SoTShot: A Fair Contest Across Platforms?

Bin ich voll deiner Meinung!!!

@captainoats420 it would complicate the process, and honestly, the social media team have enough on their plate already. A shot is also not just judged on graphical impressiveness, it’s based on if it hits the theme and is eye catching. I’ve won several that were taken via console, both on xbox and PS5.

@veronik5682 sorry but everything you’ve just said is garbage.

The one thing Rare have messed up in the past and they’re getting better at is edited shots being picked, this is quickly rectified ofc, but the initial choosing is improving.

@captainoats420 a good option for rare developers is to keep everything honest

I don't know that Rare have their favourites necessarily, and we don't know how the voting works, but it does seem more likely that you'll win if you are in a SoT clique.

A lot of the SoTShot winners will have 5+ pirates in their shot, and that doesn't happen naturally. Those who manage that are usually the ones with multiple wins. It feels like there's a trick to it that most of us don't know.

As a loner on the outside of the social circles, it's frustrating to see. I'm not angry, and I'm not going to throw up arms about it, it's just sad to know the likelihood of a solo winning is diminished significantly. I don't put myself out there, that's on me. But, that's life, I guess.

@tesiccl
Thanks for your input - and first off, congrats on your wins, that’s genuinely impressive, especially knowing they came from console!

That said, I’d like to respectfully disagree with a few points.

I understand that adding more structure (like platform-based categories or jury rotation) could introduce a bit more complexity, but I don’t believe it has to be overwhelming - especially if it’s approached in a streamlined, periodic, or even community-involved way. Many community-run contests manage similar setups successfully, and Rare has the reach and tools to pull it off even more efficiently if they ever chose to.

As for the judging criteria - yes, I absolutely agree that theme and creativity are key. But we can’t ignore how much technical fidelity can subconsciously influence what’s seen as “eye-catching.” A beautifully framed shot on console might just not pop the same way as one enhanced with ultra settings, even if the creativity behind it is equal or better.

I’m not saying console players can’t win - clearly, you’ve proven otherwise! But the perception of imbalance remains for many, and addressing that could make more people feel encouraged to participate. That’s really the heart of my suggestion: to broaden the space for recognition, not limit it.
Thanks again for the exchange - I appreciate differing views, and it’s good to have a discussion like this.

@realstyli
I really feel for you - and honestly, I can relate more than I’d like to admit.

It’s sad when something that’s meant to be fun and creative starts to feel like it’s out of reach simply because you’re not part of the “in crowd.” Like you, I’m not trying to accuse Rare of favoritism - we don’t know how the judging works behind the scenes - but I’ve noticed the same patterns you mentioned.

The group shots with 5+ pirates that win repeatedly do seem to come from well-connected players who are often very visible in the community. And yeah, for solo players or those not plugged into those social circles, it can feel a bit discouraging - like there’s a hidden layer to success that goes beyond creativity or quality.

I respect your honesty and the way you put it - you’re not angry, just… disappointed. I get that. I’ve felt that too. And I agree: it’s not about demanding changes or pointing fingers, it’s just about wishing the playing field felt a little more open and inclusive for everyone, regardless of how socially active they are.

Thanks for sharing your perspective - it’s a very real one, and I’m sure many others feel the same but haven’t said it out loud.

@lleorb
Yeah, totally agree with you on that. Most SoT Shot winners seem to involve full crews doing staged stuff - as a solo, it’s tough to even compete, no matter how creative you are.

Having a separate category just for solo shots would be awesome. It’d give more people a fair shot without needing to organize a group every time. And yeah, a better way to submit entries beyond just social media tagging could help a lot too.

Really like where you’re coming from with this.

@captainoats420 said in SoTShot: A Fair Contest Across Platforms?:

@lleorb
And yeah, a better way to submit entries beyond just social media tagging could help a lot too.

In an ideal world, yeah, but the whole point of #sotshot and #styleofthieves was that they are social media compaigns. They are designed to get the game trending on those platforms. It's a similar idea to how Twitch Drops incentivise people watching Sea of Thieves on Twitch so it rates higher and gets more attention.

At least we do have the Capture A Code screenshot competition here on the forums.

@veronik5682
I hear your frustration, and honestly, I think you’re bringing up some valid points - especially when it comes to the human element behind judging. You’re absolutely right: even with the best intentions, no one is truly without bias, especially in something as subjective as visual art or creative content. That’s not an attack - it’s just reality.

I also think it’s important not to generalize everyone who disagrees as a “bootlicker” or dismissive by default. Some people genuinely have different experiences or views, and that’s okay. The problem starts when those differing opinions are used to shut down real concerns, instead of having an honest, open conversation - which, unfortunately, does happen far too often in online communities.

The fact that SoTShot judges come from the community is both a strength and a weakness. It gives players a voice - but also opens the door to personal networks, repeated winners, and perceptions of favoritism. That’s exactly why more structure, transparency, or diversity in the judging process could help. It’s not about calling anyone out - it’s about improving the system so more people feel seen and encouraged to participate.

Thanks for saying what a lot of others probably feel but don’t say out loud. These discussions matter - even if they make some people uncomfortable.

@look-behind-you
Thanks for stepping in and clarifying. I understand and respect the importance of keeping the conversation respectful and constructive, especially in a community space like this. I think the discussion itself raises valuable points, and it’s a shame when the tone gets in the way of being heard.

Appreciate the reminder - hopefully, we can all keep the focus on sharing different perspectives in a way that adds to the conversation rather than divides it!

I'd say there's a larger bias towards server alliance generated shots compared with the effort a solo player can accomplish than the platform. Just the sheer scale of effort potential has a massive discrepancy. That's not to say that solos aren't capable of creativity and it has been rewarded.

@musicmee
Thanks for the insight - I really appreciate hearing more about how the judging process works, especially from someone with a closer perspective on it.

It’s reassuring to know that there are many judges involved and that no single person has significant influence over the outcome. That does help reduce the risk of individual bias, at least in theory.

That said, I think some of the community’s concerns don’t necessarily come from believing in intentional favoritism, but more from the perception that certain names keep winning, often in very similar styles or setups. Without a bit more transparency, it’s hard to separate coincidence from pattern, especially for those who submit regularly but never see any recognition.

I get the need for some level of anonymity - to avoid people trying to game the system or pressure judges - but maybe there’s still room for a little more openness about how entries are shortlisted or voted on, without compromising the integrity of the process.

Thanks again for stepping in and contributing - these kinds of responses really help make the conversation more productive.

@gaming-4nj4
I couldn’t agree more with what you said about @mr-fawlout - the man is seriously underrated and absolutely deserves some kind of recognition for the creative impact he’s had on the community.

Every time 4nja4 shares one of those legendary sailing session stories involving him, I end up crying from laughter - and somehow it always ends in the most hilarious chaos. It’s that exact kind of spontaneous magic that makes Sea of Thieves feel so alive.

And let’s not even start on his in-game screenshots - they’re honestly breathtaking more often than not. There’s a natural, unforced beauty in his work that captures the game’s atmosphere in a way very few can replicate.

I 100% support the idea of honoring him in some form - not out of nostalgia, but because his contributions genuinely helped shape what SoTShot became. He deserves that spotlight, no question!!

Also, I want to say that I genuinely find many of @capt-ballzonia ’s screenshots absolutely beautiful - there’s a lot of artistic quality in what he creates, no doubt. I just haven’t had the chance to sail with him personally yet, so I don’t have the same direct connection as I do with @mr-fawlout. But from a visual and creative standpoint, his work definitely deserves recognition as well.

@captainoats420 I strongly agree with the category’s for the console and PC SoT Shots I think it’s a brilliant idea which I could happily get behind! This is something that should have been included a long time ago!

Ich sehe es genau so.

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@captainoats420 Ballz has been recognised in more ways than one in game due to his contribution, so fear not. No matter what the elitists say or do, Ballz can always take away he’s responsible for the competition. Without him I wouldn’t be Visionary (please don’t consider me an elitist, I’ve stepped back to let others have their work recognised) ^^

Thanks for your reply @tesiccl - I think I know which recognition you’re referring to. There’s that framed picture on Sanctuary Outpost that reads:
“Signed simply ‘Captain B.’, this stunning artwork was created by a pirate with a true eye for beauty. Don’t be surprised if they ask you to pose for a portrait!”

If that’s meant to be a tribute to Ballz, then I agree - it’s a really nice and well-deserved nod to someone who helped shape the visual culture of Sea of Thieves from the very beginning.

Also, I appreciate what you said about stepping back to let others shine - it’s always encouraging to see people in the community thinking beyond themselves. Whether someone’s still active or more in the background, the inspiration they’ve shared continues to echo through others’ creativity.

Thanks again for being part of the conversation - your perspective adds depth to it.

@captainoats420

If that’s meant to be a tribute to Ballz, then I agree - it’s a really nice and well-deserved nod to someone who helped shape the visual culture of Sea of Thieves from the very beginning.

It absolutely is!

It’s only right to step back after achieving what’s possible. Repeated contribution well after, to me, takes away the opportunity for others to shine. I do help out in the background but credit is entirely on the person who posts it.

Thanks for the insight, @tesiccl - and it’s great to have confirmation that the Sanctuary portrait truly is a tribute to Ballz. That kind of in-game recognition carries a lot of meaning, especially for those who were early contributors to the creative side of Sea of Thieves.

Regarding your role - I do find your approach interesting. On the one hand, you mention stepping back to give others the chance to be recognised, which I definitely respect. On the other, it sounds like you’re still actively contributing behind the scenes, just without your name on the final post.

That makes me wonder: if your influence still shapes the final result, even indirectly, isn’t that still part of the spotlight in a way? Of course, collaboration and mentoring are valuable - but it does blur the lines a bit between stepping back and staying involved.

That said, I appreciate your transparency and the continued support you offer to others in the community. These conversations help bring more clarity and context to a process that many still find a bit opaque.

Fände ich gar nicht mal so schlecht die Idee.
Wie du schon schreibst, haben PC-Spieler einen Vorteil.
Regt zum Nachdenken an RARE!

Genuine question: how would you even enforce a split based on platform? How can you tell the difference?

Apart from shadows, there's barely much difference between Rare and Mythical settings in most scenarios, especially static shots.

Sure, below Rare settings, you can tell, absolutely... but then do you split OG Xbox One from PS5 Pro? Because the gamut of specs on console is just as diverse as on PC.

Do judges have to be extremely forensically knowledgeable about the minutiae of details to be able to discern between a console screenshot and one from PC?

I have already mentioned my concerns about these contests, but I really don't think this is the answer.

If there is a title for winning it 10+ times when thousands of people submit every time... Yeah its rigged, nothing we can say or do about it.

@tesiccl "Everything you just said is garbage. Here's how its true and why they are trying to change from it"