ZLTSWC 2025

1 knowledge

1.1 Competition Rules

1. All Players and Competition Officials must read and agree to abide by the rules set out in The
   Competition Rulebook
2. Parties that do not agree to abide by these rules will not be permitted to participate in The Competition
3. Players should contact their Team Captains for all rule clarifications
4. Team Captains, Referees, and Competition Officials should contact the Head referee for all rule
   clarifications
5. The Head referee has the final decision on the interpretation and application of any and all rules
6. Referees and Team Captains should raise concerns with rules to a Competition Official or the Head referee at the earliest possible opportunity

1.2 Rule Changes

1. The Committee is charged with maintaining and developing The Competition Rulebook
2. All rules set out in The Competition Rulebook are subject to change
   a) Rules will only be changed during The Competition in extreme circumstances
   b) A Captains Meeting can be called by the Committee and the Head referee
   c) The Committee and the head referee must together pass a vote of 50% or more to call a Captains Meeting
   d) A minimum notice period of 45 minutes will apply to allow Team Captains or their nominated
   delegates to attend the Captain’s Meeting
   e) The Captains Meeting will be chaired and guided by a member of The Committee, or the head referee, or a representative delegated by The Committee
   f) After tournament start the rules can only be changed by a successful vote at a Captains Meeting
   g) A successful vote is one that receives 75% or more agreement with at least 2⁄3 of all Team Captains
   (or nominated delegates for the teams) present
   h) Only Team Captains of the Team Event may vote at a Captains Meeting
   i. A Team Captain may delegate their vote to a nominated proxy if they are unable to be present
   at the Captains Meeting
   ii. If a Team Captain or nominated delegate is not able to be present, that Team’s vote will be
   abstained
   i) If a rule change results from a Captains Meeting, all efforts will be made to inform any missing
   parties of the change as soon as possible

2 COMPETITION RULES

2.1 The Competition

1. The Competition is defined as the Zone Laser Tag European Championships in its entirety, including all events held
2. The commencement of The Competition is defined as the time of the commencement of the Opening Ceremony or an equivalent gathering
3. The conclusion of The Competition is defined as the time of conclusion of the Presentation Ceremony or an equivalent gathering

2.2 Competition Coordinator

1. The Competition Coordinator is the person nominated by the Committee to run The Competition
2. The Competition Coordinator has the right to delegate any or all of their powers to a one or more persons for a designated period of time
   a) The Competition Coordinator may impose special requirements on persons with delegated powers, such as reporting actions taken

2.3 Competition Officials

1. Competition Officials are persons nominated by the Committee to occupy and execute one or more roles in an official capacity. Roles include but are not limited to:
   a) Tournament Coordinator(s)
   b) Event Coordinator(s)
   c) Head Referees
   d) Referees
2. Competition Officials are granted varying degrees of responsibility for overseeing aspects of The
   Competition by the Competition Coordinator

2.4 Competition Fees

1. All competition fees are set by the Committee
2. Fees may change annually to account for economic factors

2.5 Set-up and Roster

1. The set-up of The Competition will be decided by the Competition Coordinator
   a) This includes, but is not limited to: when games will be played, which teams will play, and whether seeding will be used
2. Games are decided on the combined score of the Players on a team, including swapped and spare packs and post-game penalties
3. The Competition Coordinator will create and publish the roster for The Competition, including outlining how teams will reach the grand final for each event, before The Competition commences

2.6 Teams

2.6.1 Player Home Location

1. A Player’s Home Location is defined as their normal country of residence. A player with a citizenship in a different country other to their home location might opt to play for a team from said country
2. A Player whose Home Location changes may play for their old location if they:
   a) Have played for their old location before, and
   b) Have not played for their new location in The Competition
3. Players whose Home Location changes must inform The Committee of which country they wish to play for, prior to the registration form submission deadline

2.6.2 Eligible Players

1. Eligible Players are defined as Players who:
   a) Have registered for the event before the registration period closes
   b) Have paid their competition fees in full
   c) Are not barred from participating in The Competition by The Committee or their Home Site
   d) Are European residents
   e) Meet any criteria required by the Site Operator for participation in The Competition such as age or supervision restrictions
   f) Meet the minimum age requirements set by the Tournament (12 for In-Arena events, 10 for Out-of Arena events)
2. In extenuating circumstances, The Committee may classify a Player as an Eligible Player even though one or more of these conditions is not met

2.6.3 Unaffiliated Players

1. Unaffiliated Players are defined as Players who wish to compete, and either:
   a) Have exhausted all options for playing on a team within their Home country, or
   b) Are not European residents
2. Unaffiliated Players may play for a team that is not associated with their Home country at the discretion of The Committee
3. Unaffiliated Players must make themselves known to The Committee and will be given a list of teams that they are eligible to play for
   a) The list should be returned to The Committee in order of preference in a timely manner in order to allow time for discussions regarding placement
   b) Unaffiliated Players may not receive their first preference
4. When assigning Unaffiliated Players to a team, The Committee will prioritise:
   a) Improving weak teams over adding strong Players to historically strong teams
   b) Assigning Unaffiliated Players to teams débuting from a new country
5. Unaffiliated Players allocated to a team in The Competition are not considered to have changed their Home country for any purpose, including the purpose of playing for that team again at a future competition

2.6.4 Team Affiliation and Approval

1. Teams must consist of Players who:
   a) Are Eligible Players, and
   b) Have the same Home country, citizenship or are assigned to the team by The Committee
   c) Individual Players or Teams may be exempt from some or all of these criteria if an exemption is
   made by The Committee
2. Teams must meet requirements set out in the registration process. Examples include:
   a) A minimum Player count
   b) Referee submissions

2.6.5 Team Captains

1. A Team Captain is the official representative of their team for The Competition
2. Team Captains are expected to understand the wording and intent of the rules, and convey this
   information to their teams
3. All communication to a team by Competition Officials will be carried out via the Team Captain
4. If a message is communicated to a team via the Team Captain, it is assumed that all members of that team have received the message
5. Team Captains may register a delegate to act on their behalf in the event that they are not present. A Team Captain must inform the Competition Coordinator of any delegates that they wish to register

3 GENERAL RULES

3.1 Substitute Players

3.1.1 Substitute Registration

1. Substitute Players may only be registered on a team if the format allows it
2. Teams are not required to register Substitute Players
3. If a team does not register any Substitute Players, and a Player in that team is unable to continue playing due to injury or circumstances beyond their control that team will not be provided with a Substitute Player

3.1.2 Use of Substitute Players

1. Substitute Players may be used if registered on the team, and the format allows it
2. Players are not permitted to swap between teams after an event has started
   a) The Committee and/or Competition Coordinator may provide an exemption to this rule at their
   discretion under extraordinary circumstances
3. Players may not be substituted once a game has started
4. If a game is restarted, a team may not use a Substitute Player in the replayed game unless that Player
   was removed from the game due an injury
   a) If the game is replayed more than twice the teams are allowed to use a Substitute Player.
   b) If a team uses a Substitute Player too early, that players score will count as -2000 in the game
   (0 points + a termination)

3.2 Game Start

3.2.1 Procedures and Responsibilities

1. Responsibility lies with Players to know when they are scheduled to play
2. Competition Officials will make their best efforts to communicate changes in the schedule to all
   participants involved
3. Games may start up to 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled start time, with or without all Players present
4. If a team involved in a game will have less than the required number of team members, they must make this known to the Event Coordinator. The Event Coordinator will inform opposing teams accordingly
5. If a team is missing more than 1 player from the game, their team score will be zero (0), but automatically ranked last, even in potential negative scores by other teams

3.2.2 Entry

1. Players must make their way immediately to the Briefing Room when their game is called
2. From the calling of the game into the kit-up room, Players will have thirty seconds to kit-up before the game starts
3. In a game with teams, where a team has more than the allowed number of Players for that game format:
   a) All Players on that Team are permitted to enter the Briefing Room
   b) Players on that Team that are sitting out for that game must not enter the kit-up room or the arena, with the exception of game series such as finals or similar

3.2.3 Forfeit and Late Entry

1. A Player is considered to have forfeited a game if:
   a) They have not entered the kit-up area before the game pre-start time has started
   b) They are not in the arena when the game has started, and the game format does not allow late
   entry
2. If a Player forfeits a game, that Player:
   a) will receive a Zero Score, but ranked last after any potential negative scores by other players
   b) will not be permitted to enter the game
3. A Player is considered to have entered a game late if:
   a) They are not in the designated starting location before the game pre-start time has elapsed
4. Players are only permitted to enter a game late if:
   a) The game format allows late entry, and
   b) The Player has not had access to the scoreboard, and
   c) The Player has not been informed of the scores from other sources
5. If a game format allows late entry, Players who enter the game late will receive a Level 1 Warning
   penalty from a referee before they are allowed to enter
6. Any Player that does not report to a Competition Official before entering the arena late will receive a Zero Score and ranked last, after any potential negative scores from other players

3.3 Player Score in case of pack changes

1. A Player’s Game Score will be the combined score of all packs that Player has used, unless otherwise defined
2. A player is allowed to change a malfunctioning pack, but only under the supervision of a referee
   a If there is access to the scoreboard from the kit-up room a player is not allowed to walk into the
   room, instead a referee will bring a new pack and take the malfunctioning pack out of the game
   area

3.4 Injuries

1. In the event that a Player suffers an injury requiring immediate treatment, they should exit the arena if they are able and it is safe for them to do so.
2. A Player must not continue playing if they:
   a) Have lost consciousness for any period of time
   b) Are aware that they are bleeding, and that their blood may contact or transfer to other Players, laser tag equipment, or arena surfaces including walls and floors.
   c) A referee may direct a player who has sustained an injury that comes under section 3.4.3 to leave the arena. Players that do not follow the directions of referees will be subject to penalties.
3. An Injured Player who is not able to safely exit the arena and requires assistance should call for a
   referee or ask a nearby Player to get a referee.
   a) All other Players should continue to play if it is safe to do so, unless told otherwise.
4. If an Injured Player has had treatment applied before the game ends and it is safe for them to continue playing, the Player may re-enter the game as long as normal re-entry conditions including those under
   7.2.2 (Leaving and Re-Entering the Game) are satisfied.
5. A Substitute Player may not take the place of an Injured Player during an active game.
6. A Substitute Player may take the place of an Injured Player if a game is replayed and substitutes are permitted in that game format.
7. If an Injured Player affects the game, the Competition Coordinator will decide if a game will stand or be replayed.

3.5 Tied Games

1. Where a tie affects qualification of Players and/or teams for a later round, all tied Players and/or teams affected by the tie and qualification criterion should progress through.
   a) The Competition Coordinator has the right to cancel or modify the application of this rule in extreme circumstances.
2. Victory Points will be shared equally between the teams and positions that are tied in Team games occurring during the Round Robin or Cascade rounds, and in Lord of the Rings games occurring prior to the Grand Final.
3. Where a tie occurs in a System D game, the teams that are tied should place in the same order that they were in on the ladder before playing that game.
4. Where a tie occurs in a Grand Final, the tie will be resolved in the following order:
   a) The team that won the most games in the grand final series
   b) If still equal, the team that finished second in the most games in the grand final series
   c) If still equal, the team with the highest average score from its 2 highest scoring games in the grand final series.
   d) If still equal, then the team that entered into the grand final in a higher position.,

3.6 Referee Rulings and Appeals

1. All Referee rulings made within the scope of The Competition Rulebook are final and will not be
   overturned.
   a) Under extraordinary circumstances, if an applied penalty contradicts The Competition Rulebook, the Competition Coordinator and Head referee has the right and ability to reverse a penalty.
   b) Penalties will only be reversed at the Competition Coordinator’s and or Head referee’s discretion.
   c) The Competition Coordinator or Head referee is not required to address any penalty overturn
   request.
2. Team Captains should register concerns over a ruling with the Competition Coordinator or Head referee. This feedback will be used to resolve any ambiguity over the ruling and prevent future issues from arising.

4 EQUIPMENT

4.1 General

1. A Player who commences play and gains a score with an incorrect color pack will have a Level 2
   Termination applied to their Game Score at the end of play.
2. Players will receive a Zero Score for all points that they have accrued and/or lost when playing with an incorrect color pack.
3. If it becomes known to a Player that they are playing with an incorrect color pack, they must change to a correct color pack immediately.
4. If there are no correct color packs available, the Head Referee is permitted to change a pack color for that game.
5. If a Player destroys a base while wearing an incorrect color pack, swaps packs, and subsequently
   destroys the same base again, that Player will receive a Zero Score for all points that they have accrued and/or lost across the entire game.
6. If a Player is removed from the game for any reason, that Player’s pack will remain dormant for the remainder of that game.
7. If any equipment is removed from the game for any reason, that equipment will remain dormant for the remainder of that game.
8. If two or more full Teams play with incorrect color packs, then those Teams will receive:
   a) A Zero Score for the entire game, and
   b) A ranking equivalent to last place

4.2 Player Equipment

4.2.1 Faults

1. Players with faulty equipment should report the fault to a designated Competition Official immediately after the game, briefly describing the issue.
2. If a Referee suspects that a Player’s equipment is faulty resulting in a disadvantage to that Player, the Referee should alert the Player to the possible problem.
3. If a Referee suspects that a Player’s equipment is faulty resulting in an advantage to that Player, they should notify the Competition Coordinator or Event Coordinator immediately.
4. If a Referee sees that a Player’s equipment is faulty and that fault may cause damage to the equipment or a person, they must notify the Player and escort that them to exchange the faulty equipment without delay.

4.2.2 Replacements

1. Where replacement equipment is available, it will be provided to Players as quickly as possible.
2. Points will not be awarded to a Player for time lost while obtaining replacements.
3. If a Player destroys a Base in a game more than the maximum number of times allowed as stated in the
   game format, that Player will be awarded a Zero Score.

4.3 Game Unit Malfunction

1. Players must alert a Referee of a Game Unit malfunction and play on until otherwise directed.
2. A Referee alerted to a Game Unit malfunction should immediately alert the Competition Coordinator of the malfunction.
3. The Competition Coordinator will decide whether to continue or replay the game, or take any other appropriate action. Unless otherwise specified, the final score will stand.

4.4 Equipment Tampering

1. Players are not permitted to tamper with, modify, or alter any pack, game equipment, arena equipment, or any other property relating to The Competition.
2. Any adjustments to a Player’s equipment will be administered by staff on duty or designated Competition Officials.

4.5 Electronics

1. An Electronic Device is defined as a device that is or has transmission, reception, or communication abilities in any manner, including, but not limited to:
   a) Light emitting or receiving devices including portable lasers and infra-red devices
   b) Walkie-Talkies, mobile phones, “smart” devices (phones, watches, tablets), fitness trackers (e.g. “FitBits”)
   c) Image and audio capture or playback devices including Cameras and Recorders
   d) Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM, GPS, or other networking-enabled devices
2. Players and Officials are not permitted to bring Electronic Devices into the arena, unless that device is a permitted device, which includes:
   a) A prescription electronic device (such as a pacemaker or insulin pump)
   b) A stopwatch or regular wrist watch (analogue or electronic)
   c) A Game Controller for normal use by Referees and Competition Officials only
   d) Equipment that the Competition Coordinator permits (such as referee cameras)
3. Any Player inside the arena who attempts any form of unauthorized communication with any person outside the arena or the viewing area will be banned from the competition
4. These Electronic Devices rules should be read in conjunction with 7.1.4 (External Communication).

4.6 Proper Attire

4.6.1 Items of Clothing

1. Players must adhere to venue guidelines on appropriate dress at all times, including dress requirements both in and out of game play.
   a) Players not meeting venue guidelines for dress may be unable to play and may be required to leave the venue until the requirements are met.
2. Players may wear hats, jewellery, or other Items of Clothing in a game, as long as:
   a) The Items of Clothing fit appropriately, are securely fitted and will not fall off.
   b) Baseball-style caps are worn with the peak facing backwards
   c) The Items of Clothing do not pose any threat to the safety of any Player or referee, including but not limited to a collision, slipping, tangling, or tripping hazard.
3. Items of Clothing that do not meet these requirements must not be worn in game.
4. Items of Clothing worn which have the potential to block shots on a Player’s sensor or otherwise interfere and cause a penalty but are not a safety hazard may be worn, but are worn at that Player’s own risk. Examples include large hats, and shirts with collars.
5. Referees should endeavor to notify a Player of any Items of Clothing that may cause them to receive a termination at the earliest possible time, including prior to entry to the arena, where possible.
6. Players wearing Items of Clothing that caused a sensor to be blocked should be:
   a) Notified by a Referee in the instance that the covered sensor did not affect game play
   b) Issued a penalty by a Referee in the instance that the covered sensor prevented that Player from being tagged
7. Players wearing Items of Clothing that cause interference to the game other than blocking their own sensor must receive a penalty and be removed from the game until that Player’s Items of Clothing are corrected.
8. Items of Clothing that block a Player’s own sensor must be immediately corrected.
9. All attire and accessories must not be offensive in nature
   a) Any offensive imagery, symbolism or text is able to be banned from usage in The Competition
   indefinitely.
   b) Players are able to seek pre-approval for attire before The Competition by contacting The
   Committee.
   c) If Players refuse to remove attire deemed offensive by centre management or The Committee, then Players will be removed from The Competition.

4.6.2 Equipment

1. Players must wear equipment in the intended manner. This includes:
   a) Appropriately centering vests on the body
   b) Buckling all appropriate clips in the intended manner
   c) Appropriately tightening all straps so that the vest does not move

5 GAME RULES

5.1 Covering, Blocking, and Masking

5.1.1 Blocking Shots

1. Players are not permitted to use any part of their body, clothing, or equipment to intentionally or
   carelessly block another Player’s shot. This includes:
   a) Shielding themselves from an incoming shot
   a) Intercepting a shot intended for another Player, base, or other game equipment while deactivated
   b) In ZLTEC 2025 a player may not tag the base while positioned directly behind another player. This will automatically result in a termination (see rule 8.3. for clarification).
   Examples of blocking shots, note that the list is not exhaustive, but giving examples for the referee to look for. Any blocking of the shot should result in a termination:
   c) A player is turning their side in order to dodge and incoming shot with the side of their body, but deliberately or accidentally slides their arm from the side of their body in front of their chest or back panels
   d) A player is reaching around a corner with a reverse grip in front of their chest, resulting in a covered chest panel
   e) A player leans back and lifting their arm in a manner that blocks their chest sensors
   f) A player blocks their shoulder panels with their cheek or other part of their body
   g) A player changes grip or is partially moving from a low to high stance, but stopping the movement midway, resulting in a blocked chest panel
2. Players should not receive a penalty for occasional incidental covering or blocking:
   a) Transitional movement, provided that:
   i. the action is not a shielding maneuver
   ii. the action does not pause, stop, or reverse part-way through
   iii. the action is not slow
   a) Blocking incoming fire from an odd angle and being unaware of it
   b) Unknowingly stepping into the line of fire of another Player
   c) These exemptions are not valid during active base play (base under attack)
3. Repeated incidental covering or blocking may be interpreted as an intentional maneuver and may result in a penalty
4. Paneling or “wall hugging” is not allowed in ZLTEC tournaments
   a) Paneling is when any front part of your pack i.e. your chest, shoulders or any other part of the
   front of the pack touches a wall

5.1.2 Exceptions to Blocking Shots

1. Players are allowed to incidentally block shots on their own shoulder sensors with their arms when their arms are extended and holding their laser in a high position
   a) Players blocking their shoulder with their chin, beard, hair or other will be penalized
2. Players are allowed to incidentally block shots on their own sensors if they are “out of action” and are otherwise unable to participate in the game at that moment, including: a) Operating a status button or a touch screen on their pack
   a) Operating interactive game equipment such as game stations
   b) Tying up a shoelace or adjusting clothing
3. These exceptions do not extend to obvious and intentional blocking with the aim of gaining an advantage

5.1.3 Blocking the phasor

1. Players may hold their phasor in any way that they wish unless it contradicts any other rules covering the phasor hold
2. Players are not permitted to make any physical contact with the clear plastics on the phasor with any part of their body including their clothing, head, or hair
   a) Casual incidental or light touching is expected as part of general gameplay and should not be
   penalized
3. Players are permitted to grip areas of the phasor which are intended to be held.
4. Players may not place their phasor behind their head.
5. When using Nexus packs:
   a) No special additional handhold rules apply.
6. When using Helios packs:
   a) Players must not touch the clear plastic section of the laser, forward of the screen.
   b) Players are permitted to operate the touch screen.
7. Players holding a tight posture that may make them appear as if they are touching their laser in a way that contradicts these rules place themselves at risk of receiving a penalty
8. Players who perform actions which may be perceived as blocking put themselves at a heightened risk of receiving a Level 1 Warning penalty

5.1.4 Speakers

1. Players are not permitted to silence or otherwise mask pack sounds.
   a) This includes both their own pack sounds and the sounds of other Players’ packs
   i With the exemption if a player indicates, that they are not participating in gameplay with
   keeping one hand up and phasor in the other hand facing straight down while communicating
2. The following actions may be interpreted as masking:
   a) Stomping or making other sounds at key moments (for example, during reactivation)
   b) Communicating during up-sounds
3. Players who perform actions which may be perceived as masking put themselves at a heightened risk of receiving a Level 1 Warning penalty

5.2 Free Movement

1. Players are not permitted to restrict or block the movement of other Players
2. Players are not required to leave a position to allow another Player to assume it, unless they are
   deactivated a An active player has the right to ask for a space occupied by a deactivated player. The deactivated player should make every effort to promptly move from the space or risk a level 1
   warning
3. Deactivated Players moving through the arena should make every effort to be unobtrusive

5.3 Deactivated and Stunned Players

1. Players are not permitted to intentionally use deactivated Players for shields or cover
2. Deactivated players are not permitted to intentionally shield or cover other players, bases or game equipment
3. Deactivated players must vacate their position for activated players
4. Stunned players do not need to vacate position for active players
5. Stunned players are not permitted to intentionally shield or cover other players, bases or game
   equipment

5.4 Zones

5.4.1 General

1. A Zone is a defined area in an arena
2. All Zones must be clearly defined and identified
   a) The location, type, and function of each Zone must be clearly specified
   b) The game format(s) that the Zone is to be used in must be clearly specified
3. Zones must be clearly identifiable on arena maps
   a) Marked Zones on arena maps must have a corresponding definition in section 9.2
4. Zones must be clearly identifiable in the arena and boundaries should be highly visible.
   a) Zones boundary markings are considered part of the area they define.

5.4.2 No Stopping Zones

1. Players must not pause or stop in a No Stopping Zone at any time, except to avoid a collision or other safety reasons
2. A Player that pauses or stops in a No Stopping Zone, however briefly and regardless of whether or not there was game flow interruption, will always receive a penalty, with the exception of safety reasons

5.4.3 Clearway Zones

1. Players must not restrict the movement of other Players by pausing or stopping in a Clearway Zone
2. A Player that pauses or stops in a Clearway Zone will never receive a penalty if they did not impede another Player or act in such a way that they have the potential to impede another Player attempting to pass through that zone
3. A Player that pauses or stops in a Clearway Zone will always receive a penalty if they impeded the movement of another Player attempting to pass through that zone

5.4.4 Directional Zones

1. Players must travel through a Directional Zone in the direction prescribed for that zone. A Player that does not travel in the prescribed direction of travel for that Directional Zone will always receive a penalty, with the exception to safety reasons
2. A Player should not receive a penalty for pausing or stopping in a Directional Zone, unless it is also defined as another type of zone where these actions are not permitted

5.4.5 Lane Zones

1. Players in a Lane Zone must travel in a lane prescribed for that zone
2. A Player travelling incorrectly through a Lane Zone will always receive a penalty if they impeded the movement of another Player travelling in any of the lanes in that zone
3. The definition for the Lane Zone must specify whether travelling incorrectly through a Lane Zone results in a penalty if the movement of another Player in any of the lanes in that zone is not impeded

5.4.6 Give Way Zones

1. Players entering, exiting, or travelling through a Give Way Zone must give way to other Players in the manner prescribed for that zone
2. A Player that does not abide by the conditions of right of way to other Players for a Give Way Zone will always receive a penalty

5.4.7 Referee Zones

1. Referees have the right to permanently occupy a Referee Zone
2. Players should not ask Referees to vacate a Referee Zone
3. Players must make every effort to allow a Referee to occupy a Referee Zone
   a) Players preventing Referees from occupying a Referee Zone may receive a penalty

5.4.8 Evacuation Zones

1. No part of a Player’s body or equipment is permitted to enter an Evacuation Zone unless that Player’s
   pack is active
2. Players that are not active must exit an Evacuation Zone when safe to do so
   a) These Players must give way to active Players
   b) These Players, who, as a result of giving way to active Players, reactivate before exiting the
   Evacuation Zone, must not fire any shots before exiting the Evacuation Zone.
   c) Players will never receive a penalty for delaying to exit an Evacuation Zone if the delay is a direct result of exercising caution in giving way to active Players. This includes:
   1. Waiting for Players entering a base
   2. Waiting while Players are putting shots into a base
   3. Waiting in a base while there is a high level of activity or a large number of Players
3. When destroying a base a player needs to be active and completely inside the base evacuation zone

5.4.9 Maximum Occupancy Zones

1. Maximum Occupancy Zones are areas which have a limit on the maximum number of Players which may occupy a position in that zone at any given time
   a) This includes Players that are active and inactive
   b) The maximum number of Players must be specified for each Maximum Occupancy Zone
2. The definition for the Maximum Occupancy Zone must specify whether or not other Players are
   permitted to transition through a Maximum Occupancy Zone if it is at its occupancy capacity
3. Players will always receive a penalty for attempting to occupy a position in a Maximum Occupancy Zone where that zone is already at capacity

5.5 Site Specific Rules

1. Site Specific Rules must be approved by The Committee in order to be included in The Competition Rulebook
2. Site Specific Rules cannot compromise or override safety rules

5.6 Penalties

5.6.1 Level 1 Warnings (Yellow)

1. Level 1 Warnings can be applied for any infringement of the rules.
2. Level 1 Warnings incur a deduction of points, possible lives and a timed deactivation.
   a) The number of points and length of the deactivation are defined in each game format.

5.6.2 Level 2 Terminations (Red)

1. Level 2 Terminations will be applied for:
   a) Fouls that affect during a base take with a possibility to affect the base take
   b) Equipment, Player, or Arena abuse
   c) Unsportsmanlike behavior
   d) Dangerous play that results in an injury of another player
   e) Disputing or arguing with a Referee
   f) Other cases of extreme behavior or rule breaches at the discretion of the Referee
2. Level 2 Terminations incur a deduction of points and a timed deactivation.
   a) The number of points and length of the deactivation are defined in each game format.
3. In extreme circumstances, a Referee has the right to permanently remove a Player from the game when applying a Level 2 Termination at their discretion.
4. Any Player receiving a third Level 2 Termination during a single game will:
   a) Be removed from that game immediately
   b) Receive a Zero Score and ranked last after potential negative scores from other players
   c) Be referred to the Competition Coordinator, who has the right to permanently remove that Player from The Competition, at their discretion

5.6.3 Replayed Games

1. Level 1 Warnings are not carried over into replayed games.
2. Level 2 Terminations are carried over into replayed games, with exception of 5.6.2.1.a.
   a) A carried over Level 2 Termination means the points lost and the number of Level 2 Terminations recorded against the Player for that game are retained in the new game.
3. If a Player is removed from a game due to receiving one or more Level 2 Terminations:
   a) That Player may not re-enter the replayed game
   b) Another Player may not be substituted in for that Player in the replayed game

6 SAFETY

6.1 Phasor Hand Holds

1. Players must use two hands when firing their laser
2. Players may hold their laser with one hand when not firing
   a) Players holding their laser with one hand must hold the laser close to their body and under control
3. Players must maintain safe control of their gun strap where present
   a) Players who do not sufficiently control their gun strap to the satisfaction of a Referee may receive a penalty
   b) Players who, as a result of not sufficiently controlling their gun strap, cause injury or damage, will receive a Level 1 Warning penalty

6.2 Arena Features and Fixtures

1. Players are not allowed to move or modify any arena features or fixtures
2. Players are not permitted to poke their lasers or any part of their body through existing holes or gaps
3. Players hitting or kicking an arena feature risk a level 2 termination

6.3 Ledges and Barriers

6.3.1 Definitions

1. A Barrier is defined as a partition where the floor on both sides of that partition are at the same elevation.
   a) The height of a partition is not relevant to the classification of a Barrier.
2. A Ledge is defined as a partition where there is a substantial difference in the elevation of the floor on either side of the partition.

6.3.2 Use of Ledges and Barriers

1. Players are not allowed to lean over a Barrier.
   a. Players can move their laser over a barrier as long as their shoulder or any part beyond elbows will not pass over the barrier.
2. Players may lean over a Ledge, provided only one shoulder passes over the Ledge, and the movement is considered safe by the Referee, otherwise 6.3.2.1 is in affect for ledges as well

6.4 Objects and Obstacles

1. A Player must not cause protrusions into corridors of movement that they cannot fully see
2. A Player will be permitted to shoot at a target that they cannot see, provided that it is safe for them to do so and they know a target is there.
   a) The Site Specific Rules may provide special exemptions to this rule for certain shots
3. Objects that may pose a hazard to Players should be brought to the attention of the Competition
   Coordinator

6.5 Balance and Control

6.5.1 Balance

1. Players must maintain balance and control of movement at all times during game play
   a) Some allowance for “no fault” slippage may be made, e.g. if a mat or floor panel would fail
   b) Areas that have become slippery (sweat, surface wear, etc) should be reported to the nearest
   Referee, who should notify the Competition Coordinator as soon as possible
2. Players must not use arena elements to increase or reduce speed around corners
   a) This does not include leaning on walls for support
3. Players may not jump in to a wall to protect them self
   a) This includes stunned players jumping to hide their chest or back panel
   b) This does not include deactivated players trying to get out of the way for active players

6.5.2 Unsafe Movement

1. Unsafe Movement is defined as (but is not limited to):
   a) Kneeling on one or both knees
   b) Sitting or Lying down
   c) Jumping
   d) Any movement or play that may, will, or does cause damage or injury
   e) Moving at dangerous speeds
   f) Playing with your chest in a angle under 90 degrees towards the floor
2. No form of Unsafe Movement is permitted in the arena and will result in at least a level 1 warning

6.5.3 Physical Contact

1. Players are not permitted to physically strike or push other Players in any way
2. Unintentional and casual contact is expected
   a) Repeated instances of contact by the same Player will result in a Level 2 Termination

7 PLAYER CONDUCT

7.1 Personal Conduct

7.1.1 General Personal Conduct

1. Any illegal conduct or physical violence by a participant of The Competition, threatened or otherwise, will result in the removal of that Player from The Competition
   a) Offenders may also be referred to appropriate authorities
2. Conduct by a participant of The Competition that may cause the sport to be brought into ill repute may
   result in the removal of that Player from The Competition. This includes, but is not limited to:
   a) False, damaging, inflammatory, degrading, or otherwise inappropriate comments made on social media, news, forums, websites, or other publicly available sources concerning Players, officials, rulings, or the operation of The Competition

7.1.2 Smack Talking and Language

1. Players are not permitted to use belligerent, threatening, offensive, or abusive language
2. Players are not permitted to use action verbs which suggest threats or ultimatums
3. Players are discouraged from using ‘high risk’ words, such as swear words
   a) Players using high risk words place themselves at risk of receiving a penalty
   b) Players swearing in low tone and not directed to any other player or referee to express frustration towards a situation or themselves is expected as part of the game

7.1.3 Alliances

1. Players or teams are not permitted to form, or attempt to form, alliances with opposing Players or teams
2. The formation of an alliance will result in the immediate disqualification and ejection of all involved Players and/or teams from The Competition
3. Any agreement between players or teams that might affect the outcome of the game count as alliances, regardless if the agreement is done prior or during the game

7.1.4 External Communication

1. Anyone outside the arena, or on the spectator area, who attempts any form of unauthorized
   communication, for any reason, with Players inside the arena will be subject to sanction as deemed appropriate by the Competition Coordinator

7.1.5 Referees

1. Arguing with or abusing a Referee is not permitted at any time, inside or out of a game.
2. Players may not influence in any way the performance of a Referee, including e.g. Bribes
   a. A player talking to another player does not count as influencing the referee
   b. A player may ask for clarification for a penalty but is not allowed to try to overturn the penalty or influence the future work of the referee
3. Players arguing with, abusing, or attempting to influence a referee will receive a Level 2 Termination penalty
4. Referees on duty should always be addressed as “Referee” or “Ref” and should not be addressed by their name or game alias
5. Players must comply with all reasonable directions given to them by a Referee
6. Players may ask a Referee to move, but Referees are never required to do so

7.2 Sportsmanship

7.2.1 General

1. Players deliberately violating the letter or spirit of the rules set out in this rulebook may receive sanctions additional to those normally prescribed, at the discretion of the Competition Coordinator, including but not limited to:
   a) A loss of points
   b) Forfeiting future games or events
   c) Removal from an event or The Competition

7.2.2 Leaving and Re-Entering the Game

1. A Player may leave the game if they have a valid reason, including:
   a) Feeling ill or suffering an injury
   b) Acquiring a replacement for faulty equipment, with the exception of 3.3.2.a
   c) Notifying a Competition Official of a Game Unit malfunction
2. A Player who exits the game may re-enter the game provided that they:
   a) Have not had access to the scoreboard, and
   b) Have not been informed of the score from other sources, and
   c) Have the permission of the Competition Coordinator or Competition Official, and
   d) Had a valid reason for leaving the game
3. Where a game is in progress and a Player is entering or re-entering the arena:
   a) That Player’s pack must be started before they are permitted to enter the arena
   b) That Player must not fire their laser until they have fully entered the arena
4. If a Player leaves a game because they are unhappy with a Referee’s ruling or the actions of another Player, that Player’s score will stand and they may not re-enter the game.

7.2.3 Injuries

1. Players are expected to take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety of an injured Player. Examples include seeking or calling for a referee to assist, and warning other Players of the injured Player’s location.

7.2.4 Color Choice

1. If all teams playing the next game are known, the first color choice must be made 15 minutes before the game starting
   a) In the event that the completion of a game will determine one or more of the teams in the next game, 2 minutes will be allowed from the confirmation of teams in the next game for first color choice
2. If all teams playing the next game are known, the second color choice should be made within 10 minutes of the preceding game starting
   a) In the event that the completion of a game will determine one or more of the teams in the next game, 2 minutes will be allowed after the first color choice has been made to make the second color choice
3. Failure to make a color choice in the allotted time will result in being assigned a base color using the following methodology
   a) The base with the least number of wins during the Cascade section of the tournament will be
   automatically selected
   b) If there is no clear selection made from (3a), then the base with the most number of thirds during the Cascade section of the tournament will be automatically selected.
   c) If there is no clear selection made from (3a) or (3b), then red base is automatically selected.
   d) If there is no clear selection made from (3a) or (3b) and red base is already selected by another team, then green base is automatically selected.

8 SITE SPECIFIC RULES (2025)

8.1 Level 2 terminations for fouls that affects base takes

1. Any foul, by active or inactive player, affecting a base take directly or indirectly in the vicinity of the base, an attempted base take or deny will be punished with a level 2 termination. This includes (but is not limited to):
   a) Jumping the baseline to successfully deny a player
   b) Block a shot by covering or other ways while tagging the base
   c) Standing behind your teammate while tagging a base
   d) Block an incoming player in order to let your teammate finish his base take

8.2 Base Evac

1. Base evac refers to the base lines that are marked near the bases. No inactive player is allowed to enter the base evac area, and player within the area should make every attempt to leave the area as soon as possible, with below notasions:
   a) When a base is under attack the deactivated player should place themself on the outside wall, with one hand up to indicate that they are not participating in the gameplay, and wait until the base attack situation is resolved in a destroyed base, denies or other manner
   i) A deactivated player may activate within the base evac area while waiting for the base attack to resolve. In such circumstance the reactivated player shall not be penalized as long as they leave the base evac area before participating in the gameplay
   b) A deactivated player must exit the base in a safe and controlled manner without blocking any active players movement
   c) A deactivated player is not allowed to block any shots within the area
   i) Unless standing next to the outside wall, with one hand up, a deactivated player is not responsible if an active player shoots them
   d) An active player is not allowed to actively seek cover behind a deactivated player within the area

8.3 Taking the base with 2 or more players inside the base

1. If a team is taking a base with two or more players under the base itself they need to pay extra attention on how to position themselves. If they position behind each other and no shot is fired on them no termination is given. If a shot is fired on this person and they block their teammate who is taking the base a level 2 termination is given to the blocking player, except if the basetaker is moving behind their teammate, in which case the basetaker will receive a level 2 termination

8.4 Shooting over tall walls

1. During ZLTEC 2025 the arena has walls that are intended as “tall” or “full height” walls that are not permitted to shoot over. The tournament coordinator will indicate these walls on site to team captains before the tournament starts

8.5 Bouncing shots

1. Bouncing shots from walls, floors or other players is allowed. Bouncing shots from ceiling, lamps or anything connected to the ceiling is not allowed and will result in a termination.

9 REFEREES

This chapter is for Referees and outlines their expected behavior and conduct.

9.1 Expectations

1. Referees must have a thorough understanding of the The Competition Rulebook
2. Referees should display a high level of professionalism at all times and must be unbiased in their actions and behavior
3. Referees are expected to be proficient with the use of Game Controller devices
4. Referees may be expected to pass a proficiency test of their knowledge and ability

9.2 Referee Status

1. The Competition Coordinator has the right to grant and revoke Referee status at their discretion.
2. The Competition Coordinator has the right to refuse the service of specific Referees in specific games.
3. The Competition Coordinator will assess Referee ability and conduct as necessary.
4. Any indication of favoritism or bias by a Referee will result in immediate suspension of Referee status by the Competition Coordinator
   a) Pending assessment by the Competition Coordinator, this may result in the permanent removal of Referee status for that Referee for the remainder of The Competition

9.3 Arena Conduct

9.3.1 Movement and Position

1. Referees should make all reasonable attempts to remain unobtrusive when in the arena
   a) Referees should use Referee Zones where available and practical to use
   b) Referees should choose the best position to Referee each circumstance
2. Referees may be asked by Players to move, but Referees are never required to do so

9.3.2 Conversation

1. Casual conversation with Players is not permitted
2. Referees should only address Players during a game to warn of a rule violation
   a) Referees should quickly and accurately describe the circumstances for giving a warning or
   termination
3. Referees should report all incidents of unsporting conduct to the Competition Coordinator

9.4 Penalties

9.4.1 Application of Penalties

1. Referees should endeavor to be quick, efficient, and concise when applying penalties
2. Referees must apply all penalties as soon as possible after a rule violation by approaching the Player and using the Game Controller device appropriately
   a) Referees must make every effort to avoid accidentally penalizing surrounding Player
   b) If the Referee is not able to immediately approach a Player to apply a penalty, the Refereeshould award the penalty post-game by informing the appropriate Competition Official

9.4.2 Disputes

1. Referees must not argue with Players
2. Where a Player disputes a penalty, that Player should be reminded of dispute rules
3. Where a Player continues to dispute a penalty, a Level 2 Termination should be applied
   a) Where disputes are repeated or continued, Referees have the right to disable a Player’s pack and remove that Player from the game at their discretion