I agree 100% with you.
It is now 2014 and wgt have not listened to there customers yet.
Imo, it would be nice to have, maybe a lobby or bar area where we can chat openly with our friends with out starting a game.
I know of some players who have given up playing wgt because of this problem.
Let's hope we get it this year!!!! LOL
Wont be holding my breath....
:)