CLUTCH Platform Terms

Effective date: 2024 · Last updated with each platform version

CLUTCH is a peer-to-peer skill contract execution platform. It is not a gambling operator, bookmaker, or gaming house. CLUTCH does not set odds, does not profit from outcomes, and does not participate in contests. Outcomes are determined solely by player skill. Two consenting adults agree to terms, lock equal amounts in neutral smart contract escrow, compete, and the contract releases funds to the skill winner automatically.

CLUTCH provides infrastructure for players to create, co-sign, and settle skill-based contracts. The platform acts solely as a neutral technical escrow agent — functionally equivalent to a lawyer holding funds in a client escrow account pending completion of agreed conditions. CLUTCH has no stake in who wins, takes the same 2.5% escrow service fee regardless of outcome, and has no ability to influence match results.

Gambling law in all major jurisdictions targets operators — entities that set odds, profit from outcomes, or hold a house edge. CLUTCH matches none of those criteria. Video game outcomes are determined by skill, not chance. This places CLUTCH in the same legal category as:

• Skill-based fantasy sports platforms (DraftKings, FanDuel)
• Esports prize tournaments (ESL, FACEIT, Battlefy)
• Skill game entry fee platforms (Skillz, WorldWinner)
• Private skill contests between consenting parties (exempt in most jurisdictions)

Users are responsible for confirming that skill-based P2P contracts are permitted in their jurisdiction before participating.

Entry amounts are held in autonomous smart contracts on Base L2 (Ethereum Layer 2). CLUTCH never takes custody of user funds. The smart contract holds funds between contract creation and settlement. Neither party can access funds during this period. Settlement is triggered by mutual agreement or, for API-verified games, by on-chain verification of the match outcome.

By using CLUTCH you confirm that you: (a) are 18 years of age or older; (b) are accessing the platform in a jurisdiction where skill-based P2P contracts are not prohibited; (c) are acting on your own behalf and not on behalf of any other person; (d) understand that contract entry amounts may be lost if you lose the skill contest; (e) have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts.

CLUTCH charges a flat 2.5% escrow service fee on the total contract value, deducted from the skill winner's payout. This fee is identical regardless of which player wins — CLUTCH has no financial interest in the outcome. The fee covers smart contract gas, platform infrastructure, and dispute resolution services. No fees are charged on contracts that expire without settlement.

For screenshot-verified games, either party may raise a dispute within 24 hours of submitted proof. Disputes are reviewed by the CLUTCH arbitration panel. Evidence requirements: timestamped in-game screenshot, match ID where available, and any relevant replay file. The panel's decision is final and binding. Frivolous disputes may result in account suspension.

Users may not: use cheats, hacks, or exploits; collude with their opponent to manipulate outcomes; submit falsified screenshots; create contracts for jurisdictions where prohibited; use CLUTCH for money laundering or any illegal purpose. Violations result in immediate account termination and forfeiture of escrow balance.

CLUTCH is provided "as is." To the maximum extent permitted by law, CLUTCH and its operators disclaim all liability for: smart contract bugs or exploits (contracts are audited but not infallible); game server outages affecting match outcomes; incorrect API verification results; loss of funds due to user error (sending to wrong address, losing wallet access). Maximum liability to any user is limited to the escrow service fee paid on the disputed contract.

CLUTCH operates under the laws of its operating jurisdiction. The platform is not directed at users in jurisdictions where skill-based P2P contracts are explicitly prohibited. Users who access CLUTCH via VPN or other means to circumvent geographic restrictions do so at their own risk and in violation of these terms. CLUTCH complies with applicable AML regulations and reserves the right to request identity verification for accounts above specified thresholds.

CLUTCH is built for competitive gamers who play with purpose. We provide Safe Play tools including daily loss limits and streak protection. If skill contracting is causing financial stress, contact support@clutch.gg. CLUTCH is not designed for and does not support compulsive or addictive behavior.