Player Tier Structure
This tier structure is a core part of the ROKI go-to-market strategy.
#7.1 The Three Tiers (Plus Token-Staker Sub-Tier)
Free Tier
- Account-based (email/password), no wallet required initially
- 300 HP total (75 per zone)
- 3 technique slots
- Common techniques only (no Rares, no Legendaries)
- No permanent achievements
- ELO uncapped — can climb as high as skill allows
- Matchmakes by ELO range against anyone, regardless of tier
- Can compete in Open Bracket tournaments only
- Can receive crypto prizes (must connect a wallet at claim time)
Paid Tier
- Account-based, one-time purchase ($20-50 range — to be finalized)
- 400 HP total (100 per zone) — matches NFT stats
- 5 technique slots — matches NFT slot count
- Commons and Rares only (no Legendaries)
- No permanent achievements
- ELO uncapped
- Free re-rolls of character
- Can compete in Open Bracket only (unless they also stake tokens)
Paid Tier + Token Stakers
- Paid tier character + stake a specified amount of $ROKI ($50-100 range being considered)
- Minimum stake duration: 2 weeks
- Unlocks access to the Challenger Cup
- Tokens locked during tournament season; cannot be sold without forfeiting qualification
NFT Tier
- Owns one or more ROKI NFTs
- 400 HP total (100 per zone)
- 5 technique slots (6 for Copy Ninjas)
- Full access: Commons, Rares, Legendaries
- All permanent achievements available
- Full Fighter Legacy tracking
- Canonical lore in the ROKI Verse
- One-time Reforging option (see Part 15)
- Can compete in NFT Grand Championship
- Full commercial IP rights to their specific ROKI (see Part 16)
- Priority access to airdrops, partnerships, and all future ecosystem benefits
#7.2 Tournament Bracket Access Summary
| Tier | Open Bracket | Challenger Cup | NFT Grand Championship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Yes | No | No |
| Paid | Yes | No | No |
| Paid + Token Staker | Yes | Yes | No |
| NFT | Yes | Yes | Yes |
#7.3 Philosophy of Tiering
The tier system honors three forms of commitment: time and skill (any tier can climb ELO), ecosystem investment (Paid + Token Staker shows financial commitment without NFT prices), and long-term stake (NFT holders are equity participants). No tier is humiliated. Every tier has meaningful recognition and meaningful upgrade paths.
#7.4 Rookie League Onboarding
When the Free tier opens (Phase 2 of launch), new free players start in a temporary Rookie League against other new players. After 20–30 matches, they graduate into the main ELO pool.
#7.5 NFT-vs-NFT Matchmaking Priority
When multiple player tiers share the same ELO range, the system prioritizes NFT-vs-NFT matchups.
#7.6 Visual Distinction in Game
NFT fighters display a visual marker in-game (border, badge, or similar) that differentiates them from paid and free fighters.