"Watching Spectator"

[STM1993]

Now, can I suggest another type of spectator: The Watching Spectator. It's like checking the Spectator box before joining a game. You will then enter this server, but you cannot join the game in any way.

The trick is this: Let's say there are 4 players in a room for 5 people. You enter as this "Watching Spectator". The number of people in the room will still be counted as 4 as the server does not count in the watching spectator (they are counted separately). At least now, you don't have to take up the space in which other players want to have because they want to play, not to spectate.

Servers can disable Watching Spectators or put a limit to the number of watching spectators.

What do you think?

[Hair|Trigger]

No, spectator still uses server bandwidth, and thus will create lag.

[Evil Noob]

Its a good idea though

[Crimson Goth]

I always hated spectators using server slots, because it unbalances most pubs. Especially if they sit there for more than 2 rounds. I don't think there's a way around it, but F12 on the slot problem.

[LtKillroy]

Yes. F12. Hate it when there is a full 10 player game with only like 5 playing.

[Gnoblar]

Agreed. especially on small CTF games, with "8" people in the server and only 3 playing.

[STM1993]

No, spectator still uses server bandwidth, and thus will create lag.

That's why I suggest there's an option to set the number of such "Watching Spectators" allowed to view a server.

I suggested this because I've been annoyed by how so few people play and so many spectators. I am a Spectator myself, so I think that since I'm only watching and not playing, I might as well not take up a server slot for those who play but still be able to watch the game.

[Ziem]

Well, with some tweaks, F12.