What is the role of a Head Judge in tournaments?

The role of a Head Judge in tournaments is primarily focused on enforcing the rules and resolving disputes that may arise during the event. This individual is responsible for ensuring fair play and that the tournament runs smoothly according to the Official Rules and policies. The Head Judge makes critical decisions regarding game rules enforcement and handles any issues that players might encounter, such as disputes over card interactions or rulings about game states.

While assisting players with gameplay questions, tracking match results, or providing commentary may be tasks assigned to other tournament staff, these do not fall under the core responsibilities of the Head Judge. Their main emphasis is on the integrity of the tournament, making impartial rulings, and maintaining order among participants. As such, the Head Judge plays a crucial role in upholding the standards of competition and ensuring that all players have a fair experience.