Terms of Service for Sultan's Gambit

Effective Date: December 15, 2024
Last Updated: July 23, 2026

1. Acceptance of Terms

By downloading, installing, accessing, or using Sultan's Gambit ("the Game"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, do not use the Game.

Developer: Furkan Cakmaktepe (Freelance Game Developer)
Contact: barrierefix@gmail.com
Legal Department: barrierefix@gmail.com

2. Description of Service

Sultan's Gambit is a strategic Ottoman-themed digital card game that allows players to:

Collect and play with virtual cards through predetermined themed bundles
Engage in multiplayer battles with other players
Progress through various game modes and achievement systems
Purchase in-game content and virtual currency through transparent systems
Participate in community features and social gameplay

Platform: Mobile application for Android, distributed through Google Play
Service Type: Free-to-play with optional in-app purchases

3. Eligibility and Account Requirements

3.1 Age Requirements

Minimum Age: You must be at least 13 years old to use the Game
Parental Consent: Users under 18 must have parental or guardian consent
Local Laws: Users in jurisdictions with different age requirements must comply with local laws
Age Verification: We may request age verification for certain features or purchases

3.2 Geographic Restrictions

The Game may not be available in all countries or regions
You are responsible for compliance with local laws and regulations
We reserve the right to restrict access in certain jurisdictions
Some features may be limited based on your location

3.3 Account Capacity

You must have the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements
Corporate or business use requires appropriate authorization
Government or military use may be subject to additional restrictions

4. User Accounts and Registration

4.1 Account Creation

Accurate Information: You must provide accurate and complete information during registration
Security Responsibility: You are responsible for maintaining account security and confidentiality
Unique Accounts: One account per person is permitted
Account Ownership: Accounts are personal and non-transferable
Verification: We may require email verification or additional verification steps

4.2 Account Security

Password Protection: Choose a strong, unique password and keep it secure
Access Monitoring: Monitor your account for unauthorized access
Immediate Notification: Report suspicious activity immediately
Two-Factor Authentication: Enable additional security measures when available

4.3 Account Termination by User

Voluntary Deletion: You may delete your account at any time through game settings (see our Account Deletion page)
Data Retention: Account deletion is subject to our data retention policies
Purchase Implications: Virtual items and purchases are forfeited upon account deletion
Grace Period: 30-day recovery period for accidental deletions

4.4 Account Termination by Us

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts for:

Terms Violation: Violation of these Terms or community guidelines
Fraudulent Activity: Suspicious or fraudulent behavior
Cheating: Use of exploits, hacks, or unauthorized third-party software
Harassment: Abusive behavior toward other players or staff
Illegal Activity: Any illegal activity or violations of applicable law
Extended Inactivity: Accounts inactive for more than 2 years may be terminated

5. User Conduct and Community Guidelines

5.1 Prohibited Activities

You agree not to:

Cheating: Use exploits, hacks, bots, or unauthorized third-party software
Account Sharing: Share, sell, or transfer your account to others
Reverse Engineering: Attempt to reverse engineer, decompile, or modify the Game
Unauthorized Access: Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems or other users' accounts
Harassment: Engage in harassment, bullying, or abusive behavior
Inappropriate Content: Use offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate language or images
Fraud: Engage in fraudulent activity, including payment fraud
Real Money Trading: Buy, sell, or trade virtual items for real money outside the Game
Spam: Send spam, advertisements, or unsolicited communications
Impersonation: Impersonate other users, staff members, or public figures

5.2 Player Communication

Respectful Interaction: Treat all players with respect and courtesy
Language Standards: Use appropriate language in all communications
Reporting System: Report inappropriate behavior using in-game tools
Zero Tolerance: We have zero tolerance for hate speech, threats, or discriminatory behavior

5.3 Content Standards

Player Names: Choose appropriate, non-offensive player names
User-Generated Content: Any content you create must comply with community standards
Content Moderation: We reserve the right to remove or modify inappropriate content
Intellectual Property: Do not use copyrighted material without permission

6. Virtual Items, Currency, and Monetization

6.1 Nature of Virtual Items

Digital Goods: All virtual items (cards, currency, cosmetics) are digital goods with no real-world value
License Only: You receive a limited license to use virtual items, not ownership
Non-Transferable: Virtual items cannot be transferred outside the Game or between accounts
Modification Rights: We may modify, balance, or remove virtual items at any time for game balance or technical reasons
No Refund Guarantee: Virtual items are typically non-refundable once acquired

6.2 In-Game Currency System

Virtual Currencies: Akçe and Elmas are virtual currencies with no cash value
No Real Money Exchange: Virtual currencies cannot be exchanged for real money
Balance Protection: We strive to protect currency balances but are not liable for loss due to technical issues
Earning Methods: Currency can be earned through gameplay, achievements, and optional purchases
Expiration: Virtual currencies do not expire but may be subject to account deletion

6.3 Card Bundle System (Anti-Gambling Compliance)

IMPORTANT: Sultan's Gambit does NOT use gambling mechanics or random loot boxes.

Predetermined Bundle System:

No Randomization: All card bundles contain predetermined, fixed contents
Transparent Disclosure: Bundle contents are clearly displayed before purchase
No Chance Elements: No random number generation or gambling mechanics involved
Fair Pricing: All bundles are priced fairly based on their predetermined contents

Bundle Categories:

Themed Collections: Bundles organized around historical themes or gameplay archetypes
Starter Packs: Curated collections for new players
Expansion Bundles: Collections tied to specific game updates or events
Premium Collections: Higher-value bundles with exclusive cards or cosmetics

Purchase Transparency:

Content Preview: View exact contents before purchase confirmation
No Hidden Items: All bundle contents are disclosed upfront
Alternative Acquisition: Most cards are obtainable through gameplay progression
Value Proposition: Bundles offer convenience and thematic organization, not gambling excitement

6.4 Monetization Philosophy

Fair-to-Play: Our monetization supports game development while maintaining fair gameplay
Optional Purchases: All purchases are optional and enhance but don't dominate gameplay
Gameplay Integrity: Purchased items don't create unfair advantages
Community First: Player experience and community health are prioritized over short-term revenue

7. Purchases and Payments

7.1 Payment Processing

Platform Integration: Payments are processed through Google Play's billing system
Platform Terms: All purchases are subject to Google Play terms and conditions
Currency and Pricing: Prices may vary by region and are subject to change
Tax Responsibility: You are responsible for applicable taxes on purchases

7.2 Purchase Confirmation

Clear Pricing: All prices are clearly displayed before purchase
Confirmation Required: Multiple confirmation steps prevent accidental purchases
Receipt Provided: Digital receipts are provided for all transactions
Purchase History: Complete purchase history is available in your account

7.3 Refunds and Disputes

Platform Refunds: Refund requests should be made through Google Play, where you made the purchase
Exceptional Circumstances: We may provide additional refunds at our discretion for technical issues
Dispute Resolution: Payment disputes should first be resolved with the payment provider
Fraud Protection: We monitor for fraudulent transactions and may restrict accounts with suspicious activity

7.4 Subscription Services (if applicable)

Auto-Renewal: Subscription services renew automatically unless cancelled
Cancellation: You can cancel subscriptions through Google Play settings
Prorated Refunds: Cancellations are subject to Google Play refund policies
Service Continuation: Access continues until the end of the current billing period after cancellation

8. Intellectual Property Rights

8.1 Our Intellectual Property

Game Ownership: Sultan's Gambit and all content are our intellectual property
Protected Content: Game graphics, code, designs, characters, and lore are protected by copyright and trademark law
No Unauthorized Use: You may not copy, distribute, modify, or create derivative works without permission
Third-Party Content: Some content may be licensed from third parties and is subject to their terms

8.2 Your License to Use

Limited License: You receive a personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use the Game
Permitted Use: Use the Game for personal entertainment purposes only
Commercial Restrictions: Commercial use, streaming, or content creation may require separate agreements
License Termination: License terminates when you stop using the Game or violate these Terms

8.3 User-Generated Content

Content Ownership: You retain ownership of content you create
License Grant: By creating content, you grant us a license to use, display, and distribute it within the Game
Content Standards: All user-generated content must comply with community guidelines
Removal Rights: We reserve the right to remove user-generated content that violates our standards

8.4 Copyright Protection

DMCA Compliance: We comply with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act
Infringement Reporting: Report copyright infringement to barrierefix@gmail.com
Counter-Notices: Users may submit counter-notices for disputed takedowns
Repeat Offenders: Accounts with repeated copyright violations may be terminated

9. Privacy and Data Protection

9.1 Privacy Policy Integration

Privacy Policy Governs: Data collection and use are governed by our Privacy Policy
Consent Required: You consent to data collection as described in the Privacy Policy
Rights Preservation: Your privacy rights are preserved as outlined in the Privacy Policy
Policy Updates: Privacy Policy updates will be communicated according to the policy terms

9.2 Data Security

Security Measures: We implement appropriate security measures to protect your data
Breach Notification: We will notify users of significant data security incidents
Third-Party Security: We require third-party service providers to maintain appropriate security standards
User Responsibility: You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account credentials

9.3 Communications and Marketing

Service Communications: We may send necessary service-related communications
Marketing Consent: Marketing communications require your explicit consent
Opt-Out Rights: You can opt out of non-essential communications at any time
Communication Preferences: Manage your communication preferences through account settings

10. Game Availability and Service Updates

10.1 Service Availability

Best Effort Availability: We strive for continuous service availability but cannot guarantee 100% uptime
Scheduled Maintenance: Regular maintenance may cause temporary service interruptions
Emergency Maintenance: Urgent technical issues may require immediate service interruptions
Service Announcements: Major service changes will be announced in advance when possible

10.2 Game Updates and Changes

Regular Updates: We may update game content, features, and mechanics regularly
Balance Changes: Card balance and game mechanics may be adjusted for fairness and enjoyment
New Content: New cards, features, and game modes may be added over time
Significant Changes: Material changes will be communicated to users in advance

10.3 Service Discontinuation

Advance Notice: If we discontinue the Game, we will provide reasonable advance notice
Data Export: We will provide tools for data export where technically feasible
No Ongoing Obligations: Service discontinuation releases us from ongoing service obligations
Refund Considerations: Recent purchases may be eligible for refunds according to Google Play policies

11. Disclaimers and Warranties

11.1 "As Is" Service Provision

No Warranties: The Game is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind
Service Quality: We do not guarantee error-free, uninterrupted, or perfect service
User Risk: Your use of the Game is at your own risk and discretion
Performance Variations: Game performance may vary based on device, connection, and other factors

11.2 Educational and Entertainment Disclaimer

Entertainment Purpose: The Game is designed for entertainment purposes only
Historical Accuracy: Historical content is simplified and adapted for gameplay and may not be historically accurate
No Professional Advice: We provide no educational, historical, or professional advice
Cultural Sensitivity: We strive for cultural sensitivity but content is adapted for gameplay purposes

11.3 Third-Party Services

No Control: We do not control third-party services integrated with the Game
Third-Party Responsibility: Third-party services are governed by their own terms and policies
Service Interruptions: Third-party service issues may affect Game functionality
No Endorsement: Integration does not constitute endorsement of third-party services

12. Limitation of Liability

12.1 Liability Limitations

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW:

Direct Damages: Our liability for direct damages is limited to the amount you paid for the Game in the 12 months preceding the incident
Indirect Damages: We are not liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages
Data Loss: We are not liable for loss of virtual items, progress, or data except as required by law
Service Interruptions: We are not liable for damages caused by service interruptions or technical issues

12.2 Jurisdictional Variations

Local Law Compliance: Some jurisdictions may not allow certain liability limitations
Consumer Protection: Consumer protection laws may provide additional rights
Minimum Liability: We maintain liability as required by applicable law
Rights Preservation: These limitations do not affect rights that cannot be waived by law

12.3 Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays, failures, or damages due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including:

Natural disasters, pandemics, or acts of God
Government actions, wars, or civil unrest
Internet outages or third-party service failures
Cyberattacks or security incidents

13. Indemnification

13.1 User Indemnification Obligation

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Sultan's Gambit, its developers, and affiliates from claims arising from:

Terms Violations: Your violation of these Terms or community guidelines
Illegal Activity: Your illegal or unauthorized use of the Game
Third-Party Rights: Your violation of third-party intellectual property or privacy rights
Negligent Conduct: Your negligent or willful misconduct
User Content: Content you create or share through the Game

13.2 Indemnification Process

Notice Requirement: We will notify you of indemnifiable claims promptly
Defense Cooperation: You will cooperate in the defense of such claims
Settlement Authority: We may participate in settlement discussions
Cost Responsibility: You are responsible for reasonable attorney fees and costs

14. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law

14.1 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Governing Law: These Terms are governed by German law
Primary Jurisdiction: Courts of Nürnberg, Germany have primary jurisdiction
EU Consumer Rights: EU consumers retain rights under applicable consumer protection laws
International Users: International users may have additional rights under local law

14.2 Alternative Dispute Resolution

Preferred Resolution Method:

Direct Communication: We encourage direct communication to resolve disputes
Customer Support: Many issues can be resolved through our customer support team
Mediation Services: We may agree to use professional mediation services for complex disputes
Arbitration Option: Binding arbitration may be used for certain types of disputes

14.3 Arbitration Procedures (Where Applicable)

Arbitration Rules: Disputes will be resolved under DIS (German Institution of Arbitration) Rules
Arbitrator Selection: Single arbitrator selected according to DIS procedures
Venue: Arbitration venue will be in Germany unless otherwise agreed
Language: Arbitration proceedings will be conducted in English or German
Costs: Each party bears their own costs unless arbitrator decides otherwise

14.4 Exceptions to Arbitration

The following disputes are not subject to arbitration:

Small Claims: Disputes eligible for small claims court
Intellectual Property: Claims involving intellectual property infringement
Injunctive Relief: Requests for injunctive or equitable relief
Consumer Protection: Claims under mandatory consumer protection laws

14.5 Class Action Waiver

Individual Claims Only: Disputes must be brought individually, not as class actions
No Consolidation: Claims cannot be consolidated with claims of other users
Waiver Agreement: You waive the right to participate in class action lawsuits
Exceptions: This waiver may not apply where prohibited by law

15. Account and Service Termination

15.1 Termination by User

Voluntary Termination: You may stop using the Game and delete your account at any time
Account Deletion Process: Follow the in-game instructions for permanent account deletion (see our Account Deletion page)
Data Retention: Some data may be retained as required by law or for legitimate business purposes
Virtual Items Forfeiture: All virtual items and currencies are forfeited upon account deletion

15.2 Termination by Sultan's Gambit

We may terminate or suspend your access immediately for:

Serious Violations: Severe violations of Terms or community guidelines
Illegal Activity: Suspected illegal activity or fraud
Account Security: Compromised accounts for security protection
Technical Issues: Technical problems that threaten service stability

Progressive Enforcement:

Warnings: First violations typically result in warnings
Temporary Suspensions: Repeated violations may result in temporary suspensions
Permanent Termination: Serious or repeated violations may result in permanent termination
Appeal Process: Users may appeal termination decisions through customer support

15.3 Effects of Termination

Upon termination of your account:

License Termination: All licenses granted to you terminate immediately
Service Access: You must immediately stop using the Game
Data Handling: Your data will be handled according to our Privacy Policy
Survival Provisions: Certain Terms provisions survive termination (payment obligations, intellectual property, etc.)

16. Additional Legal Provisions

16.1 Entire Agreement

Complete Terms: These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement
Superseding Effect: These Terms supersede all previous agreements or understandings
Amendment Requirements: Changes must be made in writing and agreed upon by both parties
Integration: All related agreements are integrated into these Terms

16.2 Severability and Interpretation

Severability: If any provision is found unenforceable, remaining provisions continue in effect
Liberal Construction: Terms will be construed liberally to give effect to the parties' intent
Headings: Section headings are for convenience only and do not affect interpretation
Language: These Terms are originally written in English; translations are for convenience only

16.3 Assignment and Transfer

Our Assignment Rights: We may assign these Terms to affiliates or in connection with business transfers
User Restrictions: You may not assign your rights or obligations under these Terms
Successor Binding: These Terms bind successors and permitted assigns
Transfer Notice: We will notify users of material business transfers

16.4 Waiver and Enforcement

No Implied Waiver: Our failure to enforce any provision does not constitute a waiver
Selective Enforcement: We may enforce Terms selectively at our discretion
Reserved Rights: All rights not expressly granted are reserved
Cumulative Remedies: Legal remedies are cumulative and not exclusive

16.5 Force Majeure and Unforeseeable Circumstances

Excused Performance: Performance may be excused due to unforeseeable circumstances
Notice Requirement: We will notify users of force majeure events when possible
Mitigation Efforts: We will make reasonable efforts to minimize impacts
Service Restoration: Services will be restored as soon as reasonably possible

17. Contact Information and Support

17.1 General Contact Information

Primary Contact:

Email: barrierefix@gmail.com
Subject Lines: Use descriptive subject lines for faster response
Response Time: We aim to respond within 5 business days
Business Address: Meuschelstraße 60, 90408 Nürnberg, Germany

17.2 Specialized Contact Points

Legal Matters:

Email: barrierefix@gmail.com
Subject: "Legal Department - [Brief Description]"
For: Terms violations, intellectual property issues, legal compliance

Technical Support:

In-Game Support: Use the built-in support system for fastest response
Email Support: barrierefix@gmail.com with subject "Technical Support"
Common Issues: Check our FAQ section before contacting support

Privacy and Data Protection:

Email: barrierefix@gmail.com
Subject: "Privacy - [Request Type]"
For: Privacy questions, data requests, GDPR inquiries

17.3 Business and Partnership Inquiries

Business Development:

Email: barrierefix@gmail.com
Subject: "Business Inquiry - [Topic]"
For: Partnership opportunities, licensing, business development

18. Terms Updates and Notification

18.1 Amendment Process

We may modify these Terms from time to time to:

Legal Compliance: Comply with changing laws and regulations
Service Changes: Reflect changes to Game features or functionality
Business Evolution: Adapt to evolving business practices
User Protection: Enhance user rights and protections

18.2 Notification Methods

Material Changes Notification:

In-Game Notice: Prominent notification within the Game interface
Email Notification: Email to registered users (if email provided)
Website Posting: Updated Terms posted on this page
Social Media: Announcements through official social media channels

18.3 Effective Date and Acceptance

Advance Notice: Material changes will be announced at least 30 days before taking effect
Continued Use Constitutes Acceptance: Using the Game after changes take effect indicates acceptance
Rejection Option: Users who disagree with changes may terminate their accounts
Version Control: Previous versions of Terms are available upon request

18.4 Emergency Updates

Immediate Effect: Critical legal, security, or regulatory changes may take effect immediately
Post-Implementation Notice: Users will be notified as soon as reasonably possible
Justification: Emergency updates will include explanation of necessity
Review Period: Users may request review of emergency changes

By using Sultan's Gambit, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.

These Terms are effective immediately upon your use of the Game and remain in effect until terminated according to the provisions herein.

For questions about these Terms or to report violations, please contact us at barrierefix@gmail.com.