Do you like when a game has a shoutbox?

[cpvr]

Some pet sites and sim games have a chat box or shoutbox where users can chat in-game instead of using the forums. Do you prefer using a shoutbox if a game offers one?


Or do you prefer to stick to the Games’ forums when chatting with other users?



What are your thoughts on games that provide a shoutbox? Are you a fan of them, or do you not really care for them?

 

[lens]

I am an enormous fan of shoutboxes! It gives the game a very lively and exciting atmosphere with the real-time chatting and bonding. I just love the instant energy and connection with other players.

 

[Scorpion]

I like using a shoutbox for quick chats while I’m gaming. It feels more lively and makes me feel more connected to others. Forums are good for deep discussions, but shoutboxes let me share fun moments right away. I really enjoy them..

 

[_Al]

The issue with shoutboxes or any other method of communication is that you're going to need to either spend an inordinate amount of time moderating the content or hire someone to do that for you. This genre is going to - sadly - attract the wrong kind of clientele. I guess most players are going to be young and that attracts online predators. Inclusion of a shoutbox / instant messaging or any other form of communication will require a significant investment to make sure its safe.

 

[Demon_skeith]

Not really, most of them tend to be full of spam.

 

[Kross]

I have observed that trading and collaboration are at a higher level in pet games that have chat boxes than the ones that don't have. It is easier to directly negotiate with a co pet game player through chat boxes and get trades completed faster than having to do that on the forums.

 

[uptrendfinancialsignal]

Chat boxes are necessary for pet games because it will help folster effective communication and collaboration in games. They also allow for quick interaction and that's one of the ways to enhance the gaming experience.

 

[cpvr]

Chat boxes are necessary for pet games because it will help folster effective communication and collaboration in games. They also allow for quick interaction and that's one of the ways to enhance the gaming experience.

I see that, but it also causes more moderation issues than none. Pet sites that have shoutboxes tend to need a lot more moderators/staff members than those that don't have them.

Quick interaction isn't so necessary in that aspect, especially if you have forums. There's only a couple of pet sites that have a shoutbox. Like Animal Jam, Marapets. Lioden, Webkinz, Rescreatu and Subeta. Private messaging works well in this aspect as well, as it provides quick interaction.

 

[uptrendfinancialsignal]

I see that, but it also causes more moderation issues than none. Pet sites that have shoutboxes tend to need a lot more moderators/staff members than those that don't have them.

Quick interaction isn't so necessary in that aspect, especially if you have forums. There's only a couple of pet sites that have a shoutbox. Like Animal Jam, Marapets. Lioden, Webkinz, Rescreatu and Subeta. Private messaging works well in this aspect as well, as it provides quick interaction.

I understand your concern but shoutboxes are neccessary. It creates a sense of community within the game. That little interaction can make the entire game more socially oriented.