Gaming performance

[RedLoad]

I have a 2meg Bt/yahoo connection and over the last few months i have noticed a downturn in performance whilst gaming (this manifests as a somewhat "slushy" feel whilst gaming), although it is only during the evening. During the day it is fine, the connection feels smooth and quick. Its difficult to explain as the ping is only perhaps 3 or 4 points worse in the evening, but it just feels wrong somehow?

Im wondering, is this down to the contention ratio of 50-1 as i live in an area where many many people have the bt 2meg service?

If it is, will changing ISP improve performance?

Any other thoughts/ recommendations?

Excuse my ignorance but this is driving me nuts Im sure its not just me making excuses for my poor performance, honest!!

[peterb]

If it contention at the exchange, changing ISP is unlikely to make much difference.

[ultim8um]

If contention is the issue (and it sounds like it is if it is getting worse in an evening) then yes you will get no joy from changing ISP's.

This situation might change if an ISP were to put its own equipment in the exchange. Thats not likely to happen unless you live in a major city like London / Manchester etc where ISP's like Bulldog are putting in their own DSL equipment.