5. Care for Opening Theory?
Opening theory goes nicely along with the “endless” possibilities regarding chess. An opening is defined as a series of moves to start out a game, which can include many different sub variations. There are well over 1,000 different openings, including variations within larger openings/defenses that one can learn.
Openings are a unique aspect of chess as well. It also allows chess players a way to “prepare” for an opponent or play to their chess style. For instance, there are many different types of defenses that one can learn to suit an aggressive or positional style of play; i.e. the King’s Indian or the Queen’s Indian defenses respectfully against 1. d4.
4. The Onset of Chess Variants…And Boxing?
To no surprise the market of chess variants is wide and varied (sorry, pun intended). There are a number of variants that alter the pieces, the board, and anything from putting three chess boards on top of each other. You can even put two chess boards side-by-side and play Bughouse – where you capture a piece and hand
it to your opponent for placement.
Chess boxing has emerged in recent years, mixing in a round of boxing for a pre-defined time on a chess board. You fall on one front and you lose. It brings another interesting aspect to the world of chess and its variants, which certainly appeal to some people looking for a new twist.
3. Chess Computers – Deep Blue and Others
Chess computers are now a very important part of chess. Most famously Garry Kasparov, world champion and known as one of the strongest players in the history of chess, was defeated by IBM’s Deep Blue in 1997 in a six-game match. Aside from claims of cheating, this was a major shock to the chess world.
In 2006 world champion Vladimir Kramnik was defeated by Deep Fritz, furthering the statement of the strength of chess computers. Today chess programs are easily available to chess players that are essential in analyzing games and improving. They commonly rate within the same strength of Grandmasters.
2. Chess and Your Brain
Chess is often cited by psychologists as an effective way to improve memory function. Also allowing the mind to solve complex problems and work through ideas, it is no wonder that chess is recommended in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Some contend that it can increase one’s intelligence, though that is a more complex topic.
The effects of chess on young individuals had led to chess being introduced in school districts and various countries. It has been shown to improve children’s grades and other positive effects as well.
1. The Turk – A Chess Machine
The Turk was an 18th century chess machine, or so people thought. Victimizing a number of people such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Benjamin Franklin, it was actually not a machine.
Including an elaborate construction that included a method to hide its operator, a human chess player was inside of the Turk. When it was lost in the fire the secret was out, and the Turk remains another interesting chess story of all time.
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