Recently while reading the HeroClix Comprehensive Tournament Rules for the first time, I came across a number of “ah-has” and points that served as reinforcement for what I may have known but needed to be reminded of.
As I write this, we are in the midst of the Infinity Gauntlet organized play. The competition level at most tournament venues is elevated in pursuit of sought after prizes. Considering this there were points made in the tournament rules guide that stood out to me regarding how players should behave in a formal tournament setting.
1.2.13 Information: All information that is part of a HeroClix tournament once it begins is public information, except information on any dial not visible in the current slot, and any information specifically indicated as non-public by game rules, tournament rules, or in-game abilities.
I frequently express this to newer players. Never hesitate to ask to see your opponents cards for the pieces you are unfamiliar with. Even being an experienced player, if I have even the slightest of doubts about what a character is capable of, I ask to see their card. Same goes for feats or special objects.
1.2.13.1 Spectators or players who are not involved in a match cannot interrupt the match to ask about any information, public or otherwise.
This is huge. How many times have you been in a game and a spectator interrupts you or your opponent to start interjecting questions about what characters can or cannot do? The time gets eaten away. Frustration kicks in.
Notice though that this line says “cannot interrupt the match to ask about any information, public or otherwise.” I think we should take this a step further and add “or to coach a player.”
I will never forget being in a tournament in which I was really interested in the prize. I was playing Onslaught and it was near the end of the time limit. He had been knocked to his last click with the Heroic Sacrifice sp. At this point a sideline observer who had already finished their game proceeds to point out to my opponent that he could KO one of his two remaining characters and win the game.
Now, if my opponent had asked me to review Onslaught’s card when he saw the SP come up, I would have been 1000X ok with him figuring it out and winning the game. But the point is an outsider to the match ended up causing me to lose when otherwise I would have been 3-0 winning the prize I wanted and was playing for.
This is not to be a hard ass. Remember, I’m talking about formal tournaments. We don’t get “time outs” to huddle with a coach in HeroClix. In a casual game, yes, of course coach each other. Of course we should help new players learn the ropes. But give pointers and suggestions after the round ends in a tournament. Don’t do it as a spectator during a game.
1.2.13.2 Figures which may be brought into the game after the game begins are permitted in the play area, but such figures must remain on a click with no combat values.
A minor point maybe but a point none the less. Now that I know, I will apply it when using AEs, Punisher swap, Beast Boy morph or Battlefield Promotion characters.
1.2.13.3 Electronic devices, such as cell phones or tablet PCs, are not permitted in the play area and should be put away.
I can see the many ways smart phones, iPads and lap tops can make a judge’s job much easier. But they should be used by the judge, not players once the game begins.
Keep your smartphone in your pocket. Resist the temptation of a phone app reminding you how many clicks are left on your tent pole to aid you in decision-making. Even if you say “I’d never do such a thing,” if it weren’t a “thing” then it probably wouldn’t be an excerpt in the tournament guide. You may say “but I want to check fb or email while I’m waiting for my opponent to decide his actions.” Why even put doubt in a fellow players mind?
Anyone who knows me will tell you I value fun and fellowship over competition in this game. But I feel that all of us should respect fellow players and act accordingly in a tournament setting. Wether the prize for the event is of interest to us or not, for someone else it may be.
Northwest Clix 