Tournament Requirements
This guide is designed to help players be fully prepared and ready for competitive matches, ensuring the game remains fair and enjoyable for everyone.
Below is essential information on participation requirements, device specifications, fair play policies, and consequences of violations.
Game Mode Participation
All players must have played 30 games in each speed mode (Blitz, Rapid, Bullet) to obtain their Checkmate rating before participating in any tournaments. If a tournament involves multiple stages or modes, players must ensure they have played 30 games in each relevant mode. To participate in daily and weekly events, players must have played at least 30 games in the chosen game mode.
Camera Usage
Players must use a web camera for games where indicated on the tournament registration page for the event you are participating in. Setup requirements can be found further down this page.
Device Requirements
Player can play either on mobile or a PC unless stipulated in the tournament rules.
Pro Device Requirements
A desktop computer and web camera are required for PRO match playoffs and finals. Participation in daily and weekly events is allowed using mobile devices.
Headphones
Headphones are not allowed at any stage of Pro or FIDE-rated matches
Second monitor
No secondary monitor or screen should be visible to the player, this includes tablets, Smart Clocks (eg Google Nest) or connected to the main playing personal computer.
Watches
Watches should be removed and stored away
In-Game Video
Players must use the Checkmate in-game video and consent to share their screen if requested by the admin and permit all Checkmate access permissions for monitoring of the game.
KYC Verification
Players must be KYC-verified for PRO and FIDE-rated matches. KYC is not required for casual and arcade mode games.
Event Ticket
A tournament ticket is required for playoffs, which can either be won in a daily or weekly event or purchased in the store. Tickets are non-transferable and valid for the month earned.
Fair Play Compliance
Any breaches of Checkmate's Fair Play policies will result in the appropriate sanctions, fines, or bans. Fair play monitoring will be conducted across all tournaments. In case of cheating, the player will be disqualified and banned from the platform, and the next top player will take their place. FIDE-rated players found cheating will be reported to the appropriate Federation.
Device Requirements
Daily and Weekly Events
Mobile or PC unless stipulated otherwise on the tournament page
Playoffs and Finals
A PC with a working webcam is required. Checkmate onboarding system verifies whether a webcam is being used before the start of each tournament. Players should make arrangements to access a PC with a webcam if only a mobile device is available.
Camera and Screen Sharing Requirements
Where cameras are required for online tournaments Requirements differ for FIDE-rated tournaments and Checkmate Live tournaments. Specific requirements for each tournament are listed on the tournament page.
Entry into a tournament is considered consent to the conditions of entry.
Webcam Requirements: Participants must use a high-quality webcam positioned to provide a clear view of their face and surroundings. The camera must be placed at an angle that shows the participant's face, hands, and the area around their computer.
Observer Camera Requirements: An additional observer camera must be set up to capture a wide-angle view of the participant and their surroundings. This camera should cover the participant's entire setup, including the screen, keyboard, mouse, and surrounding area, to ensure no unauthorized devices or actions are taking place.
It is crucial that you are fully set up, checked in, and ready to play at least 15 minutes before any required official's meeting or the tournament's official start time.
General Requirements for all cameras:
Functionality: The camera must be functional and capable of capturing clear video and audio.
Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting for clear visibility.
Stability: Use a tripod or stable surface to avoid shaky video.
Player Privacy: Camera angles should respect player privacy while allowing adequate monitoring.
Arbiter Access: Video feeds should be accessible to the arbiter for real-time monitoring and potential review.
Permissions
Granting Access: You'll be asked to allow camera and screen-sharing access during onboarding in the checkout lobby before the tournament starts.
No Access, No Play: If you don't give permission, you won't be able to participate.
We Value Your Privacy: These permissions are only active during the game itself.
Checkmate Live Refund Policy
No Refunds for Non-Compliance: If you can't participate because you don't meet the camera and screen-sharing requirements, our standard refund policy applies.
Remember, being prepared and set up on time is your responsibility. Following these guidelines helps ensure fair play and a smooth tournament experience for everyone.
Main Camera Setup
One Camera:
Front Camera (Webcam):
Focused on face & upper body
Min. 720p resolution
30+ fps
FIDE Rated and Checkmate Specific Tournament Camera Setup
Two Cameras:
Front Camera (Webcam):
Same as main camera setup
Observer Camera (Mobile or 2nd PC Webcam):
Setup as per below:
Min. 480p (mobile) / 720p (PC) resolution
30+ fps
2nd PC to be inaccessible to player during game
Observer camera setup
The observer camera is crucial for maintaining fair play in certain Checkmate Live tournaments and all FIDE-rated tournaments. It captures a wide view of the player, their playing area, and the surrounding environment, helping ensure no unauthorized assistance or prohibited activities occur.
Device Options:
Mobile Phone
PC web Camera
Setup:
Scan the QR code during onboarding.
Place the camera behind and slightly above you at a 45-degree angle.
Position the camera approximately 4 meters (or about 13 feet) away from your back.
Field of View: Make sure the camera captures you, your playing area, and a substantial portion of the room behind and to the sides.
(Default)
One Camera (Default)
Front Camera (Webcam)
Focused on face & upper body
Min. 720p resolution
30+ fps
FIDE rated and Checkmate Specific Tournament)
Two Cameras
Rear Camera (Mobile or 2nd PC Webcam)
Setup as per below
Min. 480p (mobile) / 720p (PC) resolution
30+ fps
2nd PC to be inaccessible to player during game
Second camera setup
The camera should captures the player, their playing area, and a substantial portion of the room behind and to the sides.
A mobile phone or PC web Camera can be used
Scan the QR code during onboarding with the observer camera you are using
The QR code will enable Checkmate Live to takeover your camera for the duration of the event
Placed behind and slightly above the player at a 45-degree angle.
Positioned approximately 4 metres (or about 13 feet) away from the player's back.
General Requirements for all cameras:
Functionality: The camera must be functional and capable of capturing clear video and audio.
Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting for clear visibility.
Stability: Use a tripod or stable surface to avoid shaky video.
Player Privacy: Camera angles should respect player privacy while allowing adequate monitoring.
Arbiter Access: Video feeds should be accessible to the arbiter for real-time monitoring and potential review.
While a lower resolution is permissible for the web camera and rear camera in non-FIDE-rated tournaments, a minimum of 720p is essential for Checkmate Live T1 (TV) and T2 broadcasts to ensure optimal viewing experience for the audience.
Screen Sharing
Screen sharing is required for all FIDE online supervised events and nominated Checkmate Live events.
Device: Screen sharing must be enabled on your primary device (desktop, laptop, or approved tablet).
Monitoring: Arbiters and Sixth-i will monitor shared screens in real-time. Suspicious activity may lead to disqualification
Task Manager: Keep your Task Manager (or equivalent) open and visible throughout the event.
Continuous Sharing: Keep screen sharing active throughout the event, including breaks.
Prohibited Actions: Don't minimize, obscure, or stop screen sharing. No unauthorized interaction with external software or devices
Privacy and Security: Shared screens are monitored solely for fair play. Private data or unrelated activities should not be exposed.
Penalties: Non-compliance can result in immediate disqualification and potential bans from future events
Setup
Enable permissions in your browser when requested during tournament onboarding . A test session may be conducted.
Full-Screen Mode: Share your entire desktop in full-screen mode, showing all applications and processes
Resolution: Minimum 1280x720 to clearly display all activities on your screen
No External Devices: Don't use secondary devices (smartphones, additional monitors)
Internet: Stable connection with at least 5 Mbps upload speed.
Remember: Adhering to these camera and screen sharing requirements is crucial for maintaining fair play and the integrity of Checkmate Live and tournaments conducted underFIDE supervised rules. Failure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification or other penalties.
By following these guidelines and ensuring your camera and screen sharing setup is adequate, you contribute to a fair and enjoyable online chess experience for all participants.
Fair Play
Detection Measures
Engine use detection, move analysis, statistical analysis, peer review, post-game analysis, computer vision monitoring, and arbiter monitoring are utilized to detect and prevent cheating.
Permissions
Players must accept audio, camera, and screen sharing permissions to participate in the playoffs and finals.
Second Camera Setup
For playoffs and finals, players will receive a link to activate a second camera (mobile phone or PC) that must be placed at the back of the room, unobstructed, and pointed towards the playing space.
Consequences of Cheating
Disqualification and Ban
Any player found cheating will be disqualified and banned from the platform.
Forfeiture of Prizes
Prizes won will be forfeited, and the next eligible player will be awarded the prize or ranking.
Reporting to Authorities
FIDE-rated players found cheating will be reported to the relevant chess federation and the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC), which may result in additional consequences, including potential bans from other esports events.
Zero Tolerance
Zero tolerance means zero exceptions. Get caught, and you're looking at: Tournament disqualifications, prize forfeitures, potential bans that'll make you wish you'd played fair, a not-so-fun chat with FIDE or/and ESIC, and potential legal consequences.
Player Responsibilities
Minimize Distractions
Create a quiet, comfortable environment to focus on your games.
No Third Parties
The presence of third parties in the room during tournament matches is prohibited. Violations will result in disqualification and potential bans from future tournaments.
Sportsmanship
Maintain good sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Show respect to opponents and arbiters and abide by community rules.
Matchmaking & Broadcasting
Checkmate Live handles matchmaking, pairings, and tournament progression, ensuring fair and balanced competition
Player Responsibilities During Tournaments
Register
Register for the tournament before the cut off time and date
Login and Check-in
Log into Checkmate Live and check in to the tournament lobby before the advertised start time.
Be Ready to Play
Be prepared to start your match promptly once checked in.
Forced Start
The arbiter may force-start a tournament if all checked-in players are ready.
Scheduled Breaks
Breaks are scheduled at regular intervals and are the same for all players.
No-Shows
First No-Show
If not checked in and ready to play at the official start time, the game will proceed without you, resulting in a loss if the clock runs out.
Second No-Show
A second no-show within the same tournament will result in immediate disqualification.
Technical Preparation
Device
Check whether you can use a mobile or PC. Playing from a desktop computer is recommended.
PC & Software
Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Checkmate Live and that your browser and webcam software are up to date.
Internet Connection
Test your internet connection speed and stability before the tournament. A wired connection is generally more reliable than Wi-Fi.
Power
Make sure your PC is plugged in or has sufficient battery power to last the entire tournament.
Contingency Planning
Backup Internet
Have a backup internet connection option available in case your primary connection fails.
Technical Support
Familiarize yourself with Checkmate's technical support channels.
Alternative Device
Ideally have a backup device (laptop, tablet, etc.) ready with the necessary software and webcam functionality.
Tournament Participation & Technical Issues
Responsibility
Ensure a stable internet connection and that your device meets our recommended requirements before entering a match or playoff. No refunds or adjustments for issues arising after the start of a match.
Lag
Lag complaints will not be considered once the clock starts ticking.
Disconnections
Pre-Game Lobby: The system will attempt to reconnect you automatically. If unsuccessful, the arbiter will decide based on log review.
During Match: Disconnections will be handled by attempting reconnection, potential time forfeits, or declaring a draw if insufficient material to win.
Server Issues: If due to server issues, Checkmate may abort the game and declare it unrated.
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