Many of you have asked that we update Xfire's public user forums with new features. Rather than put lipstick on that pig, we figured we'd just overhaul it with a more robust system. What does this mean to the Xfire community forum users? It means a much better system with new features, flexible options, customizations, better layout, and a warmer feeling all around.


These features will be launching within the next week. We will notify you in advance of a 48-hour down time while we migrate all of your old forum posts to the new forum software. Everything else will be seamless, so you won't need any new passwords, and you won't lose your forum history.


Check out a small list of the features you will enjoy:


1. Post notifications via email - Has this ever happened to you? You posted in the forums, but couldn't do anything else because you were constantly refreshing the page waiting for a reply. No more! We've broken the shackles with post notifications. We're using a state of the art system the kids are calling "Email" to let you know when someone has responded to your post so stop clicking the refresh button and get back to chalking up head shots.


2. Attachments - Having a technical problem? A picture is worth a thousand words. The new system lets you easily attach screenshots or debugging information for quick review.


3. Reputation system - Think a user deserves some rep after posting a well-written constructive post? Give them props with reputation points! With reputation points, you'll be working your way up to higher ranks earning access to a wider range of features and options!


4. WYSIWYG editor - For those who don't know BB Code, the new "What You See Is What You Get" lets you format posts like a pro without the learning curve.


5. Quick Reply - No more having to load another page just to reply a post; simply write your post at the bottom of the thread you're reading!


6. Overall forum and thread viewing - With the flexible settings for viewing forums and threads, and search function, you'll be be able to easily and quickly find and sort topics within your range of interest.


We think these changes, as well as many others, will make using our forums easier and more engaging. Unfortunately, this means we'll have to take them down to make the switch. We expect the forums to be offline for roughly 2 days while we migrate all your posts and data. Once we're back, we'll be welcoming you to your new home and providing you with new rules and guidelines to help you get settled. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Ben McDermott (Xfire: benmcdermott)


Game on,
-Xfire