So I've got a player in one of my campaigns who's been getting into a major habit of absenteeism... and I think it's getting to the point where I need to do something about it.

He tends to be distracted, often by a TV or video game in the background, then when it's his turn, has to ask what's going on, or makes comments that shows that he clearly isn't paying attention to the action.

He also sometimes just goes awol, and we're asking for him without any reply, then he comes back in 5-10 minutes and says "I'm here I'm here what's going on"

Then sometimes in the middle of a game, he just says "sorry, I got to go," occasionally (but not always) with an excuse like "I have work early tomorrow." Then he logs out.

(That one group actually has a second problem player in this regard, as well... though he's more absent minded than constantly distracted, and seems to just lose track of his daily scheduling. When he's online, he's solid)

So I'm wondering if it's better to directly talk to the one player about his availability and needs, and my expectations for player attendance... or if I should just make it a blanket post for everyone about being on time, staying focused, and such, then ask players to talk to me if they feel that they can't work with the existing schedule.

(I should point out that this one player is notoriously bored in any social situation, and just wants to get to the fightin' as fast as possible... which is not ideal for this campaign, which has a lot of political intrigue in it)

but anyway...

what do you think i should do about this? It's only getting worse.

straight up call them out on it would be my vote, but I'm also jaded because this is the exact same behavior that our problem player exhibited

like, that is highly disrespectful and I honestly question what he's doing there if he's not even going to pay attention to the game

My current plan is to post something like this...

On a slightly more serious note... (Plurk Paste)