Guess I should add my 2 cents.
1. For me it wasn't fatigue as I am relatively new here. But I can see how 4 contests a year can be a bit much.
2. I don't think anyone is bored with it. Competitions are always exciting.
3. Intimidation doesn't enter into my mind. I fully respect the abilities of my opponents and some game types I may feel gives them an advantage, but I will always give it a try when I can. I can see how some might feel intimidated though.
4. I don't think the Contest ideas are really bad in general. There may be tweaks that can be done here and there to make them better.
5. Bad timing. This I can see. Family had to come first and I didn't get to play when I normally would because of it.
6. I think the rewards that are already in place work. It gives the winning team players bragging rights which should be enough in my opinion. My fear is money could potentially make the civil less civil. It has a funny way of making people take a competition like this too seriously and I don't believe that would be healthy for this site.
I wasn't aware that there have been contests where you couldn't see the posted scores. As WB already pointed out that would avoid camping and level the playing field as you just do your best with the time you have then wait and see what happens.
I also echo the sentiment that 24 hours wasn't enough time for a round. I actually would have preferred this last contest if it had been 48 hours and 5 wins to take the competition. In 24 hours you may only get one shot at trying a game and if you have never played it before it may take to your second attempt to get into the "flow" of the game to post a decent score.
No matter what though I really appreciate all the hard work that goes into making these contests and running them and the site for free. It can be a thankless job sometimes I'm sure but just wanted to say thanks for creating such a great place to play the classics and compete with like minded individuals. Wish I had found it much sooner.
