Since Tournament Policy documents require ongoing updates and amendments to keep pace with Organized Play, we are pleased to present you with version 2.3 of the Official KDE-US Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Infractions and Penalties Policy.

https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/organizedplay

We have made some slight changes in this latest version – you will find clarification of existing policy, re-structuring of previous information to make it easier to understand, some new additions and some changes from previous policy.

We have prepared this article about the major changes and what they mean for you, to help properly prepare you for tournament play.  It may not include each and every change, but it will explain the more significant ones.  As you read through this article, have a copy of the policy document open too, and refer to it as you go – reading this article by itself instead of reading the policy document won’t provide you with all of the information you need to be ready for tournament play.

Remember that previous subsection designations may have changed, due to adding in new subsections. Be aware of this when you are searching for specific information.

Most of the sections in the policy document itself will have example charts that will help you understand how the policy works.

Let’s take it section by section!

Section II.  Investigation Procedure

This section explains how to investigate issues regarding policy, properly identify infractions, and apply penalties.

Changes to this section include:

Subsection E. Time Extensions

What changed?

• The Time Extension examples have been revised and clarified.

What does this mean?

There are specific rules for applying Time Extensions, understanding how they work will help you understand the policy.

Section IV. Infractions

This section covers information about the different types of Infractions that can be committed.

Changes to this section include:

Subsection G. Slow Play (SP)

1. Slow Play (SP) – Minor (Warning)

What changed?

We have updated the Time Extension requirement for Slow Play.

What does this mean?

Previously, a Time Extension could be given into End of Match Procedure. Since the Match now ends as soon as the Round is over, Slow Play Time Extensions cannot be given once the Round is over.
The extension has been set at a consistent three minutes.

4. Unsporting Conduct (UC)  – Cheating (Disqualification)

What changed?

We have updated some of the examples, to reflect changes to End of Match Procedure.

What does this mean?

This information should be easier to understand now.

Section VI. Suspension and Suspended Persons

This section covers information about the process of Suspension from Organized Play, and information regarding Suspended Persons.

Changes to this section include:

Subsection B. Suspension for Infractions Outside of Sanctioned or Official Events

What changed?

We have expanded the examples list and set it up in table format.

What does this mean?

You should be aware that if you are Suspended from KDE Organized Play, your name and CARD GAME ID number will be included on the Suspended Persons list.

Unsporting Conduct – Severe/Cheating infractions are serious, and it is your responsibility to understand policy and avoid these actions.
The chart will help clarify the information.

We’re excited about these updates to the document, and hope you found this article helpful and informative! Tournament Policy is often overlooked as Duelists focus on card text and rulings, but it’s every bit as important a part of tournament preparedness.

Please make sure to review this current version (2.3) before attending an event, regardless of whether it’s an in-person tournament or a Remote Duel tournament!