The current pre-release of the client ("pioneer" in the version) is only compatible to itself. So you can only play with other testers. Please be aware!
I don't think muting them mutes pings, that's only for chat afaik. There should definitely be an option to muting ping though, be it specific players or just all pings from all players. If I hear 3 pings in the space of about 10 seconds, it breaks my focus and is pretty distracting.
Well i agree that the game is simulated and these things can and should happens. But i definitly think this should be patched (as in use the examples you provided to "fix" this). As i said, there is a difference between losing a projectile that doesnt cost anything and losing an smd-missile that cost a lot of time and ressources
