Castlevania Dungeon Forums

Off Topic => Off Topic => Topic started by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 24, 2013, 04:17:43 AM

Title: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 24, 2013, 04:17:43 AM
You may have noticed a new Newcomers' Zone.

This area is where newcomers can go, introduce themselves, and have conversations before they are bumped up into regular members.
After these members' posts are observed, the mods and I will determine if that member is to become a regular member.

However, this operation will not be fully completed until later, since I am unable to invest time into it for now.

Please bear with us as we implement this new forum feature.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Ratty on June 24, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
This is intended to cut down on the number of bots we get I suppose?

PS - Anyone reading this, please don't respond to bot/spam threads, that results in more bots coming here. Though people here have been pretty good about that lately.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 24, 2013, 06:06:35 PM
Possibly, though things are still in the works.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: VladCT on June 24, 2013, 06:16:30 PM
It's only visible when I'm logged out, curiously...
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 24, 2013, 06:20:04 PM
It's only for newbies.
You're not a newbie. :P :P :P
Should I make it so that oldies can post in the Newcomers' Zone?  What do you guys think?
EDIT: As I write that, it sounds like it should be a "YES" as an answer, so that newbies can feel welcome.
The board is visible in its entirety to people not posting, in case anyone Googles us.

But, again, things are gonna be set up such that mingling will happen there at first.
Newbies are also able to post in "Classic Castlevania Threads".
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: GuyStarwind on June 24, 2013, 07:10:56 PM
I think I'll post in there at some point. I don't consider myself a newbie but I could at least introduce myself to newbie people.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Pfil on June 24, 2013, 10:31:01 PM
I'm not sure about this, but I think a good feature would be to ask users to log in in order to read the threads.
That way we can make sure no one would make an account just for annoying, and what happens here stays here.
Many forums require a log in to see the threads, and, being this particular forum the more civilized online community I know, I guess that would be a good feature to keep it peaceful here... kind of to make this place our online sanctuary.
I don't know.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: uzo on June 24, 2013, 11:10:44 PM
The ideas and conclusions expressed in this following post have been discussed with management, and are in consideration. I feel it is an important issue so I am posting here to hopefully foster further discussion.

The whole idea behind this change is to prevent ban evasion and quick hit and run forum vandalism. The likes that have been somewhat seen lately, Esco being the latest.

While this idea works in theory, and definitely on a technical level, I believe it is damaging overall to the vitality and operation of this forum. Mainly concerning it's existing members and any new members who are not looking to cause trouble and may have registered because they saw a discussion elsewhere that they wanted to be a part of. They won't be able to, until some time has past, which will likely have dissolved by the time they are eligible. Having a post count requirement so they can only later join the discussion that they came here in the first place for is counter intuitive for new members and simply uninviting.

This is basically guilty until proven innocent. People have to PROVE themselves that they are good enough to grace our full presence in other sections. And while you may never get a direct notice that this is why some people will show up and then leave soon after, be aware that it most certainly is the reason.

The solution I propose is to have more moderators. No offense to the current moderation team, but coverage and action is definitely lacking especially for the amount of people involved. It is painfully obvious that nearly everything falls into Jorge's lap. Jorge has done a phenomenal job, and bad behavior is really low especially for a forum of this size. It is however, too much for one man and undoubtedly irritating for him to have to do everything.

We need fresh blood into the moderation pool. There are capable and enthusiastic people here who I bet will gladly join the good fight to keep our forums civil and clean.

All moderators need to be able to disable a user's account for circumstances like Esco's where he comes back just to post nasty messages, or ban evade. This power should only be used in circumstances where the user in question will not cease their activities, had ban evaded, or performed a serious offense. The idea is that they need to be deactivated until Jorge is available to make a judgement on what should be done about the case.

In addition, it would help if these new moderators were also selected for their time coverage. We have no moderators at night most of the time.

I believe 2 new moderators are necessary. More can be added if that is insufficient to cover future incidents, but 2 should do for now.

We must be sure to pick people who have good judgement, and are eager and willing to do this job. It's not a glamorous job, and certainly doesn't come headache free, but if you want to help the community be a better, more civil, and safer place for all Castlevania fans, then this is a chance to accomplish that.

This may also prevent other issues and countermeasures that hurt some forum members (like VladCT) such mobile internet blocking, and proxy blocking.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Abnormal Freak on June 25, 2013, 12:22:16 AM
You may have noticed a new Newcomers' Zone.

Seems to me a bad idea.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone
Post by: Shiroi Koumori on June 25, 2013, 02:19:37 AM
This is a very touchy topic.
It would be good to get rid of annoying members but it might discourage legit newbies.

Though, I would agree that more moderators must be present.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 25, 2013, 07:03:20 AM
This conversation is leading into unexpected territory, but I welcome the dialogue.
Indeed, UZO and I often discuss forum policies, as he runs a board as well, and it's always good to get insight from other forum admins.

I think the time is approaching, where I will be seeking out new people to help the community.
As UZO has mentioned, though I am greatly indebted to my moderation team, it often falls upon my shoulders to give the public warning, to give the final warning, and ultimately the banning.  Offenders and repeat offenders by now know the forum's schedule, and know to do their comeback attacks in the wee hours in the morning, when there is less moderation activity.  This leads to things like me checking in from my phone only to see a mild headache from people who are somewhat savvy in the ways of ban evasion.

Ban evasion is currently not feasible to fully stop, short of having a 24-hour staff doing rounds.  I can be deterred, and it can be slowed down, and I can certainly make it a headache for a person to attempt it.  Currently I have thought that the people getting banned are human beings, and will do the right thing and realize that I'm not banning them because of any personal issues I have, but rather because the rules must be enforced.  Sadly, I've been constantly disappointed by their inability to take responsibility and accept their ban with dignity.  There are no special cases, here.  It doesn't matter what you contribute or how long you've been here or whatever works you have been doing... the rules are the rules and people don't get 'celebrity' ban immunity, even if getting past forum security is a possibility.  Certainly, these people do not look any better when they succeed, as it only proves that they have no concept of responsibility.  It probably does not help that, online, anyone can talk big.  It takes hard work to not be an ass online.

I will be seeking out people from the forums, people who have proven themselves to be reliable, trustworthy, civil, and know the rules and would be willing to help.

If you think you fit this description, you're all welcome to send me a private message in this regard.

As UZO said, having a stronger moderation team will also allow me to step back and work on more important matters (I haven't done a new tune or a new portrait in ages, and my spritework skills are rusting as we speak).  It will also allow the board to ease up slightly on security measures, so that perhaps those people having issues connecting will benefit.

EDIT:
We have had no new members as of the last few days, so nothing of value would be lost if that subforum were to be abolished.  I understand that it is touchy and I also understand that it may not be the best idea.  I may keep it for people who do join make themselves known there, but perhaps I will allow posting in other boards as well.

The suggestion of a Newcomers' Zone was brought forth by the SimpleMachines Forums community, to whom I reached out in the past when certain security issues began to arise.  It is not my idea, though it seems to make sense on paper, and its two-prong approach seems sensible to me (1. a welcome area for new people, though they can still post in Classic Castlevania Threads, and 2. a method of checking if someone is making an account only to say 'haha I made a new account I'm a l33t h4xx0r').
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Bloodreign on June 26, 2013, 05:51:21 AM
Edit: I've spoken with Jorge, things are cleared up now. When we see new mods, good luck to them. I can however vouch for Heretic, he and his wife had a baby last October, so this little bundle of joy keeps him super busy (from when I was able to speak with him).

Ratty: correct sir, don't respond to bot threads, if you see one, report it to one of the mods, we'll close it, and delete it after banning the bot.

Edit: Typos, they be bad, ugh.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Gunlord on June 26, 2013, 07:41:02 PM
Hmm...while I see where Uzo's coming from, I would respectfully ponder whether or not new moderators would help curb the ban evasion problem. On some occasions it might work, but it depends on who the moderators are. Remember, some ban evaders are not only very persistent but remarkably creative as well. I've seen people evade bans not only though proxies/new IP addresses, but even by constructing elaborate, faked identities. In one instance, a ban evader at one of my old forums actually gained a significant degree of respect from the community before we found out who he was! Someone who's been around for ages, like Jorgey-sama, might be so familiar with constant ban evaders he'd be able to sniff them out via posting styles or whatever very swiftly, but any new moderators would likely be drawn from folks who haven't been here as long. As a result, they may not be as effective in hunting down ban evaders.

That said, I think Uzo's point about a newcomer's corner making the forum a bit more unfriendly, and at the least a bit harder to navigate, is well taken. Additionally, while I don't thin it would wreck the forum, I don't see much point in one either...we haven't had that many problems lately, even with a few ban evaders and sub-par posters here and there. I hew to the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" school of thought...if we've done alright without a board specifically for newcomers, we'll probably continue to do alright, I wager.

In conclusion, I would say that while at least 2 more moderators *might* be a more effective way of solving our (fairly limited, honestly) issues than a newcomer's board, I would caution that they may not be as effective as we hope either, at least when ban-evaders are concerned.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: uzo on June 26, 2013, 08:24:21 PM
The moderators wouldn't necessarily be there to sniff out the ban evaders, just to damage control from any possible rampaging incidents. Normal moderator duties, that's all. The newcomer area will not thwart anyone who wishes to get back in under a new identity anyway. Either solution does not prevent this.

Personally, not in any way speaking for the staff, I don't care if someone comes back but doesn't start trouble and abides by the rules. Their previous identity is totally trashed and locked away. They will never be able to reveal themselves without having to do the dance all over again. Likewise they can never reference any of their past contributions, and interactions here. They may also have to endure unfavorable open talk about their former identity. That to me is quite the punishment enough, if they can learn to be civil and reintegrate back into the populous.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Belmontoya on June 26, 2013, 08:46:20 PM
I totally agree with Uzo on this one.

I read this when it was posted and was thinking the same thing, but didn't have the guts to say anything.

Kudos to you Uzo.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Gunlord on June 26, 2013, 09:02:22 PM
Hm, I see what you're saying. That's a very interesting way of looking at it...while at my old forum, the decision was eventually made to ban that specific ban-evader again, there were some points other raised back then which are similar to the ones you made here. That said, have we had any incidents recently? Maybe I haven't been paying enough attention, but I don't remember anything particularly serious or noteworthy...a few annoying posters left of their own accord after being told off by Jorge, but that's all I can remember. Still, as the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure...no sense waiting until we actually have a situation to search for people capable of dealing with it. They would, after all, need some time to prepare and get used to their position, so the sooner we get more people the better.

I do think it's worth it, however, to think a bit about what kind of organization (if any) our moderators will have. I think it's definitely a discussion folks should have, so everybody can give suggestions and think things over, though if you feel this is a bit off-topic for this thread specifically I of course understand.

Specifically, will there be any sort of vetting period for new mods? How about a hierarchy or any other system of organization? Will all of them have the same sorts of responsibilities, or might they be delegated out? Let me expand on why each of these is important, IMO.

1: The Vetting Period: While we've got a lot of great members here, including those who are still active but have also been around as long as Jorge, remember that being a moderator is still a significant change and a serious and important increase in responsibility compared to being a normal member. It may be that someone who sounds like they'd be a great moderator on paper turns out to be not so great in practice, for any variety of reasons. Some are bad (they're not perceptive or independent enough, irresponsible with their new powers, or show jealousy they didn't display beforehand) while others are just understandable (it turns out they don't have as much free time as they wanted to, or the job puts more stress on them than they thought), but all of them could lead to trouble for us if we're too hasty about making "permanent" moderators. I would advise there be some way of 'testing mods out' for a little while, to see how they do, and/or some system or at least preparation for removing them if they don't pan out, again for whatever reason.

2: Hierarchy and Delegation of Responsibilities: It seems strange to ask about a "chain of command" for an internet forum, since, after all, we're not the military, but again, I do think it's worth considering. First off, even if everyone is given the same "global moderator" status as Bloodreign, it is more likely than not in practice that they'll defer to him and his fellows, given his massive amount of seniority and experience. It goes without saying that Jorge will always be at the top of the heap, since he is an administrator of the forum and would naturally be in charge (Aside: About that, excuse my ignorance, but is Jorge a root administrator? I may be wrong, but IIRC a lot of forums have a "root" administrator, and if one isn't around it can cause a lot of problems).

Even more than that, though, it seems likely all of us would be, again in practice if not in theory, delegated responsibilities depending on our areas and level of expertise. If a fangame designer were promoted to mod, it would probably be expected he would pay the most attention to the Fan Stuff forum, and if a true Castlevania historian were promoted, most would expect him to spend most of his energies protecting the Classic Castlevania discussions.

And, yet another point which goes without saying, we will almost certainly need to organize our staff based on time zones; it won't do us a whole lot of good if we add more mods and they all go to sleep at the same time (allowing our foes to mess around all they want for a few hours). There will probably have to be at least an informal schedule of hours any new mods would be expected to hang around for, distributed among different time zones and so on.

I hope this food for thought helps you guys with whatever choices you make, prunyuu~
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: uzo on June 26, 2013, 10:00:17 PM
Just to be clear, I do think ban evaders are to be re-banned when found out. That's part of the risk and punishment. It keeps them on their toes.

Also, good points to consider. I've been thinking of them myself, but didn't feel the need to post about it yet due to no decision being made so far.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on June 27, 2013, 07:48:29 AM
@Uzo's earlier post concerning moderation, I completely agree.

No offense intended towards the moderators, but I can't help but feel something more needs to be done with moderation when I see a admin handling most of the dirt work around the boards. I recall bringing this up before in a topic a while back about a member who was causing problems (which coincidentally was at night) and how it lasted for a while before Jorge himself finally got on to handle it.


Some new moderators could do this place some good, my only hope is that they are chosen wisely and don't misuse their new power to benefit their beliefs around the board such as being more ban friendly towards the members they disagree with and not towards who they agree with.

They should be totally unbiased when making decisions concerning moderation.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 27, 2013, 10:21:53 AM
Some new moderators could do this place some good, my only hope is that they are chosen wisely and don't misuse their new power to benefit their beliefs around the board such as being more ban friendly towards the members they disagree with and not towards who they agree with.

This is also my hope.
The last thing I'd want is for the moderation team to be heavily opinionated and closed-minded.  There are people in this board with whom I have strongly different opinion, yet a difference in opinion should not be a factor in making moderation/administration procedures.  Only the rules matter.  At least, this is what I have hoped to have conveyed in my time here.  I have tried to be as fair as possible while at the same time not 'ruling with an iron fist'.  Often, a petty squabble isn't really enough to warrant a warning or even addressing the issue.  However, when the forum is disrupted by disrespectful words, intolerant language, and racial/sexual/etc. offensive terms, that does warrant addressing.

On the other side of the coin, the moderation should be able to enforce the law of the forums, regardless of whom is being affected.  This means that they must be able to handle the shift between someone who is a friend, and someone who is a friend who is breaking the rules.

Consideration for candidates is still in progress, and I'm happy to report that the personal message I've received regarding candidates are pretty much on par with my personal picks.  Perhaps at the end of the week I will make a decision and reach out to these people, and if they're ready, willing, and able, we will have some new moderation additions which will, hopeully allow for more forum harmony.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Bloodreign on June 27, 2013, 01:35:35 PM
You know what would help too, don't always leave it for us to find, message us or report the post in question. It helped awhile back when one of the members was getting trolled, though the person got in touch with me by other means, I was able to handle the situation and ban the offending poster. Remember I have a job and life outside the forums so I often don't go running through every topic on the boards.

You see something in question, PM a mod. Feel free to use the following button on the post itself.

Report to moderator
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Laina on June 27, 2013, 08:34:22 PM
I must also agree with Uzo. This is just a situation where there is no clearcut, black & white, right answer/way-people always gonna be asshats, so it falls on us non-asshats to counter them.

Personally speaking, its seems the best we can do is to get some carefully chosen new mods, and perhaps have some current staffers do a little orientation/pep talk. Maybe go over what's worked in their experience (which Mr. Bloodreign has already dropped some knowledge for us to glean), get a schedule of sorts going so as the dungeon's never really left unattended -the mods are humans with lives & other such frivolity, like a need to sleep, so they can't really stake out the whole joint 24/7, but it'll be covered a majority of the time by splitting shifts- just use some planning & preparation.

Honestly though, this is just something that we all need to pitch in on if we wanna keep running a clean operation. This is a great set-up we've got going on, and it means a lot to many different people, wether they make it obvious or not. As a delightful example, I know Pfil's been pretty vocal about it, mentioning several times how this is a sanctuary to her-I would very much like to keep it that way.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on June 28, 2013, 07:18:43 PM
 :) Thanks Laina!  :)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Gunlord on June 28, 2013, 09:19:00 PM
Hehe. Yeah, this place is sort of like a lil' sanctuary for me too, truth be told. I think it is for a lot of people :D
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: X on June 29, 2013, 10:15:18 AM
It does keep one's sanity together when he or she feels really alone and needs someone to talk to.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Ratty on June 29, 2013, 11:32:08 AM
Just to be clear, I do think ban evaders are to be re-banned when found out. That's part of the risk and punishment. It keeps them on their toes.

Also, good points to consider. I've been thinking of them myself, but didn't feel the need to post about it yet due to no decision being made so far.

Dunno how that would work. I was in a community once where a guy ban jumped so many times (like, 20 at least I think) that they created an entire user group for his banned accounts. Then he kissed the owners ass and they actually let him back on, before he (long story very short) started acting like a manipulative lying backstabbing jerk again and they banned him again. He was then happy when a friend of the owner died... yeah guys a real piece of work. I've always been more of a "I don't want to be where I'm not wanted" type myself.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on June 29, 2013, 03:16:05 PM
Dunno how that would work. I was in a community once where a guy ban jumped so many times (like, 20 at least I think) that they created an entire user group for his banned accounts. Then he kissed the owners ass and they actually let him back on, before he (long story very short) started acting like a manipulative lying backstabbing jerk again and they banned him again. He was then happy when a friend of the owner died... yeah guys a real piece of work. I've always been more of a "I don't want to be where I'm not wanted" type myself.

This brings me to a question.

Can't this place IP ban someone?
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Ratty on June 29, 2013, 04:02:45 PM
This brings me to a question.

Can't this place IP ban someone?

I don't know the answer to that but I would assume so. Though as the guy I mentioned earlier showed there are easy enough ways around that.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on June 29, 2013, 04:31:16 PM
This brings me to a question.

Can't this place IP ban someone?

That won't stop someone from registering again from, say, a phone, or their buddies' PC using another ISP, or using Tor to piggyback off of another connection.
Actually the recent evasion wasn't due to a ban; I only test people sometimes by blocking their ability to post without outright banning them.  When an account is really banned, the board says "Sorry, you are banned from using this board".
If someone logs in and it doesn't say that, they're not quite banned.  I just removed a number of permissions they had before.
I always hope that people do the right thing, so it is disappointing when they bite the hook and do the evasion.  It shows me that they really don't care, and really have no concept of personal responsibility.

But a good websearch will easily yield ways to get around an IP Ban, an E-mail handle ban, a username ban, and a host ban.  You are not a l33t h4xx0r just because you know how to use the web searches, you're just a repeat offender with a lot of time on your hands.

One of the methods used to ban-evade is to use a proxy server to connect.  Certain foreign countries, as well as certain phone carriers, use a proxy server to connect.  Currently, that method is blocked.  This is a double-edged sword, however, because, although it blocks someone from using a phone carrier maliciously, it also stops people from legitimately connecting to the board.  Some people's ability to post from cellphones were recently affected because of this.  You can thank the offenders.  In fact, every time you lose an ability to do something, it's their fault. :P

It will be some time before I open up access to the board using such methods.

Like in real life, though, just because there are ways out of prison doesn't mean cops should stop trying to arrest you.
So the moderation team and I will continue to ban people whose attitudes break the rules, even if they find ways to make their way back in.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Lelygax on June 29, 2013, 08:36:12 PM
In fact, every time you lose an ability to do something, it's their fault. :P

So we could post porn in the past until someone posted 2girls1cup or something like that here? lol
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Ratty on July 01, 2013, 04:20:57 PM
So we could post porn in the past until someone posted 2girls1cup or something like that here? lol

IIRC there was an "adult only thread" or forum here before my time. It devolved into a disreputable state and didn't mesh with the pretty much all-ages atmosphere we try to maintain here so it was done away with.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 01, 2013, 11:05:02 PM
Here's some things I thought that would help maintain the forums at peace.

* First of all: Require to log-in in order to read the threads. That way no one can spy on the forum. If they want to participate they should make an account. A database that checks duplicate e-mails is also very helpful.
* A list of recently created users, visible to everyone, so any new user without posts will become logically suspicious, and admins could check the IP so they can come to conclusions. Any new user that don't post, or just post nonsense, could be blocked.

And before anyone come to conclusions about why I'm saying this: it's because I'm afraid that eventually someone from my town could read this and find out that I'm here. I wouldn't want people I know personally from my life to interfere here. They would ruin the experience.

Please, admins, take these suggestions into consideration.
Thanks  :)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Neobelmont on July 01, 2013, 11:15:32 PM
Huh.. There's a new comers zone. Oh Don't mind me :P Going to read all three pages.

So with all this talk of new moderators should we not begin nominating who should fit the bill. Yes there is responsibility
and all so who among us is there that is completely unbiased and can bear the "with great power comes great responsibility" of being a mod hmmmm....  I'll reread just to clarify anything I might misunderstand.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on July 02, 2013, 06:01:01 AM
Yes, you get to nominate people. (http://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/index.php/topic,6284.0.html)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: uzo on July 02, 2013, 07:21:25 AM
Here's some things I thought that would help maintain the forums at peace.

* First of all: Require to log-in in order to read the threads. That way no one can spy on the forum. If they want to participate they should make an account. A database that checks duplicate e-mails is also very helpful.
* A list of recently created users, visible to everyone, so any new user without posts will become logically suspicious, and admins could check the IP so they can come to conclusions. Any new user that don't post, or just post nonsense, could be blocked.

And before anyone come to conclusions about why I'm saying this: it's because I'm afraid that eventually someone from my town could read this and find out that I'm here. I wouldn't want people I know personally from my life to interfere here. They would ruin the experience.

Please, admins, take these suggestions into consideration.
Thanks  :)

I do not agree with having to login to view threads. It is overall damaging to the community. We'll not only seem like elitists, but also many people look to a community's posts before joining in. Often times they register because they started reading something interesting, and wanted to reply.

The forums already block duplicate emails. 90% of them have been doing that for years.

We have a "latest user" at the bottom of the main page. Not sure if that counts for you. You could always do a member search sorted by registration date.

As for your personal life: Honestly, and I don't want to sound harsh, but you should have taken that well into consideration before posting it. You even went as far as to post your photos. Much more you posted a photo of you in a distinguishable costume, inside a home. Sounds like a dead giveaway if someone who actually knew you saw it.

How much you reveal of your identity is your responsibility, not the forum's. The community shouldn't be closed off just because you think you made a mistake in the public eye.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on July 02, 2013, 07:50:59 AM
Huh.. There's a new comers zone. Oh Don't mind me :P Going to read all three pages.

Actually I removed it after consideration and reading this thread.

@Pfil:

Requiring users to log in to view threads defeats the purpose of this board.  Many people come to this board instead of the fossil of a site we've got, in order to get the latest and greatest news on Castlevania.  If you search "Castlevania Dungeon", you will see the site pop up, and the forum pop up second, but the forum contains more information than the site does on the latest games.

That is my fault for lacking the gumption to update the site as often as I'd like...

In addition, whenever I approach a forum and it's locked, it doesn't encourage me to make an account; instead, it encourages me to look for the info I need elsewhere.  This is the same with forums that require you to log in to view attachments and to download items (I totally HATE that, especially with boards like gbatemp.net and the like, where they don't even allow you to click on their links).

So yeah that ain't happening here.

While I appreciate the desire to remain anonymous on the internet, it sounds like there is some deeper-rooted problem going on with you and your town... a problem we're really not meant to deal with, here.  If the people in your town are actively spying on you personally, you should take it up with your local police, not try to get get everyone on the internet to hide you even further from them.  It is up to you, as Uzo said, to choose the amount of anonymity you would like to have.  Further, if the people in your town have a problem with whatever it is you enjoy doing, as long as it's not anything illegal to do, they can go sit on a tack, as far as I'm concerned.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Dark Nemesis on July 02, 2013, 11:49:52 AM
I'll have to agree with uzo and Jorge, the first years here, i was a lurker and it was only a few years later that i decided to join actively here. If i couldn't read the topics and threads here, then i can tell you that 99% i wouldn't have been a member here.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on July 02, 2013, 12:03:52 PM
I know I lurked since 2008 and did not decide to join until 2010.

really just peeped in on discussions to see what was being talked about.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 02, 2013, 01:00:20 PM
It's OK, I just wanted to contribute to the topic with ideas that came out, but I needed to clarify that I'm not thinking about this because of some potential user of the forum, so no one felt offended by the idea.

I used to read all posts to find the latest Castlevania info since the times before Lords of Shadow, so I guess the same happened with me, although I would have created an account to read the info.

And to be honest, I'm happy talking about my life here, I've found more kind hearted and open minded people than I have in my real life (with the exception of some family and a few friends), and I removed my face from the pictures, which aren't even taken in my town. It's nice to hear kind words, for a change, even if it's online.
Yeah I won't stop liking anime, manga and games just because people think it's kiddy stuff and I'm 24 years old, and I certainly can't change the fact that I'm also attracted to women (and that's what I was afraid some people could eventually read about).
I don't think anyone's spying on me, I'm just being paranoid I guess.
But the idea wasn't just personal, it was on behalf of the forum's peace. If the information is available all the time, any user made for annoying / banned user can check if they are talking about him... and things like that.
Anyway, this shouldn't be about me, it's about the forum.

About recent users, if the forum don't require to log in in order to read the posts, I was talking about the possibility of checking newly created users with 0 posts, or just a few posts that make no sense, because they are likely to be users created for trolling the threads or the votes of everyday users.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on July 02, 2013, 06:33:52 PM
Administrators and Moderators can indeed check that.
In fact, I prune the boards occasionally.

Sometimes I hesitate, however, when I see a name of a forum goer who used to post a lot and then stopped.
But yes, indeed, accounts can be pruned by a few criteria, such as (but not limited to) number of posts cross-referenced with date registered, etc.

If you ever feel the forum moving slightly slower than usual, that may be administration (me) running forum diagnostics and maintenance.

Glad you find this place a safe haven.  It is my intent to keep it as such.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 02, 2013, 10:31:24 PM
Yeah, I like to think that this forum is the place on my signature, some place like that...
I'm material for psychologists, I know  :P
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Shiroi Koumori on July 03, 2013, 12:34:49 AM
Oh Pfil, you are free to be yourself here.

Anime, manga and games are not kiddie stuff. That's why we have genres, ratings, etc.
It was just associated to those things maybe due to traditional beliefs that cartoons are kiddie stuff, etc.
Maybe you just need to visit Japan once and see your outlook on these things change. Oh and it would definitely help if you are into the latest anime/game trends.
Just don't go on a massive shopping spree~! --> I am guilty of this.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 03, 2013, 01:46:12 PM
Visiting Japan is one of my dreams.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: GuyStarwind on July 03, 2013, 08:37:17 PM
So, because of the newcomers zone gone are you still looking for new moderators? If so who are the current ones so I don't put them down?

So, just a random thing but I had a dream last night that I wrote a post that dropped me down to 33 respect. I was pretty upset.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Dark Nemesis on July 04, 2013, 03:00:39 AM
Pfil, this is a picture of my keys.
(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F5568%2F0vky.jpg&hash=a98d59787e1627f2daad185e2656b0a4)
I have these on, so that when i go out, everyone can see them. Whether people like it or no or even if they think that i'm weird, i don't care. This is my life and these are what i like, so don't get stressed about what others think about you.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Shiroi Koumori on July 04, 2013, 03:51:16 AM
I want those keychains!
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on July 04, 2013, 04:19:47 AM
So, because of the newcomers zone gone are you still looking for new moderators? If so who are the current ones so I don't put them down?

So, just a random thing but I had a dream last night that I wrote a post that dropped me down to 33 respect. I was pretty upset.

Sorry, GuyStarwind, but you missed the deadline to nominate.
I put up threads about nomination suggestions over a week ago and kept the threads up, and already received private messages.
I just removed the threads, then checked here and noticed you... didn't notice them (they were staked at the top of the board, they're now at the Archives).

The new moderators have already been appointed.

They are:

Nagumo
Gunlord
Ratty
Shiroi Koumori

They will be joining the old moderation team which consists of Bloodreign and Ralph.

Please welcome them to their new position. :)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Bloodreign on July 04, 2013, 04:24:44 AM
I get some flack in real life from a couple cats who stop by my job and chastise me for playing old games, they tell me I should update because otherwise I'm old (no shit sherlock  :P). In no certain terms do I tell them off as cleanly as I can (I tell them their reflexes are likely crap anyway), but no person will tell me what I like or don't like, or if it's wrong in their eyes or not. You do what you gotta do, don't let someone else influence you/walk all over you Pfil. 

If someone in your real life don't like the things you like, to hell with them. They might get mad, but with time they'll learn that you as an individual can like whatever the hell you want. My family hates that I collect games, does that stop me, hell no.  ;D
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Jorge D. Fuentes on July 04, 2013, 04:56:25 AM
I love playing games and I don't think anything is gonna change that any time soon.
My sister once told me that I would outgrow it, but it doesn't look like that's gonna happen, hehe.

Enough people game in my family by now that it's just the norm, but I would say I'm the most passionate, since I grab the special editions, figurines, art books, etc. that come with games.

And if someone doesn't gaming, then I go:
(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.wetfish.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F11%2Fdon%2527t%2520touch%2520me%2520you%2520filthy%2520casual-medium.jpg&hash=9d45fc09561b3deb6dfe554d002aa550)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Bloodreign on July 04, 2013, 05:34:14 AM
Sadly I'm the only hardcore in my immediate family (save for a few cousins, I'm the only old schooler though), I loved arcade games in the early 80's, grew up with the Atari 2600, stayed playing arcade games during the crash of 83, picked up steam again come the NES, and now have come down again due to little free time. Couple that for when I get home I feel like I'm wasted as hell and you have a recipe for too tired to get out of bed and hook up a system to play anything (other than some Doremi Fantasy on VC).

The passions not dead, just my energies right now (I did have a game burnout for a few months a coupleyears ago, still collected, played nothing).
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Shiroi Koumori on July 04, 2013, 06:07:00 AM
My sister once told me that I would outgrow it, but it doesn't look like that's gonna happen, hehe.

Hehe. Once you start, you can't stop.
I am now in trouble due to lack of space. (living in a condo is tough on that aspect)

The passions not dead, just my energies right now (I did have a game burnout for a few months a couple years ago, still collected, played nothing).

That happens to all of us from time to time.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Mooning Freddy on July 04, 2013, 07:35:18 AM
Good luck 2 da new mods.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: X on July 04, 2013, 09:32:50 AM
Nagumo
Gunlord
Ratty
Shiroi Koumori

Congrats you guys! I hope from the bottom of my heart that you'll do us Dungeonites proud.  ;)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: DarkPrinceAlucard on July 04, 2013, 10:45:55 AM
Congratz to all the new moderators. :)

Although some are pretty new to the forum I get the feeling that they are good and responsible enough to handle their new powers.

Keep this place clean and safe.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: crisis on July 04, 2013, 11:13:05 AM
I look forward to trolling these new mods

(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Foi52.tinypic.com%2F1zyanix.jpg&hash=a8c6b8aa609ab89cebbc5a5e01284471)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 04, 2013, 12:16:54 PM
Pfil, this is a picture of my keys.
I have these on, so that when i go out, everyone can see them. Whether people like it or no or even if they think that i'm weird, i don't care. This is my life and these are what i like, so don't get stressed about what others think about you.

I get some flack in real life from a couple cats who stop by my job and chastise me for playing old games, they tell me I should update because otherwise I'm old (no shit sherlock  :P). In no certain terms do I tell them off as cleanly as I can (I tell them their reflexes are likely crap anyway), but no person will tell me what I like or don't like, or if it's wrong in their eyes or not. You do what you gotta do, don't let someone else influence you/walk all over you Pfil. 

If someone in your real life don't like the things you like, to hell with them. They might get mad, but with time they'll learn that you as an individual can like whatever the hell you want. My family hates that I collect games, does that stop me, hell no.  ;D

I love playing games and I don't think anything is gonna change that any time soon.
My sister once told me that I would outgrow it, but it doesn't look like that's gonna happen, hehe.

Enough people game in my family by now that it's just the norm, but I would say I'm the most passionate, since I grab the special editions, figurines, art books, etc. that come with games.

Yeah to hell with them! I am who I am!
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 04, 2013, 12:20:26 PM
Congratulations to the new mods!  :)
I'm glad to know I helped.

By the way, Crisis, who is the guy in your gifs?
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: GuyStarwind on July 04, 2013, 12:48:14 PM
Sorry, GuyStarwind, but you missed the deadline to nominate.
I put up threads about nomination suggestions over a week ago and kept the threads up, and already received private messages.
I just removed the threads, then checked here and noticed you... didn't notice them (they were staked at the top of the board, they're now at the Archives).

The new moderators have already been appointed.

They are:

Nagumo
Gunlord
Ratty
Shiroi Koumori

They will be joining the old moderation team which consists of Bloodreign and Ralph.

Please welcome them to their new position. :)

I've been out of town the last week for a wedding and I did check the forums to much :( but that's ok! I'm sure the people's choices will do great! :)

Congratulations to our new mods!
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Gunlord on July 04, 2013, 04:55:23 PM
Thanks for the well-wishes, everyone! I'll do my best to live up to your expectations, and I look forwards to working with Nagumo, Ratty, and Shiroi :D
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Neobelmont on July 04, 2013, 04:56:39 PM
Nagumo , Gunlord ,Ratty, and Shiroi Koumori

well I kind of forgot about the nominations I remember the post on the top of the board but ehh I have other things on my mind :) but hey these four cats are good, three oldies and shiroi is like a freaking jefferson movin' on up

The Jeffersons - MOVIN' ON UP - Closing Theme (Full) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjVtKsSZwE4#noexternalembed-ws) 

 Now that I think about it I wonder if I could have pulled off being a moderator? But ehh no matter wondering on "what if" now.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Ratty on July 04, 2013, 08:01:34 PM
Thanks all :) Was going to post a Judge Dredd "I AM the Law!" meme here but thought better of it lol. Well all of the regulars here are pretty mature and laid back so I don't think there'll be too much trouble for the green mods.
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: crisis on July 05, 2013, 08:21:16 AM
Star Wars Voice Clip 1 - Emperor Palpatine. (The High Boys Ltd) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBnldmEJxgw#)
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Lelygax on July 22, 2013, 02:26:34 PM
(https://castlevaniadungeon.net/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Foi52.tinypic.com%2F1zyanix.jpg&hash=a8c6b8aa609ab89cebbc5a5e01284471)

Whos is him? I've seen 2 gifs of him counting this one, all sent by crisis lol

Welcome new moderators!
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 22, 2013, 03:05:18 PM
If you are wondering about that guy from the gif I first said when I posted my first picture, I'm still wondering who he is.
I guess Crisis is just trolling us not telling  :P
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Lelygax on July 22, 2013, 04:44:37 PM
I can google it, but I prefer a explanation from crisis, I believe that he will answer it sometime xD
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 22, 2013, 10:08:46 PM
Crisis, where are you?
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Gunlord on July 23, 2013, 01:20:19 AM
Perhaps that's Crisis himself...*_*
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: C Belmont on July 23, 2013, 02:29:51 AM
Sorry if this spoils it for you Lelygax
But I couldn't resist posting after I saw that the fellow from the Gif has even made a tutorial on performing the smile

check it out here: How To Do The "Hey, Baby!" Smile (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmcPSXDZ1Uo#ws)
 
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Pfil on July 23, 2013, 01:00:45 PM
Finally!  ;D
Title: Re: Newcomers' Zone? (and other discussion)
Post by: Lelygax on July 23, 2013, 03:40:00 PM
Thanks.

Hey, Baby! (Original Upload) by Komikero (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhuYIr1J1zc#)