Indus Tournaments Official Rules and Compliance

Version 1.0 November 11th, 2024

CONTEXT AND PURPOSE

Indus Esports holds the rights to distribute the mobile game Indus Battle Royale (“Indus Battle Royale”) in India.

THIS OFFICIAL COMPETITION RULEBOOK FOR INDUS BATTLE ROYALE (“General Rules”) outlines the general rules, terms, and conditions applicable to the gameplay of Indus Battle Royale (“Official Competitions”). These General Rules encompass (1) the general terms detailed in Sections 1 - 11 below (“General Terms”), and (2) the registration procedures, requirements, and rules available on the Indus Battle Royale Esports social handles at the time of registration (“Registration Requirements”).

In addition to the General Rules, Indus Game may introduce rules specific to certain Official Competitions (the “Competition-Specific Rules”), which will not apply to non-official competitions. These Competition-Specific Rules may define aspects such as the prize pool, schedule, and playoff formats that may differ from one tournament to another.

These General Rules apply to any match, game, tournament, or event that is part of an Official Competition (“Tournament”). The General Rules, along with the applicable Competition-Specific Rules, create a binding agreement between the participating teams and each player, coach, manager, or staff member on those teams (“Team Member”) and Indus Team. Each Team Member is required to read, understand, and agree to these General Rules and the relevant Competition-Specific Rules prior to participating in any Tournament.

BY ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT, YOU AGREE TO THESE GENERAL RULES AND THE SPECIFIC RULES FOR THIS COMPETITION. IF YOU DO NOT ACCEPT OR COMPLY WITH THEM, YOU WILL BE INELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE AND MAY LOSE ANY PRIZES, QUALIFICATIONS, POINTS, OR STATUS EARNED IN THIS AND FUTURE COMPETITIONS.

INDUS BATTLE ROYALE OFFICIAL COMPETITION RULEBOOK

1. General Conditions

1.1. Acceptance of General Rules

1.1.1. Acceptance

All participants (hereafter “Team Members”) must acknowledge these General Rules and Competition-Specific Rules before entering any Indus Battle Royale tournament. Acceptance of these rules occurs either upon team registration or through participation in the Tournament.

1.1.2. Signed Acknowledgment for LAN Events

During LAN events, Team Members must sign an acknowledgement form, reaffirming their understanding and compliance with both General and Competition-Specific Rules. Failure or refusal to sign this form may result in (i) disqualification, (ii) forfeiture of winnings, and/or (iii) revocation of the team’s tournament position. By participating, Team Members remain bound by all rules under Section 1.1.1, even if the acknowledgment form is unsigned.

1.2. Updates to Rules

Indus Esports reserves the right to update the General and Competition-Specific Rules periodically to adapt to industry or game developments. Notification of significant rule changes will be sent to the team captain via the registered email, who is responsible for communicating updates to their team. Continued participation constitutes acceptance of any updates.

1.3. Compliance and Oversight

A designated Tournament Organizer, either Indus Esports or an appointed third party, will oversee rule enforcement. The Organizer, along with assigned Tournament Officials, has authority to monitor compliance, enforce rules, and impose sanctions as necessary.

1.4. Privacy

Indus Esports will handle personal data in accordance with its privacy policy. By participating, Team Members consent to data collection, usage, and storage per the privacy policy.

2. Players

2.1. Eligibility Criteria

2.1.1. Age

Participants must be at least 14 years of age by registration close. For players aged 14-18, parental or legal guardian consent is required. This consent must be documented using the official parental consent form provided by the Tournament Organizer.

By signing this consent form, the parent or legal guardian confirms that they understand and accept all tournament rules, terms, and conditions on behalf of the minor participant. The parent or legal guardian further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizers, along with their affiliates, officers, employees, and agents, from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, or expenses arising out of or related to the minor’s participation, including but not limited to claims resulting from wrongful or illegal activities committed by the participant during or in connection with the tournament.

2.1.2. Ranking and Level Requirements

Players must meet minimum criteria, a game level of at least Level 10 within Indus Battle Royale till registration closes.

2.1.3. Residency Proof

Players must provide a valid identification document to establish nationality, with acceptable documents being government-issued IDs like a passport, Aadhar card, or driver’s license, additionally, a student ID card, if player(s) is student.

Each player must declare that all identification documents provided are accurate, valid, and self-attested as a true copy of the original. By submitting these documents, the player confirms their authenticity and acknowledges that any misrepresentation or falsification may result in disqualification from the tournament and potential legal consequences.

2.1.4. Team Exclusivity

A player is only permitted to compete or work for one team at a time. Players cannot have agreements with more than one team simultaneously and cannot be listed on more than one team roster during a tournament phase.

2.2. Employee Participation Restriction

Team Members who are employees or affiliates of Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer are ineligible to participate in any tournament to prevent conflicts of interest.

2.3. Geographic Limitations

For the Homegrown and Powerplay qualifiers, teams can include up to two international players on their roster, but this is optional. The National Qualifiers, however, are only for Indian nationals from certain states.

Each team and participant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizers, as well as their affiliates, officers, directors, agents, and employees, from and against any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorney fees) arising out of or related to any breach or misrepresentation of the geographic eligibility requirements outlined in this clause. This includes indemnification for any actions, omissions, or attempts to bypass the stated geographic limitations.

2.4. Gamer Tag Requirements

Each player’s in-game nickname or "GamerTag" must include the team name (or an abbreviation of it) followed by the player’s name, such as “[TEAMNAME]PLAYERNAME.” For instance, a player named “Sparky” on a team called “Indus” might have the Gamer Tag “[Indus]Sparky.” The Gamer Tag is selected at the time of registration and cannot be changed during the tournament without prior approval from the Tournament Officials. Gamer Tags must not contain any offensive, harmful, or inappropriate language, and they cannot include trademarks or intellectual property belonging to a third party without approval from the Tournament Organizer. If a player intends to use such names, they must provide proof of licensing or sponsorship agreements. The responsibility for securing the right to use a corporate name or third-party intellectual property lies solely with the player. Tournament Officials reserve the right to reject any Gamertag and require a compliant alternative.

2.5. Registration Requirements

Team Members must comply with all registration steps outlined in the Registration Requirements document to be eligible to participate.

2.6. Tournament Media Participation

Team Members agree to participate in Indus Esports’ organized media events (e.g., interviews, promotional activities), provided these events do not interfere with competition preparation. Indus Esports may cover approved travel expenses for media appearances. Failure to attend scheduled events may lead to sanctions or disqualification.

3. Scoring

3.1. Placement Points and Scoring Structure

Placement Points

Tournament scoring is calculated based on team placement and performance metrics as outlined below. Points are allocated as follows:

Cosmium Clutch: 5 points awarded to the team that secures this in-game achievement.

Cosmium Clutch: 5 pointsKills: 1 point for each kill

[Note: Indus Esports reserves the right to amend or modify the scoring system, point values, and placement rankings before the commencement of each tournament, and all participants will be informed of such changes in advance.]

3.2. Tiebreakers

In instances where two or more teams accumulate the same total points, ties will be resolved based on the total damage dealt by each team. Higher damage totals receive better rankings. By participating, teams agree to these tiebreaking conditions, and all rankings determined by this system are final and binding.

3.3. Additional Winning Condition: Cosmium Collection

The tournament introduces a unique win condition based on the in-game element, Cosmium. Specific provisions are as follows:

Cosmium Condition: Cosmium is a rare resource that appears in the final stage of gameplay. Any player may collect Cosmium, and the team that successfully collects it will be declared the winner of the game.

Ranking of Remaining Teams: Teams that do not collect the Cosmium will be ranked based on total kills (higher kills result in a better rank) and, if necessary, by total team damage.

Disclaimer: Collection of Cosmium does not transfer any ownership or property rights to the resource itself. It serves exclusively as a scoring mechanic within the Indus Battle Royale tournament and does not grant any commercial, real-world, or additional in-game advantages beyond this specific tournament ranking.

4. Player Equipment & Apparel

4.1. Player Equipment

Approved Devices: Only mobile phones or officially sanctioned handheld devices are permitted for tournament play. Players are strictly prohibited from using peripheral devices, such as tablets, controllers, triggers, adapters, Bluetooth keyboards, or mice, without prior written approval from Tournament Officials. Use of non-handheld devices (including PCs or emulators) is strictly banned, and any violation may result in immediate disqualification and/or player bans.

Device Liability: Indus Esports and Tournament Organizers are not liable for any adverse outcomes due to device malfunctions or technical issues experienced by players during gameplay. By participating, players agree to assume full responsibility for any such issues.

4.2. POV Rules

Players are required to record both in-game and handcam points-of-view (POV) for each match, following the instructions below. Non-compliance may lead to penalties, including disqualification.

In-Game POV Requirements:

Players must provide complete in-game POV recordings after each match, showing the device’s running background applications before and after each match.

Instructions for Gameplay Recording

All players must strictly adhere to the following gameplay recording instructions to remain eligible for participation. Non-compliance may result in penalties, up to and including disqualification of the player or team from the tournament:

• Pre-Match Procedure: Before launching the Indus Battle Royale app, players must display the list of running background applications on their device. This step is necessary to confirm compliance with device usage rules.
• App Launch: Players are required to open the Indus Battle Royale app exclusively through official sources (Play Store for Android or App Store for iOS). Unauthorized app versions are prohibited and may lead to immediate disqualification.
• Game Lobby Access: Players must join the designated game lobby using the tournament-provided access details.
• Post-Match Procedure: Upon completing each match, players must again display the list of running background applications to verify the absence of prohibited software or applications.
• Consistent Compliance: The above steps must be completed before and after every match in which the player participates. Any omission may result in penalties, including forfeiture of prizes and possible disqualification from current and future events.
• Recordings should include both in-game audio and microphone input.

File Upload Requirement: Players are responsible for uploading each POV recording to the designated shared drive by the specified deadline, i.e. each player is required to upload their POV recordings to the shared drive by 12:00 PM the day following the match. Files must follow this naming format:

TEAM NAME

PLAYER NAME

PLAYER NAME MATCH 1 – POV

PLAYER NAME MATCH 2 – POV

PLAYER NAME MATCH 3 – POV

PLAYER NAME MATCH 4 – POV

PLAYER NAME MATCH 5 – POV

Enforcement: Tournament Officials hold the right to review and verify all recordings. By participating, players accept that failure to comply with any of the above instructions may result in disqualification, forfeiture of rewards, or other penalties as deemed appropriate by Indus Esports and Tournament Officials.

Handcam POV Requirements:

All players must record their handcam POVs, clearly showing both the device screen and the player’s face. These recordings must also be uploaded to the shared drive by 12:00 PM the next day.

4.3. POV Recording Compliance Policy

Compliance with Built-In Recording Tools: All POV recordings must use the device’s built-in recording tools. Use of third-party applications for recording is strictly prohibited. Non-compliance with this rule could lead to immediate disqualification of the entire team.

Enforcement: Tournament Officials reserve the right to disqualify any player or team at any time for non-compliance with POV recording requirements. By participating, players consent to the enforcement of these rules and acknowledge that non-compliance penalties are final and binding.

5. Sponsorships

5.1. Prohibited Sponsors

To uphold the integrity and reputation of Indus Battle Royale and Indus Esports, players and teams are permitted to engage in sponsorship relationships, with strict limitations. Teams and their members may not enter into sponsorships, endorsements, advertising, or related agreements with individuals or entities in categories deemed “Prohibited” by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer, as detailed in the “Red Flag List.” This list is maintained by the Tournament Organizer and may be periodically updated without prior notice.

Restricted Commercial Associations: Players are strictly prohibited from promoting, endorsing, or displaying any products or services on the Red Flag List during Indus Battle Royale streams or in any apparel visible during official events.

Disclaimer for Exceptions: If the Tournament Organizer provides written authorization for any sponsorships that would otherwise be prohibited, all liabilities and responsibilities rest solely with the individual player or team, and Indus Esports holds no accountability for any third-party agreements made under these exceptions.

5.2. Initial Red Flag List

The following categories comprise the initial Red Flag List, which may be revised at any time to reflect changing regulations and the evolving nature of the industry. Prohibited sponsorship categories include, but are not limited to:

• Drugs and drug paraphernalia;
• Tobacco and cannabis products;
• Gambling and casinos;
• Alcohol;
• Pornographic content;
• Cryptocurrency and related products;
• Entities promoting in-game hacks, cheats, exploits, skins gambling, fantasy gaming, or in-game currency farming any products or services banned under applicable laws;
• Competitors of Indus Esports or its affiliates;
• Games or gaming platforms not published by Indus Esports or its affiliates; and
• Unauthorized esports leagues, tournaments, or events outside of official competitions.

5.3. Enforcement of Red Flag List Policies

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer retain full authority to approve or reject any sponsorship or advertisement that may appear during Indus Battle Royale events. Any sponsorship or advertisement within categories on the Red Flag List, visible on-screen during live broadcasts or displayed on player apparel, may result in removal or disqualification of the player or team.

5.4. Unauthorized Use of Trademarks

All team members are expressly prohibited from using any trademark, trade name, or logo owned by Indus Esports or its affiliates without explicit written consent. Use of the name “Indus Battle Royale” or any associated branding in any commercial context is strictly restricted to prevent unauthorized endorsements. No team or player may imply endorsement or sponsorship of any product or service by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer, except as expressly authorized. Unauthorized use of trademarks, trade names, or logos constitutes a breach of these General Rules and may lead to disqualification, forfeiture of sponsorships, or further legal action.

6. Rules of Conduct

6.1 Conduct Generally

6.1.1. High Standards for Professionalism:

Indus Esports requires all players, team members, and affiliates to maintain exemplary standards of personal integrity, professionalism, and sportsmanship. This applies to all interactions with competitors, Tournament Officials, the Tournament Organizer, sponsors, audiences, fans, and the media, both within and outside of official Indus events.

6.1.2. Commitment to Competitive Integrity:

All players and teams must play to the best of their abilities in every tournament game to maintain the integrity of the competition.

6.1.3. Sanctions for Non-Compliance:

Violations of these General Rules or any applicable Competition-Specific Rules may result in penalties determined solely by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer, as outlined in section 6.4.

6.2. Prohibited Actions:

6.2.1. Collusion: Collusion, in any form, is strictly prohibited. Collusive actions include, but are not limited to:

• Agreements among players to underperform in a tournament game to provide an advantage to another team or player.
• Pre-arranged splitting of prize money or other compensation, except for arrangements among owners to distribute team prizes to players and contributors.
• Deliberately losing a tournament game for any reason, including compensation or attempting to influence another player to do so.

6.2.2. Cheating:

Cheating is not allowed. Any modification of the Indus Battle Royale game or the use of cheating devices, programs, or methods, including signaling devices, is prohibited. Downloading cheat programs to devices used in official competitions is strictly forbidden. Intentionally playing with known cheaters in public matches within 72 hours is also prohibited.

6.2.3. Exploiting:

Intentionally exploiting in-game bugs or unintended game mechanics is strictly prohibited. Actions classified as exploitative will be defined solely by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer and may result in immediate disqualification.

6.2.4. Ringing:

Playing under another individual’s account or Gamer Tag, or facilitating such actions, is prohibited and may lead to severe sanctions, including disqualification.

6.2.5. Offensive Language and Speech:

Participants are prohibited from using language that is offensive, discriminatory, obscene, or defamatory in any context related to Indus events. This restriction includes communication in English, Hindi, and regional languages and applies to all public and online engagements. Team members must not promote prohibited activities to the public.

6.2.6. Violent Conduct:

All conflicts must be handled respectfully. Any physical or non-physical acts of violence, including intimidation, threats, or aggression, may result in disqualification and bans from future events.

6.2.7. Prohibited Substances:

The possession, use, or distribution of drugs, substances or alcohol during any tournament event is strictly forbidden. Prescription medications may only be used by individuals to whom they are prescribed, solely for their intended purposes.

6.2.8. Gambling:

No team members may gamble on the outcomes of tournament games/ events, nor may they associate with individuals involved in gambling on these outcomes. Sharing sensitive information for gambling and or illegal purposes is strictly prohibited.

6.2.9. Unauthorized Streaming:

Recording, streaming, or broadcasting of tournament games is strictly prohibited unless expressly authorized in writing by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer.

6.2.10. Unauthorized Viewing of Spectator Screens:

Players, team members must only view their own player screens and are prohibited from observing audience or production screens that display observer-level content.

6.2.11. Void Jumping and Map Manipulation:

Any intentional act of jumping off the map or exploiting in-game mechanics to gain an unfair advantage is strictly prohibited. Accidental jumps, such as those that occur during a firefight or due to an unforeseen glitch, may be excused; however, the tournament organizer reserves the sole right to make the final determination on whether an action was intentional or accidental. Teams or players found to be deliberately engaging in such exploitative actions will be penalized, and Indus Esports and its organizers shall bear no liability for any penalties, disqualifications, or other actions taken against individuals or teams for breaching this rule.

6.2.12. In-Game Restrictions on Bug Exploits:

The following are strictly prohibited:

• Climbing on cliffs/mountains is not allowed in competitive matches.
• Players landing on cliffs must descend within one minute. Any rotational advantage, damage applied or advantage gained will be deducted from the team’s scorecard.
• Using bikes or objects to subtly maneuver others toward obstacles.
• Finding ways and use to shoot that might reach through barriers.

6.3. Unprofessional Behavior

6.3.1. Harassment and Sexual Misconduct:

Harassment, defined as any hostile or repeated actions intended to belittle or demean, is strictly prohibited. Sexual advances or inappropriate conduct are forbidden, with zero tolerance for sexual threats or coercion.

6.3.2. Discrimination and Offensive Speech:

Discriminatory or demeaning language based on race, gender, religion, or other personal characteristics is strictly prohibited.

1. Prohibited Conduct:

The following types of behavior are strictly prohibited within all Indus Esports events, platforms, and related activities (including but not limited to online and offline tournaments, promotional campaigns, social media, and any other channels under the event organizers' control):

• Discriminatory Language: Any language, comments, or actions that target or demean an individual or group based on race, caste, gender, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, nationality, or any other personal characteristic.
• Offensive Speech: Any speech, gestures, symbols, or writings that are intended to insult, belittle, or harm individuals based on the aforementioned characteristics.
• Hate Speech: Any conduct that incites hatred, discrimination, or violence against an individual or group on the grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics.
• Harassment or Bullying: Includes verbal or written conduct that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment, regardless of whether the conduct is overtly aggressive or subtler forms of exclusionary behavior.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for any participant.
• Inappropriate Comments: This includes any comments related to someone's appearance, social background, ethnicity, or any remarks that are demeaning, belittling, or otherwise offensive.

1. Application of the Policy:

All Participants, Employees, and Stakeholders: This policy applies to players, teams, coaches, staff, officials, contractors, sponsors, vendors, and viewers associated with any Indus Esports event or tournament, whether in person or virtual.

• Event Venues and Platforms: The policy applies across physical venues, online platforms, social media channels, and communication mediums connected with any Indus Esports activities.
• Interpersonal Interactions: The prohibition of discriminatory or offensive speech extends beyond the event itself to include any interaction related to the event, such as team discussions, social media posts, and public forums.

1. Reporting Mechanism:

Complaints Procedure: Participants and stakeholders who experience or witness discriminatory, demeaning, or offensive language or behavior are encouraged to report the incident immediately through a confidential and non-retaliatory complaint mechanism.

Escalation Process: A designated Complaint Officer/Committee will handle any reports related to offensive speech or discriminatory conduct. All complaints will be addressed promptly with full confidentiality and without retaliation.

1. Investigation and Action:

Investigation Protocol: Upon receiving a complaint or incident report, the Complaint Committee will conduct a thorough investigation, which may include interviewing the concerned parties and reviewing any relevant evidence (e.g., recordings, screenshots, or testimonials).

Consequences of Violations: Any individual found to have violated this policy will face consequences determined by the Complaint Committee, which may include:

• Warnings (verbal or written);
• Suspension from the event or tournaments;
• Exclusion from future tournaments organized by Indus Esports;
• Ban from the platform (if the incident occurs online or on digital platforms);
• Legal action, including civil suits or criminal charges in case of serious misconduct, such as hate speech or harassment; and
• Disqualification of teams or cancellation of sponsorships where necessary.

1. Training and Awareness:

Mandatory Training: All individuals involved in the organization and operation of Indus Esports events, including staff, volunteers, players, and contractors, will undergo mandatory training on anti-discrimination, diversity, and inclusive behavior. This training will cover acceptable and unacceptable behaviors and the importance of creating a welcoming and respectful environment.

Ongoing Awareness: Periodic refresher sessions on sexual harassment, discrimination, and inclusion will be provided to reinforce the principles of the POSH Act and to keep all parties informed about their roles in maintaining a safe environment.

1. External Oversight and Compliance:

Third-Party Monitoring: To ensure the effectiveness of this policy, Indus Esports may engage with third-party organizations or external experts to monitor the event’s conduct and review any incidents. This ensures independence in assessing any complaints or violations and brings neutrality to the dispute resolution process.

Compliance with National and International Laws: Indus Esports is committed to complying with relevant Indian laws, such as the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (POSH Act), and any applicable international laws (such as GDPR for online platforms and players from the EU). In the event of legal proceedings arising from incidents, all necessary steps will be taken to comply with the law.

1. Promoting a Positive Environment:

Respect and Inclusivity: The company encourages participants, organizers, and stakeholders to promote an atmosphere of respect, inclusivity, and diversity. This includes taking active steps to ensure that all people, irrespective of their backgrounds, feel welcome and comfortable participating in any esports event.

Zero Tolerance Policy: Indus Esports maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and offensive speech. The company firmly believes that a safe and inclusive environment is integral to the success and sustainability of esports events.

6.3.3. Defamation and Disparagement

Participants are strictly prohibited from making any negative, defamatory, or disparaging remarks, whether verbally, in writing, or via any online or offline medium, that could harm the reputation, integrity, or credibility of Indus Esports, the Tournament Organizer, or any official events associated with them. This includes, but is not limited to, statements made on social media, public forums, or within team communications, that portray Indus Esports, the Tournament Organizer, or the event in a negative or damaging light.

Participants agree that any violation of this clause will be subject to penalties at the sole discretion of Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer, which may include disqualification, suspension, forfeiture of winnings, or banning from future events. Additionally, Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer reserve the right to pursue legal action for any defamation or harm resulting from such remarks.

By participating, all individuals and teams acknowledge and agree that they waive any right to contest penalties or legal actions arising from breaches of this clause, thereby fully indemnifying and holding harmless Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer from any claims, losses, or damages incurred due to defamatory conduct.

6.3.4. Confidentiality:

Team members are expected to protect all proprietary information provided by Indus Esports, including any strategic materials, proprietary technology, or sensitive information related to gameplay or event organization.

6.3.5. Compliance with Laws:

All participants must comply with applicable laws, regulations, and event rules, including intellectual property laws.

6.3.6. Bribery and Undue Influence:

Offering, accepting, or providing gifts to influence the outcome of a game is strictly prohibited. Accepting any gifts related to event outcomes may result in disqualification.

6.3.7. Match-Fixing:

Manipulation of game outcomes through any form of match-fixing or undue influence is forbidden and will result in severe disciplinary action.

6.3.8. Submission of Accurate Documentation:

All documentation submitted to Indus Esports must be accurate and complete. Submission of falsified or misleading documents is prohibited.

6.3.9. General Misconduct:

Participants must avoid conduct detrimental to Indus Battle Royale’s reputation, even in non-tournament settings.

6.3.10. Term of Use: Conduct that violates the terms of use for Indus Battle Royale or any associated guidelines is prohibited.

6.3.11. Behavior in Other Matches: Team members are expected to exhibit proper behavior in all matches, as violations outside of tournaments may also be penalized.

6.3.12. Drop Outs and Refusals to Participate: Team members must not withdraw or refuse to participate in any official match without prior written consent from the Tournament Organizer.

6.3.13. Indus Esports Discretion: Indus Esports reserves the right to determine whether any conduct violates these General Rules and the standards for competitive gameplay.

6.4. Disciplinary Action and Penalties

6.4.1. Investigations:

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer reserve the right to investigate any potential violations of these rules. All participants are expected to cooperate fully and provide accurate information as requested.

6.4.2. Sanctions:

Penalties for rule violations include verbal or written warnings, prize forfeitures, match forfeitures, suspensions, and potential bans from future events.

6.4.3. Repeated Violations:

Repeated or egregious breaches of these Rules of Conduct may lead to progressively severe penalties, including lifetime bans.

6.4.4. Finality of Decisions:

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer’s decisions regarding investigations and penalties are final and non-negotiable. Appeals or modifications to penalties will not be considered.

6.4.5. Public Disclosures

Indus Esports reserves the right to publicly disclose penalties, investigations, and outcomes. All participants waive privacy claims regarding disciplinary matters and accept that Indus Esports may release information at its sole discretion.

7. Use of Names and Likenesses

7.1. Grant of Rights by Team Members

Each team member irrevocably grants to the Indus Esports, the Tournament Organizer, and their affiliates, licensees, and assigns, a perpetual, worldwide, fully-paid, and royalty-free license to use, display, broadcast, transmit, and exploit their full name, Gamer Tag, photograph, likeness, voice, video, gameplay statistics, and biographical information. This includes use in any media format (current or future), such as live streams, broadcasts, social media, promotional content, and marketing materials related to Indus Battle Royale and its events. Indus Esports may create derivative works from these materials and retains all rights to use, distribute, and modify these derivatives without additional permission from or payment to team members.

7.2. Ownership of Streams and Broadcasts

All audio-visual content (streams, broadcasts, or recordings) of tournaments is exclusively owned by Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer. Participation in these events does not grant team members any ownership rights, royalties, or claims to the content produced. Team members waive any rights to claims of copyright, right of publicity, or other proprietary interests in these broadcasts.

7.3. Feedback

Team members acknowledge that any feedback provided to Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer is non-confidential and may be used at the sole discretion of Indus Esports without obligation or liability. Indus Esports reserves the unrestricted right to use, modify, or implement feedback for improving competitions or Indus Battle Royale, unless otherwise agreed upon in a separate written contract.

8. Resolutions

8.1. Legal Recourse

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer retain the right to seek injunctive relief and other appropriate legal remedies if a team member breaches these terms. Any breach of these terms entitles Indus Esports to pursue compensation for damages and injunctive relief without limiting its rights to other legal remedies.

8.2. Limitations on Team Members

Team members waive the right to any injunctive relief that would impede or prevent Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer from holding competitions, distributing Indus Battle Royale, or otherwise conducting business. Team members agree that there is no fiduciary duty between them and Indus Esports, and any relief for alleged breaches by Indus Esports will be limited to monetary damages only.

9. Communication with Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer

9.1. Prompt Communication Obligations

Team members must respond promptly (within one business day) to official communications from Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer. If a request is urgent and communicated through multiple channels, team members must respond within 12 hours of the final notification.

9.2. Assumed Receipt of Official Communications

Official communications via electronic channels are deemed received one hour after transmission. Phone communications are deemed received thirty minutes after a call, whether or not answered. Failure to respond within required timeframes constitutes a breach and may result in loss of related rights and privileges.

9.3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with communication requirements may result in disciplinary action, including suspension, loss of benefits, or forfeiture of participation rights at the discretion of Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer.

10. Interpretation and Construction

10.1. Right of Interpretation

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer have sole discretion to interpret any issues or gaps in these rules and Competition-Specific Rules. Team members acknowledge that interpretations and decisions made by Indus Esports are final, binding, and not subject to appeal.

10.2. Additional Terms and Compliance

Participation in tournaments may require acceptance of additional terms and compliance with Indus Battle Royale’s Terms of Use. Indus Esports reserves the right to modify or cancel events as necessary. Team members agree to comply with any updated or additional terms.

10.3. Business Judgment and Discretion

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer reserve the right to make all business decisions at their discretion. Team members cannot challenge decisions based on perceived delay or unreasonable actions. Indus Esports may take disciplinary action against any team member whose conduct is deemed contrary to the best interests of Indus Battle Royale.

11. Game Interruptions

11.1. Game Restarts and Discretion

A match will be restarted only if 10 or more players disconnect within the first 180 seconds. This decision is at the sole discretion of the Tournament Admin. Matches are otherwise not subject to pausing, and no points are awarded for technical difficulties.

11.2. Compensation Points Protocol

Affected players must report issues and submit screen recordings within five minutes of elimination and within thirty minutes after the last match of the day, respectively. Indus Esports will review submissions for compensation points, which will be awarded only at the sole discretion of the Tournament Organizer based on technical verification.

11.3. Disconnections and Force Majeure

Players and teams are responsible for disconnections or disruptions caused by personal circumstances, force majeure events, or external factors. These interruptions will not entitle players to any compensation or claim against Indus Esports.

12. Teams and Ownership

12.1. Roster Management

Each team must register four players and one optional substitute. Roster changes are limited to emergencies, subject to approval. Unauthorized roster changes are grounds for disqualification.

12.1.1. Maximum Roster Size

12.1.1.1. Required Team Composition

Each team must maintain a roster of exactly four primary players as their starting lineup at all times throughout the competition. Teams are allowed, but not required, to register an additional substitute player, making five players the maximum permitted roster size. Teams are encouraged to register this substitute to prevent forfeiture due to unforeseen events. Tournament Officials reserve the right to disqualify any team whose roster fails to meet these requirements.

12.1.1.2. Conditions for Roster Changes

Roster changes are strictly limited to emergencies and must be approved in advance by Tournament Officials. An emergency roster change will only be considered in cases where the primary player is unable to continue due to circumstances beyond the team’s control, such as sudden health issues or force majeure events.

12.1.1.3. Substitute Eligibility

A substitute player can only join a team’s lineup if they have not played for another team in the tournament or any preceding qualification stages. Teams must notify Tournament Officials immediately of any such emergencies and submit documentation as requested to verify the legitimacy of the emergency. Tournament Officials have absolute discretion to grant or deny the emergency roster change, and their decisions are final and binding on the team.

12.1.1.4. Player Transfer Restrictions

A player is prohibited from switching to another team or participating on a different roster after the start of the tournament. If a player has already played for one team, they are disqualified from being added as a substitute for any other team during the current tournament cycle, ensuring the integrity of the tournament structure.

12.1.2. Team Captain

12.1.2.1. Captain Assignment and Responsibilities

Each team must designate one player from its roster as the official team captain during registration. The team captain is responsible for maintaining open and timely communication with Tournament Officials on behalf of the team. All official communications, notices, and updates from Tournament Officials will be directed to the team captain, and the captain’s statements, responses, and acknowledgments are considered binding on the entire team.

12.1.2.2. Captain’s Obligations

The team captain is required to attend all mandatory meetings, briefings, and training sessions organized by the Tournament Officials. Failure to fulfill these responsibilities may result in penalties against the team, including but not limited to fines, forfeitures, and disqualification, at the discretion of Tournament Officials.

12.1.2.3. Restrictions on Captain Changes

Once a captain is assigned, the team may not change this designation without obtaining prior written approval from Tournament Officials. Any request for a change must be accompanied by a valid reason, such as the unavailability of the designated captain. Approval for changing a captain is at the sole discretion of Tournament Officials and may be denied if such a change is deemed to disrupt the tournament’s integrity or operations.

12.1.3. Team Manager /Captain

12.1.3.1. Mandatory Manager /Captain Designation

Each team must designate a Team Manager /Captain at the time of registration. The manager /Captain is responsible for handling all non-strategic, logistical, and operational communications between the team, Indus Esports, and the Tournament Organizer. The Team Manager /Captain may be either the team captain or another individual with a formal association to the team, such as an owner or coach, provided that the individual holds an official contract with the team.

12.1.3.2. Responsibilities and Authority of the Team Manager/Captain

The Team Manager/Captain is authorized to represent the team in all matters related to scheduling, compliance, and administrative requirements set forth by Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer. The manager’s /Captain’s statements, representations, and commitments are binding on the entire team. The Team Manager must ensure that the team complies with all tournament rules, deadlines, and requests for information and documentation.

12.1.3.3. Notice Requirements for Manager /CaptainChanges

Should a team need to change its designated manager /Captain, a written request explaining the reason for the change must be submitted to Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer at least 72 hours prior to the proposed change. Approval of such changes is at the sole discretion of Indus Esports and will not be granted if it is deemed to compromise tournament logistics, the integrity of the competition, or compliance requirements. Any new manager /Captain must be selected from the team members registered for the tournament

12.1.3.4. Manager’s /Captain’s Binding Effect on Team

All decisions, agreements, and communications made by the Team Manager /Captain are binding on the team. Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer assume no responsibility for any internal team disputes regarding the manager’s /Captain’s authority, role, or decisions once communicated.

12.2. Registration Compliance

Teams must complete roster registration with Indus Esports and are prohibited from using unapproved players. Only players listed in the official roster may participate.

12.3. Branding and Licensing

Team names and logos must be unique, non-offensive, and free of unlicensed third-party trademarks. The Tournament Organizer reserves the right to reject or demand alteration of any team name or logo that does not meet standards.

12.4. Ownership Integrity

No individual or entity may own more than one team, operate under similar branding, or engage in financial relationships with competing teams. These rules protect tournament integrity, and any breach will result in disqualification.

12.4.1. Prohibition of Multiple Team Ownership and Affiliation

12.4.1.1. Single-Team Ownership Requirement

To maintain competitive integrity, no individual, entity, or collective group of entities (hereafter “Owner”) may directly or indirectly own, operate, or control more than one team participating in the tournament or affiliated tournaments globally. This restriction includes ownership stakes, control rights, and any form of influence over team operations or decision-making.

12.4.1.2. Restrictions on Financial and Operational Involvement

An Owner may not provide funding, manage operations, or contribute to the strategic or day-to-day management of more than one team globally. This prohibition applies to direct and indirect financing, including loans, sponsorships, revenue sharing, or any other financial arrangement that could reasonably influence the performance, strategy, or competitive balance among teams in the tournament.

12.4.1.3. Brand Distinction Requirement

To prevent confusion and ensure distinct brand identities among participating teams, no two teams may operate, compete, or otherwise present themselves under the same or similar brand names, trademarks, trade dress, logos, or other identifying marks. Tournament Officials reserve the right to reject or request modifications to any branding deemed too similar to an existing team’s identity.

12.4.1.4. Prohibition of Cross-Team Financial or Business Relationships

Owners of separate teams are prohibited from entering into any business, financial, or operational relationship that could benefit more than one team based on tournament performance. Prohibited relationships include, but are not limited to, revenue-sharing arrangements, sponsorships, strategic alliances, and any other agreements that may create conflicts of interest or compromise the independence and competitive integrity of each team.

12.4.1.5. Monitoring and Compliance

The Tournament Organizer reserves the right to conduct thorough due diligence, audits, and investigations into team ownership, management structures, and financial relationships to ensure compliance with this clause. Teams must fully cooperate and provide any requested documentation. Failure to comply with these requirements or to disclose relevant relationships may result in penalties, including but not limited to disqualification, forfeiture of winnings, or bans from future tournaments.

12.4.1.6. Penalties for Violations

Any team or Owner found to be in violation of these ownership restrictions will face immediate disciplinary action at the sole discretion of the Tournament Organizer. Penalties may include but are not limited to disqualification from the current tournament, forfeiture of any prizes or benefits, and suspension or permanent banning of the Owner or affiliated teams from future events.

13. Match Protocols

13.1. Match Framework

13.1.1. Game Mode

All matches will be conducted in Third Person Perspective (TPP) mode. This perspective is mandatory for the duration of the tournament and cannot be altered by any team or player without express permission from the Tournament Organizer.

13.1.2. Designated Map

The official map for all tournament matches is "Virlok." Matches must be conducted solely on this map, with no modifications allowed. The Tournament Organizer reserves the right to add, remove, or alter maps if deemed necessary for tournament fairness or due to technical requirements.

13.1.3. Adherence to Framework

Any unauthorized change in match settings, perspective, or map may result in disciplinary actions, including warnings, forfeiture of the match, or potential disqualification from the tournament. Teams must follow all official settings to ensure consistency and fairness across matches.

13.2. Rehost/Restart Conditions

The Tournament Organizer may, at its sole discretion, rehost or restart a match under specific circumstances that impact gameplay or viewer experience. The decision to rehost or restart a match is final and not subject to appeal.

13.2.1. Player Loading Issues

If any player experiences significant loading issues or delays that prevent them from joining the match at its scheduled start time, the Tournament Organizer may opt to rehost or restart the match. This provision applies only if the issue is reported immediately and verified by tournament officials.

13.2.2. Network Issues Among Multiple Players

If two or more players encounter verified network issues, such as lag, disconnections, or inability to interact with the game environment at the match's start, the Tournament Organizer may initiate a rehost or restart to maintain fair play. Players must report these issues as they arise to receive consideration for a restart.

13.2.3. Observer-Related Disruptions

In situations where game observers, including streamers or casters, experience network or loading issues that disrupt the broadcast or official recording of the match, the Tournament Organizer may opt to rehost or restart the match to preserve the quality of the tournament broadcast. Observers must notify the Organizer immediately to confirm the impact on the viewing experience.

13.2.4. Process for Rehost/Restart

The Tournament Organizer will inform both teams if a rehost or restart is being considered. Teams must comply with all instructions for reconnecting or restarting as provided by Tournament Officials. Non-compliance or delays in following rehost instructions may result in penalties.

13.2.5. Limitations on Rehost/Restart Requests

Teams are prohibited from requesting repeated rehosts or restarts unless verifiable and significant technical issues persist. Any attempt to exploit or abuse this provision for strategic advantage will lead to disciplinary actions, including match forfeiture or disqualification from the tournament.

13.2.6. Organizer’s Right to Adjust

The Tournament Organizer reserves the exclusive right to deny rehost/restart requests if the Organizer determines that the request is unreasonable, unsubstantiated, or detrimental to the tournament schedule or integrity.

14. Prizes and Award Distribution

14.1. Prize Eligibility and Awarding

Prizes may be awarded to teams and individual players following the tournament. Awards will generally be delivered to the designated team owners or captains, who bear full responsibility for distributing any prize shares to players, coaches, and others who contributed to the team’s success.

14.2. Conditions of Official Winner Status

A team or individual player is not officially recognized as a tournament winner, nor eligible to receive a prize, until the following conditions are met:

1. Eligibility Verification: The team or player must be legally eligible to receive the prize under all applicable laws and regulations, including any laws governing the distribution of cash prizes, esports winnings, or specific tournament rules.
2. Completion of Documentation: The designated winning player, owner, or team captain must sign and submit an affidavit confirming compliance with all tournament terms and providing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Indus Esports. Additionally, the player or team representative must complete all other required documentation, including but not limited to eligibility verification, liability releases, and any other forms mandated by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer.

14.3. Documentation Submission and Prize Claim Timelines

Failure to submit all required documentation to the Tournament Organizer within sixty (60) days from the date of notification of winning status may result in the forfeiture of the prize. Additionally, if the winning team or individual does not actively claim the prize within a reasonable period following the tournament, the prize may be forfeited at the Tournament Organizer's discretion.

14.4. Responsibility for Applicable Taxes

All prize winners are solely responsible for any and all applicable taxes, fees, or levies associated with the prize award. Winners must comply with their jurisdiction’s tax requirements and will be required to provide necessary tax documentation as requested by Indus Esports or the Tournament Organizer.

14.5. Currency and Non-Transferability

All cash prizes will be awarded exclusively in Indian Rupees (INR) unless otherwise stipulated by the Tournament Organizer. Cash prizes and other awards are non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and may not be substituted for other goods, services, or cash equivalents by the winners.

14.6. Prize Adjustments and Discretion of Tournament Organizer

The Tournament Organizer reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to adjust prize distribution or amounts based on the final tournament outcomes, unforeseen circumstances, or to maintain the integrity and fairness of the competition. Any attempt by a team or player to circumvent these rules or provide false information will be grounds for immediate disqualification and prize forfeiture.

14.7. Liability Limitation

Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer assume no responsibility for any prize-related claims, losses, or disputes arising from improper distribution among team members or affiliates. Prize recipients waive all claims against Indus Esports and the Tournament Organizer once the prize is delivered to the designated team owner or captain.

15. Notwithstanding any provisions stated hereinabove, if any term or clause of this agreement is found to be invalid, unenforceable, or void in any jurisdiction, such term or clause will be interpreted or, if necessary, severed to the minimum extent required to render it enforceable, without affecting the validity or enforceability of the below provisions. The below clauses shall continue to operate in full force, preserving the intent and purpose of this agreement to the maximum extent permitted by law.

16. Other General Rules

All general rules, along with clauses herein, will continue to apply and bind all participants, teams, and affiliates of Indus Esports under the same terms and conditions. Any future amendments or additions to these rules are to be considered fully integrated into the existing agreement, governed by the same standards of enforceability, interpretation, and applicability as outlined above.

16.1. Intellectual Property (IP) Rights and Company Protection

Usage of Game Content: Participants may not use Indus Battle Royale’s content (images, logos, gameplay footage) outside of official Indus Esports-approved channels.

Ownership and Rights: All rights, titles, and interests in the game, including all visual content, audio content, and other elements, are retained by Indus Esports.

Content Creation and Media: Participants agree that Indus Esports retains the right to capture, record, and broadcast tournament gameplay and related activities without compensation to participants. Indus Esports has the right to distribute, license, and monetize these recordings at its discretion.

16.2. Participant Responsibilities and Liabilities

Compliance with Rules: Each participant must read, understand, and comply with these General Rules and any Competition-Specific Rules.

Liability Waiver: Indus Esports is not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damages sustained by participants during any Tournament.

Disqualification: Indus Esports reserves the right to disqualify any participant or team for breaches of the General Rules or Competition-Specific Rules, including but not limited to cheating, hacking, or any form of manipulation that affects fair play.

16.3. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure

Confidential Information: Participants agree not to disclose any confidential information obtained through participation in any Tournament without prior written consent from Indus Esports.

Public Statements: Participants are prohibited from making public statements that may harm the reputation of Indus Esports or "Indus Battle Royale."

16.4. Dispute Resolution

Arbitration Clause: All disputes arising from or related to these rules shall be resolved by binding arbitration, with the venue designated by Indus Esports. Decisions made by the arbitrator shall be final.

Governing Law: The rules shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of India.

16.5. Indemnity Clause

Participants agree to indemnify and hold harmless Indus Esports, its affiliates, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, or expenses arising out of their participation in the Tournament, including but not limited to legal fees.

16.6. Amendments and Modifications

Rule Changes: Indus Esports reserves the right to amend, update, or modify these General Rules and Competition-Specific Rules at any time. Participants will be notified through official channels, and continued participation will signify acceptance of such modifications.

Force Majeure: Indus Esports shall not be held responsible for cancellations, delays, or alterations due to factors outside its control.

16.7. Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations

Participants are responsible for ensuring their compliance with local laws, especially those related to online gaming, gambling, and esports regulations in their respective regions.

16.8. Termination of Participation

Termination Rights: Indus Esports reserves the right to terminate the participation of any player or team without prior notice or liability for any reason, including but not limited to breaches of these rules, behavior detrimental to the company’s reputation, or any other actions deemed inappropriate.

16.9. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By participating, each Team Member acknowledges they have read, understood, and agreed to the General Rules and applicable Competition-Specific Rules, thereby entering into a legally binding agreement with Indus Esports.