Options for Handling Returning Players:

Options for Handling Returning Players:

1. Automatic Team Assignment Based on Balance:

   • Team Assignment: If an OG player joins late, they can be automatically assigned to the team with fewer members to maintain balance. This prevents one team from gaining an unfair advantage due to additional players.

   • Catch-Up Tutorial: Provide a quick recap of the rules and their current role, either via an automated message or by referring them to the Discord voice chat for a briefing. This ensures they understand what has transpired and their responsibilities.

2. Pre-Selected Team Integration:

   • If the player already chose a team before the event started, they can be reintegrated into that team without reassignment, regardless of balance. To keep things fair, you could still assign them roles or gear to match the current game stage—not allowing them to bring in extra advantages.

   • If they haven't picked a team yet, they should follow the balanced team assignment system as described for new players.

3. Class and Role Selection Adjustment:

   • Players joining late should still be given the option to choose a role. However, based on what is needed by the team at the time, certain classes might be restricted if they are already well-filled. This way, late-joining players contribute to filling gaps, such as joining a less-populated class like Light Infantry if needed.

   • Provide them with a catch-up gear set equivalent to what others have earned so far during the event, so they are not at a disadvantage compared to those who started earlier.

4. Limited Late Entry Integration:

   • To prevent players from joining during key battle sessions without preparation, OG players can only join between battle sessions. This way, they have some time to integrate into their team, get oriented, and prepare themselves.

   • This also helps maintain fairness, as players joining during combat can create an imbalance or be overwhelmed.

5. Role of Non-Combatant or Support (If Fairness is a Concern):

   • If the server feels the late entry might disrupt battle dynamics, OG players could be given support roles initially. They can participate as builders, farmers, or strategists until the next battle session, after which they can take on a combat role.

   • This allows them to contribute meaningfully to the war effort without immediately impacting the frontline dynamics.

6. Pre-War Debriefing:

   • Make sure that OG players who join late are briefed on what's happened so far in the war, either via an automated message, wiki page, or Discord discussion. This way, they aren’t lost and can understand the strategy and context before jumping in.

Example Workflow for Late-Joining OG Players:

• Step 1: Upon logging in, the player is prompted to confirm their participation in the ongoing War Event.

• Step 2: If they haven't selected a team, they are automatically assigned based on balance.

• Step 3: A briefing message is sent, updating them on the current status of the war and providing quick links to the wiki or Discord voice chat.

• Step 4: They are given an opportunity to select a role (from available options).

• Step 5: If they join between battle sessions, they are teleported to their team’s territory and can start contributing immediately.

Integration Guidelines:

1. Balance Maintenance: To maintain fair team balance, OG players should ideally be assigned to the team with fewer members unless they pre-selected a team.

2. Role Flexibility: Offer them roles that align with their team's current needs. This might mean filling in gaps in certain classes or taking on support roles if balance is critical.

3. Late-Entry Gear: Provide appropriate gear and equipment that reflects the progress of the event up to that point, ensuring that late joiners are not significantly weaker or stronger.