EPTA StarCraft site/community column
Issue #1 - WGT
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They come and go, but every so often we the chance to see a select few stick out from the rest and prosper. I'm not an expert on this, but just wanted to express my viewpoints on some points on what I know and have seen. I'll probably be wrong, assume things, or exaggerate a little, but that is to be expected.
Note: Feel free to correct me on anything.
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WGT - World Gaming Tour
The soul of StarCraft.
URL: http://wgtour.com
+ Show Spoiler +
Staff
Founded by Eki and Onurb circa 1998. Is now ran by ErkenBrand?
Background
WGT was a great league at it's prime and has earned a great amount of respect through it's early years. It was one of the first and largest leagues for StarCraft that became recognized by all players in the competitive scene. They revolutionized the competitive scene once with their innovative reporting system via the use of bots on Battle.net. Thought it had it's flaws and abuses, it was the most efficient means at the time. The strategy section of the site was also a great tool for players focused on getting better.
Downfall
WGT has been around for over a decade and is struggling to keep up with the rest of the pack, much like an ill-ridden elephant limping along behind it's herd. I believe the biggest detrimental effect on this community is the lack of any signs of showing progress. Nothing new or exciting is there to draw back their user base or fresh blood. Sure the clan league is always there, but there are half a dozen alternatives as of now. The nation war league is just a renamed clan league as a feeble attempt to gain attention.
And what the fuck is up with the forums not working since the dawn of time? Forums are key to a community's survival, because if the users cannot communicate with each other, or interact somehow, then what means do they have to feel involved or want to stay involved.
In closing..
If WGT wants to regain it's footing then it needs to enact some changes quick such as fixing the dozens of major bugs throughout the site or coming up with ways to attract new and old users. And soon or the giants will one day step on it and squash it for good.
Pros
- Prestige and respect.
- Longevity.
- Longest running clan league.
Cons
- Uber buggy site.
- Lack of new material.
Founded by Eki and Onurb circa 1998. Is now ran by ErkenBrand?
Background
WGT was a great league at it's prime and has earned a great amount of respect through it's early years. It was one of the first and largest leagues for StarCraft that became recognized by all players in the competitive scene. They revolutionized the competitive scene once with their innovative reporting system via the use of bots on Battle.net. Thought it had it's flaws and abuses, it was the most efficient means at the time. The strategy section of the site was also a great tool for players focused on getting better.
Downfall
WGT has been around for over a decade and is struggling to keep up with the rest of the pack, much like an ill-ridden elephant limping along behind it's herd. I believe the biggest detrimental effect on this community is the lack of any signs of showing progress. Nothing new or exciting is there to draw back their user base or fresh blood. Sure the clan league is always there, but there are half a dozen alternatives as of now. The nation war league is just a renamed clan league as a feeble attempt to gain attention.
And what the fuck is up with the forums not working since the dawn of time? Forums are key to a community's survival, because if the users cannot communicate with each other, or interact somehow, then what means do they have to feel involved or want to stay involved.
In closing..
If WGT wants to regain it's footing then it needs to enact some changes quick such as fixing the dozens of major bugs throughout the site or coming up with ways to attract new and old users. And soon or the giants will one day step on it and squash it for good.
Pros
- Prestige and respect.
- Longevity.
- Longest running clan league.
Cons
- Uber buggy site.
- Lack of new material.
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Will add more sites/communities as time allows me. So be sure to check my blog from time to time.
Note: This issue may undergo various edits and changes.
Next issue: PGT
