List Guidelines Document

The Main List (ML) is the Primary list available on the Max Mode List. The main factor for how high a placement is on this list is the amount of skill required to beat the challenge, though Luck/RNG are partially taken into account. This list only allows for a maximum of five modes from a game to place.

The Unlimited List (UL) is the Secondary list available on the Max Mode List, using the same placement measurements as the Main List. The Unlimited List is less strict than its counterpart, allowing for an infinite number of modes per game, and allowing placement of pre-patches and self imposed challenges.

While the exact definitions are more specific (section 1.3), we generally consider a max mode to be any night that is the hardest possible version of its gameplay style in a given FNaF game or FNaF fan-game. A Max Mode must NOT be a part of the main campaign of the game, such as the main 5 nights of a game (ex. the Final Nights games aren't allowed as they all end at Night 5). A main campaign is considered all gameplay that takes place before the credits or ending is shown in a game.

The different classifications of Max Modes that are able to be ranked on the list include:

• Base max mode: All characters on max AI (or all on, if there is no AI level), and any gameplay settings on their defaults. A game with different types of modes (e.g; Five Nights at Candy’s 3 Custom Night and Playtime with Percy) can have multiple base max modes.
• True max mode: All characters and settings at their hardest. Self-imposed challenges may be placed if they give in-game rewards. (e.g; "Hardest Ringing Nightmare” from Five Nights at Candy’s 2 Custom Night). Accessibility settings, such as graphics-related options, volume settings, and controls won’t be accounted for unless they’re treated as modifiers by the game itself. A game can have multiple true max modes, if some of the settings/modifiers conflict. (e.g; "Nightmare BM/MF/IF” and “Nightmare BM/AN” from Five Nights at Freddy’s 4.)
• Extra max mode: All characters on max AI (or all on, if there is no AI level), with some, but not all settings that affect difficulty. These modes can only qualify if they’re recognized by the game, by having either their own name or reward.
• Bonus mode: Mode that uses significantly different rules from the rest of the game. (e.g; “The Challenge” from UCN: Recode or “Hasta La Pasta!” from CEC:R, Charmified!) Bonus modes can also have true variants, and there can be multiple bonus modes per game.
• (UL only) Pre-patch max mode: Any of the max mode types listed above done on a harder, outdated version of a game. Up to three pre-patch versions of any given mode are allowed to place on the Unlimited List, with the most popular versions taking priority. Each must have a notable difference in gameplay or difficulty from other ranked pre-patches. Modes that only exist in pre-patches will use their last rendition before the mode’s removal. (e.g; “Eternal Suicide Mouse (v1.5.2)” from FNATI, But Dumb!) Pre-patches can also be placed if they play completely differently from their post-patch counterparts, even if they’re easier overall. (e.g; “True Nightmare” from Oblitus Casa.) Pre-patches can be removed from the list per developer request. (See Section 1.8.) If a game includes a mode that emulates a pre-patch, and is nearly identical to the pre-patch in terms of gameplay, the mode will be treated as a pre-patch. (e.g; “Gatekeep Gaslight Pre-Patch Mode” from Girl’s Night)
• (UL only) Self-imposed challenge: Any of the max mode types listed above done with the player restricting themself or playing differently to make the game harder (Ex. “50/20 No Death Coin” or “Twisted 27 No Floodlight”). It must be easily verifiable by pure gameplay footage alone, must not be ambiguous, must be regarding only the mode and not external programs, and must make a significant difference in difficulty. For a different strategy to place (Ex. "True Nightmare No Luring Together" or "Min Mode No Closing Together"), it must play significantly differently and be significantly harder than the main strategy used for that mode. Greenruns, character stalling challenges, and coin farming challenges can place, but they must be perfect (Ex. "Silent Suicide Mouse 100% Greenrun" or "Blood 7/20 Chester Cam 9") and they must require you to play significantly differently or be significantly harder. For a self-imposed challenge to place on the Main List, it has to follow these rules and give an in-game reward for completing it. Only two self-imposed challenges for the same mode can be placed on the Unlimited List, priority generally given to the most relevant one and the hardest one. Most relevant is decided on a case by case basis.

• An unnamed max mode will generally be listed as "X/Y Mode", X being the number of characters active and Y being the AI level they are set to.
• In cases where this is impossible, (characters having different max difficulties from each other, or not using a numbered difficulty scale, etc.) modes will be listed as "All Max" if the game has customizable AI, or "All Active" if the game only has character toggles without difficulty settings.
• Alternatively, an unnamed max mode can be listed under a name agreed upon by the community at large if there is one. This applies to variants of pre-existing modes as well, even if the base mode already has a name.
• If a mode is named in-game, it will be listed under said name.
• Modes with offensive official names will not be listed.
• If one or multiple additional challenges or settings are added to a mode with an official name, and the modified version does not have an official name, the challenges or settings will be listed in the modified mode's name. (e.g; “Funtime Gala Hard Mode” and “Parasitic Pals Aggressive AIs.”)
• If an unnamed true max mode has only modifiers (or the game's equivalent to modifiers) added to the base max mode, it will be listed as "[Mode name] All Modifiers (or the equivalent)."
• If an unnamed true max mode has settings that aren't considered modifiers added to the base max mode, it will be listed as "Hardest [Mode name]"
• Pre-patches will have their version number listed at the end of the mode's name. This also applies to modes that no longer exist in the current version of a game.

New rankings will be judged based on the easiest and most consistent method/strategy of beating a given mode. Modes with more RNG, or even modes that utilize strategies reliant on RNG to make it easier are tougher to rank in this case, therefore we may take extra time to ensure the accuracy of their ranking.

Utilizing in-game exploits and bugs to benefit a completion for a mode is allowed, like the gate glitches in Five Nights at Chuck E. Cheese’s: Rebooted.

• We do not allow games that require 2 or more people to play at the same time. (e.g; multiplayer FNaF games like Forgotten Pizzeria.) This includes using external applications such as Parsec or Crowd Control for splitting control of an intentionally single player Max Mode. Additionally, multiplayer modes played solo will not be placed.
• VR Games are allowed on the Main List if they have a flat mode. If they don’t, then they can only be ranked on the Unlimited List.
• Games that are not intended to be played on PC are only allowed on the Unlimited List.
• Mobile and Console Ports of games already placed on either list are not ranked separately from other modes.

• The Max Mode List allows modifications/alterations/remakes of pre-existing games and fangames to be ranked. However, there are specific placement guidelines for modded modes that differ from base game requirements.
• If a modification/alteration/remake is deemed too similar to a game already present on the list, it will not be allowed on the Main List, but may be allowed on the Unlimited List.
• Too similar is in reference to mods that barely change a game’s core mechanics or general gameplay. For example, mods that uncap the AI levels of a pre-existing game are not allowed on either list.
• Mods are much more susceptible to being blacklisted/removed from the list due to quality control; originality and unique changes to gameplay are expected.

• A Pre-Patch entry of an updated game is able to be placed on the Unlimited List if it is drastically different or more difficult than the up to date version.
• If a game’s page is deleted by the developer and there is no other official download, the game will not be placed unless it is in our archive. The above applies to pre-patches as well, with the obvious exception being if the pre-patch in question is put on the game page.
• If a developer wishes for their deleted game or pre-patched version of a game to not be archived or not be placed on the list, they can reach out to anyone from the list team and we will remove it from our archive and the list.

If a new update comes out for a game/mode that drastically changes the way the game is played, or makes the mode significantly harder, ALL previous records will be wiped, and new records will be implemented. Drastic changes include major AI reworks, recodes, and/or updated assets that impact the game’s difficulty.

There are 2 channels in the MML Discord server used to request modifications to the list, them being:

• #request-changes, used primarily for discussion on adding or removing modes for one reason or another, mainly due to us not knowing about a mode or removing one that breaks an already established rule that we overlooked.
• #placement-opinions, where users can submit their opinions on modes already placed to modify their placement on the list, such as lowering a mode that recently got a nerf or was generally overranked on the list.

Both channels are free for all users to create posts on themselves, as well as giving everyone the chance to comment on previously made threads that they agree/disagree with and to give their own perspective. Not all perspectives will be treated the same, however, and it is advised to have a history of beating modes of similar difficulty or that are within the same game before making or commenting on a post.

When you post something in either channel, it is important you explain your reasoning as to why you would like to see a mode added, removed, or moved to a certain position, and give any experience you may have with similar modes to have it be properly considered, as just mentioning a change you want to be made doesn’t help staff members know if you are serious about the change. For movements, just listing a mode you consider to be harder and one you consider to be easier is sufficient in most cases.

It is important to note that not all posts within both channels will be accepted onto the list. The list team will choose what modifications to make based on the factors listed above. It is important to have multiple opinions on a mode before changing its placement, to ensure less bias to placements overall. When discussing a post, be civil and let everyone speak, as there may be points you have yet to consider, or simply forgot about when making the post. This is a community driven process for a reason, having more opinions on something makes it much more meritable than having only 1, even from a top player.

• Completions must be done on an unmodified version of the game, or on a modified version that’s been approved by the list team. A full list of approved mods can be found here.
• It is also strongly recommended that you play on the most recent version of the game. Playing on an old version risks your run being rejected.
• A completion cannot use tools which provide an unfair advantage to the player. An unfair advantage is one that cannot be obtained without tools that directly interact with the game in any way, including making inputs for the player. External tools that do not directly interact with the game, such as timers, are generally allowed.
• Pausing in games with built in pause buttons will not result in an immediate rejection, but does put your run at risk of being rejected if we feel the feature was being abused. It is recommended to avoid pausing at all.
• A completion cannot use in-game “cheats” to make the mode easier. What constitutes a cheat is decided on a case by case basis, but is generally based on what the game itself classifies as a cheat. Accessibility features are rarely considered cheats. If you are unsure whether or not a setting counts as a cheat, you can ask the list team about it.
• If your record is for a mode NOT in the top 150 of either list at the time of your submission, it will be rejected. Additionally, if the mode you are submitting for does not exist as an entry on the list, it will also be rejected.

• A recording must include the entire winning run. If your recording is missing any part of the winning run, or the moments immediately before or after the winning run, you risk your record getting rejected.
• A recording must include clearly audible game audio for the entire winning run, or you risk your record being rejected.
• Your mouse cursor must be visible for the entire winning run, or you risk your record being rejected.
• Any external images, videos, webcams, etc. must not cover important in-game information or excessively large portions of the screen.
• Your video must be reasonably watchable; we recommend a minimum of 30 FPS and 480p. Using less than this can put your record at risk of being rejected. Having a framerate display, either in-game or with an external program such as Fraps, can significantly help with the verification process.
• The video must be viewable without needing an account on the site it was posted on to view it. (ex: YouTube videos must be either Public or Unlisted, not Private; the BiliBili feature that prevents users from seeing video content unless they have an account MUST be turned off for the submission to be accepted.)

• Users without a prior history of records may be held to higher standards when submitting completions for top max modes.
• Include the date of the completion. If you are unable to do so, we will still allow your record, but will use the date of the video upload instead. This is especially important when a new Max Mode is released, since determining initial victors requires these specifications.
• Users who are found to be cheating or causing significant harm to other users, will be blacklisted. Their records will be removed and they will be unable to submit any future records.
• Recording your own completions for other users to pass off as their own will also result in a blacklist.
• Users can request for any of their records to be removed at any time.
• Users can also request to be blacklisted.
• Records will rarely be retroactively removed for not following new rules.
• Records may still be accepted, even if they do not follow a specific rule for submissions, as long as the rule was implemented within the last 2 weeks.
• It may take the team upwards of a month to verify a record. We have a reasonably large team, but we all do this as volunteer work for fun, taking time from our daily lives, so we can’t always promise a quick verification.

Our Discord Server is a public space, meant to be a safe and enjoyable place to discuss topics related to FNaF and the list. Everyone in the server follows the same rules, and are treated equally, the same applies to the List Team. You must be at least 13 years old to use Discord. Raiding, illegal activities, attempting to obtain personal information, and all other prohibited acts will result in a permanent ban. Have common sense. Do not spam, do not ping team members for no reason, try not to make others uncomfortable, listen to and respect the staff team, etc. Be kind to others, and avoid starting fights. Communicate with Admins respectfully, so they can help you to the best of their abilities. As Admins, we aim to provide our best input on various important ideas and discussions within the server and Max Mode List as a whole.

We understand that this server and the nature of Max Modes are competitive. However, do not disrespect, harass, use slurs against, attack, or target anyone in any negative light whatsoever. We promote good sportsmanship, not slander or hate. If a user violates these rules, a punishment ranging from a verbal warning to a ban will be issued, depending on the severity. Because of the nature of this server, it is common to disagree with someone or something said. Please be mindful of others' opinions, do not bring them down for their opinions.

Do not post or discuss suggestive or NSFW content to this server. Violating this rule specifically will result in either a permanent warning or an instant ban, depending on the severity. Generally be mindful. This is a public server based on hard modes in Five Nights at Freddy’s games, minors are present and even if they weren’t, explicit discussion simply does not belong.

Sharing your opinion is encouraged within the server, especially when related to FNaF, max modes, their placements, and other similar topics. However, keep conversations away from potentially controversial subjects such as politics, religion, or anything that could be considered as such. Instigating or partaking in a controversial discussion may result in a verbal or permanent warning being given. Please refrain from bringing up past drama or controversy that has happened within the FNaF community or MML server. If you have any problems or questions, make a ticket or message one of the admins about it.

Each channel has a specific use. Keep conversations in their respective chats. Posting memes or gifs in non-meme chats is allowed, but punishment will be issued if you are spamming, intentionally annoying, or making other users uncomfortable with them.

Users can use the server’s Ticket Support system to directly communicate with admins about any concerns they may have about moderation or anything else in the server. Maintain civil discussion and discourse with the admins in these tickets. You can request to speak with a specific Admin by pinging them in the ticket. Opening tickets for no reason will result in a verbal or permanent warning.

Admins and Mods have the right to stop behavior or discussion of certain topics that are against the rules. If a rule is broken, it will result in a verbal warning (unless it was severe enough to warrant immediate punishment). If a user fails to comply with verbal warning, they will receive a permanent “warn” role. A server member can have up to 2 warn roles. If a member possesses 2 warn roles and breaks the rules again, they will be banned from the server. We give second chances. Use the Warn Removal form to appeal a specific warning if you think we made a mistake, or if you have properly reflected on your action. In the case of a banned user, they will be unbanned once their warn appeal is accepted.

The staff team is responsible for everything related to the Max Mode List, whether that be documents, the site, the server, moderation, verifying records, etc. The team consists of 3 major roles:

• Director - The leader and main decision maker of the MML, and is the primary person responsible for managing the server and list as a whole.
• Admin - The team responsible for most moderation action within the server, as well as major list decisions. They are always available to discuss information about the list via the ticket system.
• Staff - A team dedicated to helping the list, editing documents, verifying records, adding and removing modes, and helping with server moderation to a degree. They also help on some important list decisions, having a polls channel and generally discussing things that need to be discussed.

All roles are to be expected to help out in various channels, especially #ask-mml-team. As for Admins, they are expected to help with responding to member tickets.

Why is “X” mode not placed on the list?

The mode was either rejected/removed based on the requirements above, we haven’t gathered enough opinions to determine an accurate placement, or we are not aware of the mode. If you believe a mode isn’t on the list due to us not knowing about it, you can make a #request-changes post regarding it.

Why are players allowed to submit a win for “[Mode Name] with all challenges” for the same mode with no challenges?

We allow runs of modes with All Challenges or Hard Modes to be submitted for the same mode without challenges, as the normal mode is fundamentally the same mode. This prevents forcing the player to record and submit multiple runs for what is essentially an easier version of the same mode.

We promote organized community events with our dedicated event channels in our server and our community tab on our website, whether it be a tournament, gamejam, or just select people beating themed modes (such as the Max Modes Alphabet event). However, we have rules that we’d like event organizers to follow.

• Make sure to reach out to a staff member or an admin if your event is fully ready and you’d like for us to promote your event. Once we decide it’s okay, we’ll give you the event hoster role in the server, allowing you to post in the event channels.
• Please do not spam or post unrelated messages to your event.
• We try to keep ongoing events to a minimum to not cause flood or confusion in the event channels. Please understand we may not immediately accept your event due to this reason.
• Your event is subject to server rules and common sense. We will not continue promoting your event if the content within it is rule breaking.
• If your event isn’t fully ready or is set to go for an extended period of time (2+ months) then we will remove your event hoster role until it is ready to continue.