Without having to change a single game mechanic, or setting. I think I have the solution. A code for the degree of difficulty for any event, mob, boss, etc.. So people know going in what to expect. If a group logs in that has been gone a while, and runs into the QP and starts fighting they risk the chance of upscaling the mob and being harassed by the other players. Thus prompting the players that returned to possibly leave again.
We have SM: Story mode
HM: Hard Mode
Why not add:
OG: Organized groups, with a cap on how many may participate. Exceeding the cap will greatly effect the difficulty and possibly cause the event to fail, or worse, drastically extend the time needed to finish, and reduce the possible rewards. Players wishing to take part are asked to wait in a free zone until the next round. Then they can see if any spots are open. Or they can join a group and engage the mob/boss for a brief period of time then make their way back to the free zone, and await the outcome. This way they can share in the reward while their valiant comrades fight on.
Or whatever makes the most sense explanation wise.
Nothing need change, just make it more evident what is going on.
Side note: I chose the “OG” in part to appease the elite players and let them be referred to as OG’s, Original Gamers
(edited by Evon Skyfyre.9673)