Fight or Flight
FAQ GUIDE

1.1 What is Fight or Flight?
Fight or Flight is an online GameSpot Tournament for the Super Smash Bros. Brawl retail game on the Nintendo Wii system. The Tournament will have two hundred forty three (243) players. Three players will compete in person at the GameSpot studios on Tournament TV for $1,000 worth of prizes.

1.2 What are the prizes for the winners?
Three players from the Semifinals round will each receive a travel package to San Francisco, Calif., to participate in the live taping of the final showdown.

First Place: The first-place winner in the finals will receive one (1) $700 gift card for Best Buy.
Second Place: The second-place winner in the finals will receive one (1) $250 gift card for Best Buy.
Third Place: The third-place winner in the finals will receive one (1) $50 gift card for Best Buy.

1.3 When is the Tournament?
Registration for the Tournament begins May 7, 2008 and closes May 12, 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 May 12, 2008 and end May 23, 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.

Elimination Round 1 (243 players participate)

Monday, May 12, 2008
Match 1 - 11:00 p.m. PDT
Match 2 - 11:00 p.m. PDT
Match 3 - 11:30 p.m. PDT
Match 4 - 11:30 p.m. PDT
Match 5 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 6 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 7 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 8 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 9 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 10 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 11 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 12 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 12 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 14 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 15 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 16 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 17 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 18 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 19 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 20 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 21 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 21 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 22 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 23 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 24 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 25 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 26 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 27 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 28 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 29 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 30 - 6:30 p.m. PDT
Match 32 - 6:30 p.m. PDT
Match 32 - 6:30 p.m. PDT

Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Match 33 - 11:00 p.m. PDT
Match 34 - 11:00 p.m. PDT
Match 35 - 11:30 p.m. PDT
Match 36 - 11:30 p.m. PDT
Match 37 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 38 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 39 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 40 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 41 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 42 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 43 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 44 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 45 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 46 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 47 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 48 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 49 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 50 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 51 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 52 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 53 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 54 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 55 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 56 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 57 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 58 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 59 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 60 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 61 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 62 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 63 - 6:30 p.m. PDT
Match 64 - 6:30 p.m. PDT

Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Match 65 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 66 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 67 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 68 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 69 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 70 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 71 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 72 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 73 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 74 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 75 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 76 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 77- 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 78 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 79 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 80 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 81 - 6:30 p.m. PDT

Elimination Round 2 (81 players participate)

Thursday, May 15, 2008
Match 1 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 2 - 12:00 p.m. PDT
Match 3 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 4 - 12:30 p.m. PDT
Match 5 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 6 - 1:00 p.m. PDT
Match 7 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 8 - 1:30 p.m. PDT
Match 9 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 10 - 2:00 p.m. PDT
Match 11 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 12 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 13 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 14 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 15 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 16 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
Match 17 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 18 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 19 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 20 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 21 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 22 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
Match 23 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 24 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 25 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 26 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 27 - 6:30 p.m. PDT

Quarterfinals (27 players participate)
(Two matches held in one day)

Friday, May 16, 2008
Match 1 - 2:30 p.m. PDT
Match 2 - 3:00 p.m. PDT
Match 3 - 3:30 p.m. PDT
(Note: winners from Matches 1-3 play in Semifinals match 1 hour later)
Match 4 - 4:00 p.m. PDT
Match 5 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 6 - 5:00 p.m. PDT
(Note: winners from Matches 4-6 play in Semifinals match 1 hour later)
Match 7 - 5:30 p.m. PDT
Match 8 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 9 - 6:30 p.m. PDT
(Note: winners from Matches 7-9 play in Semifinals match 1 hour later)

Semifinals (9 players participate)

Friday, May 16, 2008
Match 1 - 4:30 p.m. PDT
Match 2 - 6:00 p.m. PDT
Match 3 - 7:30 p.m. PDT

Finals

Friday, May 23, 2008

Tournament TV Match starts at 4:00 p.m. PDT * (3 players participate)

* Note: For the Final Showdown, three players will be flown to the GameSpot studios in San Francisco to compete live on air for the top prize. During the final match, we plan to start promptly at 4:00 p.m. PT, and we expect the match to be played within a reasonable schedule. However, exact start times may vary based on the needs of the live GameSpot Tournament TV broadcast.

Should any of the three players from the Semifinals round not be eligible or able to attend the live taping of Tournament TV, a player from the Semifinals match will be chosen based on such player’s score in the Semifinals. The travel prize package will be awarded to the players with the highest scores in the Semifinals round available to attend. Should none of the contestants in the Semifinals be available to attend the Final Showdown, contestants from the prior rounds will be chosen based on their scores from that round.

1.5 Do I have the option to choose my time slot after the Elimination round?
To keep the Tournament process consistent, you will not be able to pick a time slot after you have played in the Elimination round.

2.1 Who can sign up for the Tournament?
The Tournament is open to Free Registered users. You must be eighteen (18) years of age or older and a legal resident of one of the 50 United States (including the District of Columbia). 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?

• Nintendo Wii system
• Super Smash Bros. Brawl retail game
• Wi-fi Internet connection
• Two (2) available slots on Wii Friends list

2.3 Why is this Tournament for US residents only?
Because each country has its own laws regarding sweepstakes, tournaments, and contests, we can only include the US for this specific event. Each tournament may have different requirements, so stay tuned for future events.

2.4 Is there anything else I should know before I sign up?
(a) When registration opens, sign up on the Tournament web page. There will be two hundred forthy three (243) total player slots available to choose from. Wait-list slots are also available at the time of registration.

(b) Tournament registration will require that you use your GameSpot username, your Wii SSBB code (12 digit number) and your Brawl name (5 characters).

(c) Sign-up is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you and your friends would like to join a time slot, we advise that you plan ahead and sign up when registration opens.

(d) One GameSpot Admin will be present in the game. After the match has started, the GameSpot Admin will suicide the character and then become a spectator for the match.

(e) The GameSpot Admin will be utilizing The Ice Climbers character in the game. Do NOT choose this character when playing in a match. If a player is found playing this character in the game, they may be removed and disqualified from the 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 for the Tournament. Once you register, you will insert your Wii SSBB code and Brawl name 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 a time slot is not available, register as a wait-list player. 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 no-show player for a match, the player's rights 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.

4.1 What should I know about the format?
Each match will consist of three players facing off in a Free for All game format. The last player standing in the game will move on to the next Tournament round. If a tie occurs, the game will change to sudden death mode. Players will play until a winner is determined for the match.

4.2 What are the Tournament settings?
Game Type: Brawl
Number of Players: 3 (game will be set to 4 players to include the GameSpot Admin)
Time Limit: none
Stock (number of lives): 5
Handicap: Off
Damage Ratio: 1.0
Stage Choice: Choose

Items: On, however, 5 items will be excluded. These items include bomb-omb, the hammer, smart bomb, starman and golden hammer.

Pre-Finals Stages: Each player will choose the Stage they desire to play for each of the matches held from Elimination Round 1 through Semifinals round. The Stage will be randomly chosen by the game system. Players should vote for their maps wisely.

Finals Stages on Tournament TV: The stages for the finals match will be determined by GameSpot Staff.

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 How is a match formed?
A match is formed when a group of individuals register for a time slot in a GameSpot Tournament. A person who is on the waiting list for the time slot has the opportunity to join if someone from the match does not show.

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 for a match, this removes the player's rights to the Tournament. A substitute who is added to the match is then considered a confirmed player. This means that the new replacement has all rights to continue the Tournament, and the player who was removed no longer has these rights.

5.4 Can I share my SSBB code and Brawl name with other players in the Tournament chat room?
Please use the Tournament forum to share your SSBB code and Brawl name. By posting your Wii SSBB code and Brawl name in the GameSpot Tournament chatroom, you may not notice that the Admin is trying to talk to you or another player to get a match started. The GameSpot Admins may also need to help someone who does not understand the Tournament format and it will make it difficult for the new participant to get their questions answered. Please keep your discussions at a minimum during peak match hours.

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

(b) JOIN TOURNAMENT CHAT ROOM: After checking in for roll call, you will join the GameSpot Tournament chat room at least 15 minutes before the match begins.

(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.

(d) JOIN A MATCH:

In order for the GameSpot Admin to invite you to the match, you must add the GameSpot Admin's Wii SSBB code and Brawl name. It is advised that you log in to Nintendo Wii at least one hour prior to your match and accept or invite the GameSpot Admin. Note: You can find the GameSpot Admin's SSBB code and Brawl name by going to My Headquarters. If you do not see the GameSpot Admin's Wii SSBB code and Brawl name listed in My Headquarters, then ask for this information 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 of 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 because it is played through the Nintendo Wii matchmaking system. GameSpot is not responsible for lag, connectivity issues, or anything else related to your online experience during this Tournament.

6.5 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.

6.6 What happens if my opponents do not show up for a match?
If your match does not have at least two (2) players checked in for roll call at least 15 minutes before the scheduled match time, wait-list players may join the match. If there is only one (1) player checked in for a match, the GameSpot Admin will allow the player checked in for roll call to move on to the next Tournament round with a default score of 1.

6.7 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.

6.8 If you do not show up and participate in the final Tournament match, you will not be 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 Can I use voice or text chat during the match?
No, the retail game does not offer this functionality. Please use the GameSpot Tournament chat room to communicate with the GameSpot Admins and other Tournament participants.

6.10 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.

6.11 Why are there so many no-shows for the first few tournament rounds?
We expect a variety of no-show players for Elimination Round 1 through Elimination Round 2. Players who do not show give their slots to wait-list players. If there are no wait-list players for the match and only one player shows for their match, the player will move on to the next round with a default score. Some people cannot commit to the scheduled match time; all players should expect default wins for matches that happen in the first few rounds. During the Quarterfinals round, players are more likely to show for their scheduled match time. To avoid being a no-show player, commit to the time you registered for and show on time for your matches. Players are expected to show at least 15 minutes prior to their scheduled match; otherwise a waitlist player will take their slot.

6.12 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.

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 or the way it was handled, or with any administration issue regarding the method in which the match was carried out, the rules, or the actual event itself, you have 24 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 24 hours or more after a final event has closed will be disregarded.