August 17, 2023, 9:47 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Gaming can stir emotions, as Xbox players might know. And not all of them keep their cool in such situations. To ensure fair play among players, Microsoft has introduced a penalty point system. TECHBOOK explains the details.
There are rules in gaming, even online. But not everyone always follows them. Violating behavior guidelines can not only ruin the fun but also lead to offensive language. In-game chats of multiplayer games are often a breeding ground for “hate speech,” or insults. This is also observed in Xbox games in multiplayer mode. Therefore, Microsoft, the console developer responsible for the Xbox Network, is now introducing virtual “referees.” With a penalty point system, Xbox players’ misconduct will now be penalized–even account suspension is possible.
Xbox Players Face Immediate Suspension for Misconduct
Microsoft explains the reasons for this decision in detail on its blog. At Xbox, they are always striving to “improve safety measures and introduce additional systems and tools that enable players to interact respectfully.” Every player deserves a place where they can express themselves freely without fearing harassment and bullying. However, since operators repeatedly received complaints about hostilities, a universal sanction system was necessary.
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How the New System Works
A specially trained security team is responsible for reviewing and assessing misconduct reported by Xbox players. This includes not only hate speech but also alleged cheating. Thus, the system is not automatic; it is somewhat discretionary. This can lead to discussions, as alleged aggressors can still appeal. If justified, imposed sanctions or suspensions can be reversed retroactively.
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Basically, violations result in penalty points, called “strikes.” These remain on the player’s account for about six months. If a player accumulates two strikes, they are excluded from multiplayer games for one day. With four strikes, the Xbox suspension lasts for a week. “Players with eight strikes are banned for a year from the date of enforcement from social Xbox features like messaging, parties, and party chat, multiplayer, and others,” Microsoft explains.
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Every Player Starts with a Clean Slate
The system went into effect on August 15. Previous violations for which Xbox players were still to be penalized are not nullified, according to the release. In other words, already decided suspensions will continue to be enforced separately.
Only the point system with its strikes is new. Anyone who hasn’t already made a major mistake in the short time should still have a “clean slate”–and should ensure it stays that way.