1. Eligibility & Registration
All players are welcome to participate, regardless of their rating. To register, you must use the official form on our Contacts page and provide a valid email and your BlitzChess username. One entry per person. Attempting to enter with multiple accounts will result in disqualification from all current and future events.
2. The Supreme Rule: Absolute Fair Play
This is the bedrock of BlitzChess. Any violation of our Fair Play policy is grounds for immediate disqualification, forfeiture of any prizes, and a permanent ban. Prohibited actions include:
- Engine Use: Using any chess software, engine, or analysis tool during a game is strictly forbidden.
- External Assistance: Consulting with other players, books, or any resource that is not your own brain is cheating.
- Rating Manipulation: Intentionally losing games to lower your rating (sandbagging) or arranging results with another player is forbidden.
We use sophisticated detection methods to monitor for fair play violations. Our decisions in these matters are final.
3. Disconnection Policy
Your connection is your responsibility. If you get disconnected during a game, your clock will continue to run. We do not pause matches or award points back for losses due to disconnection. This policy is strict to prevent abuse. Ensure you have a stable internet connection before starting a tournament game.
4. Tournament Formats
The specific format for each tournament is listed on the Tournaments page . The two primary formats are:
- Swiss System: You will play a set number of rounds. You are not eliminated after a loss. You will be paired against players with a similar score. This format rewards consistent performance.
- Arena: You have a set amount of time (e.g., 2 hours) to play as many games as possible. You are paired continuously. Points are awarded for wins, draws, and sometimes for winning streaks. This format rewards speed and endurance.
5. Prize Distribution
Prize winners will be contacted via the email provided at registration within 48 hours of the tournament's official conclusion. Instructions for claiming physical or cash prizes will be provided in this email. Digital prizes (titles, skins) will be applied to your user profile automatically. You must respond to the prize claim email within 7 days, or the prize may be forfeited.
6. Final Authority
All decisions made by BlitzChess tournament organizers and administrators are final. By participating in a tournament, you agree to abide by these rules and accept the final judgment of the BlitzChess team in all matters related to the event.