[Slynky]

Originally posted by geoschmo:
If the Hand are doing that well, maybe a compromise would be to allow Sefter to be rated instead of Loser. Assuming he is interested and everyone else is willing. I wouldn't have a problem with it, since it wouldn't have a net change on the number of rated players. This would save Loser from being penalized for RL issues as you said.

Well, RL issues for Loser would have to be established. And Sefter joining the system. BUT, the overriding theme is this (as it relates to replacement players...as I see it):

(1) No player should have his rating adjusted when he has dropped when it hasn't been a RL problem;

(2) No player should have his rating adjusted when he has taken over after a significant number of turns have been completed by an earlier player;

(3) And no player should have his rating adjusted for a game that another player has completed for him.

When I say "significant", I am meaning something before 10 turns have been completed. By significant, I mean that the game has been affected enough to assume that the beginning player played an important part in establishing a winning (or losing) position.