Blizzard Entertainment, the developer and publisher of the team-based multiplayer online first-person shooter video game "Overwatch," published an announcement broadcasting the release of "Overwatch" League Rules of Competition and Code of Conduct.
According to the announcement made on the "Overwatch" League official website, Blizzard released the Rules of Competition as well as the Code of Conduct expected to "Overwatch" League players. Blizzard gave the summary of the League Rules of Competition that includes the following — Player Eligibility (with a specific emphasis on players' being at least 18 years old on or before April 5, 2018 as well as on how to maintain eligibility) and League Format and Schedule (Preseason, Regular Season and Playoffs Format and Schedule; Match Structure; Map Selection; Game Settings; Breaking Ties; Performance Bonuses; Equipment Rules; Referees; Team Composition; Transfer Window; Tampering and Roster Updates).
Aside from the League Rules of Competition, Blizzard also announced that they will implement a strict Code of Conduct that all players, team managers and owners must follow. Blizzard said that the Code of Conducts is designed to guarantee the game's integrity, to preserve the public image of the league, its players, teams, and owners; and "to provide a competitive environment that is free from harassment and discrimination." The Code of Conduct require all participants to — "observe the highest standards of personal integrity and good sportsmanship; compete to the best of their skill and ability at all times; comply with all applicable laws at all times; not engage in any activity or practice that brings him or her into public disrepute or scandal; not engage in any form of harassment or discrimination; not place bets on any games, matches, or tournaments involving 'Overwatch;' not make any false, defamatory, libelous, or slanderous remarks, comments, or statements and not use or attempt to use any bugs or exploits in 'Overwatch'."
Moreover, Blizzard announced that the "Overwatch" League Office has the right to investigate any alleged violations against the released rules as well as to impose necessary disciplinary actions that include informal or formal warnings, public reprimands, fines, suspensions and permanent bans.
