Golden-Road.net

Front Office => The Front Office => Topic started by: gamesurf on June 05, 2019, 02:51:34 PM

Title: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 05, 2019, 02:51:34 PM
I’ve been talking via PM with PayingTheRent, who encouraged me to post this thread.

Like The Price is Right itself, G-R.net is an old warhorse. Sure, it’s had its ebbs and flows like everything else, but even after nearly two decades of existence, this site is not only still kicking, but still one of the best TPiR resources on the net, if not the best.

In the site’s heyday, one of the most memorable sections was the Host Your Own subforum. Host Your Own (or HYO) was a special section of the site where members could host and act as contestants playing mock games of The Price is Right.

In its prime, HYO was one of the most creative, inventive places on the site--forum members had a chance to put their own personal touch on the show. Unfortunately as time passed and the site’s demographics changed, many of the forum’s most active members could no longer devote the time or attention they had in the past. This meant the section only served to attract trolls and members who only signed up to play or host HYO and never interacted with others anywhere else, so in the end the mods decided it would be best to shut it down. Like many classic shows, it had a great run but eventually it burnt itself out.

However, over the past two and a half years, the site’s managed to attract a newer generation of posters that have joined and actively participate on the boards. The community has been clipping along and growing in a positive direction. With that in mind… could it be time to give HYO another try?

I know a few others have expressed a desire to see the section return. I've mentioned this to PTR and cu, as well as the rest of the mod team, and they’ve indicated that they are absolutely willing to have a discussion about a possible future of HYO, provided there is enough general forum interest.

So with their blessing, I’d like to open up those questions to the rest of the forum—

Is there enough demand on the site for HYO to make a return? Would there be enough active site members hosting and playing to keep the board active?

If HYO were to come back, how could we make sure it stays active in meaningful ways, instead of attracting people who post just to post? How could we encourage active, quality posters to give the section appropriate attention?
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 05, 2019, 02:56:27 PM
I guess I’ll go first:

I've hosted my own shows elsewhere on another site a few summers ago, and I have some old pricing game graphics on my server collecting dust.  I’d love a reason to blow the mothballs off during the summer months. I was even toying with trying together a mini weekly pricing game tournament in OLIF. But—gotta be honest—I LOVED reading the HYO section. I never participated until after its heyday, (mostly lurked here for years until 2017), but it was the place to go to see fellow community members show off their art, pricing skills, and creative riffs on the show.

So what could HYO specifically offer the forum in 2019?


As for how it could be implemented? In addition to the past rules (only one or two shows going on at a time, hosts must get scripts approved by a mod, etc.), here's a few suggestions:

I also think an overall “less is more” approach would be wise, focusing on quality shows over quantity. Making half-hour episodes the norm could be very beneficial. They’re less of a time commitment for hosts and contestants, and they would encourage focus on polishing a short, current show rather than slapping together a long one. It could even be kept to a seasonal thing, reserved for the summer months to fill the void when CSS and the FPG and general show discussion winds down.

Given the chance, I’d love to see what the community can do. I think with a tight focus, it could be a fun summer activity and a way to celebrate both hosting flair and pricing skills. I’d love to support it if the mods and the rest of the community see fit to give it another go.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: silverice878 on June 05, 2019, 04:35:18 PM
I would love to see HYO make a return. I had wanted to make one for a long time, and had even gone as far as to piece one together, but this was right when HYO closed up, therefore, I took my HYO stuff and applied it to the Weekly Pricing Games I've been doing. An HYO return would give me an opportunity to do not only full shows, but to have everybody on the same page. I'm down for it!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 05, 2019, 04:40:09 PM
I haven't been a member for very long, compared to some of you (in fact, it will be one year this next Tuesday) but I can tell you that the ultimate dream for the vast majority of us is to get up on stage on TPIR. While that can't happen on a regular basis, HYO can.  Who doesn't want to be a part of ilovesuperball's antics (remember those? Those were gut-busters to read!) Ever wanted a chance to win 100K on Pay the Rent? Here's your chance. Have you wanted to roll that Superball up the ramp and win a brand new car? Now is a perfect opportunity. For others, the real pleasure is in hosting. Ever wanted to throw out the Ten Chances zero rule by putting in a $65 toaster? Here's a great place to do it. Wanted to create a Million-Dollar Plinko, one that can actually be won? Now's your chance. And by the way, remember all the PG ideas you had years ago but never bothered to post them, knowing they could never be used on the show? Well, now you can.

As far as the implementation of an HYO, I fully back gamesurf's suggestions. Especially during the end of the run, HYO became a haven for people who decided to join G-R specifically for HYO and start their own shows, only to get shut down because they never read the rules. By enforcing a read-only period, it will allow newcomers to get a feel for how the HYO operates as a whole. All in all, members, newcomers and veterans alike, need to be reminded that the HYO is a privilege, NOT a right.

With all that said, if done correctly, HYO could make a triumphant return, but only if we are all willing to abide by the rules, and ensure others do the same. If that can be done, then I say,

Let's do it!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: EvilChameleon on June 05, 2019, 04:46:57 PM
As I said to you in PM, last year I hosted 3 separate episodes of TPIR on another website I was a moderator on, completely unrelated to TPIR, and people really had a good time. I did the graphics, the script, the prizes, everything. Unfortunately, the site closed down recently, but I have an entire six game episode scripted and ready to go on my computer.

My pace was one episode every four months, usually at the start of the season, so the first day of Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.

I sent you some of the custom graphics I made for the show, and I'll post three different ones here too.

(https://i.imgur.com/RTrvUfV.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/23ay0Xc.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/U2LYpx7.png)

Starting with the third episode I even started doing the big doors, complete with cars and prizes behind them...

(https://i.imgur.com/rRMZQqU.png)

Oh, and yes, every episode was a Million Dollar Spectacular.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 05, 2019, 05:00:40 PM
These are some of my recommended conditions for an HYO return (which I am in favor of, by the way):

- As gamesurf said, shut off the section to non-members and initiate an automatic probation period for new members — say, six months — before they may begin participating in the section.  I don’t necessarily believe there should be a set number of posts one must reach to unlock the section, however.  I can see this being abused, plus some members post more frequently than others.  Rather, allow the probation to automatically be lifted after set period of time, and if any member behaves in an unproductive manner, it’s at the discretion of G-R staff to have the offender’s probation reinstated.

- Have more than one moderator overseeing HYO and only allow mods and forum staff to create show threads for confirmed hosts, completely eliminating the issue of trolls trying to start shows without permission.

- 12 hour reply limit for hosts and contestants.  The general rule of thumb has generally been 24 hours for contestants — primarily at the sole discretion of the host — and hosts themselves have much more leeway, sometimes taking days to respond back to their own shows (and I’ve been guilty of this, myself).  However, it’s not 2005 anymore.  The vast majority of us have smartphones that are more than capable of accessing the site, so 12 hours should be plenty of time for most.  If you’re a host and plan to be away from your computer, then consider using graphics that can be created from your phone (and such apps are easily accessible and inexpensive, if not free).  You can even go text-only, there’s nothing wrong with that.  If you’re a host and take longer than 12 hours to reply, the section moderator(s) may take over hosting duties until such time that you return.  Excessive time away from hosting during your show may result in penalties (see next item below). Same for contestants.

- Three Strike System (hosts): If a host abandons their show for a period of 48 hours or longer, this will result in a strike.  If three strikes are accumulated over the course of (two) succeeding shows, the offending member will be placed on probation from hosting further shows, perhaps six months to one year.

- Three Strike System (contestants): Generally, if you miss your turn three times as a contestant, you are out.  This will still apply, however the strike will be applied automatically to the offending member after a period of 12 hours, regardless if the host or next contestant has posted.  If the offending member’s turn remains valid, they may take it at the host’s discretion.  However, their strike will remain.  Three strikes in a given show, the contestant is out.  If this happens over the course of three shows, the offending member will be placed on a probation period of six months to one year from participating in HYO, either as a host or contestant.

I believe these suggestions would go a long ways in taking care of the issues that have plagued HYO.  The faster pace shows move along at, the better.  Also, I believe these rules can allow for two concurrent shows, as well as the hour-long format, provided there is enough participation.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Ton80 on June 05, 2019, 05:47:54 PM
I know it's a daunting task, but I believe that new HYO hosts should be required to have their game scripts fully reviewed and approved prior to being allowed to start a show, with a special eye on keeping the show "reasonable" and in the true spirit of The Price is Right.

I don't know about anyone else, but playing Golden Road for a private island in the Bahamas, a Lear jet, and a gold Cadillac just seems.......wrong.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 05, 2019, 05:56:52 PM
I know it's a daunting task, but I believe that new HYO hosts should be required to have their game scripts fully reviewed and approved prior to being allowed to start a show, with a special eye on keeping the show "reasonable" and in the true spirit of The Price is Right.

I don't know about anyone else, but playing Golden Road for a private island in the Bahamas, a Lear jet, and a gold Cadillac just seems.......wrong.

I believe script approval was required for the first three(?) shows hosted under the old system (provided those shows were without issues)?

I would go further by requiring all hosts to submit a script, regardless of standing or how many shows you’ve hosted.  Any good host should have a script, anyways.  There’s no harm in providing it beforehand.  In fact, this would need to be required anyway so that a moderator can assume hosting duties should a given host be away for too long.

Furthermore, there should be a limit on how many shows one can host over a given period — perhaps one every three months.  Seeing the same member host show after show becomes tiring and boring.  We don’t need that.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: TPIRfan#9821 on June 05, 2019, 06:41:53 PM
I'm down to give HYO another try.

However, I tried something similar on the Buy a Vowel Boards, and in the end, the HYO over there just fizzled out. After my game, five other games were hosted, pretty much wrapping up when the summer ended. I wonder, if HYO on this site is brought back, will the hosts able to attract six or nine people consistently and not peter out after the first three shows? There's only one way to find out.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: EvilChameleon on June 05, 2019, 06:53:04 PM
The moment we start talking strikes and 12 hour limits instead of 24 is when we lose the spirit and fun of these, and they become more mechanical and robotic.

Hell, I gave my contestants three days on the other site to answer. There was no rush. Nobody ever took more than 24 to answer most of the time, but hey, life happens, and so we should be accepting of that.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 05, 2019, 07:06:20 PM
The moment we start talking strikes and 12 hour limits instead of 24 is when we lose the spirit and fun of these, and they become more mechanical and robotic.

The moment we start talking strikes and 12-hour limits (et al) is when we establish a clear standard for participants, and the games become more efficient and don't drag out for ages.

Hell, I gave my contestants three days on the other site to answer. There was no rush. Nobody ever took more than 24 to answer most of the time, but hey, life happens, and so we should be accepting of that.

Giving your contestants flexibility it one thing. Three days is quite another. Yes, real life happens, but when real life continues to happen and you keep holding up the proceedings, you're ruining it for everyone else. That's true if you're a contestant who takes three days to answer, or a host that lets it go on that long.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 05, 2019, 07:45:47 PM
I don’t like the idea of a strike system, but that doesn’t invalidate the necessity of it.  Unfortunately, going back to the old way of doing things would almost certainly yield the same results as before, given enough time.

A revamped HYO section with stricter rules that will prevent it from dragging the rest of the site down is a better solution than not having HYO at all, at least in my opinion.

I also want to add that my suggestions are merely that: suggestions.  The power to make/change the rules and reopen HYO does not lie with me, and ideas like the ‘strike system’ I mentioned were brought up here first and have not been discussed elsewhere.  The powers above me have the final call.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: someguy23475 on June 05, 2019, 09:23:28 PM
Minimum should be 24 hours. Some people work long and irregular shifts, and can’t always check the game on the phone when other matters may be more important.

I used to love hosting way back when (at least a dozen years ago), but that is something I do not have time for these days. I may be interested in playing some games.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Teddy on June 05, 2019, 09:41:50 PM
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! I would love to see the HYO section return so I can continue my series.

Some of the guidelines I'd go along with if this were to happen would include:


Even after 25 shows, I still have the hosting itch, and hopefully when Season 48 rolls around, we can get it up and running again!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 05, 2019, 09:45:56 PM
Thom's right--it's one thing if it's your own forum and you're the only game in town, but it's another if it means you're holding up another show that's waiting to go on. If a game takes three days without moving forward, that's three days you're depriving others of the chance to play. Especially so if only one or two games are allowed to go on at a time and there are other hosts waiting in the wings.

On the other hand--12 hours is a very fast pace for everybody involved. At bare minimum that means interacting twice a day, at opposite ends of the day, and checking the thread even more often than that. That's a big time commitment, especially if a host is choosing to update the game with graphics or something like that.

I'm in favor of a 24-hour time limit.  If speeding things along is an interest, maybe a prod after 12 hours and a strike at 24, two strikes and you're out, excessive prodding gets a strike, or something like that.

Not a rule suggestion, but a general suggestion: Hosts and contestants should understand that the way they participate can affect their future HYO opportunities. Quality hosting is more than just playing traffic cop, and quality contestant participation is more than than just saying "I'm in".

One problem was the section had in the past was posters who did the bare minimum to get by. When Stan's picking the day's contestants, he doesn't just take everyone who says "I'm in" and then pick players at random--he casts the show. It should be totally okay to give first four preference in Contestant's Row to people who are active in the community, or who prove they're able to answer with timeliness, or who show some creativity when signing ups, or who just have a good reputation. Likewise, if a prospective contestant frequently misses deadlines, or never leaves the HYO section, or only post just to post, there's nothing wrong with a host choosing to calling them down later in the show or not at all. It's their show, after all. Hosts are allowed to be judicious.

I also like the "wait three months before starting your next show" rule. It would help discourage people from hosting, just for the sake of hosting. Friendly competition breeds innovation.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: PatrickRox80 on June 05, 2019, 09:46:16 PM
Having hosted net game shows for five years on another forum, I would be open to HYOs here again. Heck, I haven't hosted since Barker was still on the show.

I believe the same protocol we've always had should be enforced, such as a good portion of your posts in say The Talk is Right or the Recap section. If someone's abusing the HYO section for posts, introduce a probationary period to enforce talking about the actual show. Depending on how much interest we get, we should start again with the two-host limit. With the discretion of the mods, maybe they could give a third to a more seasoned host.

As far as deadlines, I'm not a fan of anything less than 24 hours due to many of us on here working or attending school or college. It shouldn't be a problem now with summer but it's something to consider when school starts again.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 05, 2019, 10:07:24 PM
Even after 25 shows, I still have the hosting itch...

This is something that I think needs to be addressed too. No matter how you slice it, 25 is a big number, and probably higher than average.

I'm not a fan of a lifetime cap, but I do think that once you reach a certain number of shows, there needs to be a longer waiting period before you can host again, in order to give others a chance. It's the same philosophy as a waiting period between shows--others need to have their chance.

EDIT: gamesurf said it better than me.

Quote from: gamesurf
It would help discourage people from hosting, just for the sake of hosting. Friendly competition breeds innovation.

I look at it this way: if I've never hosted a show, but Teddy's hosted 25, and I put my name in but he gets the green light for his show...how exactly is that fair? He's done it enough, and I've never done it, so I deserve my shot too.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 05, 2019, 10:12:13 PM
Likewise, if a prospective contestant frequently misses deadlines, or never leaves the HYO section, or only post just to post, there's nothing wrong with a host choosing to calling them down later in the show or not at all. It's their show, after all.

Emphasis mine. I think these same criteria should apply to hosts too. Hosts need to contribute to the site in a constructive way, and if anything the bar should be higher--if a user frequently shows up in the recap threads, for example, and only ever states the obvious (things like "wow, if so-and-so had only done this, they'd have won that!" or "no cars were won today" that anyone could see for themselves just by reading the recap), it's tantamount to posting just to post.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Teddy on June 05, 2019, 10:14:55 PM
This is something that I think needs to be addressed too. No matter how you slice it, 25 is a big number, and probably higher than average.

I'm not a fan of a lifetime cap, but I do think that once you reach a certain number of shows, there needs to be a longer waiting period before you can host again, in order to give others a chance. It's the same philosophy as a waiting period between shows--others need to have their chance.

I look at it this way: if I've never hosted a show, but Teddy's hosted 25, and I put my name in but he gets the green light for his show...how exactly is that fair? He's done it enough, and I've never done it, so I deserve my shot too.
I agree with your assessment; I would like as many new hosts to get their shot as they possibly can. I remember HYO hosts retiring after a set number of shows, like BRB_TheFireball did at the end of his 16th episode. I feel that hosts should be able to do as many shows as they can, and then retire on their own free will instead of being forced into it.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 05, 2019, 10:21:18 PM
If you want to participate, then that's great. That said...first we have this...

I agree with your assessment; I would like as many new hosts to get their shot as they possibly can. I remember HYO hosts retiring after a set number of shows, like BRB_TheFireball did at the end of his 16th episode. I feel that hosts should be able to do as many shows as they can, and then retire on their own free will instead of being forced into it.

And then, we have this...

I would love to see the HYO section return so I can continue my series.

[snip]

Even after 25 shows, I still have the hosting itch.

The discussion isn't about bringing back HYO so you can continue your series. It's possible return is to give everyone a chance to have a turn, and it doesn't sound like you really get that. So if you agree with my assessment, my question is at what point is enough enough and it becomes appropriate that you should retire of your own free will?
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 05, 2019, 10:27:23 PM
To be fair, no one except Teddy was actively signing up to host shows during that final year or so of HYO (minus the trolls who forged themselves on ahead).  No one was being passed over — there literally wasn’t anyone else signing up, and that’s not his fault in the least.  Heck, I commend his dedication!  However, new HYO doesn’t need repetitive hosting.  That’s not a knock on anyone here, it just gets stale having the same people.  If it means going a little while here and there without an active show, that’s OK.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 06, 2019, 12:41:53 AM
That makes me think of something else--contestants. Reignited hosting passions are great, but they don't amount to much unless there are enough contestants.

A probation period on new accounts would improve the culture in HYO, yes. Of course, this means less contestants immediately available. We would have to make up the difference with active members. Near the end of HYO's run, it wasn't uncommon for signups to need to be extended or re-extended in order to get enough players to run the show. If the occasional show needs it, this is probably okay to do once or twice, but if it's a regular thing that's a big problem.

Could we regularly get enough 10-12+ active members to sign up for a show at a time without having to stretch?
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 06, 2019, 09:39:40 AM
May I suggest that the HYO be transformed into, perhaps, a once or twice a month special? This would allow for a number of hosts to prepare shows that might air a month into the future. Thus, they will have time to do them right, instead of hastily piecing together shows simply to fill a void. This will ensure that the HYO is played in moderation, and doesn't become a regular thing.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: LiteBulb88 on June 06, 2019, 09:55:35 AM
A couple of thoughts:

1. I do like the idea of HYO coming back. It's been long enough and the site has calmed down enough that it's worth another go.

2. I like the idea of minimum post count AND minimum time since a user has joined the site to be able to play in an HYO. If you have just a minimum post count, then someone could come and post "I agree" a bunch of times just to play HYO. If you have just minimum time, then you could have someone who created an account years ago but never contributed at all here trying to play HYO.

3. I'm sorry, but 12 hours is too short a time frame to force people to respond. Nothing wrong with encouraging that, but if, for example, someone sleeps for 8 hours and then has an early flight the next day, they might not be able to check the site. This is especially true for the host--they may be able to check the site but it can take longer for them to post something, as it takes time to check their script, format their post with the graphics, etc. A 24 hour time limit, on the other hand, is a good amount.

3b. For the mods' sake, I don't think you want them having to take over shows even if the host disappears for a couple of days. That sounds like a lot of work for the mods, who have to look at someone else's script, try to use their graphics, etc. Instead, I'd vote for a rule of if a host goes silent for 3 days, their show goes on hiatus and we start another show. Then when one of the ongoing shows finishes, the half-finished show can pick back up. And then the host is not allowed to host another show for at least 6 months unless they had a *really* good reason to abandon their show in the first place.

4. I of course agree that there should be a variety of hosts, and that they should have to submit scripts in advance. Perhaps there could be up to four shows going at once--two by new(ish) hosts and two by veteran hosts.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: DarkShockBro on June 06, 2019, 12:22:23 PM
Believe it or not, I actually wanted to start this thread a few days ago, but just couldn’t get around to it. I’m truly glad there’s are quite a few others besides me who want HYOs to return. I’m even working on a half hour show at this moment. I was content with going to Net-Games to play it, but playing it here, on a forum that I’ve been a part of for years, would be truly incredible. I’m all in favor of bringing it back, and I truly hope it does come back soon so that we can enjoy the game show we love so much as hosts and contestants once more.  :-)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 06, 2019, 12:57:53 PM
Keep bringing the suggestions, everyone!  I love what I’m seeing so far — the genuine compassion for HYO, excellent ideas, all of it — this is a great discussion!  Rest assured, your input will play a substantial role in how a new HYO section is implemented, so let your voice be heard!  :)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: someguy23475 on June 06, 2019, 02:48:34 PM
I don’t like the idea of submitting scripts because it’s just that- a script. While this will never be as good as a live show with people actually in the same room together, there is still room for spontaneous fun, if you have the right contestant.

If it is something like submitting a game list and the prices of prizes, that could work.

I don’t think there should be nearly the same strict requirements to play as to host. Myself for example, I rarely post in Talk is Right these days because I don’t watch the show as it is now. That doesn’t mean I would be a bad contestant- in fact I know the games very well (except the newer ones that debuted a year or two after Carey took over- and I could learn those).

I do like a mix of newer and veteran hosts, as it gives variety. People can make up their minds on which shows to play. We also don’t need an ILoveSuperball like hosted game.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 06, 2019, 03:07:55 PM
Scripts have always been required of members new to HYO, at least for their first few shows.  All that’s asked for is nothing more than a list of prizes used (price and where it originated) and for which games/IUFBs/showcases.  If there are any issues, the HYO mod will hopefully catch it and alert the host ahead of time of any changes that should be made.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 06, 2019, 03:32:46 PM
May I suggest that the HYO be transformed into, perhaps, a once or twice a month special? This would allow for a number of hosts to prepare shows that might air a month into the future. Thus, they will have time to do them right, instead of hastily piecing together shows simply to fill a void. This will ensure that the HYO is played in moderation, and doesn't become a regular thing.

An average HYO takes about a month from start to finish. So if there were only allowed to host once every three months, for example, and if there's two shows going on at once, that means room for about five potential shows by other hosts in between. (I'm not sure that's an issue we'd need to plan for just yet--in light of where we left off two and a half years ago, I think it's wise to be cautious.)

I don’t like the idea of submitting scripts because it’s just that- a script. While this will never be as good as a live show with people actually in the same room together, there is still room for spontaneous fun, if you have the right contestant.

If it is something like submitting a game list and the prices of prizes, that could work.

By "script" I don't think anyone means literally scripting out all the host patter, but just as you said, the game lineup, the prizes and prices used, maybe a sample of the graphics they plan to use--anything that proves the host has put some real thought into it. That way the mods know the host has a set plan and isn't just making it up as they go along. Plus it's a quality check, a mechanism to stop somebody before they try to play Golden Road for a private island or something.

And like I mentioned--friendly competition helps ensure quality. If there's multiple people wanting to host, mods need to be able to select which to prioritize. People are likely to put more thought into their shows if they know a so-so or questionable script might mean their show gets placed on the backburner to make room for somebody else who has a really quality one.

3b. For the mods' sake, I don't think you want them having to take over shows even if the host disappears for a couple of days. That sounds like a lot of work for the mods, who have to look at someone else's script, try to use their graphics, etc. Instead, I'd vote for a rule of if a host goes silent for 3 days, their show goes on hiatus and we start another show. Then when one of the ongoing shows finishes, the half-finished show can pick back up. And then the host is not allowed to host another show for at least 6 months unless they had a *really* good reason to abandon their show in the first place.

If a host goes silent for 3 days without telling anyone, their show should be cancelled. I don't think it would be productive to try to pick up the pieces a month later when everyone's moved on.

I also think a mod would be making a lot of work for themselves by taking a show into their own hands. I'm not sure it'd be worth it--I think the occasional prod is fine if they trust the host to be able to get back on track, and if there's a clear problem with the show it would be better to just cancel it outright.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Flerbert419 on June 06, 2019, 08:31:36 PM
I'm on board for trying to resurrect it with some of the restrictions in place - what's the worst that could happen?

I'm also not a fan of the 12 hour time limit and feel that it needs to be 24. What we need to try to do though is reasonably limit the amount of host-contestant interactions so that the game moves more quickly.

If we are playing More or Less, don't go one prize at a time, give all 4. If we are playing Spelling Bee, present all of the SP's at once. If we are playing Money Game, after you find one half of the car give all your guesses for the other half in order.

Little tweaks like this reduce the overall length of the show and make sure we keep things moving.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 06, 2019, 09:21:36 PM
Let’s just forget the 12 hour suggestion was ever made, shall we?  :lol:
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpiradam on June 06, 2019, 09:23:38 PM
I am definitely in favour with resurrecting it and I do like the proposed changes and rules. As to the whole response time debate should that maybe be left up to the host?
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 06, 2019, 09:59:02 PM
Let’s just forget the 12 hour suggestion was ever made, shall we?  :lol:

Agreed.  ;)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: DarkShockBro on June 07, 2019, 12:44:30 PM
I wish I could say I’d have more new ideas to add, but, to continue this important discussion, I would like to say I’m in favor of more Weekly Pricing Games and half-hour shows, as those require less time and contestants. And as I said, I’ve been working on a half-hour script the past few days, and it’s finished at this moment. As such, I truly believe they’d be a great way to get the revamped HYO thread off to a good start so that no one regrets it coming back. However, regardless, I also believe bringing back HYO will be successful, and I think the morale and participation of this forum will be all the better for it.  :-)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: therealcu2010 on June 07, 2019, 05:57:33 PM
I'll chime in later when I have more time- but I too have toyed with rebooting the section. It's been a long time since I've hosted a show, and have that itch... plus I'm sitting on several unused graphics that I'd finally like to use.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 07, 2019, 07:36:59 PM
I'll chime in later when I have more time- but I too have toyed with rebooting the section. It's been a long time since I've hosted a show, and have that itch... plus I'm sitting on several unused graphics that I'd finally like to use.

I really enjoyed reading your old shows, so I sure hope you can get around to it!

By the way, does anyone have a simple way to figure out prices of trips? I tried doing some research but it was too mind-numbing. Thanks!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: gamesurf on June 07, 2019, 07:54:17 PM
I really enjoyed reading your old shows, so I sure hope you can get around to it!

By the way, does anyone have a simple way to figure out prices of trips? I tried doing some research but it was too mind-numbing. Thanks!

Cost of airfare + cost of lodging + whatever other anemities you want to throw in (especially if you're playing a game where you need to fine-tune the price to a specific number)

Trip advisor sites help a ton, especially resources like Google Flights and individual airports' and hotel websites.

But remember--if it's simple for you to figure out, it's also simple for somebody else to figure out, so don't give away too much of the special sauce
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 07, 2019, 09:23:11 PM
But remember--if it's simple for you to figure out, it's also simple for somebody else to figure out, so don't give away too much of the special sauce

This is something some hosts will need to address, myself included.  Giving away even a few key details in a prize description makes Googling the price of a given item super simple.  I would hope most of us wouldn’t stoop to the level of cheating in a free-to-play community forum game with no physical prize offered, but unfortunately, there are some who will anyway (don’t be that person...).
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 07, 2019, 09:47:32 PM
This is something some hosts will need to address, myself included.  Giving away even a few key details in a prize description makes Googling the price of a given item super simple.

I suppose so, but depending on which website I use, the price could vary by a few hundred dollars. (This, some might say, is the reason for Trivago, right?)  :P
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Marc on June 07, 2019, 11:34:08 PM
even after nearly two decades of existence...

Wow
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Prizes on June 08, 2019, 02:00:06 AM
Wow

Crazy, isn't it? Technically it is 20 this year going back to the Bravenet days, no? Then you have the brief era when you put up the photo guide pictures around 2002, and the message board came about in 2003. Amazing how much life has personally changed in the 14 years in since joining.

As for this, I've been messaged about it, but I'd honestly want to see some sample scripts from the future hosts before I'd approve this. They need to be quality, thought out, and ultimately a positive representation of the page. Creativity in games, hosting, and prizes, mixed with good hosting and graphics (least of my big five, but it's there) go a long way to impressing me with what you can do.

Scripts will absolutely stay, and one thing I'd like to propose to my fellow staffers is such that this go, the section would be an area where posts simply do not count towards the overall total. This gives an easy reflection to see where quality is trending. Furthermore, if there is a quantity backlog, the easy way to solve this is by letter the better quality shows go first in the queue. You want to host more? Great! Natural competition engenders better production values.

This is something some hosts will need to address, myself included.  Giving away even a few key details in a prize description makes Googling the price of a given item super simple.

It's why CU and I make/made mostly jokes about the products aside from the humor in the descriptions or think of subtle ways to throw you off. Only so much you can do with just the basics of the product. My personal favorite was using a Kia Soul! in Triple Play's second car many moons ago on an offsite page. The Kia Soul was like $15K, the Kia Soul! started at like $16,500. Little bit of an undercut, but it worked. Heck, even using PFP is pretty successful too, or just unusual trim of cars, odd products with various sourcing prices, and so on.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: someguy23475 on June 08, 2019, 06:31:30 PM
During one of my games, I had someone guess the exact price for season tickets to a minor league baseball team. I don’t know for sure, but my guess is they looked it up. Either that, or they happen to be a huge fan of the team and somehow knew that price.

I did have a hot dog cart as an IUFB (along with groans from the “audience”) just to make it feel like the real show.

I also played Professor Price- and one of the digits was not in the price of the car. I can’t remember how I handled that other than counting it as a wrong answer (I believe showed the number anyway).

One thing I did not do was play games that required a clock or physical skill. This means no Clock Game, Race Game, Hole in One, On the Nose, etc. I just couldn’t come up with a fair enough way to play it. The wheel was the random number job, and I wasn’t happy with it, but since it is a huge part of the game, I had to keep it in.

If this comes back, I hope the hosts use their personality and creativity to come up with some great shows.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 09, 2019, 01:26:39 PM
...one thing I'd like to propose to my fellow staffers is such that this go, the section would be an area where posts simply do not count towards the overall total. This gives an easy reflection to see where quality is trending.

I tender that the same should apply to the CSS and FPG as well.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: MSTieScott on June 09, 2019, 06:08:00 PM
But remember--if it's simple for you to figure out, it's also simple for somebody else to figure out, so don't give away too much of the special sauce

This is something some hosts will need to address, myself included.  Giving away even a few key details in a prize description makes Googling the price of a given item super simple.  I would hope most of us wouldn’t stoop to the level of cheating in a free-to-play community forum game with no physical prize offered, but unfortunately, there are some who will anyway (don’t be that person...).

When I hosted my shows, with the exception of one episode, I almost always used prizes taken directly from the show (and this was around 2005/2006, when the show's prices were more easily memorizable). It was understood that everybody was on the honor system. And in all of my episodes, there was only one time that I suspected a contestant was looking up the answers. In those rare instances, you keep the game moving, and life goes on.

It's a lighthearted internet game with no actual stakes. If somebody feels like they have to cheat at it, I'm going to feel pity, not anger.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 09, 2019, 06:35:05 PM
When I hosted my shows, with the exception of one episode, I almost always used prizes taken directly from the show (and this was around 2005/2006, when the show's prices were more easily memorizable).

This brings up a very interesting point: can I use the TPIR recaps as my "source" when assembling scripts?
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: therealcu2010 on June 09, 2019, 08:12:40 PM
This brings up a very interesting point: can I use the TPIR recaps as my "source" when assembling scripts?

Yes, though it's way more fun to find your own prizes.

Regarding deadlines- they absolutely are necessary for the interest of keeping shows moving. Especially when there's a backlog of hosts waiting to go, having shows held up because people take three days to respond is unfair for those waiting. I agree that 12 hours is perhaps too short- not everyone is able to log on so often- but 24 is fair. Everyone should be able to log on to the site at least once a day. Regarding Renty's comment about everyone being able to use the site on smartphones- this site isn't exactly well optimized for them, especially on Android... and Tapatalk support for the site broke a while ago. (Chelsea, can you fix this?)

I don't know if we need a probationary period for playing games, but there definitely should be one for hosting. At a minimum, any prospective hosts should have played a few games before even attempting to host one. Experienced hosts don't necessarily need to submit a script for approval if they have run error-free shows in the past, but there should always be one available to the section moderator on demand. If the section moderator wants to host a show, they should have one available to an alternate moderator.

I'm not opposed to bringing it back. I would even help run it and approve scripts. I would wait until the summer hiatus to reboot the section, though, as a special event... try it over the summer, and if there seems to be interest, keep it going into the fall. Since there seem to be several people interested, send a script for review to my PM box and we'll go from there. Note that sending a script does not guarantee you will necessarily host... I mostly want to gauge possible interest before committing to bringing the section back.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: SteveGavazzi on June 10, 2019, 01:44:13 AM
When I hosted my shows, with the exception of one episode, I almost always used prizes taken directly from the show

Yeah, I never did see them use that bag of rubber bands with the price on it. :)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 10, 2019, 05:15:26 PM
One more thing: I'd like to get some opinions on the best program to use for creating graphics. I have a few in mind, but I'd like to get a bigger selection before I make a decision. Thanks!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 10, 2019, 05:22:23 PM
One more thing: I'd like to get some opinions on the best program to use for creating graphics. I have a few in mind, but I'd like to get a bigger selection before I make a decision. Thanks!

If you’re really good with PowerPoint, that might be a good starting point.  I used Microsoft Paint with my shows, but I’d probably go with PP now given how much experience I have with it.  You can create some pretty cool stuff if you know what you’re doing!
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: DarkShockBro on June 15, 2019, 03:43:47 PM
I apologize for the bump, but I would like to ask: has any progress has been made with regards to HYO? I appreciate it.  :-)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 16, 2019, 09:30:44 AM
It's only been a week since the last post. Hardly a bump. Maybe just a nudge. :)

I really hope so, since I'd really love to make use of my newly-created PowerPoint graphics. (Thanks, PtR! Never knew what PowerPoint could pull off!)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: therealcu2010 on June 16, 2019, 09:46:49 AM
No update yet, sorry. Stay tuned :)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: ThomHuge on June 16, 2019, 06:10:20 PM
It's only been a week since the last post. Hardly a bump. Maybe just a nudge. :)

I really hope so, since I'd really love to make use of my newly-created PowerPoint graphics. (Thanks, PtR! Never knew what PowerPoint could pull off!)

In case you're wondering what it looks like when someone posts just to post, here's a good example. DarkShockBro's question was directed at the mods, who are the only ones who can reasonably answer it; the reply I quoted adds absolutely nothing to the discussion, but does have shameless self-promotion for something that isn't confirmed to definitely even be happening (yet).
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: Mr. Weatherman on June 16, 2019, 07:30:45 PM
Huh?

I see nothing wrong here.  Feel free to ‘report to moderator’ if you do, but otherwise, let’s not call out others.  We’ll take care of any matter that needs to be addressed in the appropriate manner.

With regards to the status of HYO, simply stay tuned, as CU said.  We’re all busy in our own worlds right now, but the discussion certainly isn’t dead. :)
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: tpir04 on June 16, 2019, 07:48:19 PM
In case you're wondering what it looks like when someone posts just to post, here's a good example. DarkShockBro's question was directed at the mods, who are the only ones who can reasonably answer it; the reply I quoted adds absolutely nothing to the discussion, but does have shameless self-promotion for something that isn't confirmed to definitely even be happening (yet).

I was simply stating that I still have interest in a new HYO. Additionally, I thanked PayingTheRent for his recommendation of PowerPoint, which has been very helpful. I don't believe I did anything wrong.
Title: Re: Is it time to give HYO another try?
Post by: therealcu2010 on June 17, 2019, 09:05:26 PM
It's back... at least for the 2019 summer hiatus. Check it out! :)