Ethics of the Game & Fair Play
Is there such a thing as fair play in an electronic game?
The answer, of course, depends on the kind of game you are playing.
In some games, you may face nothing more than an algorithm — a coded reflection of human behaviour. In others, you compete directly with real people, who think, react, and feel. The difference is fundamental.
Golf Rival offers both experiences.
In some modes — especially in the Stages — you often play against “bots”, which are essentially recordings of past matches played by other humans. There is no dialogue, no interaction, no emotional counterpart. You are playing at your best against a recording.
In most other modes, however, you face real players in real time.
And, to borrow from the Great Bard: “Aye, there’s the rub.”
How should one behave in that case?
What rules should guide us?
Many argue that, since the designers of the game never defined specific “rules of engagement”, players are free to act as they please.
This, my friends, is precisely where we differ.
We believe that interaction itself implies the existence of unwritten rules — the same moral and social conventions that apply in any human community. When you meet someone, you say “Hello”. Not because a law requires it, but because custom, courtesy, and respect form the fabric of civil behaviour.
So too in Golf Rival.
You meet, on virtual fairways, people with whom you might interact again — perhaps in Facebook groups, perhaps on other courses and in future matches. You may not see their faces, but the spirit of fair play should remain the same.
This is why we discuss the ethics of play.
Because even in a digital world, integrity matters.
The way we act in a game — when no one is watching — reflects who we are when everyone is.
Below, you will find the opinion of Merv Milfull, an experienced gamer whose reflections on fairness and respect inspired this page.
Do you see it differently?
We invite you to share your thoughts in our Facebook groups.
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What Makes a Fair Player
by Merv Milfull
What defines a fair player — apart from not using zero balls?
In my opinion, the answer is simple: a fair player is, first and foremost, a fair person.
A fair person is someone who lives by the timeless principle, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This mindset is not limited to the game; it extends to every aspect of life. In over forty years of sports experience, I have noticed that people who are fair in life tend to play fairly — almost without exception. Golf Rival is no different.
Fair play, however, is not governed by rigid rules. It is a vast grey area where perception, experience, and personal ethics overlap. Each of us draws the line of fairness in a slightly different place. When in doubt, simply ask yourself:
“Would I appreciate it if someone did this to me?”
If the answer is no, then it is probably unfair play.
Of course, context matters. Using a powerful ball in response to your opponent’s strong play may be part of the game. But exploiting an obvious advantage — like using BW9 zero balls against a BW6 player — is not fair play, it is bullying. True competitors take pride in winning by skill, not by overwhelming force. And, as many have observed, those who act like bullies in a game often carry that attitude beyond it.
For me personally, fairness also means respect — no emoji bombing, no unnecessary chat spamming, no taunting. It is about preserving the spirit of the game. I do not fear zero balls; if I lose, it is my fault. But I note such matches publicly so others can make their own judgment.
Fair play also means empathy: recognising the difference in levels and not exploiting it. I often give mulligans to weaker opponents, sometimes even let them win. It is not pity — it is a way of helping them grow. Every player deserves the chance to draw, to improve, to enjoy the game.
That is the essence of fairness — not perfection, but awareness.
Not strict rules, but respect.
Not fear of losing, but joy in playing well.
If you live — and play — by that philosophy, others will see you as fair.
And, more importantly, you will see yourself as fair.