FAQ’s

Find answers to your questions here.

General Information

What is Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Checkmate.live is a free-to-play online speed chess platform with an integrated live gaming-as-a-service model.

Full Answer Checkmate.live is an innovative online speed chess platform that offers a unique blend of traditional chess gameplay with modern gaming elements. The platform is free to play and integrates a live gaming-as-a-service model, which enhances the player experience by incorporating sportech, media, and interactive entertainment. Key features include robust anti-cheat systems, sophisticated tournament management tools, and advanced social functionalities, all of which are supported by in-platform video conferencing. Additionally, Checkmate.live serves as the exclusive broadcast, data, and tournament platform for the Asian Chess Federation and the Arab Esports Federation, and has strategic alliances with Tencent and the UTS Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute (AAII) to accelerate the growth of online speed chess as an esport and to promote fair play.

Who owns Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Checkmate is a stand-alone entity incubated by Australia and UAE-based VADR Media.

Full Answer Checkmate.live is owned by VADR Media, an entity incubated in both Australia and the UAE. The platform has been developed in collaboration with experts, strategic partners, and vendors who are all dedicated to advancing online chess as an esport. The platform’s stakeholders are committed to principles of fairness and tolerance, which are integral to the spirit of the Checkmate.live community.

How do I become an Alpha Pass holder?

TL;DR Alpha Passes are available through the Innercircle Private Sale and Alpha Pack Sale.

Full Answer To become an Alpha Pass holder on Checkmate.live, you can participate in the Innercircle Private Sale or the Alpha Pack Sale. These sales offer additional benefits and exclusive access to platform features that are not available to non-pass holders. Alpha Passes are designed to give early adopters a unique experience and additional rewards as the platform continues to grow.

What are the benefits of a Pro Pass?

TL;DR Pro Pass holders can play for USDC and access exclusive features, including in-game video conferencing.

Full Answer The Pro Pass on Checkmate.live offers players the ability to compete for USDC (USD Coin) and access exclusive features that are not available to standard users. These features include advanced in-game video conferencing, which is especially useful for rated events, and other premium functionalities that enhance the competitive experience. Pro Pass holders also receive priority access to certain tournaments and events, making it a valuable upgrade for serious players.

Can I still play on Checkmate.live if I don’t purchase a paid pass?

TL;DR Yes, Checkmate is a free-to-play platform.

Full Answer Yes, you can absolutely play on Checkmate.live without purchasing a paid pass. The platform is designed to be free-to-play, allowing all users to enjoy the core features and participate in various events. However, purchasing a pass, such as the Alpha or Pro Pass, unlocks additional features, rewards, and opportunities that can enhance your experience on the platform.

Community

How can I contribute to the Checkmate.live community?

TL;DR Join councils, participate in events, and engage with the community through forums and leaderboards.

Full Answer There are several ways to contribute to the Checkmate.live community. Players can join various councils, such as the Players Council or the Queens Council, which offer representation and influence in platform decisions. Participation in events, both competitive and social, is another great way to get involved. Additionally, players can engage with the community through forums, leaderboards, and other social features available on the platform. Active involvement in these areas not only helps to shape the community but also provides opportunities for recognition and rewards.

How does the Community Treasury work?

TL;DR The Community Treasury grows through trades and treasury drops, funding annual events and community activities. 50% of net Alpha Sale proceeds and secondary sales royalties contribute to it.

Full Answer The Community Treasury is designed to grow as the Checkmate Live community engages in trades and participates in treasury drops. These funds are then allocated to support annual events, community initiatives, and special activities on the platform. Specifically, 50% of the net proceeds from the Alpha Sale and royalties from secondary sales contribute to the Community Treasury, ensuring that the community directly benefits from the platform's success.

Can I participate in platform decision-making?

TL;DR Alpha Avatar holders have voting rights. The Players Council and Queens Council provide further representation, with community input welcomed in our Discord.

Full Answer Yes, Alpha Avatar holders on Checkmate Live are granted voting rights, allowing them to have a direct say in platform decisions. Additionally, the Players Council and Queens Council are established to provide further representation for community members. We also encourage all users to actively participate in discussions and share their ideas through our Discord channels, where community input is highly valued.

Fair Play

How is fair play ensured on Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Checkmate.live uses advanced AI, player verification, and human oversight to ensure fair play.

Full Answer Fair play on Checkmate.live is ensured through a combination of advanced technologies and human oversight. The platform employs sophisticated AI monitoring systems that analyze gameplay for any signs of cheating. This AI is complemented by player verification processes, which help ensure that each participant is who they claim to be. Additionally, Checkmate.live has a dedicated team that oversees fair play and handles any reports of suspicious behavior. The platform also partners with chess federations and the Esports Integrity Commission to maintain the highest standards of integrity in all competitions.

What happens if I cheat or engage in match-fixing on Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Severe penalties, including bans, disqualification, and forfeiture of prizes, apply for cheating or match-fixing.

Full Answer If you are caught cheating or engaging in match-fixing on Checkmate Live, you will face severe penalties. These include permanent bans from the platform, disqualification from tournaments, and forfeiture of any prizes won. Additionally, such violations are reported to the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) and relevant chess governing bodies, potentially leading to further disciplinary actions. Our platform also employs advanced monitoring and receives automated alerts for unusual betting activity to detect and address all forms of cheating or collusion swiftly.

Anti-Cheat Technology and Fair Play

What is the accuracy of your anti-cheat technology, and what makes it different from others?

TL;DR Our anti-cheat technology, Sixth-i, is highly accurate, using advanced computer vision and machine learning.

Full Answer Checkmate Live's anti-cheat technology, Sixth-i, developed in collaboration with the Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute, is highly accurate and utilizes advanced computer vision, behavioral analysis, and machine learning techniques. This system continuously adapts to new threats, setting it apart from other anti-cheat measures in the industry.

How did you test its accuracy, so that I can trust it?

TL;DR Sixth-i has been rigorously tested in both real-world and controlled environments and was developed in collaboration with The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute (AAII).

Full Answer The Sixth-i system has undergone rigorous testing in both real-world scenarios and controlled environments, ensuring its accuracy. We collaborated with independent experts and FIDE to validate its performance. Additionally, from August to November, we will implement a grace period to further calibrate the system, check for false positives, and ensure its accuracy. During this period, cheating cases will be reviewed by our fair play team, and any bans will be enforced after the period ends.

What if I disagree with a decision made by the anti-cheat system?

TL;DR You can appeal decisions made by the anti-cheat system, and the process will be reviewed by arbiters and experts.

Full Answer If you disagree with a decision made by our anti-cheat system, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process is transparent and involves a thorough review by arbiters and experts to ensure fairness. We take all appeals seriously and strive to maintain the integrity of the platform. Please see our Fair Play policy for more information.

Will Checkmate.live seek any certifications for the anti-cheat system?

TL;DR Yes, we plan to seek certification from independent experts and FIDE.

Full Answer Yes, Checkmate Live will seek certification from independent experts and FIDE to further validate the effectiveness of our anti-cheat system, ensuring that it is both reliable and trustworthy.

Tournaments & Gameplay

What kind of tournaments can I participate in on Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Checkmate.live hosts various tournaments, including official events for chess federations.

Full Answer On Checkmate.live, you can participate in a wide range of tournaments, catering to players of all skill levels. These include official events organized in partnership with chess federations such as the Asian Chess Federation and the Arab Esports Federation. Additionally, the platform offers daily and weekly tournaments, as well as special events like the Play for Peace online chess tournament. Each tournament has specific eligibility criteria, time controls, and prize pools, providing players with numerous opportunities to compete and win.

What are the technical requirements to participate in Checkmate.live tournaments?

TL;DR A stable internet connection, a PC or mobile device, and a webcam for certain events.

Full Answer To participate in Checkmate.live tournaments, you need a stable internet connection, a compatible PC or mobile device, and, for certain high-stakes or FIDE-rated events, a webcam. The platform does not require any external software downloads, as all gameplay occurs directly through the Checkmate.live interface. For professional or high-stakes tournaments, especially those with money prizes, you may also need to use a specific setup, such as a two-camera system, to ensure fair play and compliance with tournament regulations. Check the tournament details page for specific requirements.

What kind of tournaments can I participate in?

TL;DR Checkmate.live hosts a variety of tournaments, including official events for the Asian Chess Federation and Arab Esports Federation, among others.

Full Answer Checkmate.live offers a wide range of tournaments catering to different skill levels and interests. These include official events organized in partnership with the Asian Chess Federation and Arab Esports Federation, as well as many other exciting competitions. Whether you are a casual player or a seasoned pro, there’s a tournament for everyone on Checkmate.live.

How does Checkmate.live protect player privacy?

TL;DR Checkmate.live ensures privacy through hashed user information, optional avatars, and secure data handling by third-party KYC providers.

Full Answer Player privacy is a top priority for Checkmate.live. We protect your personal information by using advanced hashing techniques, allowing players to maintain anonymity through optional avatars. Additionally, all KYC (Know Your Customer) processes are managed by trusted third-party providers who specialize in secure data handling, ensuring that your private information is safeguarded at all times.

Can I stream my games?

TL;DR Yes, Checkmate.live integrates with platforms like Twitch and YouTube for live streaming.

Full Answer Absolutely! Checkmate.live is designed to be compatible with popular streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube, allowing you to easily broadcast your games to your followers. Whether you’re a content creator or simply want to share your matches with friends, streaming is fully supported on Checkmate.live.

What is the viewership rewards module?

TL;DR Coming in Q3 2024, the viewership rewards module is linked to the Participation Token, rewarding players for watching streams and playing on Checkmate.

Full Answer The viewership rewards module, set to launch in Q3 2024, is an innovative feature that allows players to earn rewards simply by watching streams and participating in activities on Checkmate. This module is closely tied to the Participation Token system, providing incentives for active engagement and contributing to the overall community experience.

How can I contribute to the community?

TL;DR Join councils, participate in events, engage in forums/leaderboards, and use social features on Checkmate.live.

Full Answer There are many ways to contribute to the Checkmate.live community! You can join the Players Council or Queens Council, participate in community events, engage in discussions on forums and leaderboards, and make use of the platform’s social features. Your active involvement helps shape the community and makes the Checkmate.live experience better for everyone.

Is Checkmate.live mobile-friendly?

TL;DR Yes, Checkmate.live is a progressive web app accessible on web and mobile, with dedicated apps planned for the future.

Full Answer Checkmate.live is designed to be mobile-friendly and easily accessible from any device. The platform operates as a progressive web app, meaning you can enjoy a seamless experience whether you’re on your desktop or mobile. Additionally, dedicated mobile apps are in development and will be released in the future, further enhancing your ability to play anytime, anywhere.

Technical Requirements & Setup

What are the camera requirements for Checkmate.live tournaments?

TL;DR A 720p resolution webcam with a stable frame rate, additional cameras may be required for certain events.

Full Answer Checkmate.live requires a minimum of a 720p resolution webcam with a stable frame rate of at least 30 fps for most tournaments that mandate video monitoring. For FIDE-rated tournaments and other high-stakes events, you may need a two-camera setup: one focused on your face and upper body, and another capturing your playing area from behind. The exact setup requirements will vary depending on the specific tournament, so it is important to review the guidelines provided on the tournament page. Adequate lighting and a stable camera position are also crucial to ensure clear visibility.

What if I experience technical issues during a tournament?

TL;DR Ensure a stable connection and device compatibility; no refunds for issues after a match starts.

Full Answer Technical issues can happen, but there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. Before entering a tournament, ensure your device meets the necessary requirements and that your internet connection is stable. If you experience technical difficulties during a match, Checkmate.live will attempt to reconnect you automatically. However, if the issue persists, it could result in a loss or other penalties, depending on the tournament's specific rules. Unfortunately, there are no refunds or adjustments once a match has started, so it is crucial to be prepared in advance.

What is the accuracy of your anti-cheat technology, and what makes it different from others?

TL;DR Our anti-cheat technology, Sixth-i, is highly accurate, using advanced computer vision and machine learning.

How did you test its accuracy, so that I can trust it?

TL;DR Sixth-i has been rigorously tested in both real-world and controlled environments, with a grace period from August to November for further calibration.

What if I disagree with a decision made by the anti-cheat system?

TL;DR You can appeal decisions made by the anti-cheat system, and the process will be reviewed by arbiters and experts.

Will Checkmate.live seek any certifications for the anti-cheat system?

TL;DR Yes, we plan to seek certification from independent experts and FIDE.

Camera and Microphone Requirements for Tournaments

Will I need to have the camera switched on during the whole tournament, or can I disable it if I need to go to the toilet or handle a personal situation?

TL;DR Yes, your camera must remain on throughout the tournament unless the arbiter allows temporary disabling.

Full Answer During tournaments, your camera must remain on for the entire duration of the event to ensure fair play. If you need to step away temporarily, you must inform the arbiter, who may allow you to disable the camera briefly. As long as you follow the proper procedure, you won’t need to redo the onboarding process.

What if my camera works but my microphone doesn’t? Will I still be able to participate in the tournament?

TL;DR Yes, you can participate if the arbiter gives permission, but audio is required for Tier 1 or Tier 2 events.

Full Answer If your camera works but your microphone doesn’t, you may still participate in the tournament, provided the arbiter grants you permission. However, for Tier 1 or Tier 2 broadcast events, functional audio is mandatory to ensure full participation and compliance with the event’s requirements.

Payment, Withdrawals & Warranty

How long does it take to receive my prize after winning a tournament?

TL;DR Prize payouts are typically processed the following Thursday after the Fair Play window closes to your registered wallet.

Full Answer After winning a tournament on Checkmate.live, the prize payout process begins once the Fair Play window closes. This window allows the platform to review all games and ensure that fair play was maintained throughout the event. Once this process is complete, payouts are typically processed within 1-3 business days and are sent directly to your registered wallet. For larger payouts, additional processing time may be required. If the prize is provided by a third-party partner, such as a chess federation, the payout timing may vary according to their specific terms and conditions.

Can I withdraw any amount of money from my Checkmate.live account?

There may be minimum withdrawal amounts, and some funds might be subject to specific rules outlined in the tournament requirements or tradie lock rules.

In-Game Currency & Wallets

Why do I need a web3 wallet on Checkmate.live?

TL;DR A web3 wallet is a digital wallet for securely storing, sending, receiving, and managing digital assets on the blockchain and receiving payments.

Full Answer On Checkmate.live, having a web3 wallet allows you to securely store, send, receive, and manage your digital assets, including in-game items like Alpha Avatars. The wallet acts as your unique digital identifier on Chekcmate Live and is necessary for certain platform features, such as participating in Pro tournaments, receiving payouts, and trading collectibles. While a web3 wallet enhances your experience on the platform, it is important to choose a reputable wallet provider and secure your private keys to protect your assets.

What are Crowns?

TL;DR Crowns are the primary in-game currency on Checkmate.live, purchasable with credit cards, ETH, or USDC, and earnable through gameplay.

Full Answer Crowns serve as the main currency within the Checkmate.live ecosystem. They can be purchased using traditional payment methods like credit cards, as well as cryptocurrencies like ETH and USDC. Additionally, Crowns can be earned through gameplay, allowing players to accumulate them as they progress. Crowns are used for various in-game purchases and activities, making them an essential part of the Checkmate.live experience.

What are USDC and USDT?

TL;DR USDC and USDT are stablecoins pegged to the US Dollar.

Full Answer USDC (USD Coin) and USDT (Tether) are stablecoins, which means their value is closely tied to the US Dollar. Whether you’re buying Crowns or participating in other activities, USDC and USDT offer a consistent value that aligns with the US Dollar.

What kind of wallet should I use with Checkmate?

TL;DR Checkmate currently supports MetaMask, Coinbase and WalletConnect-compatible wallets. A non-custodial wallet is recommended for full control over assets. This setup ensures that you are the sole owner of your assets, providing greater security and flexibility.

What chain do you use?

TL;DR Checkmate currently uses Ethereum (ETH) for the Alpha Pass and Alpha Avatars, with a Layer 2 solution planned for future drops.

Checkmate can mint to any EVM chain.

What is Gas?

Gas refers to the transaction fees required to execute operations on blockchain. These fees are paid to miners who process and validate transactions. Gas prices can fluctuate based on network congestion these cost can vary.

Do you have to be knowledgeable about web3 to use Checkmate?

TL;DR No, Checkmate is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of Web3 experience.

Full Answer You don’t need to be a web3 expert to enjoy Checkmate.live. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, catering to both web2 and web3 users. While Checkmate leverages web3 technology for enhanced features and security, the platform ensures that all players, regardless of their experience with blockchain, can have a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Security, Privacy & Compliance

How does Checkmate.live protect player privacy?

TL;DR Player privacy is protected through encryption, secure storage, access control and audits.

Full Answer Checkmate.live employs robust security measures to protect player privacy. This includes the encryption of all data transmitted between your device and our servers, secure storage of personal information and video recordings on restricted-access servers, and strict access control measures. Only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data, and all access is logged and monitored to ensure compliance with privacy policies. Additionally, regular security audits are conducted to identify and address any vulnerabilities. The platform also employs privacy guardrails, such as hashing and anonymization techniques, to further protect biometric data and minimize the collection of personally identifiable information.

Are you recording and/or saving the recordings of my face and background while playing a tournament?

TL;DR Yes, recordings may be saved for fair play purposes, securely stored, and accessed only by authorized personnel.

Full Answer Yes, Checkmate.live may record video feeds during tournaments that require camera usage. These recordings are securely stored and accessed only by authorized personnel, such as arbiters and the Fair Play team, for review and analysis if any fair play concerns arise. The recordings are retained according to the platform's data retention policy, which is designed to protect player privacy while ensuring the integrity of the competition. For more details on how your data is handled, you can refer to the platform's Privacy Policy or Terms of Service.

Do you sell my personal data to advertisers?

TL;DR No, we do not sell your personal data to advertisers. Protecting your privacy is our priority.

Full Answer We take your privacy seriously and do not sell your personal data to advertisers. Any advertising displayed on Checkmate Live is designed to respect your privacy and complies with all relevant data protection regulations. We may use aggregated, anonymized information to present relevant and non-intrusive advertising within our platform. For more details, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Who owns the data generated on Checkmate Live?

TL;DR Checkmate Live owns the broadcasts and gameplay data generated on the platform.

Full Answer Checkmate Live retains ownership of all broadcasts and gameplay data generated on the platform, including moves, game outcomes, and time spent playing. This data is critical for maintaining platform integrity, enhancing our services, and offering features like rankings, analytics, and tokenized rewards. We handle your data responsibly and transparently in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including GDPR.

Why does Checkmate Live own the data generated?

TL;DR Data ownership allows us to ensure security, uphold fair play, and enhance user experience.

Full Answer Owning the data generated on our platform allows us to secure and maintain the integrity of our services, including enforcing fair play and providing features such as rewards and rankings. This data ownership model is standard in esports and gaming industries, ensuring we can improve our services, implement anti-cheat measures, and explore commercialization opportunities, all while respecting your privacy.

How do I earn from my data?

TL;DR Your gameplay data contributes to earning tokens through our Proof of Play system.

Full Answer Your gameplay data contributes to our Proof of Play system, allowing you to earn tokens based on your activity and achievements. These tokens can be used for various in-game benefits, such as entering tournaments or acquiring digital assets. Please note that the availability of token earning and usage may vary depending on your location and applicable regulations.

How does Checkmate Live protect my privacy?

TL;DR We implement multiple Privacy Guardrails to safeguard your data, including data minimization, anonymization, and secure storage.

Full Answer Checkmate Live prioritizes your privacy by implementing multiple measures to safeguard your data:

Data Minimization: We collect only the data necessary to provide our services and ensure fair play.
Anonymization: We anonymize data whenever possible to protect your identity.
Secure Storage: We utilize a secure data vault system and work with trusted third-party providers to ensure data security.
Transparency: Our Privacy Policy provides detailed information about our data collection and usage practices.
User Control: You have the right to access, rectify, and erase your data. You can also object to certain processing activities or withdraw your consent at any time.
Data Retention: We retain your data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in our Privacy Policy.
Web3 Wallet Integration: Your web3 wallet acts as a unique, verifiable key that we use to identify your player profile, significantly enhancing both security and privacy on Checkmate.
Quantum Avatars: These customizable digital avatars let you express yourself and interact with the community while keeping your real-world identity private.
Play Anonymously: Unless a tournament explicitly requires it, you're free to compete using your chosen avatar, maintaining your anonymity.

This comprehensive approach allows us to uphold platform integrity while handling sensitive information with care and providing you with a secure and private gaming experience.

What if I have questions about my data or privacy?

TL;DR You can contact our support team or consult our Privacy Policy for further information.

Full Answer If you have any questions or concerns about your data or privacy, you can our Privacy Policy for further information. We are committed to addressing your concerns and ensuring that your privacy is respected at all times.

Responsible Gaming & Legal Considerations

Are skill-based chess tournaments on Checkmate.live considered gambling?

TL;DR Skill-based chess tournaments like Checkmate's are not considered gambling, as outcomes are based on skill, not chance.

Full Answer Cash-based tournaments in games of skill, like chess, are generally not considered gambling. Gambling typically involves three key elements: a prize, consideration (entry fee), and chance. In contrast, the outcome of chess tournaments on Checkmate.live is primarily determined by the skill and strategic decisions of the players, not by chance. This distinction is crucial in differentiating skill-based competitions from gambling activities. Checkmate.live emphasizes skill through its esports-first approach, focus on speed chess, and robust anti-cheat measures, ensuring that all competitions are fair and based on player abilities.

Are there any limitations regarding the countries I can play from? If so, could I use any external VPN to participate in case I’m abroad?

TL;DR Regional restrictions may apply; using a VPN to bypass restrictions is prohibited.

Full Answer Due to varying legal and regulatory restrictions, Checkmate.live may not be available in all countries. The platform is continually expanding its reach, but for the most up-to-date information on available regions, you should refer to the official website. Using a VPN to bypass regional restrictions is strictly prohibited and could result in account suspension or termination. It is important to comply with all local laws and regulations when participating in Checkmate.live events.

Are skill-based chess tournaments considered gambling?

TL;DR Skill-based chess tournaments, like those on Checkmate.live, are generally not considered gambling, as they depend on player skill rather than chance.

Full Answer Cash-based tournaments in games of skill, such as chess, are generally not classified as gambling. Gambling typically involves three key elements: a prize, consideration (an entry fee), and chance. Since the outcome of Checkmate.live tournaments is primarily determined by the players' skill and strategic decisions, rather than random chance, they fall under the category of skill-based competitions. This distinction is crucial in differentiating skill-based competitions from gambling activities.

Checkmate.live emphasizes skill by offering a competitive environment where players' abilities and strategies are the main factors determining success. Our robust anti-cheat measures and commitment to fair play further reinforce this focus on skill over chance.

How does Checkmate.live ensure compliance with local laws and regulations?

TL;DR Checkmate.live adheres to all relevant laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where it operates, and may restrict access to certain features based on local laws.

Full Answer Checkmate.live is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where we operate. We recognize that different regions have varying legal requirements regarding online gaming, skill-based competitions, and the use of cryptocurrencies.

To ensure compliance, we:

Monitor Legal Developments: We continuously monitor changes in the legal landscape to ensure our platform remains compliant with the latest regulations.
Regional Restrictions: Depending on local laws, certain features or tournaments may be restricted or modified for players in specific regions. We clearly communicate these restrictions to users to avoid any confusion.
Age Verification: We implement strict age verification processes to ensure that all players meet the minimum legal age requirements for participation in tournaments and other activities on our platform.
Fair Play and Anti-Cheat Measures: Our robust anti-cheat and fair play systems not only promote a level playing field but also ensure that we comply with regulations designed to prevent fraud and cheating in online gaming.

By adhering to these practices, Checkmate.live ensures that our operations are legally compliant while providing a safe and fair gaming experience for all users.

Are there any geographical restrictions for playing on Checkmate.live?

TL;DR Due to varying legal and regulatory restrictions, Checkmate.live may not be available in

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