EPGP

EPGP stands for Effort Points and Gear Points, a loot distribution system used by some raiding guilds in online games to allocate gear based on participation and item value. It aims to be transparent and incentive-aligned, rewarding attendance and contribution while avoiding ad-hoc favoritism.

In a typical EPGP implementation, each player has an Effort Point (EP) balance and a Gear Point (GP) balance. Players earn EP for raid participation, kills, and other contributions. Each loot item is assigned a fixed GP value by the guild, reflecting its relative worth. When an item drops, the winner is usually the player with the highest EP-to-GP ratio (the EP/GP score) among those eligible. If multiple players tie, a secondary method such as a random roll or predefined tiebreakers may be used. After an item is awarded, the winner’s EP increases by the item’s EP value and their GP increases by the item’s GP value. Some guilds also apply EP decay or penalties for inactivity to prevent long-term hoarding of EP.

Rationale and use: EPGP seeks to balance fairness with efficiency by tying loot to measurable contribution and item value. It provides a transparent, auditable method for resolving loot disputes and can reduce drama compared to ad-hoc or purely luck-based systems. Variants exist, with different EP values for bosses, different GP assignments for items, and rules about EP decay or penalties for no-shows.

Strengths and weaknesses: Proponents cite transparency, consistency, and motivation to participate; critics note complexity, the need for careful item valuation, and potential disadvantage to players who miss long absences. EPGP remains one of several widely known guild loot systems, alongside DKP and loot council.