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Subject: »NEWS
Dev. Diary 3: Status of work
Today we will inform you about things that we are already working on and describe some elements that we changed or will change in the upcoming days. As mentioned in our first news Flash replacement is our main priority right now. We will give you more details about that and about some other improvements.
Flash
The process to replace Flash started a few weeks ago. We already found developers who rewrite all the game elements based on Flash. The work needs to be completed step by step, of course, and the most time-consuming parts, e.g. the match engine, need a lot of work and patience. In the upcoming days we will replace a few Flash elements like:
1. Stadium viewer
2. Players portraits
3. Post game summary and statistics
We have already been working on the match kits configurator and the tactic editor. They still need to be improved in the upcoming weeks however.
We will also fix the problem with Google Chrome and the 2D match viewer. It will only be a temporary solution, but it should help some users to enjoy the game until the new visualization is completed.
Game engine – code upgrade
Parallel to replacing Flash we also started rewriting the back end, especially the “daily update”, which pushes the game forward day by day. Due to outdated technology some pieces of code need to be replaced with PHP. Our work on that part will be invisible for users (and also doesn’t affect gameplay), but it is necessary to give us a chance to implement any other, more advanced changes connected with Sokker and its game mechanics.
Leagues - reorganization
For now we have a lot of abandoned divisions in Sokker. There is also some potential for reducing the number of leagues at some levels. After the current season we will merge leagues and delete unnecessary divisions.
This should lead to more exciting rivalries between new managers, since they are facing more human controlled teams even in the lowest divisions. We will also drastically reduce the number of bot teams.
Other changes
300 sec. match viewer waiting time deleted – We decided to remove that element. Users without Plus will not be forced to wait for their game to start. To be honest – video-advertisments before the game will be introduced with the full relaunch of the game, but for sure with shorter duration than before. The advertising on YouTube is the best benchmark for it, with an included countdown button.
Relegation bug in junior leagues – There is a bug, that allows users to stay in their junior division even if they are endangered with direct relegation. Using the withdraw option and then joining the league later again, managers can reset their position and start a new season in the same division. That bug will be fixed and withdrawing a junior team will result in relegation to the lower level league.
Today we will inform you about things that we are already working on and describe some elements that we changed or will change in the upcoming days. As mentioned in our first news Flash replacement is our main priority right now. We will give you more details about that and about some other improvements.
Flash
The process to replace Flash started a few weeks ago. We already found developers who rewrite all the game elements based on Flash. The work needs to be completed step by step, of course, and the most time-consuming parts, e.g. the match engine, need a lot of work and patience. In the upcoming days we will replace a few Flash elements like:
1. Stadium viewer
2. Players portraits
3. Post game summary and statistics
We have already been working on the match kits configurator and the tactic editor. They still need to be improved in the upcoming weeks however.
We will also fix the problem with Google Chrome and the 2D match viewer. It will only be a temporary solution, but it should help some users to enjoy the game until the new visualization is completed.
Game engine – code upgrade
Parallel to replacing Flash we also started rewriting the back end, especially the “daily update”, which pushes the game forward day by day. Due to outdated technology some pieces of code need to be replaced with PHP. Our work on that part will be invisible for users (and also doesn’t affect gameplay), but it is necessary to give us a chance to implement any other, more advanced changes connected with Sokker and its game mechanics.
Leagues - reorganization
For now we have a lot of abandoned divisions in Sokker. There is also some potential for reducing the number of leagues at some levels. After the current season we will merge leagues and delete unnecessary divisions.
This should lead to more exciting rivalries between new managers, since they are facing more human controlled teams even in the lowest divisions. We will also drastically reduce the number of bot teams.
Other changes
300 sec. match viewer waiting time deleted – We decided to remove that element. Users without Plus will not be forced to wait for their game to start. To be honest – video-advertisments before the game will be introduced with the full relaunch of the game, but for sure with shorter duration than before. The advertising on YouTube is the best benchmark for it, with an included countdown button.
Relegation bug in junior leagues – There is a bug, that allows users to stay in their junior division even if they are endangered with direct relegation. Using the withdraw option and then joining the league later again, managers can reset their position and start a new season in the same division. That bug will be fixed and withdrawing a junior team will result in relegation to the lower level league.
Dev. Diary 4: League system
Today we are going to open the discussion about something that already became a hot topic on Sokker Development forum – How we want our league system to be organized. We have listened to you and among all of your ideas we have selected three options. Here are the key points that we want to achieve in our new league system:
1. Shorter season: We are targeting 12 weeks, which would be 25% less than now.
2. We want you to have the opportunity to play more games. Currently those teams eliminated from the National Cup are only left with one league match per week.
3. We want to keep our moderate week flow as much as possible. Sokker is not a fast arcade game with matches played every day and we would like to keep this unique character of the game.
Below you can see visualisation of three different season fixtures with description. We are putting it up for your discussion. We would love to hear what you think, so please share your opinions with us on Sokker Forum and please take a minute to fill out the survey. Feel free to share your thoughts about your own ideas and amendments. Before we show you our three options, we want to propose some new general rules first.
International Cup – we are introducing a new international cup which is very similar to the very well known UEFA Champions League. The competition format will consist of a group stage with home-away system and the two best teams from each group will play in a knock-out system. In play-off there will be only one match. The losing team will be eliminated from the cup.
It is important that all players will get the opportunity to play in a cup. This will be a great chance to compete against other players from different countries and of course this will provide you with better match earnings. The competition format will be similar to our league system. Lower levels will have more teams. On the highest-level champions of the top leagues will play against each other and consequently if you are the champion of one of the lower leagues you will play against a team from a different country at a similar level to even out chances. The Cup will be designed in a way that the higher level you play, the better financial rewards you get, and fans will be more likely to buy tickets. By doing this we are aiming to motivate you to try to achieve the highest possible position in your league.
National Cup – we want to start a discussion about two possible options:
1. All teams from the same country are eligible to take part in the National Cup. This means that clubs from lower leagues might get the chance to play against one of the top teams in their country.
2. As an alternative to this proposal, we will have two Cups: A National Cup and a League Cup. Only teams from leagues 1-3 will play in the more prestigious National Cup. That way we should be able to keep a higher level of competition and teams from league 4 and lower will be less likely to get eliminated in the first rounds. Leagues lower than 4th will be divided into regional cups (4 League Cup, etc.) accordingly to number of leagues on certain level. One cup will never have more than 512 teams.
We will open a separate topic on Sokker Development Forum with an attached survey to give you the opportunity to have your say.
Training – this will be discussed in details in a separate Developer Diary where we are going to introduce proposition to changes, but as you can already see an increased number of matches will require a little bit of different approach to training. We want to give you more flexibility while setting up your squad. There will be a balance between the desire of upgrading the skills of your junior players and trying to achieve good results in official games.
Promotion and relegation Play-offs - Teams will fight in play-offs where the winner of two games (home and away) will be awarded with a promotion to a higher league. Teams that aren't playing playoff games can play friendly matches instead.
Friendly matches – From now on friendly matches will only have a minor effect on your training. You will be able to play friendly match only after being eliminated from the cup. This will not apply to Arcade matches as they have no effect on Sokker reality.
Propositions to the league system
Option 1
Each season has 12 weeks. Each week has three matches that are played on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Three league matches will have to be played on a weekday. Since the International Cup requires six matches during group stage, moving a few league matches to weekdays at the end of the season will allow us to play two official matches almost every week, even for teams that are already eliminated from the cup.
Option 2
In addition to option 1, league matches and cup matches will always take place on the exact days as previous weeks. Additional league matches will be scheduled on Tuesdays. Due to the same reason as above those matches will be played at the end of the season.
Option 3
This proposition is the most revolutionary. We are increasing the number of teams per league to 12. Similar to the current league system, each week day will have its own competition assigned. The biggest change here is that there will be two league matches weekly but as a benefit, we will be able to increase the number of teams per league to 12. This will also affect the promotion and relegation system: The two best teams will have a chance to get promoted to a higher division, the six teams occupying the last six positions can be relegated.
Apart from league matches we have set two consecutive days for the national and international cup.
We cannot wait to see what you guys are thinking and what your choices are. We would like to ask you just for one thing before you leave your comments. Try to put yourself in the shoes of somebody who just joined the game. As much as we value our current users, we would also like beginners to get more involved in the game.
You can find the polls here:
* League system: https://www.webankieta.pl/ankieta/523386/league-system-options.html
* National Cup: https://www.webankieta.pl/ankieta/523392/national-cup-options.html
Facebook profile
Last but not least we would like to invite you to join our official Facebook profile where you can find up to date information regarding game development.
Today we are going to open the discussion about something that already became a hot topic on Sokker Development forum – How we want our league system to be organized. We have listened to you and among all of your ideas we have selected three options. Here are the key points that we want to achieve in our new league system:
1. Shorter season: We are targeting 12 weeks, which would be 25% less than now.
2. We want you to have the opportunity to play more games. Currently those teams eliminated from the National Cup are only left with one league match per week.
3. We want to keep our moderate week flow as much as possible. Sokker is not a fast arcade game with matches played every day and we would like to keep this unique character of the game.
Below you can see visualisation of three different season fixtures with description. We are putting it up for your discussion. We would love to hear what you think, so please share your opinions with us on Sokker Forum and please take a minute to fill out the survey. Feel free to share your thoughts about your own ideas and amendments. Before we show you our three options, we want to propose some new general rules first.
International Cup – we are introducing a new international cup which is very similar to the very well known UEFA Champions League. The competition format will consist of a group stage with home-away system and the two best teams from each group will play in a knock-out system. In play-off there will be only one match. The losing team will be eliminated from the cup.
It is important that all players will get the opportunity to play in a cup. This will be a great chance to compete against other players from different countries and of course this will provide you with better match earnings. The competition format will be similar to our league system. Lower levels will have more teams. On the highest-level champions of the top leagues will play against each other and consequently if you are the champion of one of the lower leagues you will play against a team from a different country at a similar level to even out chances. The Cup will be designed in a way that the higher level you play, the better financial rewards you get, and fans will be more likely to buy tickets. By doing this we are aiming to motivate you to try to achieve the highest possible position in your league.
National Cup – we want to start a discussion about two possible options:
1. All teams from the same country are eligible to take part in the National Cup. This means that clubs from lower leagues might get the chance to play against one of the top teams in their country.
2. As an alternative to this proposal, we will have two Cups: A National Cup and a League Cup. Only teams from leagues 1-3 will play in the more prestigious National Cup. That way we should be able to keep a higher level of competition and teams from league 4 and lower will be less likely to get eliminated in the first rounds. Leagues lower than 4th will be divided into regional cups (4 League Cup, etc.) accordingly to number of leagues on certain level. One cup will never have more than 512 teams.
We will open a separate topic on Sokker Development Forum with an attached survey to give you the opportunity to have your say.
Training – this will be discussed in details in a separate Developer Diary where we are going to introduce proposition to changes, but as you can already see an increased number of matches will require a little bit of different approach to training. We want to give you more flexibility while setting up your squad. There will be a balance between the desire of upgrading the skills of your junior players and trying to achieve good results in official games.
Promotion and relegation Play-offs - Teams will fight in play-offs where the winner of two games (home and away) will be awarded with a promotion to a higher league. Teams that aren't playing playoff games can play friendly matches instead.
Friendly matches – From now on friendly matches will only have a minor effect on your training. You will be able to play friendly match only after being eliminated from the cup. This will not apply to Arcade matches as they have no effect on Sokker reality.
Propositions to the league system
Option 1
Each season has 12 weeks. Each week has three matches that are played on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Three league matches will have to be played on a weekday. Since the International Cup requires six matches during group stage, moving a few league matches to weekdays at the end of the season will allow us to play two official matches almost every week, even for teams that are already eliminated from the cup.
Option 2
In addition to option 1, league matches and cup matches will always take place on the exact days as previous weeks. Additional league matches will be scheduled on Tuesdays. Due to the same reason as above those matches will be played at the end of the season.
Option 3
This proposition is the most revolutionary. We are increasing the number of teams per league to 12. Similar to the current league system, each week day will have its own competition assigned. The biggest change here is that there will be two league matches weekly but as a benefit, we will be able to increase the number of teams per league to 12. This will also affect the promotion and relegation system: The two best teams will have a chance to get promoted to a higher division, the six teams occupying the last six positions can be relegated.
Apart from league matches we have set two consecutive days for the national and international cup.
We cannot wait to see what you guys are thinking and what your choices are. We would like to ask you just for one thing before you leave your comments. Try to put yourself in the shoes of somebody who just joined the game. As much as we value our current users, we would also like beginners to get more involved in the game.
You can find the polls here:
* League system: https://www.webankieta.pl/ankieta/523386/league-system-options.html
* National Cup: https://www.webankieta.pl/ankieta/523392/national-cup-options.html
Facebook profile
Last but not least we would like to invite you to join our official Facebook profile where you can find up to date information regarding game development.
Full trust in the people to make the right choices for our game
Exciting times ahead
Exciting times ahead
29 Gartcairn First Division.01 1600.00
We have a new team!
We have a new team!
Dev. Diary 5: New Training changes
This week we would like to present our new training approach. You will find all informations below.
At the same time we are working on the final version of the new season calendar. That part will be presented next week, as it still requires some time.
Training changes
The training system is going to be adjusted. The main goal is to fit the maximum number of trainings into a higher number of matches in a week. This will make training more flexible so that it is possible to build the team not as trained formation vs untrained but more as it is in real life - experienced players vs young players introduced to the first team.
The key change is that instead of having one training match order you will be able to prioritise training for several formations at the same time. Obviously ther will be some limit which is 10 slots per week to allocate.
Additional rules to new training:
1. We keep training match order limits – you can train a maximum of 6 strikers, 2 goalkeepers. Playmakers and defenders will fit into the limit. You can assign a different skill for each of the 4 positions.
2. The players assigned to the 10 training slots will always receive training, even if they haven’t played a match during the week. However, they will receive a significant bonus to their training depending on how many minutes they played.
3. Minutes played in official games will be much more valuable than the same minutes gained in friendly games.
4. To achieve a training bonus which is close to maximum, the player that you set in a training slot should collect about 90 minutes across the week’s official matches.
5. The players who played but had not been put into training slots will only receive general training and just a bit of the training for their match-order.
6. The players who are not assigned to the training slots and who are not playing a match are slowly losing their skills.
7. The players who played an official match and against stronger teams will gain an extra bonus to their training.
8. In the scenario of speeding up the season up to 13 weeks, training speed will be also increased but to a lesser extent. In the scenario of 14 weeks’ season, training will rather stay at the current intensity. Scenarios will be presented with the next Dev. Diary.
9. The effectiveness of the coaches will be visible – you will be able to make decisions about your coaches seeing how their skills affect the effectiveness of each of formation’s training as also the general training.
10. The exact proportions and dependencies will get confirmed after several number of tests on the new testing server. We will simulate appropriate number of speeded up seasons to make sure that the game is balanced accordingly.
11. Stamina training needs to be reworked a bit. The other training rules remains unchanged.
This week we would like to present our new training approach. You will find all informations below.
At the same time we are working on the final version of the new season calendar. That part will be presented next week, as it still requires some time.
Training changes
The training system is going to be adjusted. The main goal is to fit the maximum number of trainings into a higher number of matches in a week. This will make training more flexible so that it is possible to build the team not as trained formation vs untrained but more as it is in real life - experienced players vs young players introduced to the first team.
The key change is that instead of having one training match order you will be able to prioritise training for several formations at the same time. Obviously ther will be some limit which is 10 slots per week to allocate.
Additional rules to new training:
1. We keep training match order limits – you can train a maximum of 6 strikers, 2 goalkeepers. Playmakers and defenders will fit into the limit. You can assign a different skill for each of the 4 positions.
2. The players assigned to the 10 training slots will always receive training, even if they haven’t played a match during the week. However, they will receive a significant bonus to their training depending on how many minutes they played.
3. Minutes played in official games will be much more valuable than the same minutes gained in friendly games.
4. To achieve a training bonus which is close to maximum, the player that you set in a training slot should collect about 90 minutes across the week’s official matches.
5. The players who played but had not been put into training slots will only receive general training and just a bit of the training for their match-order.
6. The players who are not assigned to the training slots and who are not playing a match are slowly losing their skills.
7. The players who played an official match and against stronger teams will gain an extra bonus to their training.
8. In the scenario of speeding up the season up to 13 weeks, training speed will be also increased but to a lesser extent. In the scenario of 14 weeks’ season, training will rather stay at the current intensity. Scenarios will be presented with the next Dev. Diary.
9. The effectiveness of the coaches will be visible – you will be able to make decisions about your coaches seeing how their skills affect the effectiveness of each of formation’s training as also the general training.
10. The exact proportions and dependencies will get confirmed after several number of tests on the new testing server. We will simulate appropriate number of speeded up seasons to make sure that the game is balanced accordingly.
11. Stamina training needs to be reworked a bit. The other training rules remains unchanged.
Dev. Diary 7: Season calendar - final voting
The game system – research
Three weeks ago, we asked you to complete a survey and share your comments on the proposals for the new competition calendar. Thank you for the extensive discussion. Many comments and new ideas were extremely helpful and some of them we included in the final proposal.
The winner of the survey is option 3 - a calendar based on increased number of teams in the league to 12 and 2 league matches a week. The calendar is completed by two further types of games - the International Cup (with group stage) and the National Cup. This option obtained over 60% of all votes and the choice of this option was supported by over 450 people. The results can be viewed at the survey link (we have just unveiled them for you). Here is the summary.
We are also pleased that only about 15% of users chose the option to leave the system unchanged – it shows us that you are open to see changes in the game.
At the same time, we know that some of you have submitted your own proposals on the Sokker Development forum as you were not satisfied with proposals 1 and 2 in the survey. We can see that these proposals have clarified into one fairly coherent alternative with 3 matches a week.
For this reason, we would like to introduce to you two final proposals for the vote.
Basic assumptions
Before you vote, here is some important information. First of all - we need to systematise the discussion because it is currently taking place at very different levels of generality - from the very general assumptions of the season, through the structure of individual types of competitions, to very detailed elements (such as promotions, relegations system, number of play-off matches, etc.).
At the moment, we are interested in the highest level of this discussion - mainly regarding the general system of matches (how many matches per week) and the number of matches in which we will participate, plus the structure of the league (how many teams in the league). These are the most important problems that we want to resolve first and then proceed to refining individual competitions or other, more detailed issues.
Therefore, when assessing two calendars, look at them primarily as a proposal for the number of matches per week and the number of teams in the leagues. We are still open to discuss the other elements (e.g. play-offs).
Other information relevant to your choice:
1. It is worth remembering the training system announced two weeks ago.
2. Elements related to the length of the season - will be adapted to the chosen solution (i.e. the length of the time of the injury, training pace, age of juniors, etc.) Try not to let these aspects of the game to suggest you anything when choosing your preferred system.
3. The graphics present "guaranteed" matches - those in which we will certainly play. Black frames additionally show where the next rounds of cups end. This makes it easier to assess the actual level of game intensity (remember that in cup competitions 50% less teams play at each subsequent stage).
4. Friendly matches can be placed in slots freed by cups, but they will lose significantly impact on training.
5. There was an interesting idea for a special "warm up" match which would be an alternative for teams not playing in the play-off, where the training effect would be similar to an official match. It will be considered but at the moment it is not the subject of the survey.
National Cup - is announced in the option presented a week ago, where all teams start playing in the National Cup and then the teams from the lower leagues have a chance to compete in the cups of individual league levels.
The International Cup - is announced in the initial proposal for further discussion - the cup combined with the group phase, which desire is to give each manager a certain number of guaranteed official matches, then the games take place on the basis of play-offs.
Cup discussions take place independently and are not subject to review in this survey.
Two system options
Option 1: (4 matches a week –> 12 teams in the league)
This is the winning line from the first vote, it remains largely unchanged. Its key assumptions are two league matches a week – they allow to increase the number of teams to 12 in each league.
Option 2: (3 matches a week –> league system unchanged)
This version is inspired by discussions on the Sokker Development forum. It is included in the 14-week calendar and maintains the league system in its current shape (one league match per week).
Summary:
From the development point of view, we consider both proposals to meet the requirements of our work on the development of Sokker. On the Developers' side, the preferred option is the first one, based on a system of two league matches per week. It seems optimal for us for several reasons:
1. Sets league matches as the primary competition guaranteeing two matches per week.
2. Cup games are additional challenges that enrich the game without creating too much training difference compared to those who drop out (10 available slots will be divided into fewer matches, but they can still be used).
3. Beginners starting the game during the season receive a team with two matches guaranteed.
4. We are shortening the season by 25%. It allows us to accelerate training slightly, while limiting the number of multi-divine players (thanks to faster aging).
5. It makes the main challenge of the game introducing young players to competitions mainly in league matches (giving you at the same time two matches weekly available), cup matches are an additional reward and expand the possibility of training rotation in several matches (we prevent one type of competition from being selected as "training").
6. Despite 4 matches a week, it does not seem too intense to us - remember the quickness of elimination from cup matches with subsequent rounds, only the best and most engaged players will play in such a number of matches.
Option two will require more work related to better matching of training bonuses so as not to give too much advantage to players who will play in cups longer than others (i.e. 3 official matches per week vs. one league), will also require adding bots to the cups (for a new player starting the game during the season to have a more interesting entertainment than just one league match per week). However, these elements are possible to address, which is why we present both options for discussion and assessment, understanding that regardless of which one will be chosen, we will have a significant change in gameplay compared to the current system.
Questionnaire
We have expanded the survey with several options that will allow us to better evaluate existing proposals.
In addition to the overall assessment of each of them and the choice between them, it is also possible to answer additional questions:
1. Preferred number of teams in the league
2. Number of matches per week
3. Playoffs (one match or rematch)
4. Inter-seasonal break or lack thereof
In addition, at the end we put a demographics questions that will allow us to better analyse the distribution of votes by country of origin, league level, experience, etc.
The game system – summary
The two proposed systems address many Sokker problems (of course not all, but this is a starting point for solving subsequent ones), give more emotions to all players, keep the important rule of assigning specific games to a selected day of the week. We hope that combined with information on training reform, changes will begin to appear more consistent and clearer.
Date of changes, method of implementation
Finally, we want to assure you – we still have a few seasons to play with the old game system. Changes require preparation and then detailed checking on the test server. We will not decide to introduce any new system until we are sure that all elements work in it, and at the same time it will give you time to think about tactics for the upcoming changes.
Increased game speed – tools
At the same time, given the greater number of matches per week, we will also develop a number of additional tools and improvements that will help you manage your teams faster and more efficiently, so that additional matches are not a problem. Works on the new interface and its improvements are underway, changes will be implemented, e.g. setting the squad for individual types of games, we will increase the reserve bench, we will allow to plan friendly matches in advance, and many more. Access to Sokker from mobile phones will certainly be significantly improved.
VOTE HERE -> Season calendar SURVEY
The game system – research
Three weeks ago, we asked you to complete a survey and share your comments on the proposals for the new competition calendar. Thank you for the extensive discussion. Many comments and new ideas were extremely helpful and some of them we included in the final proposal.
The winner of the survey is option 3 - a calendar based on increased number of teams in the league to 12 and 2 league matches a week. The calendar is completed by two further types of games - the International Cup (with group stage) and the National Cup. This option obtained over 60% of all votes and the choice of this option was supported by over 450 people. The results can be viewed at the survey link (we have just unveiled them for you). Here is the summary.
We are also pleased that only about 15% of users chose the option to leave the system unchanged – it shows us that you are open to see changes in the game.
At the same time, we know that some of you have submitted your own proposals on the Sokker Development forum as you were not satisfied with proposals 1 and 2 in the survey. We can see that these proposals have clarified into one fairly coherent alternative with 3 matches a week.
For this reason, we would like to introduce to you two final proposals for the vote.
Basic assumptions
Before you vote, here is some important information. First of all - we need to systematise the discussion because it is currently taking place at very different levels of generality - from the very general assumptions of the season, through the structure of individual types of competitions, to very detailed elements (such as promotions, relegations system, number of play-off matches, etc.).
At the moment, we are interested in the highest level of this discussion - mainly regarding the general system of matches (how many matches per week) and the number of matches in which we will participate, plus the structure of the league (how many teams in the league). These are the most important problems that we want to resolve first and then proceed to refining individual competitions or other, more detailed issues.
Therefore, when assessing two calendars, look at them primarily as a proposal for the number of matches per week and the number of teams in the leagues. We are still open to discuss the other elements (e.g. play-offs).
Other information relevant to your choice:
1. It is worth remembering the training system announced two weeks ago.
2. Elements related to the length of the season - will be adapted to the chosen solution (i.e. the length of the time of the injury, training pace, age of juniors, etc.) Try not to let these aspects of the game to suggest you anything when choosing your preferred system.
3. The graphics present "guaranteed" matches - those in which we will certainly play. Black frames additionally show where the next rounds of cups end. This makes it easier to assess the actual level of game intensity (remember that in cup competitions 50% less teams play at each subsequent stage).
4. Friendly matches can be placed in slots freed by cups, but they will lose significantly impact on training.
5. There was an interesting idea for a special "warm up" match which would be an alternative for teams not playing in the play-off, where the training effect would be similar to an official match. It will be considered but at the moment it is not the subject of the survey.
National Cup - is announced in the option presented a week ago, where all teams start playing in the National Cup and then the teams from the lower leagues have a chance to compete in the cups of individual league levels.
The International Cup - is announced in the initial proposal for further discussion - the cup combined with the group phase, which desire is to give each manager a certain number of guaranteed official matches, then the games take place on the basis of play-offs.
Cup discussions take place independently and are not subject to review in this survey.
Two system options
Option 1: (4 matches a week –> 12 teams in the league)
This is the winning line from the first vote, it remains largely unchanged. Its key assumptions are two league matches a week – they allow to increase the number of teams to 12 in each league.
Option 2: (3 matches a week –> league system unchanged)
This version is inspired by discussions on the Sokker Development forum. It is included in the 14-week calendar and maintains the league system in its current shape (one league match per week).
Summary:
From the development point of view, we consider both proposals to meet the requirements of our work on the development of Sokker. On the Developers' side, the preferred option is the first one, based on a system of two league matches per week. It seems optimal for us for several reasons:
1. Sets league matches as the primary competition guaranteeing two matches per week.
2. Cup games are additional challenges that enrich the game without creating too much training difference compared to those who drop out (10 available slots will be divided into fewer matches, but they can still be used).
3. Beginners starting the game during the season receive a team with two matches guaranteed.
4. We are shortening the season by 25%. It allows us to accelerate training slightly, while limiting the number of multi-divine players (thanks to faster aging).
5. It makes the main challenge of the game introducing young players to competitions mainly in league matches (giving you at the same time two matches weekly available), cup matches are an additional reward and expand the possibility of training rotation in several matches (we prevent one type of competition from being selected as "training").
6. Despite 4 matches a week, it does not seem too intense to us - remember the quickness of elimination from cup matches with subsequent rounds, only the best and most engaged players will play in such a number of matches.
Option two will require more work related to better matching of training bonuses so as not to give too much advantage to players who will play in cups longer than others (i.e. 3 official matches per week vs. one league), will also require adding bots to the cups (for a new player starting the game during the season to have a more interesting entertainment than just one league match per week). However, these elements are possible to address, which is why we present both options for discussion and assessment, understanding that regardless of which one will be chosen, we will have a significant change in gameplay compared to the current system.
Questionnaire
We have expanded the survey with several options that will allow us to better evaluate existing proposals.
In addition to the overall assessment of each of them and the choice between them, it is also possible to answer additional questions:
1. Preferred number of teams in the league
2. Number of matches per week
3. Playoffs (one match or rematch)
4. Inter-seasonal break or lack thereof
In addition, at the end we put a demographics questions that will allow us to better analyse the distribution of votes by country of origin, league level, experience, etc.
The game system – summary
The two proposed systems address many Sokker problems (of course not all, but this is a starting point for solving subsequent ones), give more emotions to all players, keep the important rule of assigning specific games to a selected day of the week. We hope that combined with information on training reform, changes will begin to appear more consistent and clearer.
Date of changes, method of implementation
Finally, we want to assure you – we still have a few seasons to play with the old game system. Changes require preparation and then detailed checking on the test server. We will not decide to introduce any new system until we are sure that all elements work in it, and at the same time it will give you time to think about tactics for the upcoming changes.
Increased game speed – tools
At the same time, given the greater number of matches per week, we will also develop a number of additional tools and improvements that will help you manage your teams faster and more efficiently, so that additional matches are not a problem. Works on the new interface and its improvements are underway, changes will be implemented, e.g. setting the squad for individual types of games, we will increase the reserve bench, we will allow to plan friendly matches in advance, and many more. Access to Sokker from mobile phones will certainly be significantly improved.
VOTE HERE -> Season calendar SURVEY
I've voted
I do have genuine concerns about the integrity of our community if the top league goes to 12 teams though
I do have genuine concerns about the integrity of our community if the top league goes to 12 teams though
We have the same issue in Australia (16 users). If it goes to 12 teams, the top team just has more people to play who don't put up a fight, the new users now no longer can win a game, and the 4 left overs are split over the 4 div 2, playing bots all season, and only ever one promoting to gain the extra income that comes with sponsorship.
We can see it will be a good way to lose users, which is why we keep pushing for an international league that has promotion and relegation, as well as the current national league. This way you will have a whole league of players who rate similar to you, meaning every game is exciting. It also gives those who currently win most or all of their countries Div 1 matches, some competition so they don't get bored and leave.
This poll they cut out that the international league is actually season long, so you will always have two games per week, plus however long you are in the cups for
We can see it will be a good way to lose users, which is why we keep pushing for an international league that has promotion and relegation, as well as the current national league. This way you will have a whole league of players who rate similar to you, meaning every game is exciting. It also gives those who currently win most or all of their countries Div 1 matches, some competition so they don't get bored and leave.
This poll they cut out that the international league is actually season long, so you will always have two games per week, plus however long you are in the cups for
I cannot see the results, it seems 2 games per week / 12 weeks per season was voted
13 weeks season 12 teams 2 games in leaguage per week
Thanks, very unfortunate for small and medium nations, users-wise.
In my good days I merely had time for one competitive game a week, now it would be impossible to seriously manage a team, even in low sized Scotland.
Tough luck for NT managers after 2021.
In my good days I merely had time for one competitive game a week, now it would be impossible to seriously manage a team, even in low sized Scotland.
Tough luck for NT managers after 2021.
Dev. Diary 8: The Game System - The Final Decision
The game system – research
Last week, we asked you to fill out another survey and share comments on the two final proposals. Thank you for plenty of votes, comments and discussions. As the final result it turned out to be very tough to make a final decision.
During the week we will publish a more detailed report to share detailed results with you and today's Developers Diary will focus on key conclusions and our decision.
Key conclusions from the study:
* Option 1 won with around 50% of all votes, turning out to be the most popular. Your second choice was option 2 with 35%. Enthusiasts of no change is 15%.
* It is quite clear that we have two strong camps - it can be seen when we compare the analysis of the assessed options - both proposals receive a maximum rating (7) among their supporters, while opponents usually do not like the opposite option rating it at the lowest possible level (1).
* There are fears of playing 4 matches a week - the option to play with such a frequency received only half the number of votes than the option to play 3 matches a week.
* The most definite results we got from the poll on the number of teams in the country’s leagues - over 61% of participants voted for the option of 12 team leagues and this was the most popular answer. Greater extension of leagues did not get your approval - about 14% of voters voted for 14 team leagues, about 17% for 16.
It is quite clear to us that with such divided votes it will be difficult for us to choose an option that is satisfactory to all but at the same time we have to move on with further work and make the final decision.
New game system
We are deciding to choose a calendar based on Option 1 but for now we are giving up the international cup (we are expanding leagues to 12 teams and introducing two league matches per week) - this means up to 3 official matches per week as preferred by most of you. Only after implementing this system and getting to know what your acceptance is, we will be making further decisions about the possible addition of other games for all players (international).
Below is the final calendar.
Other information
Here are some additional elements / ideas that are important to us and may explain the proposed calendar.
Inter-season break : For now we do not want to give up the inter-season break. A pre-season-week seems to be sensible, considering the shorter length of the season. It should be taken into account that this is a period of average attractiveness in the game (and slower training) so a special kind of friendly matches should be introduced for this period.
Warm-up matches : This is a special type of friendly match that will be possible to play during the season break and play-offs only (for teams that do not take part in the play-off-matches). They will differ from the classic friendlies in training effectiveness - they will allow you to train your players in a similar way to official matches.
Structure of a number of divisions : Currently the leading multiplier of common league levels is x4. In the new system of enlarged leagues, we will be more flexible, and we will adjust league levels to the current situation in a given country, so as to ensure that teams of similar levels will play on the same league levels and the lowest level will be beginner friendly.
Enlargement of divisions and small countries (containing a few users): We agree that for small countries, enlarging leagues is not as attractive as for larger countries. But along with the changes, we plan to conduct intensive marketing activities that are also more focused on the markets which currently have the smallest amount of users. Thus, the problem should be reduced when we are recruiting new players. However, if this shall not happen - we will consider various ideas to solve this problem (such as ideas of merging countries into large groups).
Next steps
A new calendar will be introduced in 2-3 seasons, along with the training reform. Preparation requires time spent on development but also a large number of tests and simulations to make sure that everything works together, and the game is well balanced.
We intentionally started presenting changes from these two elements (calendar and training) because these are the most comprehensive changes we have planned and consultations regarding those had to be performed first.
Once again, thank you for filling the survey, a large number of comments which finally contributed significantly to our decision in this regard.
Published on May 29, 2020
The game system – research
Last week, we asked you to fill out another survey and share comments on the two final proposals. Thank you for plenty of votes, comments and discussions. As the final result it turned out to be very tough to make a final decision.
During the week we will publish a more detailed report to share detailed results with you and today's Developers Diary will focus on key conclusions and our decision.
Key conclusions from the study:
* Option 1 won with around 50% of all votes, turning out to be the most popular. Your second choice was option 2 with 35%. Enthusiasts of no change is 15%.
* It is quite clear that we have two strong camps - it can be seen when we compare the analysis of the assessed options - both proposals receive a maximum rating (7) among their supporters, while opponents usually do not like the opposite option rating it at the lowest possible level (1).
* There are fears of playing 4 matches a week - the option to play with such a frequency received only half the number of votes than the option to play 3 matches a week.
* The most definite results we got from the poll on the number of teams in the country’s leagues - over 61% of participants voted for the option of 12 team leagues and this was the most popular answer. Greater extension of leagues did not get your approval - about 14% of voters voted for 14 team leagues, about 17% for 16.
It is quite clear to us that with such divided votes it will be difficult for us to choose an option that is satisfactory to all but at the same time we have to move on with further work and make the final decision.
New game system
We are deciding to choose a calendar based on Option 1 but for now we are giving up the international cup (we are expanding leagues to 12 teams and introducing two league matches per week) - this means up to 3 official matches per week as preferred by most of you. Only after implementing this system and getting to know what your acceptance is, we will be making further decisions about the possible addition of other games for all players (international).
Below is the final calendar.
Other information
Here are some additional elements / ideas that are important to us and may explain the proposed calendar.
Inter-season break : For now we do not want to give up the inter-season break. A pre-season-week seems to be sensible, considering the shorter length of the season. It should be taken into account that this is a period of average attractiveness in the game (and slower training) so a special kind of friendly matches should be introduced for this period.
Warm-up matches : This is a special type of friendly match that will be possible to play during the season break and play-offs only (for teams that do not take part in the play-off-matches). They will differ from the classic friendlies in training effectiveness - they will allow you to train your players in a similar way to official matches.
Structure of a number of divisions : Currently the leading multiplier of common league levels is x4. In the new system of enlarged leagues, we will be more flexible, and we will adjust league levels to the current situation in a given country, so as to ensure that teams of similar levels will play on the same league levels and the lowest level will be beginner friendly.
Enlargement of divisions and small countries (containing a few users): We agree that for small countries, enlarging leagues is not as attractive as for larger countries. But along with the changes, we plan to conduct intensive marketing activities that are also more focused on the markets which currently have the smallest amount of users. Thus, the problem should be reduced when we are recruiting new players. However, if this shall not happen - we will consider various ideas to solve this problem (such as ideas of merging countries into large groups).
Next steps
A new calendar will be introduced in 2-3 seasons, along with the training reform. Preparation requires time spent on development but also a large number of tests and simulations to make sure that everything works together, and the game is well balanced.
We intentionally started presenting changes from these two elements (calendar and training) because these are the most comprehensive changes we have planned and consultations regarding those had to be performed first.
Once again, thank you for filling the survey, a large number of comments which finally contributed significantly to our decision in this regard.
Published on May 29, 2020