Whoever suggested that a higher price keeps the "younger riffraff" out is also saying that maturity comes with wealth? I 100% disagree with that idea. Looks like a few people seem to be secluded and haven't opened their eyes to the world yet. I call that "virtual stereotyping." Wealth does not put you in a higher level in the social hierarchy. Blah, I don't even believe in a social hierarchy. Call them what you want, but I say there's either mature people, or immature people; no age, wealth, gender, race, or any other variable factors in.
Does it matter if you fly with immaturity? How hard is it to laugh it off or EVEN IGNORE THEM. WOW what a thought! There *is* a squelch command in Aces High ya know.
I hope everyone can agree with the above stated.
Back to the main topic.. Here's my thought: Lower the price to make everybody happy and attract more customers. DeezCamp was on the right track with the boxed CD idea. HTC doesn't necessarily have to box it but just find a way to attract customers w/ a lower cost. In the long run I think it can please everyone. HTC's game/job will be safe(er) with more customers. More arena's could possibly open (maybe that Historical Arena that many people want?). I know HTC had mentioned that they want to stay small, but how small is small? Could a few hundred more still keep it small? Who cares if they're new and have only quake/newbie still. It's our job as vets of AH to set an example of how WE want the community to be. Be leaders.. lead by example and not verbal abuse. Here's an example:
AH has grown significantly. They now average 300-400 flyers a night. A Historical Arena and other arenas have now opened. The MA is still it's own basic 'practice furball/whatever arena.' A group of newcomers are just starting and on that particular night, a squad is having their weekly meeting. The newcomers see highly organized, highly skilled pilots tearing up the arena and think, "Wow! I would love to be like that.." So they follow your example and eventually, in time, the newcomers have molded into the ideal Aces High community. Poof, newbies have skill and are satisfied with their accomplishments. The newcomers can then in turn teach newer newcomers. Yes you'll have the usual loud and obnoxious types.. just ignore it.. they're probably frustrated and will find their own calling sooner or later. The whole thing is a cycle of people leading by example, learning, and growing with the community. OK.... i'm done with that now.
Lastly the cost could make it easier for almost everyone to access AH.. not just the wealthy or mature people (dont worry, I'm not stereotyping the WHOLE community. If you don't fit that description, then you should agree with me
) Your true colors are not represented by your 'social status.'
I've gone on too long, and went off on a tangent with many different ideas.. I hope y'all understand where I'm coming from and take it to heart. Just my opinions on this thread. Thanks
oct
[ 08-08-2001: Message edited by: Octavius ]