Maybe. o:

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? The same as all events. Free items. >w<

8. What would you have changed about the event? Uh. I don't know. Y'all did a great job on it. So I don't think there is anything I'd change.
commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 05:27pm
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event?
Yes and no. I liked the idea of having teams, it threw in another element that made things much more interactive, but I do not care for what it degenerated into. I think promising a unique prize to the winning team had a lot to do with that. In the future I think a competition just for fun would be much better. I also didn't like that after a point the scores were pretty much set and unless one team had a massive catastrophic computer or internet failure, there was really no way to change it.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
Yes, yes, and yes again. I thought it was a great idea. It seems a lot of people enjoy collecting images from various events and it was a wonderful chance to do that. It's also a great chance to truly admire the artwork.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
It was a bit too long for me, and the competition part started to get annoying and mundane. For the reasons mentioned in the first answer it just couldn't hold my attention for a week and I started counting the days/hours to it's end. I think cutting it in half would have been perfect

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Again, as stated above, it did keep me interested for the first few days, but after that it was just too long. Though without the flame war the competition turned into, I think it would have been a lot more fun for the rest of the week and then I'd probably be saying it was perfect.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I think it's the best event yet. There weren't many glitches and it was well thought out. It took out the frustration of past halloween events involved in finding someone who had not been hit yet, and thus took out the viciousness of the mass population. I really liked that, I could sit back and enjoy tossing water balloons without stressing or fighting over it.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
In some form, yes. I would not want to see an exact clone of it, but something similar would be fun. And as stated above, I really think it would be better without the unique prize for the winner.

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
towns, definitely. I thought it was great fun to splash in the pools and throw water balloons in an actual interactive environment. It was a bit dull if you ended up by yourself, but with a few friends it was awesome

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I would have taken out the unique prize for the winner because I really think that's what led to all the petty flame warring. I think everyone should be given the same prizes and leave out the nasty streak that greed always brings to events.



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commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 05:32pm
Hey Fleep! First of all, I want to apologize for those teammates of mine who felt the need to harass you during the event. I had fun, and I hope everyone else did, too.

Fleep's Summer Festival 2007 Feedback Questions

1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yes, I think it really added to the fun. Now I may be biased because my team won, but I think it would have been fun even if we hadn't.

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events?
I thought it was pretty cool, but I didn't download it. I'd say don't bother. A lot of people enjoy making their own.

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long?
It was a bit long. I don't know if it was too long, though. I do think that events should be at least 3 days long so that everyone gets a chance to participate (for those of us who access Gaia at school or work, for instance, and have trouble logging on during the weekends).

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga)
Yeah, I thought that was pretty good. Although I miss the days of searching the World Map to find Cindy or one of the other NPCs to find out what's going on.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events?
I thought it was pretty fun. I would have liked to have seen more team-related special items, though, rather than the gold.

6. Would you like to see this event again next year?
Sure!

7. What was your favorite thing about this event?
If I had to choose one thing, I'd say the furtherance of the plotline. If I could choose two things, though, I also really dig this Durem shirt.

8. What would you have changed about the event?
I guess I would have included the World Map aspect that I mentioned above.


commentCommented on: Tue Sep 04, 2007 @ 05:39pm
Before actually doing this survey, I'd like to point out that I am PICKY when it comes to events.
1. Do you like that there was a competitive aspect in this event? Yes

2. Did you like the media pack? Should we release things like this for future events? I Loved it. and yes, please release it for future events

3. Did you feel that the event lasted too long? It could have been a couple of days shorter.

4. Did you feel as though there was enough new content during the first week to keep you interested (release, media pack, manga). yeah, it was good.

5. How do you feel about this event as compared to past events? It was fun, I liked that we had choices of pumping or throwing balloons, and I liked how the item granting was set up. Even if I wasnt throwing balloons much each day, I could still get the squirt gun, but didnt get it with little or no work. I think that the setup would be good for non trick-or-treat halloween items or non-caroling christmas items this year,

6. Would you like to see this event again next year? Yes

7. What was your favorite thing about this event? We were competing against other people, and not everyone could get all the event items on one account. As mentioned before, I really liked the system for granting items this time around.

8. What would you have changed about the event? The squirt gun could have more poses. Theres a thread in feedback about it. Just holding it to the side or having it holstered to the back would be nice. Even better would be having a "squirting water" post, just where water comes out of it. It's not too late to edit the poses, I know you guys did it for the soot face.



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