Come hither.
Walk with me whilst I explain a few issues.
First, dear players, the mods are not as bad as you think. There wasa time on these forums when zero dissent was allowed. Keep in mind the mods and admins are people and, as such, can make mistakes. This is why there is a simple procedure for getting your complaint heard. (Yes, your complaint will be heard.)
Assuming you made your complaint in the correct forum (such as tech support for a technical issue), then it will be read by those who need to read it. If you feel your issue has fallen on deaf ears, then privately ask a mod to do some followup for you. If they are unable or simply unwilling (for whatever reason), then escalate your commentary to the next level. Calling out mods and/or admins is foolish and serves no purpose in our community.
If your complaint/question/comment/what be it does not get resolved through this simple process, then go to an admin. Assuming, again, your issue has merit, there is one last person you can go to: Thalin.
Poor Thalin has too much to do as it is; however, he will resolve your issue. I have gotten to know Thalin quite well and he is a real problem solver. As far as Evony goes, only God Himself can clear up issues better than Thalin. (Am I laying it on too thick?)
For the mods: Unfortunately, it appears Evony still does not have a comprehensive training program for you. You are cast out into the forums without truly knowing what you are supposed to do. Sure, you can read the mod forums for some guidance. Those help. The rest of your time is spent learning as you go - which means you will make some mistakes (like a certain someone banning for life a certain poster - I digress). Take responsibility for the mistakes which are going to happen. That said, you must - at all costs - avoid getting into arguments with posters who simply want to argue. Learn to identify them, identify them before responding and I guarantee you your time spent moderating will be much more enjoyable.
For Players and Mods alike: Time. It's a simple word. Time. When you feel like the game or your position as moderator is getting too stressful, take a break. Just step away for a day or two. Evony isn't going anywhere. Take some time for yourself away from the frenzy of war. Everyone needs a break from time to time.
Last, Thalin, I hope your in-box fills up. :p You can always make me (not this nickname) a mod. I'm sure DS would approve. lol Or, better yet, I could be a player advocate. Yes, yes! That sounds so much better. Imagine all of the nonsense I could deflect with such a title.
Anyway, this is a tongue-in-cheek post but I hope it helps to deflate some of the angst which is popping up on the forums as of late.
~Kemp

