# Match Flow & Rules

### **Pre-Match Preparation**

* Obtain your EKKO: Upon entering the game, you can choose from four distinct personalities for your EKKO Agent. Each has distinct combat styles, tactical strategies, and risk preferences. (Please find more details of EKKO under [EKKO AI Agent)](https://partyicons.gitbook.io/wiki/ekko-alpha-test-guide/ekko-ai-agent).
* Mode Selection: Depending on the mode, matches are either manually controlled by the player or automated by the EKKO AI. Diamond and Coin sessions are available for the Commander Mode, while the Marauder Mode only consists of Coin sessions.
* Matchmaking: Matches consist of 8 players.
* Tactical Loadout: Players configure their gear before deployment. Stronger equipment allows for higher stakes. Please refer to “Tactical Loadouts” for details. (Please find details under ["Tactical Loadouts"](https://partyicons.gitbook.io/wiki/ekko-alpha-test-guide/game-mode/tactical-loadouts-mask-mode).)

### **In-Match Mechanics**

* Loot Spawning: The total Diamond/Coin value brought into the match by the eight players is distributed across the battlefield as collectibles within various loot boxes.
* Extra rewards: In each match, the system has a probability of distributing additional collectibles.
* Loots Collection: Players can obtain collectibles by exploring the map, eliminating NPCs, and opening loot boxes. Alternatively, they can eliminate other players to seize their loot.
* NPC Guardians: NPCs are stationed near loot boxes to protect them. Generally, the higher the value of the loot box, the more powerful the guarding NPCs will be.
* Respawn Mechanism: Upon a player's first elimination, they enter a "Spirit State," during which they cannot attack or be attacked and gain increased movement speed. After 15 seconds, the player will respawn. Each player has only one base respawn chance, though special in-match items can grant additional lives.
* Intel Utilization: During the match, the EKKO AGENT will acquire intelligence leads. Players who utilize this intel strategically can effectively increase their win rate.
* Extraction Portal Refresh: The first extraction point spawns at a random location 4 minutes after the match begins. Additionally, players can purchase intel to reveal the locations of hidden extraction points.

### **Post-Match Settlement**

* Players who successfully extract can carry out their gathered collectibles. At the settlement screen, these items can be sold for in-game currencies.