Preliminary Rounds: Time
limit is strictly set to 10 minutes per player.
Finale/Championship Round:
Time limit is extended to 15 minutes per player.
Digital chess clocks will be utilized. Once your turn is
complete, you must physically hit the clock to pass the turn.
Failure to hit the clock means your time continues to run.
If a player's time runs out completely (flag falls), they
immediately lose the match, regardless of board advantage.
2. In-Game Mechanics (Touch-Move)
Touch-Move Rule: If a
player deliberately touches one of their own pieces on the
board, they MUST move that piece if there is a legal move
available.
If a player touches an opponent's piece, they MUST capture
that piece if it is a legal move.
A move is considered "complete" the moment the player releases
the piece on a valid square. You cannot retract a move once
the piece is released.
If a player needs to adjust a piece on its square without
intending to move it, they must clearly announce "J'adoube" or
"I adjust" BEFORE touching the piece.
3. Illegal Moves
Making an illegal move (e.g., moving a knight like a bishop,
leaving your king in check) results in a warning.
If the opponent notices the illegal move before making their
own move, the clock is paused, the board is reset to the state
before the illegal move, and a time penalty may be applied.
Two (2) illegal moves in the same match result in an automatic
forfeit.
4. Etiquette & Conduct
Absolute silence must be maintained within the Arena during
matches. Any form of distraction, trash-talking, or
unsolicited advice from spectators is strictly prohibited.
External digital aids, AI engines, smartphones, or
smartwatches are completely forbidden at the boards.
Any dispute must be raised immediately with the Arena Arbiters
(Judges) by pausing the clock and raising a hand. Do not argue
with your opponent directly.
The Arbiter's decision is final and absolute within the
matrix.