Connection Problems
Connection Loss
The previously mentioned highly erratic behaviour of the network can have
another, and far less enjoyable effect: connection loss. People are
frequently disconnected from the server due to problems with the network
for time periods extending from minutes to days. If this happens during
play, your game will be automatically adjourned, and the IGS itself
tries to take care of saving the game. The IGS command 'notify' can be
used to notify you when your opponent reconnects. If you are unable to
wait, use the 'message' command to arrange for the continuation of play
someother time, or in case the opponent has his address set (check
'stats' on him/her), sending e-mail to that effect is a good idea.
Deliberate disconnection is highly impolite, and most any player who
does not do it does not appreciate it, except in very few special cases.
Often a continued such behaviour leads to the loss of potential
opponents. But please try to give your opponent the benefit
of the doubt -- see above.
Unfortunately,
deliberate disconnection to avoid losing has happened often enough to
have been coined a term, 'escaping'. It really is an unfriendly thing
to do, and is a sure way to earn the displeasure of IGS admins once they
hear about it, and very likely the enmity of many potential opponents --
especially as they tend to make it public, either by telling people
(this kind of word of mouth has a tendency of spreading at speeds in
excess of speed of light), or even making it really public by posting
into newsgroup rec.games.go.
For the victims of an excaper, perhaps the wisest course of action is
to simply note the name (and e-mail address) in order to avoid playing
with that person in the future.
Continue to "Shouting".
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