Alienware Winter Frag Fest

Rules

You got to know the rules to play the game, and with such kickass prizes on the line it is best to know them well.

Important Details

All the details are very important, but here are a few that stand out:

  • All participating players must be 13 years of age or older and residents of the United States or Canada. Due to contest regulations gamers from Quebec are not eligible to participate.
  • All match times are pre-determined and cannot be rescheduled. Be sure that your team can field 5 players for every potential match time for your conference before registering to compete. The match times are posted on the Schedule page.
  • Demos (replays) are required for every match and must be uploaded immediately after each match to ftp://cevo.com (username: fragfest password: fragfest). All files should be named teamname_playername_vs_teamname. If disputed, failure to upload a demo (replay) will result in a match overturn. Internet Explorer can be used to transfer files via FTP by simply typing ftp://cevo.com into the address bar, entering the username and password, and then dragging and dropping the files into the window.
  • A team roster may consist of up to 7 players. Each team must have exactly 5 players present in order to begin a match.
  • Roster changes are permitted only up until the start of each team’s first tournament match. Steam ID changes are permitted only up until the start of each player’s first tournament match.
  • The CEVO Match Network (CMN) is required for all matches. A player that is unable to use the CEVO Match Network is not permitted to compete in the tournament. All players are advised to download and install the CEVO Match Network from http://www.cevo.com/data/CMN3_Install.exe prior to the start of tournament.
  • The starting 5 players per team on the day of the tournament finals (Jan 24) will be those to receive the prizes for placement.
  • For each match, a player from each team must contact Frag Fest Support (not Alienware support) to report the match score, and if desired, to file a dispute against up to one opposing player.
  • By registering to compete all players agree to, and are expected to know well, the full Official Rules and Game Play Rules posted below.

Official Rules

Welcome to the Alienware Winter Frag Fest. These rules ("Official Rules") set forth the rules and regulations of the Alienware Winter Frag Fest (the "Tournament") presented by Alienware, Corp. ("Alienware") and iGames, Inc. ("iGames"). Alienware and iGames are, collectively, the "Sponsors."

Please read these Official Rules carefully before submitting an entry or participating in the Tournament. These Official Rules contain important information about eligibility to enter the Tournament, the rules of the Tournament and other important information. Please note that the rules for playing the game in the Tournament are contained in the "Game Play Rules" located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest. The Game Play Rules are incorporated herein by this reference.

By registering for the Tournament, you accept these Official Rules and agree to be bound by their terms. If you do not agree with these Official Rules, please do not register for the Tournament.

  1. Eligibility. The Alienware Winter Frag Fest Tournament is open only to residents of any state of the United States of America, the District of Columbia and any Province of Canada (other than Quebec) that are 13 years of age or older as of January 17, 2009, and who properly register for the Tournament (each a "Player"). Each Player may be required to show proof of age, residence and, if such Player is under the legal age of majority in his or her state of residence, consent to these Official Rules by his/her parent or legal guardian. IF YOU DO NOT SATISFY THESE REQUIREMENTS, YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THE TOURNAMENT. Participation in the Tournament is also subject to compliance with the requirements specified below and in the Game Play Rules (http://www.alienware.com/fragfest).

    Employees of Sponsors and their immediate families (parent, child, sibling and the spouses of each) are not eligible to register for the Tournament. The Tournament is void where prohibited by applicable law.

  2. Sponsors. The Tournament is sponsored by Alienware, Corp., located at 14591 SW 120 Street, Miami, FL 22186 and iGames, Inc., located at 201 San Antonio Circle, Suite 260, Mountain View, CA 94040
  3. Tournament Period. The Tournament shall commence on January 17, 2009 and end on January 24, 2009 (the "Tournament Period").
  4. How to Enter the Tournament.
    1. 4.1Primary Players. Each Player must register for the Tournament at the site: http://fragfest.alienware.com. The Team Captain (as defined in the Game Play Rules) will register first and create a password which the other Players on that team (collectively, a "Team") will use when registering. Up to 5 primary Players (including the Team Captain) may register for each Team (each a "Primary Player"). Each Team must complete registration prior to the start of their first Match (as defined in the Game Play Rules). Prior to the start of the Tournament Finals (as defined in the Game Play Rules), each Team competing in the Tournament Finals must identify to an Official (as defined in the Game Play Rules) their 5 Primary Players and such Primary Players must also be their starting 5 Players in the Tournament Finals.
    2. 4.2Alternate Players. Each Team may have up to 2 alternate players (each, an "Alternate Player"). Each Alternate Player must also register for the Tournament at the site http://fragfest.alienware.com using the password created by the Team Captain. Alternates are not eligible to receive Prizes (as defined below).
  5. Registration & Fees. There is no fee to register for the Tournament. Teams will be guaranteed a Tournament slot first come, first served, based on when registration for the Team is complete. A Team must have 5 or more Primary Players registered by January 11, 2009 to complete Team registration.
  6. Tournament Play. The Game Play Rules, located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest specify the rules of play for the Tournament. As specified in the Game Play Rules, the Tournament will consist of game play among up to 163 Teams through stages of Single-Elimination and Double-Elimination (as defined in the Game Play Rules).
  7. Prizes. The eligible Primary Players from the top eight Teams (the "Winning Teams") will be awarded the prizes specified below (each a "Prize"). Relative placement among the Winning Teams will be determined based on the Game Play Rules (located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest).
    All Prizes will be awarded.
    • If a Primary Player forfeits or is disqualified for any reason, the Player is not eligible to receive their portion of the Prize and his/her portion of the Prize. If a Winning Team forfeits or is disqualified from the Tournament for any reason, that Team is not eligible for a Prize.
    • Up to 163 Teams will compete in the Tournament.
    • THERE IS NO ENTRY FEE TO COMPETE FOR PRIZES.
    • No Prize substitution, except as allowed by Sponsors which reserve the right to offer a prize of equal/greater value.
    • Prizes will be awarded to each Primary Player on a Winning Team (each, a "Winner"). An Alternate on a Winning Team is not eligible to receive any portion of the Prize.
    Tournament Prizes (approximate retail value (“ARV”) in US Dollars) Placement Among Winning Teams
    Alienware Area-51 X58 Desktop (ARV: $2,329.00) with:
    • Processor: Intel© Core™ i7-920 2.66 GHz 8MB Cache
    • Alienware P2 Chassis: Alienware© P2 Chassis with AlienIce™ 3.0 Video Cooling - Space Black
    • System Lighting: Alienware© Standard System Lighting - Astral Blue
    • System Cooling: Alienware© Standard System Cooling
    • Power Supply: Alienware© 750 Watt Multi-GPU Approved Power Supply
    • Graphics Processor: ATI Radeon™ HD 4870
    • Memory: 6GB DDR3 SDRAM at 1066MHz - 3 x 2048MB
    • Motherboard: Intel© X58 Motherboard- Socket 1366 Core i7 Ready, Dual Triple Channel DDR3 Memory
    • Operating System (Office software not included): Genuine Windows Vista© Home Premium (64-bit Edition) with SP1
    • System Drive: Single Drive Configuration - 250GB SATA 3Gb/s 7,200RPM 16MB Cache
    • Optical Drives : Single Drive Configuration - 20X Dual-Layer Burner (DVD±RW)
    • Enthusiast Essentials: Killer K1 Gaming Network Interface Card
    • Sound Card: High-Definition 7.1 Performance Audio
    • Keyboard: Standard Keyboard - Standard Keyboard
    • Mouse: Standard Mouse - Standard Optical 3-Button Mouse with Scroll Wheel
    • Warranty: 1-Year AlienCare Onsite Service and 24/7 Toll-Free Phone Support
    		 1st
    Alienware Orion Backpack (ARV: $90.00)
    • ATI Radeon™ HD 4850 Graphics Card (ARV: $273.99)
    • Killer K1 Gaming Network Interface Card (ARV: $150)
    		 2nd
    • Alienware® Orion Backpack (MSRP $90)
    • Killer K1 Gaming Network Interface Card (MSRP $149.99)
    		 3rd
    Alienware Swag Bundle (t-shirt, mouse pad, lanyard, pen and keychain)(ARV: $30) 4th–8th
    Total ARV of all Prizes is $16,164.85 USD.
  8. Winners’ Affidavit of Eligibility and Release, Etc. Each Winner will be required to execute and deliver to iGames a signed Affidavit of Eligibility and Release (the “Affidavit/Release”). In the Affidavit of Eligibility and Release, each Winner will (a) confirm his/her eligibility and agreement to these Official Rules, (b) to the extent permitted by applicable law, consent to use of his/her name and likeness, and (c) release Sponsors from liability in connection with the use of the Prizes. If required by law, each Winner also will be required to execute Federal and State tax releases. iGames will provide the Winners with the Affidavit/Release and any required tax releases at the conclusion of the Tournament Period. Should a Winner not receive such documents the Winner may send a request to iGames at events@igames.org. Each Winner must provide their Affidavit/Release and (if applicable) the tax releases to iGames within 14 days of the last day of the Tournament Period, or the associated Prize will be forfeited. Each Winner will be shipped their Prize within 3 weeks from the day iGames receives from such Winner the completed Affidavit/Release and any required tax releases. Prizes will be issued and mailed to the name and address indicated on the Affidavit/Release.
    • If a Winner is under the legal age of majority in his or her state of residence, the Winner's parent or legal guardian must also sign the Affidavit/Release as well a comply with all other requirements imposed on Winners set forth herein.
    • Sales tax (if any) and income tax are the sole responsibility of each Winner.
    • Each Winner, by entering the Tournament, consents to the inclusion of his or her name on a list of Winners made available by Sponsors as indicated below.
    • Sponsors will pay the costs of delivery of each Prize.
  9. Use of Information. Each Player consents to use of his or her name, information and image by Sponsors, their respective agents and assignees for display and publishing in any media, now known or hereafter developed, without compensation, in any and all advertising and promotional materials relating to the Tournament, and in conjunction with other promotions that may be offered by Sponsors. The information collected to enter the Tournament will be used to contact each Winner. Additionally, each Player agrees that Sponsors and their agents and assignees may use this information for marketing purposes and to contact Players regarding offers, promotions and other contests related to products or services distributed by Sponsors. In addition, any such information also may be used and disclosed as set forth in the iGames privacy policy located at www.igames.org/privacy_policy.asp.
  10. General Release. Sponsors and each of their respective parents, affiliates, subsidiaries and advertising and promotion agencies, and all of their respective officers, directors, agents and employees (collectively, “Released Parties”) will not be responsible for: (a) technical failures of any kind, including, but not limited to telephone, electronic, hardware, software, network, Internet, or any other computer and communications related malfunctions or failures; (b) any Tournament disruptions, injuries, losses or damages caused by events beyond the control of Sponsors; or (c) any technical or human error such as typographical, printing, or administrative errors in any materials associated with the Tournament; or (d) the use of any Prize.
  11. Other Terms.
    • To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Tournament and these Official Rules will be governed, construed and interpreted under the laws of the state of California, USA.
    • These Official Rules are subject to any requirements/limitations imposed by the Federal Communications Commission.
    • The Tournament is subject to applicable Federal, state provincial and local laws and regulations.
    • Players agree to be bound by these Official Rules and by the decisions of the Sponsors, which are final and binding in all respects.
    • Sponsors reserve the right to cancel, suspend and/or modify the Tournament, or any part of it, if any fraud, technical failures or any other factor beyond Sponsors’ reasonable control affect the administration, security or proper play of the Tournament or Sponsors otherwise become (as determined in their sole discretion) incapable of running the Tournament as planned. Sponsors reserve the right in their sole discretion to disqualify any individual found to be tampering with the registration process or the operation of the Tournament or to be acting in violation of these Official Rules or any other promotion, or in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner.
    • Sponsors’ failure to enforce any term of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.
  12. Winners List; Rules Request. A Winners list will be available at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest after approximately January 24, 2009 and posted until approximately January 31, 2009. For a copy of the Winners list, send a stamped, self-addressed, business-size envelope after January 24, 2009 and before March 2, 2009 to iGames at the following address: iGames / Alienware Winter Frag Fest—Winners List, c/o iGames, 201 San Antonio Circle Suite 260, Mountain View, CA 94040. To obtain a copy of these Official Rules, send a stamped, self-addressed business-size envelope to iGames at the following address: iGames / Alienware Winter Frag Fest—Rules Request, c/o iGames, 201 San Antonio Circle Suite 260, Mountain View, CA 94040.

Game Play Rules

Welcome to the Alienware Winter Frag Fest. These rules (these "Game Play Rules") set forth the rules of game play for the Alienware Winter Frag Fest (the "Tournament") presented by Alienware, Corp. ("Alienware") and iGames, Inc. ("iGames"). Alienware and iGames are, collectively, the "Sponsors." These Game Play Rules are part of the Official Rules located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest and are incorporated therein. Please read the Game Play Rules carefully before submitting an entry or participating in the Tournament as these Game Play Rules contain important information about the rules and format of the Tournament.

  1. Definitions.
    • 1.1.Alternate Player - Each Team may have up to 2 Alternate Players which can be used for substituting a Primary Player and who must also register for the Tournament.
    • 1.2.Approved Team - A Team that has been guaranteed a Tournament slot by first come, first served, based on when registration for the Team is complete.
    • 1.3.Disputes - A controversy and/or difference of opinion over which Teams or Players disagree or debate and present to an Official for a decision.
    • 1.4.Disqualification - The removal of a Team or Player from the Tournament by an Official for violation of either the Official Rules or these Game Play Rules.
    • 1.5.Forfeit - The act of voluntarily admitting a defeat during the Tournament, thereby surrendering victory of the Round, Match or Tournament (as applicable) to the opposition or having a victory or opportunity to play Round(s) or Match(es) revoked by an Official due to Player/Team violation of the Official Rules or Game Play Rules.
    • 1.6.Half (or if multiple "Halves") - One Counter-Strike: Source twelve Round map session.
    • 1.7.Handle - a Player or Team pseudonym used for identification of Players or Teams during the Tournament.
    • 1.8.Lag Out - When a Player is disconnected from the Server due to network connectivity issues.
    • 1.9.Live - The commencing of a Half after three consecutive Round restarts on the Server.
    • 1.10.Match - One Counter-Strike: Source map consisting of two Halves ending at the completion of the two Halves or when a Team reaches thirteen Rounds won, with the possibility of Overtime in the case of a Tie score.
    • 1.11.Official - The designated individual(s) presiding over the Tournament and responsible for enforcing the Official Rules and these Game Play Rules.
    • 1.12.Overtime – An additional two Halves, each shortened to 5 Rounds long, ending at the completion of the two Halves or when a Team reaches 6 Rounds won.
    • 1.13.Penalty - A punishment enforced by the Official of a Player/Team for violating the Official Rules or Game Play Rules.
    • 1.14.Player - Any participant who meets the eligibility requirements and properly registers for the Tournament (as outlined in the Official Rules located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest).
    • 1.15.Primary Player - Each Team is composed of 5 Primary Players (including the Team Captain) that register and agree to the Official Rules.
    • 1.16.Round - One Counter-Strike: Source period of play on a map between two teams that is up to 1 minute and 20 seconds in duration.
    • 1.17.Server - Any dedicated game server used for a Tournament Match.
    • 1.18.Team - A team consists of exactly 5 Primary Players (one of which is the Team Captain) and up to 2 optional Alternate Players.
    • 1.19.Team Captain –The leader of the Team responsible for creating a password and then providing the password to the other Team members so they can subsequently register individually for the Team. The Team Captain serves as the primary contact for such Team.
    • 1.20.Tie – When the score is even at the conclusion of two Halves of play. In the case of a Tie, Teams play Overtime.
    • 1.21.Warning - A verbal or written indication from an Official to a Player/Team that continued or subsequent actions could result in a Penalty.
    • 1.22.Winner- A Primary Player on a Team that finishes the Tournament with placement (as described in the Official Rules located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest) which makes the Primary Player eligible for a Prize.
  2. Tournament Match Structure.
    • 2.1.Online Preliminary: The opening phase of the Tournament (the "Online Preliminary") will consist of online Single-Elimination (as defined below) play from Saturday, January 17 to Thursday, January 22, with the game Counter-Strike: Source. Teams will be sorted into three "Conferences": the "Atlantic Conference," "Central Conference," and "Pacific Conference" based on their region, and further divided into multiple "Groups" as assigned randomly by an Official. The Online Preliminary will end once only 5 Teams remain (two from the Atlantic Conference, two from the Central Conference, and one from the Pacific Conference). Each Team will be scheduled to play a minimum of 1 Match and up to 5 Matches, dependent upon the total number of registered Teams and how many consecutive Matches a Team wins. A maximum of 160 Teams will be accepted in the Online Preliminary. The five Teams remaining will automatically advance to the Tournament Finals (as defined below).
    • 2.2.Tournament Finals: The second and final phase of the Tournament (the "Tournament Finals") will consist of online Double-Elimination (as defined below) play on Saturday, January 24, with the game Counter-Strike: Source. Exactly 8 Teams will compete in the Tournament Finals consisting of 5 Teams advancing from the Online Preliminary and an additional 3 Teams receiving an invitation ("Invited Teams") for their top placement in the Alienware PC Gaming Season Open Tournament held by iGames on the weekend of June 28/29, 2008. The Tournament Finals will end when only 1 Team remains. Each Team will be scheduled to play a minimum of 2 Matches and up to 7 Matches, dependent on the number and order of wins a Team accumulates during the course of play.
  3. How to Win the Tournament.
    The Online Preliminary format will be Single-Elimination ("Single-Elimination"), where the Teams are randomly placed into brackets to play Matches against the other Teams. Upon losing the first Match, a Team is eliminated from the Tournament. The winning Team advances in the brackets to compete against the other winning Teams of each Match. When the brackets are down to five Teams (two from the Atlantic Conference, two from the Central Conference, and one from the Pacific Conference), those Teams will advance to the following Tournament Finals phase.
    The Tournament Finals format will be Double-Elimination ("Double Elimination"), where the Teams are randomly placed into a bracket to play Matches against the other Teams. Upon losing the first Match, the Team will be moved to the loser’s bracket to play Matches against the other losing Teams. The winners stay in the winner’s bracket to compete against the other winning Teams of each Match. When a Team has accumulated 2 losses, they will be eliminated from the Tournament. When the winner and loser brackets are each down to one Team, those Teams compete to determine the winner. Having accumulated zero losses, the winner’s bracket Team will have to win one 1 Match, while the loser’s bracket Team will have to win 2 Matches to be considered the winner of the Tournament.
  4. Match Scheduling.
    • 4.1.Conferences: Up to 64 Teams will be accepted in the Online Preliminary for each the Atlantic Conference and Central Conference. Up to 32 teams will be accepted in the Online Preliminary for the Pacific Conference.
    • 4.2.Schedule: The schedule and corresponding Groups are posted in full on the brackets located at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest. Times vary by Conference and Group. If a Team cannot play at all potential Match times they should not enter the Tournament. All Match times will be set according to a pre-determined schedule. All Players and Teams should expect that Matches will take up to 1.5 hours each to finish from the time of the initially scheduled Match time.
      Players can log in to the CEVO Match Network (as defined in Section 9) client to see their next upcoming opponent and scheduled Match time.
      • 4.2.1.Online Preliminary Schedule:
        Match times are subject to change by an Official.
        • 4.2.1.1.Atlantic Conference:
          Match 1 – Saturday, January 17
          Group A:7:00 PM EST
          Group B:8:00 PM EST
          Group C:8:45 PM EST
          Group D:9:30 PM EST
          Match 2 – Sunday, January 18
          Group A:7:00 PM EST
          Group B:8:00 PM EST
          Group C:8:45 PM EST
          Group D:9:30 PM EST
          Match 3 – Tuesday, January 20
          Group A:9:00 PM EST
          Group B:9:00 PM EST
          Group C:9:30 PM EST
          Group D:9:30 PM EST
          Match 4 - Wednesday, January 21
          Group A:9:00 PM EST
          Group B:9:00 PM EST
          Group C:9:30 PM EST
          Group D:9:30 PM EST
          Match 5 - Thursday, January 22
          Group A:9:00 PM EST
          Group B:9:00 PM EST
          Group C:9:30 PM EST
          Group D:9:30 PM EST
        • 4.2.1.2.Central Conference:
          Match 1 – Saturday, January 17
          Group E:1:00 PM CST
          Group F:2:00 PM CST
          Group G:3:00 PM CST
          Group H:4:00 PM CST
          Match 2 – Sunday, January 18
          Group E:1:00 PM CST
          Group F:2:00 PM CST
          Group G:3:00 PM CST
          Group H:4:00 PM CST
          Match 3 – Tuesday, January 20
          Group E:9:00 PM CST
          Group F:9:00 PM CST
          Group G:9:30 PM CST
          Group H:9:30 PM CST
          Match 4 - Wednesday, January 21
          Group E:9:00 PM CST
          Group F:9:00 PM CST
          Group G:9:30 PM CST
          Group H:9:30 PM CST
          Match 5 - Thursday, January 22
          Group E:9:00 PM CST
          Group F:9:00 PM CST
          Group G:9:30 PM CST
          Group H:9:30 PM CST
        • 4.2.1.3.Pacific Conference:
          Match 1 – Saturday, January 17
          Group I:8:30 PM PST
          Group J:9:30 PM PST
          Match 2 – Sunday, January 18
          Group I:8:30 PM PST
          Group J:9:30 PM PST
          Match 3 – Tuesday, January 20
          Groups I:8:30 PM PST
          Groups J:9:30 PM PST
          Match 4 - Wednesday, January 21
          Groups I:8:30 PM PST
          Groups J:9:30 PM PST
          Match 5 - Thursday, January 22
          Groups I & J:9:30 PM PST
      • 4.2.2Tournament Finals Schedule: Tournament Finals Matches will have varying start times between 2:00 PM to 8:15 PM EST on Saturday, January 24, 2009. It is likely that the final Match may not end until around or after 11:00 PM EST on Saturday, January 24, 2009.
    • 4.3.Match Start Time: All Teams must have exactly 5 Players log into the CEVO Match Network client within 15 minutes of each of their pre-determined Match times. Forcing a Team to wait for Players is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike and thereby is subject to enforcement of a Penalty by the Official, up to and including a Match Forfeit.
    • 4.4.Match Delays: A Match may be delayed from starting only if a Player is encountering technical difficulties specific to usage of the CEVO Match Network client and is in contact with an Official to have their issue resolved. Under no other under circumstances will a Match delay be accepted, including but not limited to emergencies, power outages, Internet instability, etc.
      It is the duty of a Team to use an Alternate Player if a Primary Player cannot compete.
  5. Team & Player Handles. Handles containing any of the following will not be tolerated: profanity, racism, sexism, drug use, or general vulgarity. Teams or Players found with offensive Handles will be contacted by an Official and asked to edit their Handle to something more appropriate. Team Handle changes are allowed at any time during the registration process, but are limited to 1 change per Tournament and the Team Handle cannot be changed once the Team becomes an Approved Team.
  6. Sportsmanship. All Players will be required to uphold and observe a universal level of sportsmanship. Any unsportsmanlike action which includes but is not limited to (racism, profanity, rude acts, vulgar acts, acts of belligerence, and disrespect of an Official) may be reviewed and is grounds for Player and/or Team Disqualification by an Official.
    • 6.1.Rulings on unsportsmanlike actions are subject to the Official’s interpretation. If a Player and/or Team is found in violation of this rule the following actions may happen:
      • Minor infractions as judged by an Official: Warning
      • Severe or repeated minor infractions as judged by an Official: Disqualification
      Any accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct by a Player or Team must be brought to the attention of the Official by filing a dispute following the Match in which the alleged action has occurred for investigation by presiding Official.
  7. SteamIDs. All Players are required to have a valid SteamID when they register which can be obtained in-game. A Player may have their SteamID changed by contacting an Official only prior to starting their first Match. No SteamIDs may be changed after this time. It the responsibility of participating Players to verify their personal SteamID is correct upon registering.
    • 7.1.Incorrect SteamIDs: It is the responsibility of both Teams to verify that the correct SteamIDs are in use prior to a Match going Live. Once a Match has begun a Team cannot dispute an incorrect SteamID.
  8. Game Server Information and Requirements.
    • 8.1.Servers: Teams are expected to use their own Servers during the Online Preliminary phase, however a limited number of Servers will be made available, first-come, first-served, by contacting Frag Fest Support. Servers used must be located in the same time zone as the Conference in which the corresponding Teams are competing unless both Teams agree otherwise. A Team has the right to request to have at least one Half of the Match played on their chosen Server as long as it meets the other requirements. Servers for the Tournament Finals will be provided by Officials.
    • 8.2.SourceTV: Servers used during the Online Preliminary may utilize SourceTV but delay must be set to 90 seconds.
    • 8.3.Zblock: All Servers used for Tournament play must have installed and utilize the latest version of Zblock. Zblock can be downloaded at http://zblock.cs-resourced.net/.
    • 8.4.Ping Imbalance: The difference between each Team's average pings can be no greater than 30 milliseconds. Pings must be confirmed by logging into the agreed upon Server and not through 3rd party tools such as HLSW, HLIT, or the Steam Server Utility. Loss and choke will in no way be an acceptable reason not to play in a Server; ping will be the only determining factor. If the difference between the average Team pings is less than 30 milliseconds, the Server is acceptable. If only one Server is acceptable under the ping rule, that Server must be used for both Halves. If both Servers are unacceptable by the rule an Official must be contacted, and at that time the Official will determine what Server must be used for the Match.
    • 8.5.Server Crashes: If a Server unintentionally crashes or is restarted while a Half is Live, all Rounds completed will count towards the final score of the Match. All remaining Rounds of that Half will be played on a new Server determined by the presiding Official. The server configuration will be set to give each Player $5,000 start money in-game. This rule will continue to stand in the event of another Server crash or restart. If the same Server crashes a third time, it may no longer be used for the Match at which point Players should find a new Server or contact an Official for assistance.
  9. CEVO Match Network. The "CEVO Match Network" is a client application that communicates with the Tournament database to verify Players, establish contact between opposing Teams, and ensure fair play. All Players must download, install, and utilize the CEVO Match Network client to participate in the Tournament. Players must be actively logged in and readied up in the CEVO Match Network for the complete duration of all Matches.
    The CEVO Match Network is available for download at http://www.cevo.com/data/CMN3_Install.exe.
    All Players are advised to download the CEVO Match Network prior to start of the Tournament to ensure it is working properly. If you experience technical difficulties with the CEVO Match Network please contact an Official immediately for assistance. If a Player is unable to utilize the CEVO Match Network despite the best efforts of an Official, then that Player will not be eligible to participate in the Tournament and an Alternate Player will need to be used by the Team.
  10. First Person Demos (Replays). All Players are required to record first person demos (replays) of all Matches. All Players are required to hold first person demos for the duration of the Tournament. All demos from the Tournament Finals must be uploaded within 1 hour following each match to ftp://cevo.com username: fragfest password: fragfest.
    To upload a demo via FTP follow these steps:
    1. Find your demo of the match in your Source root directory and name it: yourteam_yourname_vs_enemyteam.dem
    2. Open Internet Explorer (not Firefox, Mozilla, Chrome, or any other browser)
    3. In the address bar type ftp://cevo.com
    4. You will be prompted to enter a username and password. For both fields type fragfest
    5. A blank window will appear. Drag-and-drop your demo into the window and wait for it to complete the transfer.
    No penalty will be enforced for failure to upload demos unless a dispute has been filled against the offending Player. After the Tournament, the demos may be discarded. If a Player cannot provide complete first person demos then the Player/Team will Forfeit all applicable Rounds.
  11. Game Environment Requirements. The game environment consists of any and all files used to control or play the game. The game environment will be pre-set by the Official. Players are not allowed to alter the game environment.
    • 11.1.Client Commands: It is illegal to use any client commands that provide an advantage by altering the game environment in favor of the command user. Players are advised not to use any commands that may fall in this category. Penalties are subject to an Official’s discretion.
    • 11.2.Configuration Files: Players are permitted to edit their user configuration files in the native game directory. Players are not allowed to have any other configuration files inside the native game directory. A Player who violates this rule will have all their Matches overturned.
    • 11.3.Outside Applications: The use of any third-party application and/or program to influence of manipulate the game environment is strictly prohibited. Any violations will result in a Disqualification of offending Players and their Team.
    • 11.4.Sprays: Players will be allowed to use any of the sprays available by default within the game.
    • 11.5.Video Setting: All Players are required to use the 32 bit video game setting. Players found using any other video settings, including 16 bit video, will have their corresponding Matches overturned.
    • 11.6.Models, Skins, and Sprites: All Players must use default models, skins, and sprites. If any Player is found to be using any non-standard models, skins, or sprites they and their Team will be disqualified from the Tournament.
    • 11.7.GUI Interface: Only the following GUIs are permitted: CAL GUI, CEVO GUI, CPL GUI.
  12. Game Play
    • 12.1.Match Settings: CEVO Match settings and configurations will be used for the Tournament. The configurations are available for download at: http://www.cevo.com/FILES/cevo_css_server_configs.zip.
      The Match settings include:
      • Round Time: 1 minute and 20 seconds
      • Buy Time: 0.25
      • Start Money: 16,000
      • Freeze Time: 15 seconds
      • C4 Timer: 35 seconds
      • Friendly Fire: On (1)
      • Fade to Black: Off (0)
    • 12.2.Maps: The following maps will be used during the tournament: de_dust2, de_nuke, de_inferno, de_train, and de_contra. The order of the maps is posted in the brackets at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest.
    • 12.3.Minimum Players: No Team will be allowed to start a Match with less than five Players, which is the required minimum number of Players. If Players leave after the Match has begun, the Team may continue to play without them.
    • 12.4.Roster Changes: Roster changes, including additions or removals of Primary Players or Alternate Players are allowed up until the start of a Team’s first played Match. To have a roster change done, contact an Official.
    • 12.5.Invited Teams: The three Invited Teams must also register for the Tournament at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest and must have at least 3 of the same 5 players from the Alienware PC Gaming Season Open tournament.
    • 12.6.Substitute Player: Player substitutions, including use of an Alternate Player are allowed at any time during any Match. A Player is only allowed to join the Server the Player whom he/she is substituting for has left the Server. Failure to do so and allowing a reasonable advantage may result in a Forfeit of one or more Rounds at the discretion of an Official.
    • 12.7.Match Sides: All Teams are required to play 1 Half as counter-terrorists and 1 Half as terrorists.
    • 12.8.Starting Side: The brackets posted at http://www.alienware.com/fragfest are marked with an asterisk ("*") to indicate which Teams will start as counter-terrorists.
    • 12.9.Match / Half Going Live: All Matches/Halves shall be constituted as going Live after the lo3 config has been executed and Teams do not raise any issues to an Official within the first minute of play.
    • 12.10.Half-Time: After finishing the first Half of the Match, Teams are allowed an optional 5 minute break.
    • 12.11.Player Drops: If a Player Lags Out, the Server should be paused immediately. If the Lag Out occurs within the first minute of play, the Half is to be restarted.
      A Player who disconnects or Lags Out must rejoin or be substituted out for an Alternate Player within 10 minutes otherwise the Match may continue without them at the request of the opposing Team.
      For more details on Match pausing see section 12.13 of these Game Play Rules.
    • 12.12.Match / Half Restarting: Once a Half is deemed Live, Teams are NOT allowed to restart the Match, unless a Player drops from the Server within the first minute of play. Restarting a Live Half will result in Forfeit of that Half or a loss of 15 Rounds.
    • 12.13.Match Pausing: Match pausing is required for up to 10 minutes at a time and should be used in the spirit of sportsmanship. Teams are required to pause their Servers if requested for any of the following reasons:
      • A Player on one of the respective Teams experiences network issues
      • If the Server experiences extreme network issues
      • A Player Lags Out
      Match pausing should be done at the start of the following Match Round. Any Rounds not paused will not count towards the final Match score.
    • 12.14.Ties / Overtime: In the instance of a Tie which is a score of 12 to 12 at the end of 24 Rounds, Overtime must be played. Overtime consists of two five-Round Halves with mp_startmoney set to $16,000. If the score is still Tied after the first Overtime, then the Overtime process will be repeated until one Team is deemed the winner. No Tournament Match may end in a Tie.
    • 12.15.Match Reporting: At the completion of the Match the Team Captain, or another Player, from each team must immediately report the Match final score to an Official. Subsequent Matches cannot be scheduled without a Match score submitted. Matches that go unreported may result in a Forfeit against both Teams.
    • 12.16.Message Modes: In game chat is permitted as long as it is done in a sportsmanlike manner. All chat should nonetheless be kept to a minimum. Chat violations fall under unsportsmanlike conduct and may be disputed, resulting in an Official enforcing a Penalty.
    • 12.17.Voice Communication: The use of the in-game voice communication software is the preferred form of voice communication. Ventrilo and other outside voice communication are also permitted.
    • 12.18.Tactical Shields: The tactical shield is not permitted during a Match. For each Round in which a tactical shield is used, the violating Team will be overturned 3 Rounds from the Match score.
    • 12.19.12.19.Air Strafing: Air strafing and the variant known as bunnyhopping, which involve moving in a side direction in the air, are both permitted.
  13. Match Media Coverage Guidelines. Sponsors reserve the right to utilize Match broadcasting which may include shoutcasting, SourceTV, IRC, ScoreBots or any other media. By registering for this Tournament, each Player consents to allow their image, performance, media, and likeness rights to be used.
  14. Game Exploits and Violations. It is illegal to intentionally utilize any game exploits. Game exploits include, but are not limited to, the exploits and violations defined in this section. For any exploits used that are not explicitly covered, Officials have discretion to determine the intention and extent of the violation and Penalty.
    • 14.1.Violations: Violations may result in Forfeit or Disqualification of a Player or Team, and/or Rounds being overturned. If any Rounds are overturned and the resulting score is a Tie, then the non-violating Team will be determined the Match Winner. Officials have full discretion to determine if a Team or Player has violated any rule. If any clarification regarding game violations is needed, the Player or Team should consult with the Official prior to the start of a Match.
    • 14.2.Boosting: All forms of boosting are allowed, except:
      • Boosts that involve clipping.
      • Projectile boosts, whereby a Player throws a projectile to manipulate the effect on the boost.
      • Boosts that violate other rules.
    • 14.3.Map Exploits: It is illegal to use a map glitch/exploit for one's advantage. A Team that violates this rule will have up to 3 Rounds overturned from the final Match score for each violation. Multiple violations may result in Player and/or Team Disqualification.
    • 14.4.Flash Bang Bugs: The latest flash bug fixed maps will be used. Players will not be penalized for flash bang bugs unless intentionally used. In the event of an unintentional flash bug, play will continue. Any Player that appears to be intentionally utilizing flash bangs to enable a bug, in the view of an Official, will have their Team penalized with a Match Forfeit.
    • 14.5.Clipping: Clipping is when a Player is either boosted through a solid layer, or when a Player manipulates him/herself so that they can see through any solid entity that they typically should not be able to such as a box or wall. All boosts are legal so long as clipping is not involved. If a Player clips and generates any kind of advantage from it, whether a kill or knowledge of enemy positions, then up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score.
    • 14.6.Bomb Plants: It is permitted for Players to plant the bomb in a way that requires the opposing Team to boost one Player.
      In the case of an illegal bomb plant, up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score. Examples of illegal bomb plants include:
      • 14.6.1.Undefusable Bombs: It is illegal to plant the bomb in places where it is impossible to defuse the bomb. For each Round a violation occurs, up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score.
      • 14.6.2.Floating Bombs: It is illegal to plant the bomb in a way that it is not touching a solid entity.
        For each Round a violation occurs, up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score.
      • 14.6.3.Silent Bombs: It is illegal to plant a bomb in a location where it makes no noise. For each Round a violation occurs, up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score.
      • 14.6.4.Covered Bombs: It is illegal to use objects to cover a bomb such that opposing Players cannot defuse. For each Round a violation occurs, up to 3 Rounds will be overturned from the Match score.
    • 14.7.Bomb Defusing: It is illegal to fully defuse a bomb when it is not at least partially visible to the defuser. Violations will result in up to 3 Rounds being overturned from the Match score.
    • 14.8.Quick Crouching: It is illegal to use the crouch button in such a manner as to see over an object without being viewable in return by opponents. A Team will be penalized up to 3 Rounds from the Match score for any Round in which quick crouching is used.
    • 14.9.Crouch Walking: It is illegal to use crouch walking, which is repeatedly tapping crouch while moving in order to walk at a faster pace than normal while not generating any sound. A Team will be penalized up to 3 Rounds from the Math score for any Round in which crouch walking is used.
    • 14.10.Speed Walking: It is illegal to use speed walking which is repeatedly tapping walk while moving in order to walk at a faster pace than normal while not generating any sound. A Team will be penalized up to 3 Rounds from the Match score for any Round in which speed walking is used.
    • 14.11.Hacking: Hacking in any form is considered a violation of these Game Play Rules and will result in immediate Team Disqualification. Hacking includes but is not limited to any manipulation of server configurations, client configurations, models, skins, weapons, sounds, or anything that alters the predetermined settings listed within these Game Play Rules. This includes aim bots, wall hacks, speed hacks, ESP hacks, or any third party program not deemed legal by an Official.
  15. Dispute Rights, Requirements, and Guidelines.
    • 15.1.Dispute Process: A Team has the right to Dispute any Player(s) or Team that they feel is in violation of these Game Play Rules. A Team may Dispute up to one opposing Player per Match. All Disputes must be filed within 20 minutes following the completion of the Match through a presiding Official. A Match must be reported regardless of whether a Dispute is being filed. If a Dispute is filed too late, the Dispute may be disregarded.
    • 15.2.Evidence Requests: If a Dispute has been filed, Officials may contact Players/Team(s) involved in the Dispute to request additional evidence (beyond the replays that must be uploaded). If so the Players/Teams involved will then have 1 hour to begin submitting all requested evidence to the Official in charge of the Dispute.
    • 15.3.Discussion of Disputes: Disputes should only be handled in private between the Officials and those Teams/Players directly involved. Raising a Dispute as a public matter for the purpose of appealing, criticizing, or complaining about the verdict may result in Player or Team Disqualification and/or Match Forfeit, depending on severity and malicious intent as determined by the Official.
  16. Contacting Officials. Officials will be available to contact via e-mail, live web support, and Ventrilo at texas.cevo.nationvoice.com port 4000. For further details on how to contact Officials, go to http://www.alienware.com/fragfest.
  17. Exploitation of Rules. If a Team attempts to manipulate or exploit these Game Play Rules in any way other than for its intended use, Officials reserve the right to make a final ruling on the rule in question for the given Match and\or Dispute.
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