Platform Rules

Rules governing gameplay and fair competition on Sacrifice.pro

General Game Rules

Standard rules that apply to all games

  • Standard FIDE chess rules apply to all games played on Sacrifice.pro
  • No takebacks are allowed during competitive play
  • Resignation immediately ends the game
  • Draw offers can be made and accepted or declined by the opponent
  • Games are timed — running out of time results in a loss (unless the opponent has insufficient material)
  • All moves must be made within the allotted time control and increment

Fair Play Requirements

Maintaining integrity in every game

Fair play is the foundation of competitive chess. All players must adhere to the following standards:

  • No external assistance: You must not use chess engines, analysis tools, books, databases, or any other form of assistance during a game
  • No coaching: You must not receive advice from other people during a game
  • One account only: Each person may only have one account on Sacrifice.pro
  • No account sharing: Your account must only be used by you
  • No sandbagging: Deliberately losing games to lower your rating is prohibited
  • No collusion: Arranging results with other players is strictly forbidden

Our anti-cheating system monitors games in real-time. Violations are taken very seriously.

Tournament Rules

Rules specific to tournament play

  • Players must be ready to play when their match is scheduled to begin
  • Failure to show up for a scheduled game may result in forfeiture
  • Entry fees are non-refundable once a tournament has started
  • Prize distribution follows the tournament's specified structure
  • Tournament-specific rules (if any) will be displayed on the tournament page
  • Administrators reserve the right to make final decisions on any disputes

For details on specific tournament formats, see our format guides: Head to Head, Hybrid Knockout, and League.

Time Control Rules

Managing your clock

  • Each tournament specifies its time control and increment
  • Your clock starts when it becomes your turn to move
  • The increment (if any) is added after you make your move
  • If your flag falls (time runs out), the game is lost — there are no exceptions
  • Deliberately letting your clock run down in a clearly lost position is considered poor sportsmanship

Behavioural Standards

Respectful conduct at all times

  • Treat all players with respect and courtesy
  • No abusive, offensive, or discriminatory language
  • No harassment of any kind, including in chat, forums, and direct messages
  • Respect the outcome of games — no excessive complaints or blame
  • Report genuine concerns through the proper appeals process

For full details, see our Code of Conduct.

Consequences of Rule Violations

Violations of these rules may result in one or more of the following actions:

  • Verbal warning
  • Game or tournament disqualification
  • Forfeiture of prizes
  • Rating adjustments
  • Temporary account suspension
  • Permanent account ban

Serious offences such as cheating with engine assistance, multi-accounting, or financial fraud will result in immediate permanent bans and forfeiture of all funds.

Reporting Violations

If you believe another player has violated these rules, you can report them through the in-game appeals system after a completed game. For more information, see our appeals guide.

Note: False or frivolous reports are themselves a violation and may result in restrictions on your account.