UNIQUE EDGE
A linked identity can have one referrer and cannot refer itself.
RETENTION REFERRAL / CHECKING
Links alone pay nothing. A referral advances only after the recruited Steam identity links and produces verified active play.
01 / QUALIFICATION PATH
One referee, one referrer. No self-referral or referral chain loops.
Connected/AFK time does not advance this step.
The recruited player has become a real participant.
Ranks count qualified referrals, not Discord joins.
The strongest bonus requires real activity in a later full wipe.
02 / ABUSE BOUNDARY
A linked identity can have one referrer and cannot refer itself.
Direct and transitive referral loops are rejected.
Weak signals never cause an automatic ban on their own.