The state of civilian life...

[Cowboy Chip]

I am so tired of being robbed, run off the road, and or killed!  I am also tired of having to slink around just to get a task accomplished.  When I first saw Arma3, I thought to myself, now here is a game that looks like a lot of fun…  In addition, I really enjoy role-playing.  A chance to meet new and interesting people from around the globe, in addition, make some new friends while living an alternate life on the Altis Island.  That really appealed to me.  So, I downloaded the game, bought some DLC’s and started to learn the game.

Now, I wasn’t really interested in the military side of the game.  More so, joining a service like the Altis police, and or the NHS.   I ended up joining the NHS first, and as many of you know, I have had numerous technical issues to deal with preventing me from even starting my new career as a Medic.  So, I decided to log in as a civilian while testing my equipment.  Plus, as a civilian, I could make a few friends, learn how the game is structured, learn the controls, make a little cash, and learn my way around the Island.  Moreover, it wouldn’t matter if my PC crashed as I could just start over.  Unlike logging in as a medic, being in the middle of a rescue and having my PC go down, leaving whomever I was treating to die.  Not very far to the people in the game trying to have a nice time.

Now, I have been in the game as a civilian for a bit now.  I have had a few very enjoyable RP with different people.  However, and frankly, I am disgusted with the fact that as a civilian, I, like many others I am sure, simply cannot enjoy the game as an honest person doing an honest job without fear of being robbed or killed.  It seems that the only people having any fun are criminals!  i.e. gangs, cartels, and regular citizens of no affiliate running around robbing and killing people.  And why?  As one fellow said when I asked that question,

‘BECAUSE WE CAN” HMMMM, well, that just stinks!!!

Now to be honest, At the time those men set me free without killing me, I believed I had just been robbed for everything.  I had not checked my inventory.  Turned out, they only took my pistil.  They left the inventory in my truck and my carryall.   Was that by design?  Who knows…

To those men, I apologize for my previous statement of how much you took.  I would have thanked you in person, but I did not know who you were.  So, if you guys read this, thank you for not cleaning me out

 That said, it doesn’t detract from my point that there is an 80% chance that a private citizen, just going about their business, will be robbed or killed for the same reason.   “Just because they can!”  and that, in my opinion, is total horse shit!!!

 It’s one thing if all the gangs, cartels, and whomever want to rob and kill each other, but dam it!  Why ruin the game for the honest people just wanting to have fun playing!  Which is exactly what is happening…

 Now I know that there are rules in place, but so many people don’t care about the rules.  They don’t care about other people in the game unless they are friends, and or members of their groups.  The rest of us are just victims they can pray on.

 Now I know what some of you reading this are thinking, “you don’t like it, stop playing it.  Right!  Well that defeats the whole purpose of this game doesn’t it. If all the honest people trying to have fun and enjoy playing in Altis Island stopped playing it because every time they went out, they were robbed or killed, then Altis Island would be nothing more than an island for people who liked to feed off other people by robbing and killing.  Which is not far off in my opinion.

 The new tagline could be, Altis Island, A place you can freely act out all your criminal ambitions without worrying to much about the rules.

 That’s a bit extreme I agree, but for those of us who just want to enjoy playing and having a nice quality RP with friends, while making some money, and not fearing being robbed or killed at every turn, well, the Altis life doesn’t look very appealing at that point.

 I’m just one person.  My feelings and opinions are my own.  But I would be remiss if I didn’t at least speak out as I would really enjoy playing this game if a few things would change.

 My 3 cents

CC

 

[TinyBigJacko]

Life as a civilian in Altis has always been pretty tough, but over the years, I have met many people and been surprised by their capacity for friendship, respect and help.

It is true to say also that I have met many people who have been utter twats, and who've robbed me or killed me for little or no reason or gain, with little or no roleplay (other than their total dominance and aggression, requiring my total and abject submission).

Sadly, some days you get the elevator, and some days you get the shaft.

All I can say is stick with it. I can guarantee that you will at times be pulling your hair out, wondering how on earth you are expected to make progress - but at other times, strange and wonderful things will happen. Sometimes you'll be laughing so hard, or so genuinely surprised at the cool or funny things that people do or say, that it makes up for it. At least for long enough to keep going.

There's a lot of grind involved in being a solo civilian, and it's true that a lot of people find safety and strength in groups or gangs - certainly, it's a better recipe for long-term survival than going it alone... but of course, that is not always what you want as a player, and I get that. We aim to make it at least 'plausible' that a solo civ can survive, but alas, the one thing we cannot predict or control is the randomness of your encounters with others, and how they will behave.

Where we can make a difference though, is in the application of the rules. If you're encountering people who are breaking the rules of the server - as per the page here: https://www.roleplay.co.uk/rules/ - then please, make sure you report it. Use something like https://plays.tv/ or Shadowplay, and just record the last few minutes of your gameplay on an endless loop. If someone truly is taking the piss and breaking the rules, make sure you get it dealt with. We don't want an already tough civilian life rendered totally impossible by cheats or rule-breakers any more than you do. They either need to be re-educated or removed. Permanently if necessary.

Also, speak to a few of the longtime players... they might help you find some strategies that may enable you to escape from some of these situations. It might take you more time, and you might find it really hard work to come up with the right tactics to fit each random situation (and you certainly won't win all of them)... but sometimes it's worth it. There are plenty of ways to confuse, frighten, reverse, or even befriend people in a situation that initially looks like it is certain death. And when that does happen, it's a gamechanger.

Keep on trying. Hang in there. As long as you keep being quality, you'll someday inspire others to be the same.

 

[Cowboy Chip]

Very well thought out and written response.

As I really hadn’t planned to be a citizen, it’s been an eye-opening experience for sure.  My negative connotations aside, I do have a thick hid, and I don’t take much to heart realizing this IS a game.  That said, I’m sure I’m not the only person who feels that the criminal element of the Island has gotten a bit overwhelming, and a bit out of control.  People seem to be turning more to being criminal’s, rather than being honest hard-working citizens. More and more gangs keep forming, thus more people, I suspect the victims, and or just looking to make more money the easy way, are turning to a life of crime leaving us good faring people to run for cover, and distrust anyone.  That distrust makes it quite difficult to form new friendships, connections, and enjoy the game.

I will agree that you have no control how people conduct themselves, and yes, the rules apply to everyone, However, when one knows that many have no regard for said rules, that changes the perspective of the game. For me at least.  And having to circumvent every move is not really very fun.  For instance, I spent an hour not driving, but running across the hills, knowing, that if I was caught, I would most likely be robbed, or killed for my inventory. Same on my return to town.  I felt like I was on a military island being stocked by the enemy!  Having to duck and dive just to complete my task.  That is not what one should have to go through.  I wasted an hour on that task, when I could have had a real nice RP with someone, and made a new friend.  But no!  instead, I was basically running for my life.  Now If I had been playing on the military side of this game, that would have been kind of fun, but I wasn’t, and didn’t wish to be.

I will say, I have had a few real nice RP’s with people, had a few laughs, and meet some nice people.  But that was in a safe zone.  Take one step outside that zone, and you might just as well role the dice and pray you don’t die…  Not my idea of fun.  I really do want to enjoy this game and make some good connections.  I’m hopping to do that in the NHS and probably will I’m sure. (once I get my technical issues sorted out.)

I don’t take kindly to working hours toward a task, only to have it taken away in a few minutes because someone thinks it’s fun to victimize people.  Game or not, that’s not very nice, and it speaks to a person’s true character.   I am an honest straight forward person who will give the shirt off my back, and all the money in my pocket if it helps another.  I am that person in real life, and in game. Who I am doesn’t change just because I am playing a reality game and no one knows who I am.

In conclusion:

It’s refreshing to have a prominent member, such as yourself, take the time to not only address my comments and concerns, in addition, responding intelligently, and with encouraging connotations.  I appreciate it.

Sincerely

Chip

 

[TheCap]

The life of a Civ is very risky all the time, it also depends on what kind of run you do. Best thing is, join a gang and hang around with them, because if someones robs you, you got your back covered by them.

 

[Cowboy Chip]

The life of a Civ is very risky all the time, it also depends on what kind of run you do. Best thing is, join a gang and hang around with them, because if someones robs you, you got your back covered by them.

Yes well, joining a gang also means doing what they ask.  Being an active and supportive member.  Right, that's only fare.   If that means victimizing people, than no thanks.  finding enough people who want to create a "gang" that just want to protect each other while making some money and having fun with some good RP.  Well, that's kinda tough to gather up.  Not only that, the heavy handed gangs who do all this are very well equipped  lol.   Being a law abiding citizen, we could not legally carry enough fire power to stand against a heavily armed assault.

For example  lol, Last night I watched a gang who decided to block the road coming into Kavala with their trucks and cars.  Just out side the safety zone.  What really got me is they also had a Heli with a rifleman armed and ready.   I can only surmise that they were waiting for someone.  Didn't hang around long enough to find out   To their benefit, I was impressed with the tactic,  from a military aspect.   But felt sorry for the person(s) coming down the road.

Thankfully, I was able to do what I needed to finish while they were on the other side of the Island.

But you know what, I'm done whining  lol.   I know I know,  Applause  Applause.  people will use this game however they see fit to enjoy themselves.   I wish it was different, but it's not.  I can ether cowboy up or not.

Enjoy the game folks 

CC

 

[TheCap]

Yes well, joining a gang also means doing what they ask.  Being an active and supportive member.  Right, that's only fare.   If that means victimizing people, than no thanks.  finding enough people who want to create a "gang" that just want to protect each other while making some money and having fun with some good RP.  Well, that's kinda tough to gather up.  Not only that, the heavy handed gangs who do all this are very well equipped  lol.   Being a law abiding citizen, we could not legally carry enough fire power to stand against a heavily armed assault.

For example  lol, Last night I watched a gang who decided to block the road coming into Kavala with their trucks and cars.  Just out side the safety zone.  What really got me is they also had a Heli with a rifleman armed and ready.   I can only surmise that they were waiting for someone.  Didn't hang around long enough to find out   To their benefit, I was impressed with the tactic,  from a military aspect.   But felt sorry for the person(s) coming down the road.

Thankfully, I was able to do what I needed to finish while they were on the other side of the Island.

But you know what, I'm done whining  lol.   I know I know,  Applause  Applause.  people will use this game however they see fit to enjoy themselves.   I wish it was different, but it's not.  I can ether cowboy up or not.

Enjoy the game folks 

CC

I dont really understand what your saying here, It seems like you havent met all the gangs yet. There are gangs here for RP and RP only, some others for other things. This is why you should visit the Rebels/Gangs on the forums and have a look. You seem to be salty which is what a lot of people do and post on here when something happens to them. I suggest visiting rebels/gangs forum page and have a look, not all gangs are here to hurt people, some are here for the purpose for roleplay.

And also its not something which is hard to round up, its actually easy if you come up with a good gang and good backround.

 

[Louie Austino]

I dont really understand what your saying here, It seems like you havent met all the gangs yet. There are gangs here for RP and RP only, some others for other things. This is why you should visit the Rebels/Gangs on the forums and have a look. You seem to be salty which is what a lot of people do and post on here when something happens to them. I suggest visiting rebels/gangs forum page and have a look, not all gangs are here to hurt people, some are here for the purpose for roleplay.

And also its not something which is hard to round up, its actually easy if you come up with a good gang and good backround.

I think your missing Chips point here Cap, not everyone wants to be part of a gang, some people enjoy the solo aspect of basically Running your own business and meeting people along the way. The issue that Chip here is trying to show is that 9/10 people you come across along this journey will only be hostile towards you. Salty is DEFINITELY the wrong word to describe Chip heres attitude. I believe its fair and true representation of the current island's operations. On a rare occasion will I meet a 'gang' who just want some civil RP, very rare. UltraSec did for some time but as I'm sure they know its hard to protect those who just want some peace and quiet. 

- Louie

 

[Cowboy Chip]

I dont really understand what your saying here, It seems like you havent met all the gangs yet. There are gangs here for RP and RP only, some others for other things. This is why you should visit the Rebels/Gangs on the forums and have a look. You seem to be salty which is what a lot of people do and post on here when something happens to them. I suggest visiting rebels/gangs forum page and have a look, not all gangs are here to hurt people, some are here for the purpose for roleplay.

And also its not something which is hard to round up, its actually easy if you come up with a good gang and good backround.

Thank you for your words.  I will admit that no, I have not met all the different gangs. And I would welcome getting to know different people from all walks of life.  regardless of their affiliations.  That said, No, I am not "salty."  I am not lashing out just because I was wronged.  That's not who I am.  I am posting about the current island's operations, and my feelings regarding said.  Also, how as a private citizen,  one has little opportunity to go peacefully about their business without encountering a hostile force.   Moreover,  there are people who just want to do what they do, and meet nice and interesting people along the way, and experience some awesome RP.  

And to clarify, when I speak of gangs, I am not speaking in general connotations. I apologize if that offended anyone.  I am speaking of the gangs that are only out to victimice other players, and have no perception or thoughts regarding how they make those players feel.  That, in my opinion, is no proper way to conduct yourself.  In game or otherwise.   And I have no doubt that I am painting a BIG BULLS-EYE on my back, but you know what, I don't care.  Being a good person and respecting others takes no more effort than being a D#$@ toward people.  You want to be a rebel, fine.  But do so respectfully, so that a player at least feels like a human being afterwords, and doesn't feel violated.  Because at the end of the day, what you do, is what you are.  And how you treat people is how they will remember you.

People play this game to have fun, make connections, and have a nice experience while RP'ing.  They do not join this game to be victimised, disrespected, and made to feel bad.

I treat people with respect, kindness, and I genuinely care what they think.  Furthermore more, as a private citizen, I would not abject to joining a group-"gang" that has the same moral standards.  However, I am new to the game and have not met to many people.  And as I have said before, I am more interested in service, than being a private citizen.

Sincerely

cc

 

[TheCap]

Thank you for your words.  I will admit that no, I have not met all the different gangs. And I would welcome getting to know different people from all walks of life.  regardless of their affiliations.  That said, No, I am not "salty."  I am not lashing out just because I was wronged.  That's not who I am.  I am posting about the current island's operations, and my feelings regarding said.  Also, how as a private citizen,  one has little opportunity to go peacefully about their business without encountering a hostile force.   Moreover,  there are people who just want to do what they do, and meet nice and interesting people along the way, and experience some awesome RP.  

And to clarify, when I speak of gangs, I am not speaking in general connotations. I apologize if that offended anyone.  I am speaking of the gangs that are only out to victimice other players, and have no perception or thoughts regarding how they make those players feel.  That, in my opinion, is no proper way to conduct yourself.  In game or otherwise.   And I have no doubt that I am painting a BIG BULLS-EYE on my back, but you know what, I don't care.  Being a good person and respecting others takes no more effort than being a D#$@ toward people.  You want to be a rebel, fine.  But do so respectfully, so that a player at least feels like a human being afterwords, and doesn't feel violated.  Because at the end of the day, what you do, is what you are.  And how you treat people is how they will remember you.

People play this game to have fun, make connections, and have a nice experience while RP'ing.  They do not join this game to be victimised, disrespected, and made to feel bad.

I treat people with respect, kindness, and I genuinely care what they think.  Furthermore more, as a private citizen, I would not abject to joining a group-"gang" that has the same moral standards.  However, I am new to the game and have not met to many people.  And as I have said before, I am more interested in service, than being a private citizen.

Sincerely

cc

If there is such problems, the police would be the best chance. 

 

[Cowboy Chip]

If there is such problems, the police would be the best chance. 

Cap, if I have offended you in anyway, I do sincerely apologize.  My opinions are certainly not intended to offend anyone other than the people who should be offended by their actions.  I do appreciate your comments, and respect your opinions.  I also thank you for your time.

CC

 

[TheCap]

Cap, if I have offended you in anyway, I do sincerely apologize.  My opinions are certainly not intended to offend anyone other than the people who should be offended by their actions.  I do appreciate your comments, and respect your opinions.  I also thank you for your time.

CC

Ello, you never offended me, its just a lot of these posts are a regular and they sometimes make no sense, i didnt read carefully, but yet again police is here to serve and protect. 

 

[Jason Wild]

I'm not entirely sure wether you mentioned this before. But if you want to give the Altis Police Service a go, you're more than welcome.

 

[Charles Vane]

Being a solo player is a very hard thing to do. Iv tried it before and lets face it we have all been there. I remember starting years ago and i would go do fishing and then get robbed by people who wouldnt even want to sell them or anything. Just do it for the sake of it. This is something that always will happen no matter what the rules say. You have to remember people play this as a way of expressing themselves how they cannot in real life and everyone will not act the same in game as in real life as you say that you do. A lot of people here are young and would get a buzz of the feeling of taking something from someone "just because they can". 

There comes a time on the game when you have everything that you could have/want on here. It just takes a lot of patience to get to that point. Especially if your a solo player. 

The best thing that you can do is just stick with it because you will get there, there will not be a time when you are 100% safe when doing a run or something like that however i always have found if you can entertain people they will be a lot more fair with there intentions. For example, if i was going to rob someone and i realised that they really didnt have a lot. I would help them rather than rob them, but its all situational and depends on how the person acts. If someone makes us laugh we would just let them on there way and have a laugh with them. 

(Disclaimer - This is not always the case and probably depends who you talk to hahah)

But best advice is to stick with it, because even when you make all that money and run around with everything you could possibly have you need to find something else to do. There are some groups that are dedicated to roleplaying and making money and such. But if you would like to experience more civillian life then i would suggest coming up with something that you could maybe lead yourself? or police is always a good start. 

 

[Cowboy Chip]

I'm not entirely sure wether you mentioned this before. But if you want to give the Altis Police Service a go, you're more than welcome.

Thank you very much 

I do wish to become an officer at some point as I believe I have the qualities to be of service to the public.  However, at this time, I have not even started my new career as a Medic, nor have I completed my move fully from the united states.

After I have some time in as a medic and have advanced my career in the NHS,  and feel I am ready to take on a second career, I will then consider joining the Altis Police force.   It's nice to know that option is also available to me   

Cheers

CC

@Charles Vane,

Thank you for your kind words and suggestions.  And I see your point clearly regarding how different people play this game.  I also understand the mechanics of time when starting any new game.  And I also understand that many of the players are relatively young, and that has it's own connotations attached.

I will stay with the game as I have a new career to tend to, I will just be mindful of the current economics of the Island as I play while off duty.

Cheers

CC