Game Abandonment Issue

Dear Chess.com Community, As an avid chess player who has enjoyed the game for over a decade, I want to express my appreciation for the incredible features and vibrant community that Chess.com offers. However, I’d like to address a recurring issue that many players, including myself, have encountered during our games: game abandonment. The Problem: Recently, I’ve noticed that some players, upon realizing they are losing, abandon the game by ceasing to make their moves. This behavior disrupts the flow of the game and leaves opponents in a state of uncertainty, hoping for a resignation that may never come. Existing Measures: While Chess.com has implemented various features to tackle this issue—such as timers for inactivity, penalties for frequent game abandonments, and the option to report such behavior—it appears that these measures haven’t fully resolved the problem. Many players continue to exploit this situation, which can be disheartening for those genuinely engaged in the game. Proposed Solutions: Stricter Penalties: Consider implementing stricter penalties for players who frequently abandon games. This could deter such behavior and promote fair play. Robust Reporting System: Enhance the reporting system to allow players to flag game abandonment more effectively. Clear guidelines and efficient handling of reports would be beneficial. Automatic Conclusion: Introduce a feature that automatically concludes games after a certain period of inactivity. This would maintain the integrity of gameplay and provide a clear outcome. As a dedicated member of the Chess.com community, I believe that addressing game abandonment will enhance the experience for all players and uphold the values of fair competition that we cherish. Thank you for considering this feedback, and let’s continue to make Chess.com an even better platform for chess enthusiasts worldwide! Sincerely, Manish Chauhan