1. General
The following rules, as well everything mentioned in the User
FAQ apply to this league.
1.1. Compulsory Challenges
In a ladder any participant may challenge any other. The challenge
may be refused by the challenged if they choose. In ladders with more
than 20 participants compulsory challenges are activated. A challenging
participant from the newcomer pool (unranked) is considered as being at
the bottom of the ladder, therefore the 20 participants ranked last in
the ladder would be punished for rejecting a challenge.
Participants that have more than 5 outstanding challenges in a
ladder, no matter if the matches are confirmed or not, may not take on
any further challenges. This is scripted into the ESL system and cannot
be changed.
1.1.1. Normal compulsory challenges
If a participant is within 20 places above the challenging
participants the refusal will be punished with two penalty points.
1.1.2. Intense compulsory challenges
If both participants are in the top 10 then the refusal will be
punished with 3 penalty points.
1.2. No show
If your opponent does not show after 20 minutes, you must enter the
result as your opponent did not appear in time. Do not enter a default
win for yourself.
In Instant Challenger matches the no show time is 10 minutes.
1.3. Team rules
1.3.1. Several squads (sub-teams) per team in one ladder
Any team may enter as many squads into any one ladder.
During ladder play, no two squads from the same team are allowed to
play each other.
1.3.2. Joining-/Changing a team
When a player leaves a team league, either by leaving a team, being
kicked from a team or the team leaving the league, they will get a 5 day
leagueban from the league. Otherwise, any player can change team
whenever he pleases to do so.
A player is only allowed to play in a match if he joined the team
before the match date.
In premierships or cups there may be extra rules regarding players
changing teams, therefore the rules, news and membermails should be read
carefully, and in cases of doubt an admin should be contacted.
1.4. Results
Both participants are responsible to enter the correct result. If
anything is unclear, participants should have screenshots available to
verify the result and file a protest.
2. Matchmedias
All match media (Screenshots, Equality file, etc) must be kept for at
least 14 days. In general, you should upload the match media from a
match to the match page as soon as possible. Faking or manipulating
match media is of course forbidden and will result in severe penalties.
Match media should be named clearly based on what it is. It is not
possible to file a protest or write a support ticket to complain about
bad match media naming. However, if an admin is hindered in their work
because of bad match media names then it can be punished for. All match
media has to be uploaded to ESL website, the upload on any external FTP
is not allowed.
2.1. Equality file
It is mandatory for all players to upload their Equality file(s)
after a match. Players must upload their Equality files to the ESL page
within 48 hours of the match date. If any Equality files are missing
after 48 hours then you must open a protest ticket within the 72 hour
protest period to complain. The player(s) will get an additional 24
hours from the opening of the protest to upload their Equality file(s).
If after this deadline the player(s) still have not uploaded their
Equality file(s), then the match may be deleted and the player(s) and
team punished with penalty points. If the player(s) do upload their
Equality file(s), a smaller penalty will apply.
Please see also
the Equality
Portal.
2.2. Screenshots
A screenshot of the scoreboard at the end of each half must be taken
and uploaded to the match page within 24 hours. Both participants are
responsible for taking screenshots during the game.
Please see
also the Matchmedia FAQ.
(click for larger version)
3. Settings
These settings are mandatory for each match. However, it is not
possible to change these settings, also not with the agreement of the
opponent.
3.1. Server settings
These server settings are mandatory for each match.
3.2. Anti-Cheat (Equality)
Equality
is mandatory for all players to use for the full duration of all
matches without exception. If a player cannot use Equality then they are
not allowed to take part in a match.
If the website is down, making Equality unusable, then the match must
be postponed.
3.3. Software
Changes on the game graphics and/or textures with graphic card
drivers, other tools to change the graphicconfiguration or such programs
are forbidden. Basically, all programs which don't influence the game
are allowed (e.g. voice tools). However, any software influencing the
bandwidth and which is not necessary during the game has to be turned
off (MSN Messenger, ICQ, cfos, etc.). Any programs that change the game
itself are forbidden (e.g. cheats).
4. Match Rules
4.1. Gameaccount
The gameaccount, that has to be inserted into player's profile, is
the nickname showed in game. In order to allow each player taking part
to available competitions, a Combat Arms Game Account is needed. The
gameaccount can be entered in the profile settings by clicking on
Gameaccounts (SteamID, ...) (direct link).
Please see also the Gameaccount FAQ.
4.1.1. Changing the Gameaccount
If necessary, it is possible to change the gameaccount. To do so, you
have to enter the new nickname, a good reason why you change your
gameaccount and a screenshot of the new gameaccount (see example below)
has to be attached.
Attention: You may only participate in any match
with your new gameaccount, if it has been checked by an admin and
accepted. A maximum of 1 change every 2 months is possible.
Exception: If you need an extra change during these 2
months, you need to file a support in order to apply for an exception.
It is up to the admin, if your change will be granted or not.
4.2. Arrangements
Certain arrangements between the teams/players are allowed. These
arrangements may slightly differ from the ESL rules. Arrangements that
differ greatly from the set of rules are however not allowed. Please
note that the ESL rules were made to guarantee the same
advantages/disadvantages for all teams. You are not allowed to file a
protest after the match if you think that the agreements made before the
match in the end resulted in a disadvantage for you or your team.
Rules that can be changed by agreements are to be found in the game
specific (*) rules. Should this not be the case then you are not allowed
to agree on changes.
All arrangements between teams in addition to the ESL rules have to
be written down in the match comments. The other team has to confirm
those arrangements in the comments. To avoid an abuse of the edit
function, a third comment has to be written.
Please do also keep screenshots and/or logfiles of your arrangements.
If you do not fulfil these restrictions, any protests or supports
concerning those arrangements will be rejected.
The following rules may never be changed by arrangement:
Following arrangements need the agreement of both
participants:
Such an agreement can not be a condition in order to play a
match.
4.3. Game modus
You will play 2 times 15 rounds per map. That means you play two
maps, Alpha and Bravo side on each map for 15 rounds. All rounds count.
4.4. Teamsize
Matches must be played 2on2. If either side is missing a player, the
match counts as a no show.
4.5. TDM 2on2 Ladder
These are the specific Team Deathmatch 2on2 Ladder rules. Global
rules apply as well.
4.5.1. Settings
These settings must be observed in this ladder.
4.5.2. Sniper Rifles
The use of sniper rifles is allowed. However, each team has to point
out in match report, the only player's name who has been chosen to use
the Sniper Rifle during the match, before the match starts. Once a
teams' sniper will die, it is allowed, for both team mate and opponents,
to pick up the sniper's rifle from ground and use it. Should a team
forgets to write the name of the sniper in the match comments before the
match starts, it may be penalized with 1 Penalty Point if a protest or a
support is opened.
4.6. Illegal Actions
Any actions that result in an unfair advantage are illegal. This
includes bug using of any kind and the following actions.
If you do have questions about legal/illegal positions, please write a
support ticket (subject: Map bugs).
4.6.1. Abortion of a match
If your opponent should deliberately leave during a match, you must
make a protest. You must not enter a result yourself. This may be
penalized as entering a fake result. Should the game have advanced to a
point at which an evaluation of the result is possible, a win may be
granted to the remaining team. The decision whether a match can be
evaluated or not is in each case decided by the responsible Admin.
4.6.2. Fakers/Ringers
A ringer is a player, who is playing a match for another player. In
special cases there may be barrages up to four weeks. Fakes are matches
which haven't been played correctly (e.g. a match has been lost on
purpose to gain the opponent more points). Such actions are illegal and
will lead to penalties.
4.6.3. Cheating
The use of any cheat is illegal (please see rule 2.3.
Cheating).
4.6.4. Buguse
The use of any bug is illegal.
4.6.5. Bypassing of barrages and penalty points
If a team registers again because of too many penalty points and gets
active in the same ladder, the penalty points will be moved to the new
team, if evidence is clear. Admin team may decides to give further
penalty points.
4.7. Trouble shooting / protest procedures
As a basic rule, every game is played through to the end. Should
problems occur, these must be announced clearly by one of the players by
calling “Protest”. As soon as the match is over, the protest form must
be filled in on the website. The admins will then check the case with
the help of the form and impose a penalty if necessary.
A protest must be handed in within 72 hours after the beginning of a
match. A protest must be made using the protest form. It is not possible
to use the support form. The opposing team then has 72 hours in which
it may comment on the accusations made against it. An additional request
by the admin is not necessary, as the notification occurs
automatically.
The codes of conduct must also be kept to in case of a protest.
Verbal misconduct or abuse in any form can be punished with penalty
points.
If no response is received within the 72 hours period allowed, the
team forfeits it’s right and the admin alone must decide according to
the available data and facts.
5. Penalty points
Rule violationNumber of penalty pointsGeneralUse of ineligible playerSettingsMatchmediasUnsportsmanlike behaviour
In general, a player can receive up to 6 penalty points, and a
team up to 4 penalty points per match, unless a single violation has a
higher punishment.
6. Equality
Equality is an Anti-Cheat tool which tries to create a fair
environment for competition on the ESL website, monitoring the game and
taking random screenshots. For more informations, please read the
Disclaimer that users must accept at Equality first installation. The
tool will auto-update everytime an update is available.
Equality is mandatory in all supported games and their
ladders and cups. For more informations, please visit the Equality
Portal.
If Equality has not been used, a Protest must be filled within 72
hours from match start. Users are not allowed to refuse Equality in
match settings even if they are experiencing technical issues with it.
Should problems arise, users must try to move the match with the
opponents' agreement or in case open a protest before the match
beginning.
6.1. Equality files
The matchmedia created by Equality (ZIP file) must be uploaded after
the match within 48 hours.
All users must upload the result screenshots and the Equality files
with correct names ( there is not a particular syntax but Admins must be
able to recognize them from the media name ). Protest or Support
tickets due to a violation of this rule are not allowed. An admin can
give penalty points in favour of a wrong sign.
Matchmedias are to be kept for at least 14 days in
order to be presented to a player, or an admin at request.
6.2. Missing Equality files
If a player does not upload his file within 48 hours, he will be
penalized with 3 Penalty Points and his team with 2 Penalty Points (a
team can get a maximum of 4 penalties per match for missing Equality
files).
If the missing file is uploaded within 2 days and a support is
opened, the penalties will be reduced to 1.
It is entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or
not.
6.3. Faked Equality files
An archive created by Equality can't be faked without consequences
and without track.
A faked Equality archive (removed/modified screens, removed/modified
log etc) will lead the user to 4 Penalty Points added to his account and
3 Penalty Points added to his team in case of team match. It is
entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or not.
It is entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or
not.
6.4. Bypassing Equality
Every attempt to bypass Equality will be penalized as cheating (see
rule 2.3. Cheating).
6.5. Equality file check
It's possible for all users to check opponents' archived . The file
checker is built in Equality itself so everyone will be able to check if
the archive has been modified or manipulated.
The Admin team will check if all Equality files have been uploaded in
a match.
It's up to players to check their opponents' archives and open a
support if something weird is present in screens.
The following rules, as well everything mentioned in the User
FAQ apply to this league.
1.1. Compulsory Challenges
In a ladder any participant may challenge any other. The challenge
may be refused by the challenged if they choose. In ladders with more
than 20 participants compulsory challenges are activated. A challenging
participant from the newcomer pool (unranked) is considered as being at
the bottom of the ladder, therefore the 20 participants ranked last in
the ladder would be punished for rejecting a challenge.
Participants that have more than 5 outstanding challenges in a
ladder, no matter if the matches are confirmed or not, may not take on
any further challenges. This is scripted into the ESL system and cannot
be changed.
1.1.1. Normal compulsory challenges
If a participant is within 20 places above the challenging
participants the refusal will be punished with two penalty points.
1.1.2. Intense compulsory challenges
If both participants are in the top 10 then the refusal will be
punished with 3 penalty points.
1.2. No show
If your opponent does not show after 20 minutes, you must enter the
result as your opponent did not appear in time. Do not enter a default
win for yourself.
In Instant Challenger matches the no show time is 10 minutes.
1.3. Team rules
1.3.1. Several squads (sub-teams) per team in one ladder
Any team may enter as many squads into any one ladder.
During ladder play, no two squads from the same team are allowed to
play each other.
1.3.2. Joining-/Changing a team
When a player leaves a team league, either by leaving a team, being
kicked from a team or the team leaving the league, they will get a 5 day
leagueban from the league. Otherwise, any player can change team
whenever he pleases to do so.
A player is only allowed to play in a match if he joined the team
before the match date.
In premierships or cups there may be extra rules regarding players
changing teams, therefore the rules, news and membermails should be read
carefully, and in cases of doubt an admin should be contacted.
1.4. Results
Both participants are responsible to enter the correct result. If
anything is unclear, participants should have screenshots available to
verify the result and file a protest.
2. Matchmedias
All match media (Screenshots, Equality file, etc) must be kept for at
least 14 days. In general, you should upload the match media from a
match to the match page as soon as possible. Faking or manipulating
match media is of course forbidden and will result in severe penalties.
Match media should be named clearly based on what it is. It is not
possible to file a protest or write a support ticket to complain about
bad match media naming. However, if an admin is hindered in their work
because of bad match media names then it can be punished for. All match
media has to be uploaded to ESL website, the upload on any external FTP
is not allowed.
2.1. Equality file
It is mandatory for all players to upload their Equality file(s)
after a match. Players must upload their Equality files to the ESL page
within 48 hours of the match date. If any Equality files are missing
after 48 hours then you must open a protest ticket within the 72 hour
protest period to complain. The player(s) will get an additional 24
hours from the opening of the protest to upload their Equality file(s).
If after this deadline the player(s) still have not uploaded their
Equality file(s), then the match may be deleted and the player(s) and
team punished with penalty points. If the player(s) do upload their
Equality file(s), a smaller penalty will apply.
Please see also
the Equality
Portal.
2.2. Screenshots
A screenshot of the scoreboard at the end of each half must be taken
and uploaded to the match page within 24 hours. Both participants are
responsible for taking screenshots during the game.
Please see
also the Matchmedia FAQ.
(click for larger version)
3. Settings
These settings are mandatory for each match. However, it is not
possible to change these settings, also not with the agreement of the
opponent.
3.1. Server settings
These server settings are mandatory for each match.
- Kill Cam - Off
- Friendly Fire - On
- Join in Progress - On
3.2. Anti-Cheat (Equality)
Equality
is mandatory for all players to use for the full duration of all
matches without exception. If a player cannot use Equality then they are
not allowed to take part in a match.
If the website is down, making Equality unusable, then the match must
be postponed.
3.3. Software
Changes on the game graphics and/or textures with graphic card
drivers, other tools to change the graphicconfiguration or such programs
are forbidden. Basically, all programs which don't influence the game
are allowed (e.g. voice tools). However, any software influencing the
bandwidth and which is not necessary during the game has to be turned
off (MSN Messenger, ICQ, cfos, etc.). Any programs that change the game
itself are forbidden (e.g. cheats).
4. Match Rules
4.1. Gameaccount
The gameaccount, that has to be inserted into player's profile, is
the nickname showed in game. In order to allow each player taking part
to available competitions, a Combat Arms Game Account is needed. The
gameaccount can be entered in the profile settings by clicking on
Gameaccounts (SteamID, ...) (direct link).
Please see also the Gameaccount FAQ.
4.1.1. Changing the Gameaccount
If necessary, it is possible to change the gameaccount. To do so, you
have to enter the new nickname, a good reason why you change your
gameaccount and a screenshot of the new gameaccount (see example below)
has to be attached.
Attention: You may only participate in any match
with your new gameaccount, if it has been checked by an admin and
accepted. A maximum of 1 change every 2 months is possible.
Exception: If you need an extra change during these 2
months, you need to file a support in order to apply for an exception.
It is up to the admin, if your change will be granted or not.
4.2. Arrangements
Certain arrangements between the teams/players are allowed. These
arrangements may slightly differ from the ESL rules. Arrangements that
differ greatly from the set of rules are however not allowed. Please
note that the ESL rules were made to guarantee the same
advantages/disadvantages for all teams. You are not allowed to file a
protest after the match if you think that the agreements made before the
match in the end resulted in a disadvantage for you or your team.
Rules that can be changed by agreements are to be found in the game
specific (*) rules. Should this not be the case then you are not allowed
to agree on changes.
All arrangements between teams in addition to the ESL rules have to
be written down in the match comments. The other team has to confirm
those arrangements in the comments. To avoid an abuse of the edit
function, a third comment has to be written.
Please do also keep screenshots and/or logfiles of your arrangements.
If you do not fulfil these restrictions, any protests or supports
concerning those arrangements will be rejected.
The following rules may never be changed by arrangement:
- Entering results for matches that have not been played
- Allowing players to play that are barred because of penalty points,
or are barred in the league due to a ban - Allowing players to play that in leagues with premium requirement
that are barred for not having Premium
Following arrangements need the agreement of both
participants:
- Change of map, after the map has been entered
- Use of unallowed equipment (it has to be written down clearly, what
is allowed)
Such an agreement can not be a condition in order to play a
match.
4.3. Game modus
You will play 2 times 15 rounds per map. That means you play two
maps, Alpha and Bravo side on each map for 15 rounds. All rounds count.
4.4. Teamsize
Matches must be played 2on2. If either side is missing a player, the
match counts as a no show.
4.5. TDM 2on2 Ladder
These are the specific Team Deathmatch 2on2 Ladder rules. Global
rules apply as well.
4.5.1. Settings
These settings must be observed in this ladder.
- Team Size: 2on2
- Game Mode: Elimination
- Match Mode: 2 maps, 4 sides of 15 wins each
- Backpack Off
- No Specialists
- No Mercenaries
4.5.2. Sniper Rifles
The use of sniper rifles is allowed. However, each team has to point
out in match report, the only player's name who has been chosen to use
the Sniper Rifle during the match, before the match starts. Once a
teams' sniper will die, it is allowed, for both team mate and opponents,
to pick up the sniper's rifle from ground and use it. Should a team
forgets to write the name of the sniper in the match comments before the
match starts, it may be penalized with 1 Penalty Point if a protest or a
support is opened.
4.6. Illegal Actions
Any actions that result in an unfair advantage are illegal. This
includes bug using of any kind and the following actions.
If you do have questions about legal/illegal positions, please write a
support ticket (subject: Map bugs).
4.6.1. Abortion of a match
If your opponent should deliberately leave during a match, you must
make a protest. You must not enter a result yourself. This may be
penalized as entering a fake result. Should the game have advanced to a
point at which an evaluation of the result is possible, a win may be
granted to the remaining team. The decision whether a match can be
evaluated or not is in each case decided by the responsible Admin.
4.6.2. Fakers/Ringers
A ringer is a player, who is playing a match for another player. In
special cases there may be barrages up to four weeks. Fakes are matches
which haven't been played correctly (e.g. a match has been lost on
purpose to gain the opponent more points). Such actions are illegal and
will lead to penalties.
4.6.3. Cheating
The use of any cheat is illegal (please see rule 2.3.
Cheating).
4.6.4. Buguse
The use of any bug is illegal.
4.6.5. Bypassing of barrages and penalty points
If a team registers again because of too many penalty points and gets
active in the same ladder, the penalty points will be moved to the new
team, if evidence is clear. Admin team may decides to give further
penalty points.
4.7. Trouble shooting / protest procedures
As a basic rule, every game is played through to the end. Should
problems occur, these must be announced clearly by one of the players by
calling “Protest”. As soon as the match is over, the protest form must
be filled in on the website. The admins will then check the case with
the help of the form and impose a penalty if necessary.
A protest must be handed in within 72 hours after the beginning of a
match. A protest must be made using the protest form. It is not possible
to use the support form. The opposing team then has 72 hours in which
it may comment on the accusations made against it. An additional request
by the admin is not necessary, as the notification occurs
automatically.
The codes of conduct must also be kept to in case of a protest.
Verbal misconduct or abuse in any form can be punished with penalty
points.
If no response is received within the 72 hours period allowed, the
team forfeits it’s right and the admin alone must decide according to
the available data and facts.
5. Penalty points
Rule violationNumber of penalty pointsGeneralUse of ineligible playerSettingsMatchmediasUnsportsmanlike behaviour
| No show | Player: 2; Team: 3 |
| Reject compulsory challenge | Normal: 2 Intense (Top 10): 3 |
| Barraged | Player / Team: 6 |
| Unregistered player | Player / Team: 3 |
| Ringer/Faker | Player / Team: 6 |
| Playing with wrong gameaccount | Player / Team: 3 - 6 |
| Playing without a registered gameaccount | Player / Team: 3 |
| Wrong Equipment | Player: 3; Team: 2 |
| Missing declaration of sniper | Player / Team: 1 |
| Custom files | Player: 3; Team: 2 |
| Wrong serversettings | Player / Team: 1 |
| Missing, incomplete Equality file | Player: 3; Team: 2 |
| late Equality file | Player / Team: 1 |
| Missing, incomplete Screenshots | Player / Team: 1 |
| Missing matchmedia with cheat suspicion | Player / Team: 6 |
| Faked Matchmedia | Player / Team: 6 |
| Buguse | Player / Team: 2 - 6 |
| Kick of players | Player / Team: 4 |
| Abortion of a match | Player / Team: 4 |
| Other deceptions | Player / Team: 1 - 4 |
| Fakematch | Player / Team: 6 |
| Faking result | Player / Team: 4 |
| Illegal Software | Player / Team: 4 |
| Cheating | Player: 12; Team: 6 |
team up to 4 penalty points per match, unless a single violation has a
higher punishment.
6. Equality
Equality is an Anti-Cheat tool which tries to create a fair
environment for competition on the ESL website, monitoring the game and
taking random screenshots. For more informations, please read the
Disclaimer that users must accept at Equality first installation. The
tool will auto-update everytime an update is available.
Equality is mandatory in all supported games and their
ladders and cups. For more informations, please visit the Equality
Portal.
If Equality has not been used, a Protest must be filled within 72
hours from match start. Users are not allowed to refuse Equality in
match settings even if they are experiencing technical issues with it.
Should problems arise, users must try to move the match with the
opponents' agreement or in case open a protest before the match
beginning.
6.1. Equality files
The matchmedia created by Equality (ZIP file) must be uploaded after
the match within 48 hours.
All users must upload the result screenshots and the Equality files
with correct names ( there is not a particular syntax but Admins must be
able to recognize them from the media name ). Protest or Support
tickets due to a violation of this rule are not allowed. An admin can
give penalty points in favour of a wrong sign.
Matchmedias are to be kept for at least 14 days in
order to be presented to a player, or an admin at request.
6.2. Missing Equality files
If a player does not upload his file within 48 hours, he will be
penalized with 3 Penalty Points and his team with 2 Penalty Points (a
team can get a maximum of 4 penalties per match for missing Equality
files).
If the missing file is uploaded within 2 days and a support is
opened, the penalties will be reduced to 1.
It is entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or
not.
6.3. Faked Equality files
An archive created by Equality can't be faked without consequences
and without track.
A faked Equality archive (removed/modified screens, removed/modified
log etc) will lead the user to 4 Penalty Points added to his account and
3 Penalty Points added to his team in case of team match. It is
entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or not.
It is entirely up to the Admin if the match will be deleted or
not.
6.4. Bypassing Equality
Every attempt to bypass Equality will be penalized as cheating (see
rule 2.3. Cheating).
6.5. Equality file check
It's possible for all users to check opponents' archived . The file
checker is built in Equality itself so everyone will be able to check if
the archive has been modified or manipulated.
The Admin team will check if all Equality files have been uploaded in
a match.
It's up to players to check their opponents' archives and open a
support if something weird is present in screens.
