String Theory: <G22> at the Championships

[Herodotus]

Mike, I have the utmost respect for all of the volunteers at these competitions, they have an extremely tough job. I also have the utmost respect for the GDC and their intelligence and creativity at giving us a great game year after year(though I had my doubts at the start of this year.) But I think your post is taking things a bit far. Baseball, Football, and American Football have been around for decades, if not centuries in one form or another. They've had many, many, many games and tries to hammer down the rules and to create rules that truly enhance the game.

A FIRST game lasts a year, and then leaves. There is no time for the development of the game that many other sports have had. So I don't think it is entirely unreasonable to believe that there will be some rules, each year, that people just don't like, and that can detract from the game itself. It doesn't kill the game, far from it, but it can certainly detract from it. No one, not even the all mighty GDC, is perfect. They will make "mistakes"(I use that word very loosely in this case, it's mostly a matter of opinion), especially given the very short development time for the game.

I don't see how it is at all disrespectful or improper for people to discuss what they like and dislike about the game. Whats the point of playing a game you don't like? So wouldn't it be in everyone's best interests to discuss this year's game, to voice their opinions, and to discuss what might need to be done to make a game more enjoyable?

I just have to say, at the end of most matches the thought that runs through my mind is "Well, depending on the penalties, blue/red could take it." I found that a little saddening. I personally haven't had too much of an issue with G22, like I said I've had maybe four or five penalties from it, but if as many people have an issue with it as it seems, maybe there really is a genuine problem(though maybe there isn't.) My point though, is that either way it can't hurt to discuss it.

Now, If I've entirely missed the point of your post, please beat me with a pool noodle until I understand.