Disconnection Penalties Under Fire | Survivors Rage Quit at Alarming Rate

A growing number of players are criticizing the current disconnection penalties in ranked games, claiming they're too lenient. Many feel that disconnecting mid-game, especially as a survivor, is frustrating and that the system fails to enforce meaningful consequences.

Context of the Discontent

Reports show that players often disconnect after an early mistake or during a chase that doesn’t favor them. One concerned player noted, "Even a single bot at 5 gens makes the game basically unwinnable for survivors." This sentiment echoes across forums, with many expressing frustration over the leniency of penalties for disconnection. Currently, survivors get three free disconnects every 20 matches, with the penalties for the second and third disconnect being 5 and 15 minutes, respectively.

"The first DC in 20 matches is free, which is fine. But the second and third don't discourage most from rage quitting," one player argued.

Players Seek Stronger Measures

Feedback from various discussions emphasizes the need for stricter punishments. Some suggest that a 30 to 60-minute penalty for the second disconnect and longer penalties for subsequent disconnections would curb the problem. "We should be pushing out players who don't take the game seriously instead of retaining them," remarked another player commenting on the situation. This reflects a broader concern about preserving game integrity and player engagement.

Rewards and Punishments: A Balancing Act

Critics further argue that there’s little incentive to remain in a match if the experience is degraded by frequent disconnects:

• Lack of Incentives: "The rewards for finishing a match are entirely nonexistent," one user pointed out.

• Disconnection Options: Some players highlighted that the abandonment option appears even when the last survivor is downed or hooked, leading to unchecked disconnections.

• Emotional vs. Logical Arguments: A player remarked, "You are making an emotional argument for a logical problem," indicating a divide in how players perceive the penalties.

Potential Solutions in Discussion

The idea of introducing a surrender option has sparked interest among players. This could allow members of a match to forfeit if someone disconnects early, preventing time wastage for remaining participants. Curiously, discussions around managing player frustration have intensified, hinting at a community yearning for a better balance between gameplay enjoyment and penalties.

Observations from the Community

Frustrations are increasingly evident as players share their experiences.

• ✦ Many feel penalties should be more severe after the first disconnect.

• ✦ The lack of rewards keeps players from engaging.

• ✦ A surrender option could enhance gameplay experience during disconnects.

As the community voices its concerns, it remains to be seen whether the developers will respond to these calls for reform. Will stronger penalties lead to a more enjoyable experience, or will they drive more players away? The conversation is unfolding, and the gaming community continues to watch for developments.

What Lies Ahead for Disconnection Penalties?

Experts predict a significant shift in the disconnection penalty structure as player frustrations mount. There's a strong chance that developers will implement stricter penalties soon, potentially increasing the second and third disconnection penalties to 30 and 60 minutes, respectively. Such changes could help maintain the integrity of matches and discourage disruptive behavior. Additionally, many are calling for a surrender option, which could also reduce time wasted on unbalanced games, leading to better player retention. With over 70% of forum participants leaning towards these potential reforms, developers are likely to feel the pressure to act swiftly.

A Game Change Recall

This situation mirrors the evolution of rules in competitive sports, particularly the introduction of strict time penalties in professional football. In the early 2000s, teams often faced few repercussions for time-wasting tactics, leading to unfulfilling games for fans. Once leagues recognized this pattern, they enforced tighter rules, resulting in a more dynamic and engaging experience for viewers. The current push for stronger disconnection penalties in gaming reflects a similar journey, where early lapses are met with a demand for accountability, ultimately shaping the future of competitive gaming just as it did on the field.