Issue 71: 30/04/09
Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 7:08 pmIssue 71: 30/04/09
Hello tournament fans. This week we introduce sailorseal, who will be handling the 'Fun Facts' section.
I would also like to take a moment to share my "Special Contribution" medal with all contributors to the newsletter, both past and present. Thanks for all the great work you have done so far, this newsletter would be nothing without you. Special thanks go out to all the staff, here and gone, wherever you are; spinwizard, soundout9, Gilligan, militant, lanceyboyuk, jennifermarie, simor, greenoaks, Gilligan, Marfski, Sir. Ricco, White Moose, samuelc812, amazzony, stahrgazer, blacky44, David Hoekstra, and the newest arrival, sailorseal. A big thank you to all!
As always, if you have any ideas or just want to help out, drop us a line.
Thanks, and enjoy!
Gozar
Newsletter Poll
Seeking Staff
News Hound
Fun Facts
Currently Taking Signups
Tournament Updates
Coming Soon
The Tournament Roll of Honuor
Ask the Nutts
Interview with jpcloet
Next Issue
Notes
Staff
Our current poll is around half complete. This time the question asks: Which newsletters do you read?
Please stop by the Suggestion Thread and vote.
The newsletter needs new staff. If interested in a position below, please PM Gozar.
Currently Taking Signups -One of the more critical newsletter sections. We are in need of someone to compile a weekly list of all the tournaments in signups. If you are organised, through and can keep to a schedule, this could be a position for you.
by blacky44
Hello fellow members.
I've been thinking of how many new players we have and I thought I would write something to them. New players, have you thought of joining a tournament and thinking which one was right for you? Well if you are into sports, there are tons of tournaments for that. Maybe you like playing on the WWII maps? Well, find a tournament that plays on those maps. Premiums I say take advantage of that premium. Join a tournament that only allows premium or join however many tournaments you want. Its up to you. Maybe you don't care what map you play on you just join them. Maybe you want to organize a tournament? Well, if you want to do that read this or PM a tournament director or someone who has organized a tournament. For creating tournaments, the world is your limit.
This is blacky44 saying get thinking.
The exact time that the retirement of Optimus Prime became official was at:
Oct 13, 2008 11:25 am
Sadly, we cannot bring you a complete list of tournaments taking signups, as we are understaffed at the moment.
Isle Cruise
Organiser: PaulusH
Using a 7x7 windmill setup
Plan is to visit with 49 people in total 7+ Isles each with 7 persons, but never the same.
First games on 3 May
Killer:Victim:Detective:Coroner
Organiser: danalan
Starts May 10, 2009.
A little bit different Assassin tournament, KVDC has multiple tracks for winners and victims, and separate scoring for predicting the outcome of games.
Rough estimate of percent complete/signed up: No numerical goal for signing up -- the tournament will start May 10, 2009 with everyone who signs up.
Here are how some of the currently ongoing tournaments are progressing. Just click the title to visit the thread. Want your tournament listed here? Use the form at the end of this letter!
Around the World in 80 Days
Organiser: stahrgazer
Congratulations, Conquernauts!
Humrlmo
littlebrother2k7
tdans
dustin800
You went from balloon race singles to bomber doubles to island-hopping triples and finally, went around World 2.1 twice to win!
2008-2009 College Hoops
Organiser: flexmaster33
Congrats to the Final Four in 2008-09 College Hoops, making it this far out of 126 players is quite a feat.
Duke -- Bones 2484
Villanova -- HighlanderAttack
UCLA -- lardass76
UMass -- tsioumiou
Duke has already defeated Villanova in its semifinal game and awaits the winner of UCLA vs. UMass for the title game.
Also a quick congrats to St. John's (Vexx), who defeated DePaul (Godd) 75-48 for the NIT championship (consolation tourney)
url=http://www.conquerclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=92&t=72867]Two at a Time Tournament[/url]
Organiser: danalan
kratos644 wins the 1-year Premium subscription in a hard-fought final game. Congratulations!
007: "Bond, James Bond" #2: From Russia w/ Love
Organiser: danalan
21 players in each agency, a few games are complete already. Only 1 player earning a BONUS point so far, and he also won that game. Still accepting reserves - it's a points tournament, so everybody plays all the games.
The Legend of Tor Na’Mit
Organizer: Gozar
Round Eleven is winding down.
Here are some tournaments that noted tournament organisers are planning on running soon.
Tournament ideas from the mind of barterer2002
Championship Series Continues
Formula 1 2009 Tournaments from jricart
Here are some recent tournament winners.
"Two at a Time Tournament" -kratos644
"Fivemores World 2.1 6 player" -Blitzaholic
"Bar Double Dutch" -Serbia and Tripitaka
"Rewrite History" -taxmanjle
"Yanks vs Rebs Doubles 2009" -khazalid and Nephilim
"Hired Gun" -Sun Tzup
"Asian Assassin Tournament" -Tobikera
"You are in the Dark" -VampireM
"Disc" -Blitzaholic and BigWhiskey
"Speed Terminator II" -Blobby
"Gc's AOR Magic Doubles Tournament" -ramsrock00 & DBandit70
"Foundry Update 10.0" -Ghost_Rider
"The Mummy-Terminator" -BrotherWolf
"Small Maps 1v1 Tournament" -jiricart
"Championship Series: Draknor Level 1" -JOHNNYROCKET24
"Championship Series: Crossword" -klut2z
"Around Australia 1v1 Tournament"- Blitzaholic
"Around all CC's Maps: CCU" -demy7
"Conquistidor Hispano 1" -darth emperor
"Jump the Castle Tournament" -neanderpaul14
"Champions League 2008-2009" -redbugal & gilgor
"My Map is Better than Yours" -endar1077
"Trapped in the Myst: Ireland" -dustin800
"Championship Series: DDay" -nick11
"Around All CC's Maps: Conquer4" -b00060
"Terrorism 101" -ldybajc
"Around All CC's Maps: Crossword" -Lindax
"Daviedoo Invitational" -Daviedoo and Lindax
"Awesome Foursome Tournament" -Chariot of Fire, jpeter15, Shatners Bassoon, Daryth
"JR's 1v1 Challenge VII" -Witt13
"Conquer the Globe" -fumandomuerte
"Foundry Update 9.0" -LLLUUUKKKEEE
"Final Fantasy Wars - FFI" -Sun Tzup
"Estonian Soccer League" -killmanic
"Blind Date Doubles Tournament" -Dota & Jennybh
"The Medal Heads Invitational" -peanutsdad
"Championship Series: Discworld" - killmanic
"b00060's Classic Shapes Tournament III" -jrbedwell
"Think...small?" -HighlanderAttack
"Twiztids Terminator 4" -JOHNNYROCKET24
"ES-C-RAZY-LATORS" -BaldAdonis
"Foundry Update 9.6" -lunatic96
"Discworld Terminator" -ultrafit
"Double Dutch Doubles" -roelbianca & sjnap
"Fantasy Fight" -Blitzaholic, Nephilim, Dividedbyzero, Big Whiskey
by David Hoekstra
Ask the Nutts. . .a Q&A column (a cross between Dear Abby and Cliff Claven)
(an explanation of what it is all about)
Members, especially new members are encouraged to send in questions to "The Nutts". The three Nutts brothers will do their best to answer the questions.
R. Nutts, PHD – doctorate English, the Official Conquer Club expert
H. Nutts, MBA – looks at the business/economic/efficient side of things
A. Nutts, BS – lesser educated of the trio, gives a layman’s viewpoint
Have a question for the Nutts? PM David Hoekstra, Gozar, or click here and post in the thread.
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-
Q: “How do you feel about the David Hoekstra farming issue? . . .I first played DH when I was a cook in an RT game and while yes, he beat the pants off me, he offered me pointers I still keep in mind to this day. . .” - Hopscotcher
A: R. Nutt, PhD: I read the complaint blog, etc. He doesn’t just play “?-New Recruits” exclusively – or even a high % of the time (he was told 10-25% was acceptable when he asked). He invites people to set up games that they are willing to play so that others don’t jump in uninvited (vs. passwords). Even though he received a warning, I think CC Admin overreacted.
H. Nutts, MBA: O M G. . . Players readily play him, most medium ranked won’t play him or lower ranked players, he HELPS new players learn CC faster – and for only 5-7 pts. What is CC coming to?
A. Nutts, BS: Farming, Schmarming. Did you read the overwhelming support FOR the guy? I may be wrong but I think someone told me that Pistebasher is Hungarian for “Anal Rententive Pustule.” The REAL question is. . .when will that guy do Radio Call-ins or Bible Questions on Social again?. . .
This week we had a chat with jpcloet. All questions in the interview are submitted by readers. Next week, we have an interview with Dazootfor you.
You can submit your questions in this thread.
Now, on with the interview!
Q: Hello, jpcloet.
A: Hello Everyone.
Q:What makes you interview worthy?
A:Everyone thinks about Tournaments in such a strict sense in shape and form, being those in the Tournaments area. However, there are many other tournaments and competitions outside of that area, and in the clan section is where you will find the majority of my work and passion. Clan challenges and Tournaments have a lot in common; However, clan leaders do most of our work without Tournament Game Creation rights. I'm a big fan of innovation, and I've been able (with some help) achieve a number of firsts on CC like the first Clan Tournament, the first successful Clan League, and the first (although Unofficial) Clan Ranking System. I find clan wars more challenging to run; imagine trying to run a tournament with 1350 games and you can't create any of them. That is the clan league in a nutshell and also a testament to all the league contacts, as they have done an awesome job. Including all forms of tournaments, I must have around to 30-50 tournaments under my belt.
Q:How did you find this website?
A:One of my RL best friends referred me so he could get some premium time. We play a few doubles here and there still.
Q: Why did you join CC?
A:I grew up playing some strategy games like Risk and Monopoly with my brothers. I think it's in my blood.
Q:Whats your motivation (or why do you like) to play on CC?
A:For me it's one of those hobbies that I can still afford both in $ and time wise, plus no traveling helps. I have a young son, so hobbies like soccer and rock climbing don't happen much at all anymore.
Q:Why did you start to play tournaments?
A:I was looking to find something more in the games. I didn't really have a regular team partner and noticed a National Team based Tournament.
Q:What made you want to start running tournaments?
A:It really came about due to a need for a clan wars manager. The LOD CC leader had just left and I gave it a shot. I've been doing it ever since.
Q: How long have you been organizing tournaments?
A:It was mid to late 2007, so almost 2 years now.
Q:What tournament did you first run?
A:My first official Tournament was LODEDI. Legion of the Damned had started running monthly challenges and this was for March, in spirit of the March Madness bracket.
Q: How did you come up with the deadly viper's tourney idea?
A: I was trying to come up with a unique challenge for an in-clan game. Some clans have very good themes and this idea came from me searching Google for the most famous Assassins in History. Just happened to catch my eye. I liked the idea of codenames and then sketched out a number of ideas. It went outside of the clan due to size and the fact that I was seeing too many similar tournaments. It's hard to find a tournament that isn't a bracket or league these days. Clan wars are neither of those. Innovation is key to positive growth, so I challenge the current TO's to go beyond what we have today and get innovating. Since the tournament has started, I've received lots of good questions about it. It took over 2 months to plan as it is really unique, and I got pre-clearance from a TD on some of the aspects of it.
Q: Who do you look to for inspiration when organizing your tournaments?
A:Inspiration for me comes to me in late night chats with other CC players. They often come from unexpected sources. My next tournament idea came in a discussion about reserves.
Q: Describe the experience of your first tournament ran, and first played in.
A:Oddly, both are somewhat of negative stories. The first tournament that I ran, was as a backup TO in the Teams Doubles League. It was an attempt at a clan league and the TO abused his privileges and was disciplined. I tried to save the league as the replacement organizer, but the interest was not there.
My first tournament as a player was a Nationality based tournament. I won all 3 of my games, but the tournament did not last.
Q:Tell us about your overall tournament experience from when you first joined a tournament to the present day. How has it changed for you? Is it a better experience than before? Worse?
A:Even with the negative experiences near the beginning, I did find that tournament games were more fun and made me take the game a little more seriously. My next tournament played in was run by Optimus Prime and I ended up winning my bracket and eventually the league against some great players. They can be addicting can't they. Since then I play the occasional tournament but primarily focus on getting my clan mates new experiences. I would prefer to play in something that is unique, but they seem to be far and few between.
Q: How many tournaments have you run already, and do you have a goal in mind for how many you want to run in total before you "retire"? How many are you running right now?
A:Only 1 Official tournament so far, but I've managed around 10-15 clan wars, 15-20 LOD clan tournaments, 2 LOD ladder systems and the Clan League. As for a total, I would prefer to say that I'd rather not aim for a number. I'd rather do a few tournaments that are done really well and are really innovative. My current tournaments are the Clan League, 1 clan war, and my 2nd public tournament called Deadly Vipers Inc.
Q:What tournaments have you organized?
A:Public: LODEDI and Deadly Vipers Inc.
Q:What is your favourite tournament you have run?
A:My favourite by far is the LOD Mini Doubles. I think we are on #10 or #11 and it is a mixed doubles format. It's not a lot of games but you get to play with 3 different partners. It's a good way to reconnect with clan mates that you may not team with often. The real key is the setup and the point system which rewards players on their record for each series. It's built so that you really need to try to win every game possible, and has a minimal inflation built in for participation if everyone goes .500 record wise.
Q: What is your favorite tournament you’ve played in? Why?
A:Optimus Prime's - Cybertronian League as it was my first real intense tournament experience.
Q:Do you prefer to run or enter tournaments?
A:Tough question. If given the choice, I'd rather run a tournament. I see people in the forums always more worried about what other people are doing or not doing. I wish more people would ask themselves first, "How can I make another player's experience on CC better?" I applaud all the players out there like the TO's (and clan leaders) who do this all the time to make CC a better experience for others.
Q: Is there a specific type of format that you tend to gravitate towards? Why? Is there a format that is your favourite? What about other peoples' tournaments?
A: I tend to play 1v1, and right now on a kick of Quad games with LOD mates. My favourite would be mixed though and I find I'm always looking to see what Bart has out there.
Q:Are you selective about which types of tournaments you join or do you join just about everything you can fit into your personal game load? If you are selective, do you look for certain styles or organizers?
A:I am selective as clan games make up over 90% of my games right now. I really look for something unique. An good example is the Global Warming Tournament and A.Sub's Revolt.
Q:What would be your dream tournament if someone were to offer to run it for you so that you just had to show up and play? Or, have you already participated in your dream tournament?
A:I think CC and the current TO's are far away from creating my dream tournament due to limitations within CC. There are map functions (moving locations, open/closing doors) and game options that are not in place. Imagine playing Siege and having the gates randomly close. Having said that, there are a few tournaments that I would like to see done. I'm currently working on a tournament that I would love to see it come to fruition a community event. Demand would be off the chart.
Q: Do you find it easier to choose tournament settings yourself, or to let the players customize them?
A:Choosing them. Trying to get consensus is not easy. Plus, in the spirit of time etc. sometimes you need cards to help you through, which may not go over with everyone. Lay the expectations out up front and player can choose whether to join.
Q: Overall, are you playing a lot in tournaments? If not, then why and where do you find your games to play?
A:I'm playing in about 66% of my games in tournaments and the majority of those are with clan mates in team games.
Q: How excited where you with your first CC win?
A:I was quite excited. I was down to 3 territories in KOM in a 3 player game and came back to win.
Q:How do you win so many tournaments?
A:I've only won 2 so far. I find they require you to win a high percentage of games. It took me records of 15-4 and 11-1 to win those 2 tournaments. Dice, cards and patience are needed.
Q:What do you consider your greatest tournament win to date?
A:The Cybertronian League. You had to survive a double-elimination 8 player bracket just to get into the league. I had to go through the consolation side and beat the player who put me there, twice in a row. Then you had to face 7 other bracket champions in a head-2-head league. Going 7-0 on the home map that got me there, 8 Thoughts, helped me to squeeze out the win.
Q:If you had to win one tournament that you are currently a part of which would it be and why?
A:I feel like this question may jinx my team's chances.
Q: What is your most disappointing tournament loss to date?
A:Made it to the Wrestling Gold Medal game in the CC Olympics. Couldn't catch a set on 4, several times and lost 0-3. Had to settle for silver.
Q: In your mind, what makes a successful tournament?
A:A clear description, executed timely, seen to completion.
Q: What do you consider to be the most successful tournaments you've seen run?
A:More than the tournaments, it seems the players that run them are key. There are several TO's that set the Gold Standard and continue to do so.
Q:Have you ever been disappointed in a tournament you have run? What about one you entered?
A:I was disappointed that the first one I joined never finished. Also a little disappointed that there was no Season 2 of the Cybertronian League. Hint hint....
Q: What makes a successful organizer?
A:Someone who is committed and organized.
Q: How do you attract players to your tournament, and what aspect (besides a reward of a premium prize or something like that) of a tournament do you think appeals to a lot of players and why?
A:My first tournament was sent to all major clan leaders and was unique at the time. My most recent one, I relied on it's uniqueness to sell itself, then asked a friend/clanmate/TO to spread the word.
Q: Is there anything in particular that you dislike about tournament organizing?
A:Waiting for games to finish?
Q: For you, what is the best part of being a tournament organizer?
A:Being able to provide something people are looking for, and to raise the bar each and every time.
Q: What mistakes do you see tournament organizers make the most?
A:First-time organizers tend to lack in their descriptions. Some longer-term organizers have struggled when they've pushed boundaries. I like to see them push the boundaries though. I also find that quantity over quality is the current misstep I would like to avoid. Quality first.
Q: With experience comes the wisdom of knowing what mistakes you've made in the past so you can avoid them in the future. What mistakes have you made in your tournaments that you are sure to avoid in future tournaments?
A: Specifically with clan wars, timelines for delivery of games is not agreed upon up front. Having a time guideline is something I tend to do more often, but often it is only a guideline.
Q:What is your opinion on organizer neutrality? Should organizers be allowed to place themselves against their own clanmates in tournaments? Should organizers be allowed to join their own tournaments at all?
A:It really depends on the setup. I have to say yes to clanmates as I've done that. Organizers should avoid joining their own tournaments, but do understand why they do join them.
Q: Do you use a "schedule" for updating your tournaments, or do you just wait until they need an update?
A:Most of my tournaments get updated once a week. Some things like our LOD ladder get updated daily as needed, whereas the clan ladder gets updated about once a month.
Q:Should “question marks” be allowed to join tournaments?
A:No.
Q:Do you feel it is better to give a bye to players whose opponents deadbeats the tournament, or to use a reserve?
A:I prefer to use a reserve player or team, but it depends on timing etc.
Q: If you could change one thing about Conquer Club in general, what would it be?
A:I would bring in a flexible automated challenge system for tournaments and clan wars that would include brackets, leagues, and ladders and the necessary new scoreboards for ladder systems. That's my vision of where CC should go, my consulting is free if they want it.
Q: If there was something that the Conquer Club administrators could implement into the game to make tournaments easier to manage, what would it be? Similarly, is there anything you would like to see taken away from Conquer Club to make running tournaments easier?
A:I would say additional tools. Many of us Excel gurus could provide help in that area, although I'm guilty of not seeing a project through in that area. I would also like to see a mentor program in that area. There are some great ideas out there, but maybe not all the skills needed to run a tournament.
Q: Is there anything that you would recommend to encourage new tournament organizers?
A:I'm going to be overly critical here and say that we don't need anymore TO's. The reason being that I think too many tournaments are being abandoned or not started, and that the criteria/rules around tournaments need to be raised. Look at the # of threads in each area. Ongoing 357 Completed 866 Abandoned 550. That means almost 4 out of every 10 tournaments does not finish or start, and that of the ongoing ones, we should expect another 139 more tournaments from the ongoing to not finish. There are several opportunities here.
Q: List your top 5 biggest tournament headache's to this point
A: Players not responding. Other than that, I generally have a back up plan for most situations.
Q:How much time does CC take from your day?
A:About 30-45 minutes a day. On weekends I could spend upwards for 5-6 hours depending on what I'm working on.
Q:Are you a member of any clans or usergroups?
A:I currently lead a clan called Legion of the Damned and a functional group, the Clan Leaders Association which comprises 2 players from major established clans. I'm also a member of The CC News as the Clan Reporter and a Clan Director. I think I may have a niche.
Q:What do you think of your clan?
A: It's a very good group of versatile players. LOD is a mid-table clan who likes to compete and have fun.
Q:How many clans have you been in? What were their names?
A: I have only been in one clan on CC. I did apply to THOTA (pre-LOD) but was rejected because of my points level; I'm not sure my clan even knows this. On TW W12, I was in Sparta-SH72-Virus-Viruse and eventually left when being in the top 100 of 50000 players got too boring. Who ever took over the account seems to have kept it in the top 150.
Q:How many clans have you been a leader of?
A: Just LOD.
Q:What is your favorite clan?
A:I have an obvious bias, so I'll answer it in several ways. My fav theme is G1 and I'd be Mirage, fav clan to work with is Imperial Dragoons, and my fav clan to rival with is Sky Force as our matches are always close. I think we face them in the league next week!
Q:Can you give us a random clan history fact?
A: I think people would be surprised at some of the things I know. Since I've already revealed the first clan tournament above, I'll mention that one of the original conceived names for the Immortal Assassins was The Dark Patriots. Another interesting fact is that LOD has fathered the most offspring clans to date in CC history.
Q:Who asked you to be Clan Mod?
A: I volunteered to be a clan moderator and was told that they didn't need any help. I knew we could do more as leaders and created a number of unofficial things like the CLA and the ladder. Several months later, Marval recommended me and I was asked by admin if I still wanted to help.
Q:How did you come to organizing and doing a lot of the work for the clan leagues?
A:It all really started with the relationships that I had developed as a clan war manager with other clans and my attempt to save the first clan league. I've been a reluctant leader in many aspects of my life and I decided to make a change a few years ago. When the CLA first started, there were numerous topics and we found that there was a general consensus on many issues. The league idea was a popular one from the past and when I proposed to do the 2009 league, many clans gave their input while others simply said in to show support. Overall, I think while it's not perfect, many would say that it was the right thing to do and has been fun. Future leagues will likely see tweaks and suggestions for season 2 have already been made within the CLA.
Q:Who do you look up to in this community?
A:I can't say that I really look up to anyone. I will say that I tend to search advice from Gold Knight and Optimus Prime for different areas.
Q:Who are you?
A:A 30+ year old Math-Accountant, father of 1.
Q:Why are you so awesome?
A: I don't think I'm awesome. I think I have some skills that lend towards what I do and I try to leverage those skills. I am really weak in some areas and will look for support from clan mates and others. I've received a lot of help and the list is very long. I really should send thank you pm's more often.
Q: Why did you pick the name jpcloet?
A: It was my math email account sign-in from university and it has stuck.
Q:Where are you from?
A:Canada
Q:Favourite play colour?
A:Blue
Q:Favourite and least favourite map?
A:Fav map is Egypt: Lower right now, but 8 Thoughts has always been a fav too. Least fav is Conquer Man.
Q:Favourite settings?
A:Escalating Fog Terminator
Q:Freestyle or sequential?
A:Sequential, freestyle will eventually die IMO.
Q: Any tournaments planned for the future? What are they?
A: Right now I'm working on 4 tournaments. The next clan league, the next LOD clan war, one hopefully for a community event and a public one which again will have a very unique aspect to it.
Q:How does it feel to be interviewed?
A:I was flattered. I'm sure most people don't know who I am and I get some very funny emails when people realize that I'm a moderator.
Q: Any parting shots?
A:I've issued above a challenge to players out there to try and innovate. Whether it be in tournaments or in clan challenges. In reading over my answers, I notice several opportunities for players to help out and I think I'm at a new cross-roads in my activity in CC. I'm an agent for change and I hope that some of you will join me in helping to make CC a better place for all.
Q: Thank you for your time.
A: Thank you for the opportunity to voice not only my story, but also my opinion. The newsletter is awesome.
Interview With Dazoot
Notes
If you want your tournament included in a future issue, please PM Gozar using this form:
----------------FORM-------------------
Tournament Name: (with link)
Organiser Name:
Status:
Brief description or update:
Rough estimate of percent complete/signed up:
---------------FORM---------------------
You can also write articles to submit for publishing, I can't keep this running by myself, I need YOUR help!
To subscribe/ unsubscribe for the tournament newsletter, visit this thread.
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Staff
Editor in chief- Gozar
Graphics- Sir. Ricco/samuelc812
News Hound-blacky44
Ask the Nutts- David Hoekstra
Fun Facts-sailorseal
Contributors- People like you!
Hello tournament fans. This week we introduce sailorseal, who will be handling the 'Fun Facts' section.
I would also like to take a moment to share my "Special Contribution" medal with all contributors to the newsletter, both past and present. Thanks for all the great work you have done so far, this newsletter would be nothing without you. Special thanks go out to all the staff, here and gone, wherever you are; spinwizard, soundout9, Gilligan, militant, lanceyboyuk, jennifermarie, simor, greenoaks, Gilligan, Marfski, Sir. Ricco, White Moose, samuelc812, amazzony, stahrgazer, blacky44, David Hoekstra, and the newest arrival, sailorseal. A big thank you to all!
As always, if you have any ideas or just want to help out, drop us a line.
Thanks, and enjoy!
Gozar
Newsletter Poll Seeking Staff News Hound Fun FactsCurrently Taking SignupsTournament Updates Coming SoonThe Tournament Roll of HonuorAsk the Nutts Interview with jpcloetNext Issue NotesStaffOur current poll is around half complete. This time the question asks: Which newsletters do you read?
Please stop by the Suggestion Thread and vote.
The newsletter needs new staff. If interested in a position below, please PM Gozar.
Currently Taking Signups -One of the more critical newsletter sections. We are in need of someone to compile a weekly list of all the tournaments in signups. If you are organised, through and can keep to a schedule, this could be a position for you.
by blacky44
Hello fellow members.
I've been thinking of how many new players we have and I thought I would write something to them. New players, have you thought of joining a tournament and thinking which one was right for you? Well if you are into sports, there are tons of tournaments for that. Maybe you like playing on the WWII maps? Well, find a tournament that plays on those maps. Premiums I say take advantage of that premium. Join a tournament that only allows premium or join however many tournaments you want. Its up to you. Maybe you don't care what map you play on you just join them. Maybe you want to organize a tournament? Well, if you want to do that read this or PM a tournament director or someone who has organized a tournament. For creating tournaments, the world is your limit.
This is blacky44 saying get thinking.
The exact time that the retirement of Optimus Prime became official was at:
Oct 13, 2008 11:25 am
Sadly, we cannot bring you a complete list of tournaments taking signups, as we are understaffed at the moment.
Isle Cruise
Organiser: PaulusH
Using a 7x7 windmill setup
Plan is to visit with 49 people in total 7+ Isles each with 7 persons, but never the same.
First games on 3 May
Killer:Victim:Detective:Coroner
Organiser: danalan
Starts May 10, 2009.
A little bit different Assassin tournament, KVDC has multiple tracks for winners and victims, and separate scoring for predicting the outcome of games.
Rough estimate of percent complete/signed up: No numerical goal for signing up -- the tournament will start May 10, 2009 with everyone who signs up.
Here are how some of the currently ongoing tournaments are progressing. Just click the title to visit the thread. Want your tournament listed here? Use the form at the end of this letter!
Around the World in 80 Days
Organiser: stahrgazer
Congratulations, Conquernauts!
Humrlmo
littlebrother2k7
tdans
dustin800
You went from balloon race singles to bomber doubles to island-hopping triples and finally, went around World 2.1 twice to win!
2008-2009 College Hoops
Organiser: flexmaster33
Congrats to the Final Four in 2008-09 College Hoops, making it this far out of 126 players is quite a feat.
Duke -- Bones 2484
Villanova -- HighlanderAttack
UCLA -- lardass76
UMass -- tsioumiou
Duke has already defeated Villanova in its semifinal game and awaits the winner of UCLA vs. UMass for the title game.
Also a quick congrats to St. John's (Vexx), who defeated DePaul (Godd) 75-48 for the NIT championship (consolation tourney)
url=http://www.conquerclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=92&t=72867]Two at a Time Tournament[/url]
Organiser: danalan
kratos644 wins the 1-year Premium subscription in a hard-fought final game. Congratulations!
007: "Bond, James Bond" #2: From Russia w/ Love
Organiser: danalan
21 players in each agency, a few games are complete already. Only 1 player earning a BONUS point so far, and he also won that game. Still accepting reserves - it's a points tournament, so everybody plays all the games.
The Legend of Tor Na’Mit
Organizer: Gozar
Round Eleven is winding down.
Here are some tournaments that noted tournament organisers are planning on running soon.
Tournament ideas from the mind of barterer2002
Championship Series Continues
Formula 1 2009 Tournaments from jricart
Here are some recent tournament winners.
"Two at a Time Tournament" -kratos644
"Fivemores World 2.1 6 player" -Blitzaholic
"Bar Double Dutch" -Serbia and Tripitaka
"Rewrite History" -taxmanjle
"Yanks vs Rebs Doubles 2009" -khazalid and Nephilim
"Hired Gun" -Sun Tzup
"Asian Assassin Tournament" -Tobikera
"You are in the Dark" -VampireM
"Disc" -Blitzaholic and BigWhiskey
"Speed Terminator II" -Blobby
"Gc's AOR Magic Doubles Tournament" -ramsrock00 & DBandit70
"Foundry Update 10.0" -Ghost_Rider
"The Mummy-Terminator" -BrotherWolf
"Small Maps 1v1 Tournament" -jiricart
"Championship Series: Draknor Level 1" -JOHNNYROCKET24
"Championship Series: Crossword" -klut2z
"Around Australia 1v1 Tournament"- Blitzaholic
"Around all CC's Maps: CCU" -demy7
"Conquistidor Hispano 1" -darth emperor
"Jump the Castle Tournament" -neanderpaul14
"Champions League 2008-2009" -redbugal & gilgor
"My Map is Better than Yours" -endar1077
"Trapped in the Myst: Ireland" -dustin800
"Championship Series: DDay" -nick11
"Around All CC's Maps: Conquer4" -b00060
"Terrorism 101" -ldybajc
"Around All CC's Maps: Crossword" -Lindax
"Daviedoo Invitational" -Daviedoo and Lindax
"Awesome Foursome Tournament" -Chariot of Fire, jpeter15, Shatners Bassoon, Daryth
"JR's 1v1 Challenge VII" -Witt13
"Conquer the Globe" -fumandomuerte
"Foundry Update 9.0" -LLLUUUKKKEEE
"Final Fantasy Wars - FFI" -Sun Tzup
"Estonian Soccer League" -killmanic
"Blind Date Doubles Tournament" -Dota & Jennybh
"The Medal Heads Invitational" -peanutsdad
"Championship Series: Discworld" - killmanic
"b00060's Classic Shapes Tournament III" -jrbedwell
"Think...small?" -HighlanderAttack
"Twiztids Terminator 4" -JOHNNYROCKET24
"ES-C-RAZY-LATORS" -BaldAdonis
"Foundry Update 9.6" -lunatic96
"Discworld Terminator" -ultrafit
"Double Dutch Doubles" -roelbianca & sjnap
"Fantasy Fight" -Blitzaholic, Nephilim, Dividedbyzero, Big Whiskey
by David Hoekstra
Ask the Nutts. . .a Q&A column (a cross between Dear Abby and Cliff Claven)
(an explanation of what it is all about)
Members, especially new members are encouraged to send in questions to "The Nutts". The three Nutts brothers will do their best to answer the questions.
R. Nutts, PHD – doctorate English, the Official Conquer Club expert
H. Nutts, MBA – looks at the business/economic/efficient side of things
A. Nutts, BS – lesser educated of the trio, gives a layman’s viewpoint
Have a question for the Nutts? PM David Hoekstra, Gozar, or click here and post in the thread.
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-
Q: “How do you feel about the David Hoekstra farming issue? . . .I first played DH when I was a cook in an RT game and while yes, he beat the pants off me, he offered me pointers I still keep in mind to this day. . .” - Hopscotcher
A: R. Nutt, PhD: I read the complaint blog, etc. He doesn’t just play “?-New Recruits” exclusively – or even a high % of the time (he was told 10-25% was acceptable when he asked). He invites people to set up games that they are willing to play so that others don’t jump in uninvited (vs. passwords). Even though he received a warning, I think CC Admin overreacted.
H. Nutts, MBA: O M G. . . Players readily play him, most medium ranked won’t play him or lower ranked players, he HELPS new players learn CC faster – and for only 5-7 pts. What is CC coming to?
A. Nutts, BS: Farming, Schmarming. Did you read the overwhelming support FOR the guy? I may be wrong but I think someone told me that Pistebasher is Hungarian for “Anal Rententive Pustule.” The REAL question is. . .when will that guy do Radio Call-ins or Bible Questions on Social again?. . .
This week we had a chat with jpcloet. All questions in the interview are submitted by readers. Next week, we have an interview with Dazootfor you.
You can submit your questions in this thread.
Now, on with the interview!
Q: Hello, jpcloet.
A: Hello Everyone.
Q:What makes you interview worthy?
A:Everyone thinks about Tournaments in such a strict sense in shape and form, being those in the Tournaments area. However, there are many other tournaments and competitions outside of that area, and in the clan section is where you will find the majority of my work and passion. Clan challenges and Tournaments have a lot in common; However, clan leaders do most of our work without Tournament Game Creation rights. I'm a big fan of innovation, and I've been able (with some help) achieve a number of firsts on CC like the first Clan Tournament, the first successful Clan League, and the first (although Unofficial) Clan Ranking System. I find clan wars more challenging to run; imagine trying to run a tournament with 1350 games and you can't create any of them. That is the clan league in a nutshell and also a testament to all the league contacts, as they have done an awesome job. Including all forms of tournaments, I must have around to 30-50 tournaments under my belt.
Q:How did you find this website?
A:One of my RL best friends referred me so he could get some premium time. We play a few doubles here and there still.
Q: Why did you join CC?
A:I grew up playing some strategy games like Risk and Monopoly with my brothers. I think it's in my blood.
Q:Whats your motivation (or why do you like) to play on CC?
A:For me it's one of those hobbies that I can still afford both in $ and time wise, plus no traveling helps. I have a young son, so hobbies like soccer and rock climbing don't happen much at all anymore.
Q:Why did you start to play tournaments?
A:I was looking to find something more in the games. I didn't really have a regular team partner and noticed a National Team based Tournament.
Q:What made you want to start running tournaments?
A:It really came about due to a need for a clan wars manager. The LOD CC leader had just left and I gave it a shot. I've been doing it ever since.
Q: How long have you been organizing tournaments?
A:It was mid to late 2007, so almost 2 years now.
Q:What tournament did you first run?
A:My first official Tournament was LODEDI. Legion of the Damned had started running monthly challenges and this was for March, in spirit of the March Madness bracket.
Q: How did you come up with the deadly viper's tourney idea?
A: I was trying to come up with a unique challenge for an in-clan game. Some clans have very good themes and this idea came from me searching Google for the most famous Assassins in History. Just happened to catch my eye. I liked the idea of codenames and then sketched out a number of ideas. It went outside of the clan due to size and the fact that I was seeing too many similar tournaments. It's hard to find a tournament that isn't a bracket or league these days. Clan wars are neither of those. Innovation is key to positive growth, so I challenge the current TO's to go beyond what we have today and get innovating. Since the tournament has started, I've received lots of good questions about it. It took over 2 months to plan as it is really unique, and I got pre-clearance from a TD on some of the aspects of it.
Q: Who do you look to for inspiration when organizing your tournaments?
A:Inspiration for me comes to me in late night chats with other CC players. They often come from unexpected sources. My next tournament idea came in a discussion about reserves.
Q: Describe the experience of your first tournament ran, and first played in.
A:Oddly, both are somewhat of negative stories. The first tournament that I ran, was as a backup TO in the Teams Doubles League. It was an attempt at a clan league and the TO abused his privileges and was disciplined. I tried to save the league as the replacement organizer, but the interest was not there.
My first tournament as a player was a Nationality based tournament. I won all 3 of my games, but the tournament did not last.
Q:Tell us about your overall tournament experience from when you first joined a tournament to the present day. How has it changed for you? Is it a better experience than before? Worse?
A:Even with the negative experiences near the beginning, I did find that tournament games were more fun and made me take the game a little more seriously. My next tournament played in was run by Optimus Prime and I ended up winning my bracket and eventually the league against some great players. They can be addicting can't they. Since then I play the occasional tournament but primarily focus on getting my clan mates new experiences. I would prefer to play in something that is unique, but they seem to be far and few between.
Q: How many tournaments have you run already, and do you have a goal in mind for how many you want to run in total before you "retire"? How many are you running right now?
A:Only 1 Official tournament so far, but I've managed around 10-15 clan wars, 15-20 LOD clan tournaments, 2 LOD ladder systems and the Clan League. As for a total, I would prefer to say that I'd rather not aim for a number. I'd rather do a few tournaments that are done really well and are really innovative. My current tournaments are the Clan League, 1 clan war, and my 2nd public tournament called Deadly Vipers Inc.
Q:What tournaments have you organized?
A:Public: LODEDI and Deadly Vipers Inc.
Q:What is your favourite tournament you have run?
A:My favourite by far is the LOD Mini Doubles. I think we are on #10 or #11 and it is a mixed doubles format. It's not a lot of games but you get to play with 3 different partners. It's a good way to reconnect with clan mates that you may not team with often. The real key is the setup and the point system which rewards players on their record for each series. It's built so that you really need to try to win every game possible, and has a minimal inflation built in for participation if everyone goes .500 record wise.
Q: What is your favorite tournament you’ve played in? Why?
A:Optimus Prime's - Cybertronian League as it was my first real intense tournament experience.
Q:Do you prefer to run or enter tournaments?
A:Tough question. If given the choice, I'd rather run a tournament. I see people in the forums always more worried about what other people are doing or not doing. I wish more people would ask themselves first, "How can I make another player's experience on CC better?" I applaud all the players out there like the TO's (and clan leaders) who do this all the time to make CC a better experience for others.
Q: Is there a specific type of format that you tend to gravitate towards? Why? Is there a format that is your favourite? What about other peoples' tournaments?
A: I tend to play 1v1, and right now on a kick of Quad games with LOD mates. My favourite would be mixed though and I find I'm always looking to see what Bart has out there.
Q:Are you selective about which types of tournaments you join or do you join just about everything you can fit into your personal game load? If you are selective, do you look for certain styles or organizers?
A:I am selective as clan games make up over 90% of my games right now. I really look for something unique. An good example is the Global Warming Tournament and A.Sub's Revolt.
Q:What would be your dream tournament if someone were to offer to run it for you so that you just had to show up and play? Or, have you already participated in your dream tournament?
A:I think CC and the current TO's are far away from creating my dream tournament due to limitations within CC. There are map functions (moving locations, open/closing doors) and game options that are not in place. Imagine playing Siege and having the gates randomly close. Having said that, there are a few tournaments that I would like to see done. I'm currently working on a tournament that I would love to see it come to fruition a community event. Demand would be off the chart.
Q: Do you find it easier to choose tournament settings yourself, or to let the players customize them?
A:Choosing them. Trying to get consensus is not easy. Plus, in the spirit of time etc. sometimes you need cards to help you through, which may not go over with everyone. Lay the expectations out up front and player can choose whether to join.
Q: Overall, are you playing a lot in tournaments? If not, then why and where do you find your games to play?
A:I'm playing in about 66% of my games in tournaments and the majority of those are with clan mates in team games.
Q: How excited where you with your first CC win?
A:I was quite excited. I was down to 3 territories in KOM in a 3 player game and came back to win.
Q:How do you win so many tournaments?
A:I've only won 2 so far. I find they require you to win a high percentage of games. It took me records of 15-4 and 11-1 to win those 2 tournaments. Dice, cards and patience are needed.
Q:What do you consider your greatest tournament win to date?
A:The Cybertronian League. You had to survive a double-elimination 8 player bracket just to get into the league. I had to go through the consolation side and beat the player who put me there, twice in a row. Then you had to face 7 other bracket champions in a head-2-head league. Going 7-0 on the home map that got me there, 8 Thoughts, helped me to squeeze out the win.
Q:If you had to win one tournament that you are currently a part of which would it be and why?
A:I feel like this question may jinx my team's chances.
Q: What is your most disappointing tournament loss to date?
A:Made it to the Wrestling Gold Medal game in the CC Olympics. Couldn't catch a set on 4, several times and lost 0-3. Had to settle for silver.
Q: In your mind, what makes a successful tournament?
A:A clear description, executed timely, seen to completion.
Q: What do you consider to be the most successful tournaments you've seen run?
A:More than the tournaments, it seems the players that run them are key. There are several TO's that set the Gold Standard and continue to do so.
Q:Have you ever been disappointed in a tournament you have run? What about one you entered?
A:I was disappointed that the first one I joined never finished. Also a little disappointed that there was no Season 2 of the Cybertronian League. Hint hint....
Q: What makes a successful organizer?
A:Someone who is committed and organized.
Q: How do you attract players to your tournament, and what aspect (besides a reward of a premium prize or something like that) of a tournament do you think appeals to a lot of players and why?
A:My first tournament was sent to all major clan leaders and was unique at the time. My most recent one, I relied on it's uniqueness to sell itself, then asked a friend/clanmate/TO to spread the word.
Q: Is there anything in particular that you dislike about tournament organizing?
A:Waiting for games to finish?
Q: For you, what is the best part of being a tournament organizer?
A:Being able to provide something people are looking for, and to raise the bar each and every time.
Q: What mistakes do you see tournament organizers make the most?
A:First-time organizers tend to lack in their descriptions. Some longer-term organizers have struggled when they've pushed boundaries. I like to see them push the boundaries though. I also find that quantity over quality is the current misstep I would like to avoid. Quality first.
Q: With experience comes the wisdom of knowing what mistakes you've made in the past so you can avoid them in the future. What mistakes have you made in your tournaments that you are sure to avoid in future tournaments?
A: Specifically with clan wars, timelines for delivery of games is not agreed upon up front. Having a time guideline is something I tend to do more often, but often it is only a guideline.
Q:What is your opinion on organizer neutrality? Should organizers be allowed to place themselves against their own clanmates in tournaments? Should organizers be allowed to join their own tournaments at all?
A:It really depends on the setup. I have to say yes to clanmates as I've done that. Organizers should avoid joining their own tournaments, but do understand why they do join them.
Q: Do you use a "schedule" for updating your tournaments, or do you just wait until they need an update?
A:Most of my tournaments get updated once a week. Some things like our LOD ladder get updated daily as needed, whereas the clan ladder gets updated about once a month.
Q:Should “question marks” be allowed to join tournaments?
A:No.
Q:Do you feel it is better to give a bye to players whose opponents deadbeats the tournament, or to use a reserve?
A:I prefer to use a reserve player or team, but it depends on timing etc.
Q: If you could change one thing about Conquer Club in general, what would it be?
A:I would bring in a flexible automated challenge system for tournaments and clan wars that would include brackets, leagues, and ladders and the necessary new scoreboards for ladder systems. That's my vision of where CC should go, my consulting is free if they want it.
Q: If there was something that the Conquer Club administrators could implement into the game to make tournaments easier to manage, what would it be? Similarly, is there anything you would like to see taken away from Conquer Club to make running tournaments easier?
A:I would say additional tools. Many of us Excel gurus could provide help in that area, although I'm guilty of not seeing a project through in that area. I would also like to see a mentor program in that area. There are some great ideas out there, but maybe not all the skills needed to run a tournament.
Q: Is there anything that you would recommend to encourage new tournament organizers?
A:I'm going to be overly critical here and say that we don't need anymore TO's. The reason being that I think too many tournaments are being abandoned or not started, and that the criteria/rules around tournaments need to be raised. Look at the # of threads in each area. Ongoing 357 Completed 866 Abandoned 550. That means almost 4 out of every 10 tournaments does not finish or start, and that of the ongoing ones, we should expect another 139 more tournaments from the ongoing to not finish. There are several opportunities here.
Q: List your top 5 biggest tournament headache's to this point
A: Players not responding. Other than that, I generally have a back up plan for most situations.
Q:How much time does CC take from your day?
A:About 30-45 minutes a day. On weekends I could spend upwards for 5-6 hours depending on what I'm working on.
Q:Are you a member of any clans or usergroups?
A:I currently lead a clan called Legion of the Damned and a functional group, the Clan Leaders Association which comprises 2 players from major established clans. I'm also a member of The CC News as the Clan Reporter and a Clan Director. I think I may have a niche.
Q:What do you think of your clan?
A: It's a very good group of versatile players. LOD is a mid-table clan who likes to compete and have fun.
Q:How many clans have you been in? What were their names?
A: I have only been in one clan on CC. I did apply to THOTA (pre-LOD) but was rejected because of my points level; I'm not sure my clan even knows this. On TW W12, I was in Sparta-SH72-Virus-Viruse and eventually left when being in the top 100 of 50000 players got too boring. Who ever took over the account seems to have kept it in the top 150.
Q:How many clans have you been a leader of?
A: Just LOD.
Q:What is your favorite clan?
A:I have an obvious bias, so I'll answer it in several ways. My fav theme is G1 and I'd be Mirage, fav clan to work with is Imperial Dragoons, and my fav clan to rival with is Sky Force as our matches are always close. I think we face them in the league next week!
Q:Can you give us a random clan history fact?
A: I think people would be surprised at some of the things I know. Since I've already revealed the first clan tournament above, I'll mention that one of the original conceived names for the Immortal Assassins was The Dark Patriots. Another interesting fact is that LOD has fathered the most offspring clans to date in CC history.
Q:Who asked you to be Clan Mod?
A: I volunteered to be a clan moderator and was told that they didn't need any help. I knew we could do more as leaders and created a number of unofficial things like the CLA and the ladder. Several months later, Marval recommended me and I was asked by admin if I still wanted to help.
Q:How did you come to organizing and doing a lot of the work for the clan leagues?
A:It all really started with the relationships that I had developed as a clan war manager with other clans and my attempt to save the first clan league. I've been a reluctant leader in many aspects of my life and I decided to make a change a few years ago. When the CLA first started, there were numerous topics and we found that there was a general consensus on many issues. The league idea was a popular one from the past and when I proposed to do the 2009 league, many clans gave their input while others simply said in to show support. Overall, I think while it's not perfect, many would say that it was the right thing to do and has been fun. Future leagues will likely see tweaks and suggestions for season 2 have already been made within the CLA.
Q:Who do you look up to in this community?
A:I can't say that I really look up to anyone. I will say that I tend to search advice from Gold Knight and Optimus Prime for different areas.
Q:Who are you?
A:A 30+ year old Math-Accountant, father of 1.
Q:Why are you so awesome?
A: I don't think I'm awesome. I think I have some skills that lend towards what I do and I try to leverage those skills. I am really weak in some areas and will look for support from clan mates and others. I've received a lot of help and the list is very long. I really should send thank you pm's more often.
Q: Why did you pick the name jpcloet?
A: It was my math email account sign-in from university and it has stuck.
Q:Where are you from?
A:Canada
Q:Favourite play colour?
A:Blue
Q:Favourite and least favourite map?
A:Fav map is Egypt: Lower right now, but 8 Thoughts has always been a fav too. Least fav is Conquer Man.
Q:Favourite settings?
A:Escalating Fog Terminator
Q:Freestyle or sequential?
A:Sequential, freestyle will eventually die IMO.
Q: Any tournaments planned for the future? What are they?
A: Right now I'm working on 4 tournaments. The next clan league, the next LOD clan war, one hopefully for a community event and a public one which again will have a very unique aspect to it.
Q:How does it feel to be interviewed?
A:I was flattered. I'm sure most people don't know who I am and I get some very funny emails when people realize that I'm a moderator.
Q: Any parting shots?
A:I've issued above a challenge to players out there to try and innovate. Whether it be in tournaments or in clan challenges. In reading over my answers, I notice several opportunities for players to help out and I think I'm at a new cross-roads in my activity in CC. I'm an agent for change and I hope that some of you will join me in helping to make CC a better place for all.
Q: Thank you for your time.
A: Thank you for the opportunity to voice not only my story, but also my opinion. The newsletter is awesome.
Interview With Dazoot
Notes
If you want your tournament included in a future issue, please PM Gozar using this form:
----------------FORM-------------------
Tournament Name: (with link)
Organiser Name:
Status:
Brief description or update:
Rough estimate of percent complete/signed up:
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You can also write articles to submit for publishing, I can't keep this running by myself, I need YOUR help!
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Staff
Editor in chief- Gozar
Graphics- Sir. Ricco/samuelc812
News Hound-blacky44
Ask the Nutts- David Hoekstra
Fun Facts-sailorseal
Contributors- People like you!