Hello!
We've set up a Discord server for the OpenArena community. Use this link to join it
https://discord.gg/n3dTmzM (this is not a referral link or anything of the sort).
So what is Discord and why should you use it?
Discord is a software that combines the functionality of a text chat (think IRC) and voice communication (Skype, TeamSpeak, Mumble).
The interface is simple and it's very easy to use. It works both in a web browser and as a standalone application for all major platforms (Linux/Windows/Mac/Android/iOS). Registration is not necessary. Unlike IRC you don't need to be constantly online or set up a bot to read everything that was said in your absence. Voice part is completely optional so shy people need not to worry.
This server was set up to strengthen ties within the community, help people gather for games and let them have easy access to voice comms.
In the future pickup games are a possibility too.
The server is currently unofficial however we would be more than glad to transfer ownership to people from OpenArena development team.
Lastly, there are privacy concerns. Discord is proprietary software, all infrastructure is owned by Discord, all your communication is effectively owned by them, there's no option for encryption.
That said, in terms of privacy it's still much better than Skype and considering the convenience Discord offers over other options we decided it's the way to go.
Please don't hesitate and give it a try. Hope to see you on the server soon.
