| STA FF Rules |
I. Introduction
II. Joining STA-FF
III. League Setup and Scheduling
IV. Player Requirements
V. Clan Requirements
VI. Server Requirements
VII. Match Conduct
VIII. Strategy and Gameplay Rules
IX. Ties and Overtime
X. Match Disputes
XI. STA-FF Cheat Policy
XII. Sportsmanship and Fairplay
I. Introduction
STA-FF rules are designed to to promote fair play, good sportsmanship and enjoyable contests for all Clans. Each Clan's Captains and Players should be familiar with the rules listed below and these rules should be used as a guideline for League participation. STA-FF encourages friendly cooperation between Clans and between Players in all League events. If the rules do not cover a specific situation, or if you cannot resolve a disagreement on your own, or if you find a rule to be unclear in it's meaning, please contact a STA-FF Admin.
Contacting STA-FF Admins
A list of all STA-FF Admins can be found on our Staff Contact page.
The preferred method for contacting Admins is in IRC. All STA-FF Admins can be found in the irc.gamesurge.net channel #sta-ff. Please be patient when posting questions to that channel, as Admins cannot be present at all hours. Private Messages are welcomed.
Alternately, Email info is on the Staff Contact page and STA has provided a Public Forum and a Clan Captains Forum for STA-FF.
League Format - Map Tours and Tour Titles
Currently, STA-FF has a single division format with a weekly Title.
Matches are played on Monday at 9:30pm ET
Clan Leaders (Captains)
Our community is organized by Clan Leaders (aka Clan Captains), they provide the game servers and are responsible for their players. STA-FF expects and welcomes the Clan Leaders contribution and input on all of our League Policies.
Each Clan is allowed access to our Clan Captains Forum for two Captains. Captains are encouraged to participate in League issues via that Forum.
Clan Captains or their Contact representative(s) should be present in #sta-ff on match nights, to facilitate contact between Clans and with Admins. This IRC channel also provides a public record for discussion and agreements between Clans.
II. Joining STA-FF
Before you can apply to join the league there are a few things you must have.
1.) An active roster of at least 7 players.
2.) All clans must have their own Channel on the IRC Gamesurge server.
The following are the steps to joining STA-FF:
1.) Read the rules.
2.) Fill out the join form linked on the left menu.
3.) You will receive an email replay when accepted.
4.) Setup your Clan on our Operations Page, using the password you specified on your application.
When online, please join our channel league's channel #sta-ff. IRC is the communication method of choice and it allows constant contact between admins, clans and clan captains, and it is also used for Match Info exchange.
For information on registering IRC channels: http://www.gamsurge.net.
For information on an IRC client program: http://www.mirc.com
III. League Setup and Scheduling
League Format
Currently, STA-FF is a 7vs7 league, playing at 9:30pm ET on Monday nights. Our one division of clans plays for a weekly Gold Title.
Scheduling
Clans attaining a +2 record will be scheduled versus the current Title Holder, in a Title Match. Other matches will be scheduled between clans of equal rank on the Clan Ranking List. In all regular, non-title matches, we will attempt to prevent clans from being scheduled against the same opponents the clan has played in the recent two weeks.
Rescheduling
Rescheduling is strongly discouraged, clans join STA-FF so that they may play on a set day and time each week.
Maps and Player Size
Each week, clans will play two rounds of 30 minutes on one map. By default clans are to play the scheduled map at the default player size. But by agreement of each Clan Captain, Clans can change both the Map and the Player Size. Be sure to note any change in your Match Score submissions.
IV. Player Requirements
Rostering
To play in STA-FF, a player must join a participating Clan. Each player can only be rostered with one Clan in our STA-FF division.
Players can join other clans for play outside of our league.
Steam ID's and Login Sharing
All of the steam ID's used by a player must be listed on the STA-FF Clan Roster for his team. No other player can use those ID's in matches. Login sharing is specifically prohibited in our League, with rare exceptions for family and persons sharing a residence. In cases like that, it is best to contact an Admin prior to play.
Personal Demos
All Players must record a Personal Demo for each round of play. Each recorded Personal Demo must be kept for two full weeks after the match. The demo must be made available to STA, upon STA Admin request.
V. Clan Requirements
Clan Leaders (Captains) and Contacts
Each Clan Should list their primary Captains or Contacts on the STA-FF website operations page. Additionally, each clan is allowed 2 persons with access to our Clan Captains Forum. Your participation on our Forum is encourage, your input in league policy is needed, and no league topic is out of bounds.
The Clan Leader (Captain), or his active replacement is responsible for his Clans conduct in all Match related venues, including the Game Servers and STA-FF IRC Channels.
STA-FF Website Roster
Each Clan must keep a full and current Steam ID Roster of all eligible Players on our website, these are the only players automatically eligible to play in STA-FF matches. If you are having trouble with our Website Roster system, or believe a roster error has been made, contact a STA-FF Admin for a remedy.
Roster Locks
Rosters will be locked by Wednesday night at approximately 12 midnight ET, and they remained locked until after Matches on Thursdays. No player may be added by Clan Leaders during that time.
Unrostered Clan Members
The STA does allow unrostered Clan Members to play, but only when approved in advance by the opposing team's Clan Leader or Contact person. Be polite, and ask before your match begins. STA-FF expects Clan Leaders to cooperate on membership issues.
VI. Server Requirements
Maps
All servers must be using the default version of the map, or the custom map's version that is on the STA Files page.
Logging
Servers must have logging turned on for matches. An unaltered server logs must be made available on request, within 24 hours of the match, to STA-TFC Admins and to the opposing Clan Captain.
Server Config Files
Use of the STA server configuration files is mandatory, updated versions are found on our Files page. Any settings NOT covered in the config should be set to the Half-Life2/FF server defaults. If any of the settings are not correct, the opposing clan can refuse to play the round on that server, and should seek Admin assistance.
Source TV
The Source TV is required for all Match Servers, and a demo must be recorded by the server. The recorded demo must be made available to Admins and Clan Captains on request. Spectator Slots are not required, but if you have slots, one must be made available to your opponent.
Server Plugins
Third Party server plugins such as Sourcemod/Mani's are not specifically forbidden, however all other server rules apply. Server plugins can not interfere with the match, or match conduct. Plugins should not kick/ban anyone automatically or restrict usage of anything that is legal for play in STA. Plugins should not force the downloading of excessive amounts of files, such as wav files.
Server Quality
Servers must be able to reasonably handle the bandwidth and CPU load of at least a full 16-player game. STA has the final authority in determining what is or is not reasonable.
When Clans average pings differs by more than 100ms on a Match Server, please be agreeable to a server move.
VII. Match Conduct
Clan Captains
Clan Captains or their representative(s) should be present in #sta-ff on match nights, to facilitate contact between Clans and with Admins. This IRC channel also provides a public record for discussion and agreements between Clans.
Match Rounds
STA-FF matches consist of two Rounds of 30 mins each, on the same map. Between Match Rounds, there is a break of a minimum of 5 minutes to a maximum of 10 minutes, the subsequent Round should begin at or prior to 15 minutes later.
Scoring
Match winners are determined by the combined score of Round 1 and Round 2. When the combined score is tied, see our Overtime(OT) Rules below.
Server Choice per Round
Each clan will have the choice of server, alternating by round. The Home Team (Listed first on the Schedule) decides which server is used in Round 1, the Opposing Team decides which server is to be used in Round 2. If there is Overtime(OT) Round(s), the Home Team chooses the server for the first overtime round. If there is a second OT, the Opposing Team gets to choose server, and so on.
Team Color Choice per Round
Since the Home Team chooses the server in the first round they must defer color choice to the Opposing Team for that round. Thereafter, it is mandatory that teams switch team colors after each round, including overtime.
Punctuality and Forfeits
Matches should start no later than 15 mins after the official start time. The match server should be setup and all players should join prior to that time. Each clan must have a minimum of 6 players ready prior to the 15 minute mark after start time.
If a clan can not properly setup the server, can not produce enough players, or refuses to join the server within 15 minutes of the official match time, they can be forced to forfeit if their opponent chooses that option. If only one clan is present at an agreed-upon match time or on the default night at match time, it will also be considered a forfeit for the clan that is not present. As always, contact an Admin for help.
If there are extenuating circumstances (steam crashing, some can't join a particular server, etc) then both team leaders are to join #sta-tfc and discuss the matter in public, whether or not an admin is present. The public record will stand in case of a dispute.
Prematch Behavior
In maps where you may leave your respawn during Prematch, please remain in your base. Any Prematch actions that effect the match after the end of prematch, are prohibited.
MM1 Comms During a Match
Officially, *ONLY* Clan Leaders are allowed to use mm1 during a match.
Note: The intent of this rule is to prevent malicious mm1 spam or taunts during the match. STA recognizes that many clans have a friendly and fun competitive environment in which mm1 is expected and enjoyed. STA expects everyone to recognize the difference. When in doubt, refer to the stated rule that only leaders use mm1.
Agreements Between Clans
Agreements between Clan Leaders can override stated STA rules, if the agreements are made in #sta-tfc among the opposing clan leaders for public record. (Example: Clans can agree to change Map or Player Size) These agreements can supersede any standard STA rules, with the exception of the rules regarding cheating and login-sharing. Also, these agreements may not allow any person banned in STA to participate in a match.
Submitting Scores After Match
After the match is done, the Winning clan will go to the STA-FF Operations web page to fill out the Match Result form. All results must be turned in at the latest on Tuesday 12:00 midnight CST. Contact a STA-FF Admins in #sta-ff if your clan has trouble submitting. Failure to report scores on time may subject the match to deletion.
VIII. Strategy and Gameplay Rules
Maximum Defense Player Limit
No team is allowed to use more than the Maximum number of defenders at any point in a match. The rules below, as well as the definition of a defender, will apply for Standard and Reverse CTF maps.
The maximum defense number varys by map player size:
7vs7 Max D = 4 players
A defender is defined a player who is defending their base/flag/dropped flag from the enemy offense, as anyone spending an excessive amount of time in their home base, or as anyone having a pattern of excessively attacking the enemy offense. In order for a player to be counted as an Offense player and not as a Defense player, an offense player must maintain progress towards an offense objective at all times. Any clan deemed to have been using more than the maximum allowed number of defenders will be in violation of the Max Defense rules. The penalty invoked is the sole discretion of STA admins.
There are certain areas of game play that are also be covered within the Maximum Defense Player Limit and are addressed as follows:
1. Offensive Player Crossfire:
a. An offensive player who clearly disregards his own objectives to engage the enemy offense or defend a dropped flag will be defined as a member of the defense (and included in Max D considerations).
2. Offensive Engineers:
a. Any engineer that builds a sentry gun OR a dispenser in a defensive position (ie - a location that will impact or impede the opposing offense) will be deemed to be part of the defensive squad.
Offense Crossfire, Spawns and Choke Points
*Excessive* Offensive Crossfire/Death-Matching is prohibited.
1.)Offense Crossfire is first limited through the defense player definition in the Maximum Defense Player Limit above.
2.)An excessive pattern of Offensive Crossfire is also prohibited, determined solely at the discretion of STA-TFC.
3.)Prohibited Offensive Crossfire can also be an excessive 'O vs O' use of certain map choke point and spawn locations. (for example: excessive, continuous spy pilling at an offensive exit choke point or players consistently attacking/spamming the enemy offense's respawn exit/points of exit.)
The rules covering Offensive Crossfire are formed with the intent of leaving room for interpretation. The rules are in place to discourage O vs O crossfire, however, they do not specifically forbid the action. Players will keep in mind that any O vs O *can* be deemed excessive by STA admins and penalties are at the sole discretion of STA. Clans are best advised to keep Offensive Crossfire to a minimum, and to instruct O players to remain focused on Offense Objectives.
Commandpoint and Attack Defend Maps
When playing commandpoint maps such as Canalzone, or played AD type maps such as Dustbowl, the Strategy Rules for 'Maximum Defense Player Limit' and 'Offense Crossfire' do not apply.
There will be other maps that must be dealt with as special cases concerning gameplay, that will be done prior to play.
IX. Ties and Overtime
Clan Agreements
As with most other rules in STA-FF, OT rules can be changed by clan agreement. The only condition is that any OT agreements must be fair and equal for both teams. If you need OT assistance, see an Admin in #sta-ff.
Ties
The definition of a tie is when the sum of both team's score in round 1 and round 2 are equal. There are no ties as a final result in STA-FF matches, an Overtime Round(s) will be conducted to find a winner for each match.
Official Score
The server log files will be the score used to determine the actual score.
Standard Map OT is 'Sudden Death Overtime'
Capture the Flag Maps
If the match is tied after two rounds of regular play, the match will continue as a 30 minute overtime round of the default team size for the map. This is sudden death overtime where the first flag capture wins the match and ends the round. For maps that have both flag capture points and points for other map objectives, only a flag capture will award a sudden death winner. If there is no flag capture in the 30 minute period, then any other points awarded by the map will be used to determine the winner.
If it is still tied after this 30 minute period, the match continues for another 15 minute round of 6 on 6. If this round also ends with a tie, then there will be another 15 minute round of 5 on 5. The match will continue (indefinitely) as such, alternating 15 minute rounds until a victor is determined.
Special OT Rules for Non-Standard Maps
Symmetrical Commandpoint Maps
If the map being played is a symmetrical command point map (ie: cz2 ), or any map without standard flag captures, then the winner is decided by the overall score at the end of the 15 minute overtime period.
Non-Symmetrical Commandpoint Map
If the map being played is a non-symmetrical map (ie: attack defend maps), there will be two 15 minute overtime rounds (alternating between servers as required) with the clan leading at the end of the two rounds being declared the winner. Alternately, Clan Leaders can agree on a shorter stopwatch format.
Lateness of OT Rounds
If at such time a match is too late to continue, a clan can ask an STA admin to have both clans reschedule the unresolved overtime for another day. A minimum of one overtime round should be played before reschedule for lateness is considered.
X. Match Disputes
Filing a Match Dispute
STA encourages Clans to work together to create fun matches for all and to resolve conflicts on their own. If you must file a dispute with STA-TFC, follow the guidelines below.
The first step when filing a dispute is to contact your division admin in the STA-FF IRC channel, #sta-ff on irc.gamesurge.net. Try to do this as soon after the match as possible on Monday, even if it is prior to assembling your dispute evidence. After this initial contact with Admins, a written dispute must be submitted.
Clan Leaders should gather any evidence (HLTV demos, raw server logs, personal demo, irc chat, etc) that will be needed by admins. Your dispute should include any information that will give a complete and fair picture of the disputed match. You will need the following information; the round(s) you are disputing, what player(s) you are disputing, what rule violation(s) are alleged, and the match timestamps for any relevant events. Also include links to the Source TV demo and server logs for all rounds.
Once all information is gathered, submit your written dispute. You can do this in either of two ways. You can use the "Report Dispute" link on the Operations page, provided that the final match result has yet to be accepted and posted on the STA website. You can also submit the written dispute via email to your division admin. Please try to submit the written dispute during the first 24-48 hours following a match.
During the dispute process we ask that you refrain from public discussion of the dispute details, or at least to keep them to a minimum. We welcome discussions, suggestions and criticisms about the dispute process on the Captians forum. If the dispute involves a clan with a STA admin as a member or leader, that Admin will be instructed to remain completely clear of the dispute process.
XI. STA-FF Cheat Policy
Cheating Policy
By joining an STA roster, a player agrees not to use a cheat in our League Matches. Players who cheat in Match situations will be banned from STA.
A cheat is defined as any sort of external program or 3rd party file that modifies player attributes or otherwise significantly alters the players abilities or match conduct. If you suspect someone of cheating in a STA Match, notify a STA Admin as soon as possible, and file a match dispute.
Additionally, any steam_id currently banned by VAC is ineligible for use in STA-FF.
Players currently banned in STA (from other divisions), must pm an FF Admin and make arrangements prior to play.
The overall STA League Ban Policy is currently under review, and may significantly change in the near future.
Game Exploits
Exploiting a map's configuration, build, or flaws is not allowed. Unrecognized engine exploits are not allowed and exploitive use of any regular command, netcode command, cvar, or non-normal custom file is prohibited. Customization is legal, provided files are not altered in a way that adversely effects fair play. When in doubt about the legality of an in game cvar or custom file - ask on our forums.
XII. Sportsmanship and Fairplay
STA-FF not only appreciates, but also expects good sportsmanship in the game and beyond. As a requirement of continuing play in our League, Clans and Players should remember that our sportsmanship requirements extend to all Match related venues - Match Servers, Match Source TV Servers and all STA sponsored IRC channels.
Any exceptionally offensive conduct affecting match play is prohibited in STA (including but not limited to: malicious Internet attacks, match intrusions, abuse of rcon/admin_mod/server plugins etc., remote match server and HLTV interference, and server crashing). STA has the final say over the definition and scope of such conduct, as well as any applicable penalty.
A courteous, honest, and respectful attitude displayed towards the league, towards opposing clans, and while dealing with the league staff will go a long way in helping you achieve an enjoyable league experience.
Good Luck and Have Fun in STA-FF!
| Last Updated on May 8, 2008 |
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