Hi all -
I would like to start an open discussion about the prevalence of AFK builds; their implications on the game, and any rights, privileges, and protections afforded to them under the user agreement, common rules, and ideals people believe are rules.
As a starting point, I would like to represent the main arguments in summary.
Unrestricted Auto-Cast / AFK / Auto-Greed:
Though there are more subtleties to each position, I think that encapsulates them enough for now. Currently the CM stated position is as follows:
It is worth mentioning that KSing or Kill-Stealing is NOT mentioned in the game's User Agreement, nor are there any Knowledge Base articles regarding Kill-Stealing in the support section of the WP site. In fact, the only place I find mention is:
Though it does not clearly articulate what these actions are, the presumed blanket punishment for these offenses is an account suspension. It is also worth mentioning that these rules are posted on the forums, which the majority of players do not check. It is especially likely they have not read through the whole thread. These rules are mostly common-law if anything.
That said, I have some experience with reflect, auto-cast, and auto-greed. I would like to share some anecdotes.
For my 2 cents, I think Kill-Stealing is only an ill-mannered activity if there is a consistent pattern of targeted harassment. Someone is actively following you around, camping you, or seeking you specifically to steal from. Accidental flywings or the occasional snipe is not severe enough to warrant a suspension. Needless to say - its my take on it.
So I am curious to see where others land on this issue in light of recent events. Which approach do you take when encountering someone who is AFK leveling? Does an AFK leveler affect your enjoyment of the game regardless of whether or not they cause mobs to disappear? Are there any distinctions you make to the above arguments? Which do you align with most? Feel free to answer any or all of these questions, plus whatever additional input you have.