What to Expect During a Tournament

You signed up, the team is ready, and your match is coming up. Here’s what to expect.

Tournament structure

The exact format depends on the game and the number of teams, but the typical layout is:

1. Group stage: Teams are split into groups and play each other within the group.
2. Single elimination: Group winners (and sometimes runners-up) are paired off. Lose and you’re out.
3. Grand final: The last two teams play for the trophy.

Brackets, schedules, and group assignments are announced before the tournament starts.

How a match goes

When it’s your turn:

1. Warm-up: The server loads the map and you get a few minutes to settle in. Test your settings, check your audio.
2. Live: The admin signals the start. Everything counts from here.
3. Match end: The admin records the result. Don’t leave the server until you’re told it’s okay.

If someone disconnects

Hardware and network hiccups happen.

• The match pauses at the next appropriate moment (not mid-firefight).
• The disconnected player can rejoin.
• Once they’re back, the admin resumes the match.
• If reconnecting fails, the admin decides how to proceed.

If it happens to you, tell the admin and they’ll handle it. No need to panic.

Spectating

If you’re not playing but want to watch:

• Matches are often shown on the projector screen.
• If a GOTV or similar spectator system is available, connection details will be posted in the announcements.
• Don’t distract the players during a live match.

Etiquette

• Be on time. If your team isn’t ready at the scheduled time, the admin may proceed according to the rules.
• No cross-team communication during a match. Don’t shout positions across the room.
• Follow admin instructions. If they say wait, wait.
• Accept the result. Losing is part of the deal.

For how to sign up: Tournaments & Team Sign-up. If you need help: How to Get Help.