What is this thing?
The purpose of the GFuserDB is to create a full list of as many GameFAQs users as possible. Only usernames and user IDs are collected. Profiles are not gathered because of bandwidth issues, and the fact that they change over time.
The GFuserDB is designed in such a way that you can submit usernames yourself. Simply submit a link to a GameFAQs topic (see the Fetch Topic bar above) and the server will do the rest.
How does it work?
Here's what happens when you use the Fetch Topic feature:
- The server downloads the topic list from your link and all the pages in it.
- The server sorts through the source codes of the pages and finds the user IDs and usernames which have posted in the topic.
- The user IDs and usernames are inserted into a database on this server, so you can browse and search them.
Are there any restrictions?
Yes. When the server fetches the topics, it's logged in as a level 36:Ancient user. It can access LUE and Temple of the Ancients, but not any moderator boards or some private boards.
This sytem cannot be used to browse private boards like LUE. You must know the topic ID first, and even then you only get a list of IDs and usernames in that topic.
I can't find any new users? What am I doing wrong?
You're searching the wrong boards. Social boards like CE are cleared out regularly. If you want new additions, go to the game/social boards for the latest games. Users sign up because of these games, and the boards for the latest releases is where they go.
It's also a good idea to check the top 10 lists for each system (using the "Platform Jumper" droplist). They show the most active boards so you know where to search.
I have a list of users who aren't listed, but they have no active posts!
Register an account at the Discussion Forum and make a post about it.
I want to be removed from your database!
Good for you. It won't happen.