First no one would coercing it would simply be an option. Second the bd community uses skype extensively and it has had no negative impact on the game whatsoever. In fact skype is used more than the in game chat on bd for many reasons including easy screen shot or link sharing, ability to have countless chats with countless people simultaneously, voice chat if you wish to do so, and the list goes on.

Picture this for a moment if you had an in game chat, someone because annoyed that they are losing so they decide to spread lies in the chat saying that person is cheating. No an argument will ensue which will surely escalate and neither side will be able to be proven wrong since no links are allowed in game chat. Things can quickly get out of hand.

Which is why we have mods.. Also It would be cool if there was a chat you could have specific people in also an everyone chat.. With basic ways to keep things controlled.. It would make the game a lot better and more fun..

Thanks for the complement.

Anyways, back on topic.

Here is a list of things that could help in having a lobby of some sorts.

1) The use of a filter. I am sure this is the first thing that comes to mind for having a in game chat, so no need to really explain.

2) Verifying codes. Now this is something that can be done before players can enter the lobbies. This will help keep out spam bots from posting the same thing over and over again. Also, maybe make it show up randomly in the lobby in order to help keep them out if they do make it in.

3) Player Blocking. Don't like them? Block them.

4) Chat ranking? Something for players that follow the rules. Maybe put a gold star next to their name or something?

5) Players helping players. Maybe have rewards for players who are nice in chat and help players who need help?

in fact, rewards in general tend to keep some people in line...

Anyways, just tossing ideas out there to see what is good and what is not so good.

I know why he is worried though because moderators can't be around 24/7 to watch things.

I am not sure what an IRC room is though. I looked it up and I am still confused, other than knowing it is some type of chat room that takes a lot of coding by the looks of it.

Bumpity-Bump-Bump...