Frequently Asked Questions

What is Debategle?

Debategle matches you 1v1 with another debater for a structured, timed debate on a topic you're placed on opposing sides of. An AI judge scores the exchange and updates your ELO rating.

How do debates work?

Each debate runs through fixed phases — opening statements, rebuttals, cross-examination, and closing statements — with a timer per turn. When both sides finish, an AI judge reviews the full transcript and produces a written result.

How does matchmaking work?

Join the queue and you're paired with another online player, placed on opposing sides of a topic. You can also create or join a private casual room with a 6-character access code if you want to debate a specific person.

Can I practice against AI?

Yes. Practice mode lets you debate an AI opponent with feedback on your argument structure, without affecting your ranked ELO.

How does ranking work?

Every ranked match adjusts your ELO based on the AI judge's decision and your opponent's rating. Wins, losses, and rating history are tracked on your profile.

How does moderation work?

Messages and live captions are checked by both a rules-based filter and an AI classifier while the debate is in progress. Severe violations (hate speech, threats) issue a strike immediately; repeated strikes end the debate and can result in a ban. You can also report an opponent after a match.

What happens when someone breaks the rules?

Depending on severity, an account can receive a warning, a temporary ban, or a permanent ban. Banned or suspended users can submit an appeal for a completed debate for review.

Is Debategle free?

Yes, Debategle is free to use. There's an optional Ko-fi link for anyone who wants to support development — no paid tier or premium features.

How old must I be to use Debategle?

Debategle is an 18-and-over platform. You confirm your age when you create an account, and accounts believed to belong to a minor are suspended on report.

Still have a question? Contact us or read the full rules.