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Vitaly, I don't think my intervention is needed here.
If you and Ivan agreed on something before the game, it should be fulfilled. I'm sure Ivan is the kind of person who keeps his promises. If you didn't specify that the game must definitely count towards the competition for the TOP1 and my prize, then Ivan's arguments are quite understandable. I also understand that you thought it was implied. Apparently not.

Being picky has nothing to do with it.
The rule of 5 mandatory ranked games for the TOP3, starting from September 23rd, was introduced specifically to prevent the TOP from saving their rating in the 2 weeks before the prize deadline (as the first winner did).

Your strategy is to get close to the TOP3 during the period of mandatory games. After 2-3 such games, these leaders will start to drop out of the TOP3. And a player who makes it into the TOP3 has the priority to challenge the TOP1 or TOP2 at their discretion, which, in case of victory, will ultimately allow them to secure their success.

I simply don't have the authority to force anyone to play more than what I outlined in the first message before the start.

By the way.
I'm seriously considering canceling the ban on G+U from September 23rd for everyone except the TOP3, to ensure unexpected surges. This would be beneficial for those who are desperately trying to get into the TOP3.

Otherwise, it turns out that they racked up 900+ rating points on G+U, and then the rating gains become less significant (on other templates).
I think I was led astray by a clever group of TOP3 players, not immediately recognizing the trick :D

I still don't understand why Lizard is among them ;)

ps If the ban is lifted, then
- I will note this in the first message with the rules
- I will edit the message where I announced this separately
- I will create a new message with information about the cancellation.

Added 24 minutes ago


Those who survive will laugh about it later.