Radio Commentary Notes

Try to coordinate who will be the commentators by using the shared spreadsheet. A link to the spread sheet will be posted in the gameroom announcements section.

Commentators should try to use head phones to prevent feedback loops. If you don't have head phones then make sure your speaker volume is not too high and that your mic is away from the speakers.

Before the game (usually done by the anchor)

• Introduce the game. "Welcome to the 2011 Arimaa World Championship round [X] game between [Gold username] versus [Silver username]."
• Introduce the sponsors. "This game is brought to you by our sponsors ...."
• Introduce the commentator. "Our commentator today is [First Last] who is [give credentials]."
• Hand off to main commentator. "John, tell us more about the game today.", "Sounds like we have an exciting game lined up today, John.", etc.

At start of game (usually done by the main commentator)

• Mention the players real name, username and side they will be playing.
• Mention any interesting facts about the game; is one of the players going to be knocked out if they lose this game.
• Mention any interesting facts about the players.
• Mention their previous record against each other.
• Mention the stats from the prediction contest, if applicable

During the game

• If there are multiple people commentating, decide before the game if the main commentator or the anchor will coordinate the discussion.
• If you are a co-commentator wait for the main commentator or anchor to mention your name or pause for at least a second before starting to talk. This helps avoid multiple people trying to talk at the same time. If you are going to be away from the computer for a little while, try to mention it when you get a chance before you go so you don't get called on.
• Periodically mention the current move number. "We are waiting for move 21g from ...". This helps everyone know what move it is in case their client falls behind or loses connection.
• Mention the obvious capture and goal threats in the current position. This will be helpful for new players to understand the current position.
• Depending on the commentators ability further tactical and strategic analysis of the position can be done. Event games are delayed by time or moves so feel free to propose moves without fear of players using the information.
• Check the chatroom for questions/suggestions from the spectators.
• Occasionally mention the reserve time the players have left; especially if a player is low on time.
• Occasionally mention the number of listeners on the radio, in chatroom, and gameroom.
• Occasionally mention stuff related to the history of Arimaa or something interesting about the players. This helps to break the monotony of only focusing on the game.

After the game (usually done by the anchor)

• Ask if the players would like to come in for a post game interview.
• Thank the main commentator.
• Thank sponsors.
• Thank the Arimaa community for contributing to the prize fund.
• Thank the players.
• Thank the spectators.
• Mention upcoming games or events.

If there are sponsor, anchor should prepare how the sponsors will be mentioned. For example (from 2011 World Championship Sponsors):

• igGameCenter.com where you can play from over 100 modern and classic abstract strategy games including Arimaa.
• Z-Man Games the official publisher of the Arimaa board game. Now available in 100's of specialty game stores worldwide.
• W.Y.P.S. a clever word game played on a triangular board. Available at WYPS.info.
• LittleGolem.net a turn based strategy game web site.