Board Game Arena

Is it possible to update the number of players at a table in the lobby during non-arena games after it's already begun looking for players to fill it?

I am pretty sure that I've played at tables where the host decreased the number of players after we've waited for a while, but haven't figured out how to do that myself.

uncoolbeans wrote: ↑18 November 2024, 01:00 I am pretty sure that I've played at tables where the host decreased the number of players after we've waited for a while, but haven't figured out how to do that myself.

For tables configured manually, the host does not have to decrease the number of players. They can just click "start" even if the table hasn't filled to the limit they set.

If I want to start with fewer players I ask in the chat if the other players are OK with that, but I think a lot of players don't pay attention to the chat before a game starts. Or maybe they can't even see it if they are using automatic matching.

Thank you! I usually start games using automatic matching, but sometimes play with just friends using the manual setting (sending invitations to the friends I'll be playing with).

I didn't realize you could manually set up a table without specific players, but I just found the option. I'll try that!

I think it's different for real-time and turn-based tables. In real-time tables, you can adjust the settings, including number of players, expansions, speed, etc., while the table is open, even if other players have joined. Just click on the "Configure" (or whatever) button, in the "old" lobby (PLAY NOW link). Players will have a chance of reviewing the settings before the game actually starts and decline if they don't like the change.

In turn-based tables, once another player has joined, I believe you are not allowed to change the table settings. And that's alright, because there's no confirmation before starting in turn-based tables. It would be very annoying to join a table that's set for N players with expansion X and speed Y, and find yourself next day trapped in a table with M players without any expansion and with speed Z.

Thank you - that is very helpful!