Fly That Flag
FAQ GUIDE

1.1 What is Fly That Flag?
Fly that Flag is an online GameSpot Tournament for the Halo 3 game on the Xbox 360 system. The Tournament will have thirty-two (32) teams consisting of four (4) players each playing in Multi flag mode. The two final teams will compete live on GameSpot Tournament TV for $1,000 worth of prizes.

1.2 What are the prizes for the winners?
1st Place: Each member of the first-place team will receive one (1) $200 gift card for Best Buy.
2nd Place: Each member of the second-place team will receive one (1) $50 gift card for Best Buy.

1.3 When is the Tournament?
Registration for the Tournament begins April 2, 2008, and closes on April 7, 2008. All participants must sign up for a player slot during the sign-up period. Participants cannot be added at any time outside of the registration window. The Tournament matches will begin on April 7, 2008, and end on April 11, 2008.

1.4 What is the Tournament schedule? Below is the complete Tournament schedule. If you have registered for the Tournament, you can verify the date and time of your next match by visiting My Headquarters.

Qualifying Round

Monday - April 7, 2008
Match 1 - 11:30 a.m. PT
Match 2 - 12:00 p.m. PT
Match 3 - 12:30 p.m. PT
Match 4 - 1:00 a.m. PT
Match 5 - 1:30 p.m. PT
Match 6 - 2:00 p.m. PT
Match 7 - 2:30 p.m. PT
Match 8 - 3:00 p.m. PT
Match 9 - 3:30 p.m. PT
Match 10 - 4:00 p.m. PT
Match 11 - 4:30 p.m. PT
Match 12 - 5:00 p.m. PT
Match 13 - 5:30 p.m. PT
Match 14 - 6:00 p.m. PT
Match 15 - 6:30 p.m. PT
Match 16 - 7:00 p.m. PT

Preliminary Round

Tuesday - April 8, 2008
Match 1 - 12:00 p.m. PT
Match 2 - 1:00 p.m. PT
Match 3 - 2:00 p.m. PT
Match 4 - 3:00 p.m. PT
Match 5 - 4:00 p.m. PT
Match 6 - 5:00 p.m. PT
Match 7 - 6:00 p.m. PT
Match 8 - 7:00 p.m. PT

Quarterfinals Round

Wednesday - April 9, 2008
Match 1 - 4:00 p.m. PT
Match 2 - 5:00 p.m. PT
Match 3 - 6:00 p.m. PT
Match 4 - 7:00 p.m. PT

Semifinals Round

Thursday - April 10, 2008
Match 1 - 5:00 p.m. PT
Match 2 - 7:00 p.m. PT

Finals
Match starts at 8:00 p.m. PT

IMPORTANT: One player from each team must send Halo 3 gameplay footage to the GameSpot Admins on Thursday April 10. Read section 6.14 for further details.

Friday - April 11, 2008
Tournament TV
Live Broadcast of the Finals start at 4:00 p.m. PT

1.5 Do I have the option to choose my time slot after the Qualifying round?
To keep the Tournament process consistent, you will not be able to pick a time slot after your confirmed team plays in the qualifying round.

2.1 Who can sign up for the Tournament?
The Tournament is open to GameSpot Total Access subscribers. Players must be seventeen (17) years of age or older and a resident of the 50 United States (including the District of Columbia) or Canada (excluding the province of Quebec). For further information about GameSpot's residency requirements for this Tournament, please go to question 2.3 of this FAQ.

2.2 What are the technical requirement to participate?
Here is a breakdown of what you need to participate:

• Xbox 360 with hard drive
• Halo 3 retail game for the Xbox 360
• Stable internet connection
• Active Xbox Live Gold account with gamertag.
• Two (2) available slots on your Xbox Live friends list

2.3 Why is this Tournament for U.S. and Canadian residents only?
Because each country has its own laws regarding sweepstakes, tournaments, and contests, we can include only US and Canadian residents (other than residents of Quebec) for this specific event. Regarding Quebec residents in particular, this province has very stringent rules governing the types of tournaments, contests, and sweepstakes that occur in Quebec (or which residents of Quebec can participate). These include required filing fees, French-translated documents, and certain documentation, which would be overly burdensome for CNET Networks to provide for our events. Each Tournament may have different requirements, so stay tuned for future events.

2.4 Anything else I should know about before I sign-up?
(a) When registration opens, sign up on the GameSpot Web site for a team. There will be thirty-two (32) team rosters to choose from and four (4) total player slots on each team. Wait-list slots are also available at the time of registration.

(b) Tournament registration will require that you use your GameSpot username and will request that you enter your gamertag. Here are some helpful suggestions to consider prior to registration.
- Decide which team you want to join before registration opens
- Discuss with potential teammates the time you want to play in your preliminary match
- Plan ahead with your potential teammates to sign up together when registration opens
- Choose a particular team number and time slot

(c) There are no "group sign-ups." Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you and your friends would like to be on the same team, we advise that you plan ahead and sign up together when registration opens.

(d) The GameSpot Admins will be present in the game. However, after you have played your match, please confirm your score with the GameSpot Admins via the GameSpot Tournament chat room. This will ensure that they report the accurate score for your match.

2.5 What are the requirements in order to receive a Tournament emblem?
In order to receive a tournament participation emblem, all players are required to show up for roll call and participate in a match. If a player cannot connect to a game for their match, or they do not play in a match for the duration of the tournament, they will not be eligible for the tournament emblem.

3.1 Can I use a name other than my GameSpot profile user name?
The name you register under on the Tournament page is your GameSpot username. This is tied to your GameSpot registered account, and you must have this to register. Once you register, you will insert your Xbox Live gamertag on the Tournament page.

3.2 I've registered for the Tournament. What do I do next?
You will receive an e-mail confirming your registration and time slot. The e-mail will also contain instructions for your next match. Read section 6.1 for more details about the check-in process.

3.3 What should I do after I have registered for a timeslot?
Keep an eye on your time slot at all times until registration closes. If anyone withdraws from your time slot, make sure you have wait-list players before registration closes. Post a message in the GameSpot Tournaments forum for other players to join your time slot. Wait-list players are also considered substitutes and will be allowed to replace players during the Tournament, provided that a player is not able to compete in a match or round. Please note: When a substitute replaces a player registered for a match, the player's rights to the tournament are transferred to the substitute player.

3.4 If I am put on the waiting list, how will I know if I am able to get in the Tournament?
You will receive an e-mail stating that you are able to participate. Given that many Tournament players do not show up for their matches, you should always show up and sign in during roll call for the time slot requested, even if you are only on the waiting list. This will ensure you maximum visibility to GameSpot Admins who may be seeking a replacement for your time slot. Note: When you check in, make sure to join the GameSpot Tournament chat room and let the GameSpot Admins know you are there. There are situations when GameSpot Admins are looking for replacements in the GameSpot Tournament chat room but the replacements are unavailable. If you want to participate, the best thing for you to do is be available.

3.5 When do I designate a team leader?
Once you have registered for a time slot, use the "vote for leader" option in GameSpot My Headquarters. Your designated leader will continue to set up your team structure and will be the single point of contact for GameSpot to communicate with your team. Note: It is not required that all players choose a leader, but the ones who do are more likely to get a leader they desire. If players from a team do not vote for a leader, a leader will be automatically assigned.

4.1 What should I know about the format?
A match will be played in Multi flag mode. The match will be played as a best-of-three game round format. Each game round will last 15 minutes.

4.2 What are the server settings?
Gametype - Multi flag
Invite Only - Yes
Captures to Win - 3
Number of Flags - Multiple
CTF Settings - default

Weapons & Vehicles settings
Primary Weapon: Battle Rifle
Secondary Weapon: Assault Rifle
Weapons on Map: map default
Grenades on Map: map default
Vehicle Set: Map default
Indestructible vehicles: disabled
Customer Powerups traits: default

general settings:
Number of rounds - 1
Time Limit - 30 minutes
Base Player Traits - radar turned off*
Respawn Settings - default

*Note about radar setting: This setting can be found under Motion Tracker mode with the option turned off.

match definitions
MATCH - 3 captures or the 30 minute time limit expires .

WIN - A win can occur in two different ways. The team to score 3 captures or the team with the most captures after the time expires wins the match.

TIE - In the event of a tie, another game will be created with a time limit of 10 minutes. The team to capture once in the time frame wins the match.

Teams will compete on the map as specified below.

Qualifier round - The Pit map
Preliminary - Narrows map
Quarterfinals - Standoff map*
Semi finals - Valhalla map
Finals - The Pit map
*Note: Standoff requires the free Halo 3 mappack. Players must download the mappack through Xbox Live's Marketplace.

4.3 Is there a losers' bracket?
There will not be a losers' bracket in this Tournament.

4.4 What if I don't like the Tournament format?
If you have questions regarding the match format, you should e-mail them to gameadmin@gamespot.com. However, be advised that a lot of people will want to play in the Tournament. If you do not like the Tournament format as published, you should not register, and you should leave the slot free for those interested in playing in the Tournament as described.

4.5 What other restrictions are there?
(a) Any disorderly behavior disqualifies players from participation, finals, or prizes. GameSpot Admins are the final arbiters in all situations, and they have the final say in every situation; this includes the GameSpot Tournament chat room. Please refrain from using harassing, negative, or profane language in the GameSpot Tournament chat room and the game instance.

(b) No cheats or hacks of any kind are to be used. Players will be disqualified if they are caught using any cheat or third-party "helper" applications.

(c) Taking advantage of known exploits in the game is also considered cheating. Exploits in the game could be a variety of things, such as bugs that let you hide under obstacles or objects in the game to gain invulnerability. If a GameSpot Admin finds that you are cheating, you will be disqualified from the Tournament immediately with no recourse for yourself.

(d) These rules are subject to change at any time. If any changes to the rules occur, you will be notified through e-mail, there will be a post on the Tournament news page, and there will be a Tournament forum thread. Depending on the circumstance, a time stamp will also be on any Web pages that have been revised.

4.6 Will there be a seeding process?
No, the Tournament will not have a seeding method. Scheduled matches will be automatically determined as current matches are played, so choose your time slot wisely.

5.1 What is a roster?
A roster is formed when a group of individuals register and fill up a time slot in a GameSpot Tournament. Members of the team may or may not already know each other. A person who is on the waiting list for a team has the opportunity to join if someone from the team does not show up for or cannot attend a particular match. To practice or discuss strategies, the team has the capability of communicating through GameSpot's My Headquarters. Wait-list players can be called upon by the team leader at any time during the event as substitutes.

5.2 What is the difference between a wait-list player and a substitute player?
GameSpot treats wait-list players and substitutes as the same. Substitutes will be allowed to replace players during the Tournament, provided that a player cannot compete in a match.

5.3 Can players swap out of a match with substitute players?
When a substitute replaces a player on the roster, this removes the rostered player's rights to the team. A substitute who is added to the roster is then considered a confirmed teammate. This means that the new replacement has all rights to continue the Tournament, and the teammate removed no longer has these rights. If a player is removed from a roster, the player can join another team as a substitute. However, a player from a team that is eliminated in the Tournament is not allowed to join another team as a substitute thereafter. If any teammate harasses a new replacement from the roster, Tournament staff must become involved and must be notified by the new replacement. However, freely swapping out players isn't beneficial for a team. If your team wins the final match, only the players on the current roster will be able to receive a prize. No substitutes/wait-list players or former confirmed players will be eligible for any prizes, even if they played all matches during the Tournament except the final match.

5.4 How do I vote for a team leader?
Once you have registered for a time slot, use the "vote for leader" option in GameSpot My Headquarters. Your designated leader will continue to set up your team structure and will be the single point of contact for GameSpot to communicate with your team. Note: It is not required that all players choose a leader, but the ones who do are more likely to get a leader they desire. If players from a team do not vote for a leader, a leader will be automatically assigned.

5.5 How do I request a team name change?
Teams will initially be named using the team number until the team leaders have contacted the GameSpot Admins at gameadmin@gamespot.com with their preferred team name, which we will use as the team name for the Tournament. Requests for a team name change in the GameSpot Tournament chat room may be overlooked by the GameSpot Admins since they are occupied with running matches on schedule. If a team fails to provide the GameSpot Admins with a team name by the start of the competition, the GameSpot Admin has the right to name the team whatever is fitting or appropriate.

5.6 What should I do if a player on my roster has not answered my private messages?
GameSpot recommends that each team determine a communication method to discuss strategies, practice together, and work out team roster details. If a player has not been communicating with you since you or the player registered for the time slot, contact the GameSpot Admins via e-mail at gameadmin@gamespot.com. It is also best to have several players sign up as wait-list players during registration in the event that a rostered player does not communicate with the team or show for a scheduled match

6.1 What should I expect to happen for my scheduled match?
(a) ROLL CALL: Contestants will sign in for roll call by using the My Headquarters tab. A Contestant can check in for roll call one (1) hour prior to their scheduled match.

(b) JOIN TOURNAMENT CHAT ROOM: After checking in for roll call, Contestants will join the GameSpot Tournament chat room at least 15 (fifteen) minutes before the match begins. Disqualification for being late is at the sole discretion of the GameSpot Admins. It is important that all participants be ready and prepared before their match begins. GameSpot cannot make exceptions for participants who are unprepared.

(c) ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS IN TOURNAMENT CHAT ROOM: Once you have joined the GameSpot Tournament chat room, you will receive additional instructions from the GameSpot Admins. After the match has concluded, all communications and functions will rest solely on the designated Contestants. GameSpot assumes no responsibility for any actions or situations that arise with any Contestant after the Tournament has ended.

(d) JOIN A MATCH: In order for the GameSpot Admin to invite you to the match, you must add the GameSpot Admin's Xbox Live gamertag to your friends list. It is advised that you log in to Xbox Live at least one hour prior to your match and accept or invite the GameSpot Admin Xbox Live gamertag. Note: You can find the GameSpot Admin's Xbox Live gamertag by going to My Headquarters. If you do not see a Xbox Live gamertag, then ask the GameSpot Admin in the GameSpot Tournament chat room. Be sure you have at least two available slots on your friends list prior to the match.

We have an automated roll call system that will let you sign in to notify us of your arrival. The earliest you can check in is 60 minutes before your time slot. If you are on the waiting list, you will also need to sign in through My Headquarters to let us know you are available.

6.3 How do I check in for my next match?
To participate, you must check in at least 15 minutes before your assigned time slot. To check in, make sure you are logged in to GameSpot.com, then simply visit the My Headquarters page in the Tournament area and click on the "Check in" button to let us know that you're ready to play. You'll then see instructions on how to enter the GameSpot Tournament chat room or roll call. Late arrivals and no-shows will give up their time slots to those on the waiting list. NO EXCEPTIONS! Official GameSpot Admins will be identified by the green font to their name in the GameSpot Tournament chat room.

6.4 What type of servers will I play on?
GameSpot will not provide any server functionality during this Tournament, since it is played through the Xbox Live matchmaking system. GameSpot is not responsible for lag, connectivity issues, or anything else related to your online experience during this Tournament.

6.5 Do I have to be in an already formed clan to sign up in this Tournament?
There is one GameSpot subscription per individual. Therefore, each clan mate who wishes to participate in a GameSpot Tournament must sign up for a monthly or annual GameSpot Total Access or Plus subscription. For more information about how teams are formed, read 5. TEAMS, ROSTERS AND SUBSITUTES listed above.

6.6 Will players get a chance to warm up before their match?
No. The private match will be created 15 minutes before the match begins. At this time, the GameSpot Admins will have roll call. There is no warm-up time, so practice plenty before you accept the game invite.

6.7 What happens if my opponents do not show up for a match?
If your team does not consist of at least four (4) players for any given match, and there are no substitutes available, you and your team will be disqualified from the Tournament. Therefore it is extremely important that you communicate and practice with your team and ensure you are communicating with all substitutes in case a teammate cannot show up for a match. Be advised that if your team is disqualified due to no-show players, the GameSpot Admin will attempt to find room for you on another team's roster if you so desire. However, GameSpot cannot guarantee a slot for those who have been disqualified because their teammates failed to show up.

6.8 Are no-shows during the final match still eligible for the prize?
If you do not show up and participate in the final Tournament match, you will not be eligible for the prize.

6.9 If I do not show up for a match, can I still play in the finals if my team is still competing
We encourage all players to play during their assigned matches. However, when a substitute replaces a player on the roster, this removes the rostered player's rights to the roster.

6.10 If I get disconnected, may a substitute take my place?
If your team does not consist of at least three (3) players for any given match, and there are no substitutes available, you and your team will be disqualified from the Tournament. Therefore it is extremely important that you communicate and practice with your team and ensure you are communicating with all substitutes in case a teammate cannot show up for a match. Be advised that if your team is disqualified due to no-show players, the GameSpot Admin will attempt to find room for you on another team's roster if you so desire. However, GameSpot cannot guarantee a slot for those who have been disqualified because their teammates failed to show up.

6.11 Can I use Xbox Live's text or voice chat?
Yes, you may use Xbox Live’s built-in voice functionality. Any misuse of Xbox Live voice chat as described elsewhere in this FAQ, such as using profane language or communicating gameplay information to members of the opposing team, will result in the offending player's disqualification.

6.12 What happens if I make it into the later rounds but don't show up on time?
If you want to be a part of this competition, attendance and timeliness are required. If you do not show up on time for a scheduled match, you will be disqualified and ineligible to win any prizes. An opponent scheduled to face a disqualified player (one who did not show up or was otherwise disqualified) will be granted a win for the match.

6.13 Can I get a copy of the GameSpot video records of my match?
We cannot create match footage for any events other than the finals, which are always archived and available for download after the event has concluded. Please do not ask GameSpot Admins for copies of the video footage from your match, because it is not possible for them to make this available to you at this time.

6.14 I won the semifinals match, how do I save my match recording to send gameplay footage for Tournament TV?
One player from each team is required to take the following steps to find your gameplay footage, which is known in Halo 3 as Film:

• Load Halo 3 game
• Choose the THEATRE option
• The START FILM option will be highlighted by scroll up and choose FILM: MULTI FLAG
• Under the SELECT FILM screen, choose RECENT FILMS and click the X button to save the match.
Take the following steps to send your gameplay footage to the GameSpot Admins via Xbox Live:
• Go back to the SELECT FILM as specified above, click on the FILE SHARE option
• Under the FILE SHARE choose the first slot and click select (A button)
• You will be taken to the WHAT DO YOU WANT TO SHARE screen, click the FILM option
• You will be taken to the SHARE FILM screen, choose your most recent match played and click select (A button), and click select again. You will be taken to another screen, you will want to you will want to RECOMMEND TO FRIEND, and the GameSpot Admin gamertag that hosted your match.

7.1 How are you preventing players from cheating?
GameSpot Admins will be monitoring gameplay from within the instance and will record to video any questionable actions by players for review after the match is concluded.

7.2 How do I report someone breaking the rules?
Should you have any dispute with the results of the match, the way it was handled, or any administration issue with the method in which the match was carried out, the rules or the actual event itself, you have 48 hours from the end of the final match to submit your query. Your inquiry should include the following:

• Why you are disputing the match
• Other players involved in the dispute
• The performance you have a problem with
• Any accompanying recording, and any other pertinent data or proof to corroborate your claim. Any dispute requests must be sent to gameadmin@gamespot.com. Dispute requests received 48 hours or more after a final event has closed will be disregarded.