From Mark Weeks,
No one catches up with Garry Kasparov. In our 2003 tribute, on the occasion of his 40th birthday, we guessed, 'He is certain to play a leading role in the chess world for many years to come.' We were right for the wrong reasons. Five years later, it's time to catch up with the greatest living chess player, who has packed more living into that five year period than most other people pack into a lifetime.
In the year 2003, when we last looked at his chess career, Kasparov was grabbing headlines with two high profile man-machine matches against strong computers: six games against Deep Junior in January and four games against X3D Fritz in November. Both matches were drawn. That same year saw the release of 'Game over: Kasparov and the Machine', a documentary by Vikram Jayanti on the 1997 man-machine match lost by Kasparov against IBM's Deep Blue.
Kasparov was the non-FIDE World Champion at the time of the match and has never accepted that Deep Blue won by any other means than foul play.
June 2003 saw the publication of 'My Great Predecessors Part I', covering the first four World Champions, Steinitz through Alekhine. It was followed the same year by 'Part II', Euwe through Tal. The landmark series, destined to be a classic before it was published, covers the history of each of the first 12 undisputed World Champions through a selection of deeply annotated games and a discussion of important turning points in the players' careers.
Despite his critical and commercial success as an author, all was not rosy in Kasparov's world. After losing his non-FIDE World Champion title to Vladimir Kramnik in 2000, and then finding Kramnik unwilling to arrange a rematch, Kasparov had been pinning his chess future on the outcome of a title reunification plan begun in 2002.
A key component in the reunification process was a match against FIDE World Champion Ruslan Ponomariov of the Ukraine. In August 2003, not long after it was reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma would attend the opening ceremony to make the first moves for their compatriots, the match collapsed through no fault of Kasparov's.
FIDE arranged a competition in 2004 with the objective of replacing Ponomariov as FIDE World Champion. This time the title was won by Rustam Kasimdzhanov, a little known player from Uzbekistan. FIDE announced that the Kasparov - Kasimdzhanov would take place at the beginning of 2005, but this collapsed in December 2004.
Kasparov had had enough. In January 2005, he announced his exit from the World Championship cycle.
As for unification, I cannot see an avenue to contribute further. For those who saw me as an obstacle, I will be one no longer. I am not giving up on chess. I will compete as well and as long as I am able to play my brand of chess. I will continue to serve chess and those who love our game. I have now held the no.1 ranking for 20 years and I will defend my position against any opponent. My only retreat is from the battlefield of chess championship politics.
His vow to 'compete as well and as long as I am able to play my brand of chess' lasted less than two months. In March, after winning the annual Linares super grandmaster tournament, and still ranked world no.1, he announced his retirement from professional chess.
It could come as a surprise to many of you. But before this tournament I made a conscious decision that Linares 2005 will be my last professional tournament, and today I played my last professional game. [...] I may play some chess for fun, but it will no longer be professional competitive chess.
Instead of playing professional chess, he intended to finish the 'My Great Predecessors' series, to work on a new book titled 'How Life Imitates Chess', and to 'devote a certain amount of time to Russian politics, as every decent person should do, who opposes the dictator Vladimir Putin'.
Already back in December 2003, on a trip to Denmark, Kasparov had criticized Putin publicly; 'Russia is rapidly turning into a police state. Every week and every month adds more power into President Putin’s hands. Let’s not forget that he was a KGB officer -- and we say there are no ex-KGB officers. He doesn’t know any better, he believes that the country needs, if not a dictatorship, at least a very strong hand, an iron fist.'
Shortly afterwards, he joined other prominent Russian personalities in announcing the formation of 'Committee 2008: Free Choice'. The objective of the movement was to bypass the 2004 election, which Putin was expected to win easily, and oppose him in the 2008 election. Kasparov, as chairman of Committee 2008, continued to speak out against Putin throughout 2004.
I found this article very interesting on Kasparov. You can read more about him here. http://chess.about.com
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Thursday, 24 April 2008
Monday, 21 April 2008
Gender Stereotypes and Style in Chess
Gender Stereotypes and Style in Chess
from the Boston Globe April 20, 2008Uncommon Knowledge: Surprising insights from the social sciences
CHESS IS A man's game. Not only do men vastly outnumber women in competition, but the perception that men are better seems to make women play worse.
After confirming that there is a widely held stereotype - shared by men and women - that men are better at chess, researchers set up a chess tournament on the Internet to match comparably ranked men and women against each other.
When the players were unaware of their opponent's gender, women played just as well as men. When the women were told that they would be playing a man and "that recent studies had shown that men earn clearly superior scores than women in chess games," their performance was cut in half.
Their performance did not suffer if they were told they were playing against another woman, even if they were actually playing a man. The researchers found the women's performance drop was caused by a change in their style of play: they became less confident and aggressive, and more defensive.
Maass, A. et al., "Checkmate? The Role of Gender Stereotypes in the Ultimate Intellectual Sport," European Journal of Social Psychology (March/April 2008).
Check out further articles at http://boylston-chess-club.blogspot.com
from the Boston Globe April 20, 2008Uncommon Knowledge: Surprising insights from the social sciences
CHESS IS A man's game. Not only do men vastly outnumber women in competition, but the perception that men are better seems to make women play worse.
After confirming that there is a widely held stereotype - shared by men and women - that men are better at chess, researchers set up a chess tournament on the Internet to match comparably ranked men and women against each other.
When the players were unaware of their opponent's gender, women played just as well as men. When the women were told that they would be playing a man and "that recent studies had shown that men earn clearly superior scores than women in chess games," their performance was cut in half.
Their performance did not suffer if they were told they were playing against another woman, even if they were actually playing a man. The researchers found the women's performance drop was caused by a change in their style of play: they became less confident and aggressive, and more defensive.
Maass, A. et al., "Checkmate? The Role of Gender Stereotypes in the Ultimate Intellectual Sport," European Journal of Social Psychology (March/April 2008).
Check out further articles at http://boylston-chess-club.blogspot.com
Sunday, 20 April 2008
3D Chess
Join the Discussion : 3D Chess From Mark Weeks.
Coincidence? We've recently had two forum posts touting the advantages of chess played in three dimensions: 3D Chess and 3D Chess Set. • Is chess reaching the point where we should take a serious look at variants? Tell us what you think by posting to our forum or entering a comment right here.
This may be of interest to some of you.
More info at http://chess.about.com/
Coincidence? We've recently had two forum posts touting the advantages of chess played in three dimensions: 3D Chess and 3D Chess Set. • Is chess reaching the point where we should take a serious look at variants? Tell us what you think by posting to our forum or entering a comment right here.
This may be of interest to some of you.
More info at http://chess.about.com/
Saturday, 19 April 2008
ChrissyBear Turns Tail
I have just read this article, and it is pretty interesting.
ChrissyBear Turns Tail
Update on the Thursday Night Swiss, currently running.Paired against sometime expert Jason Rihel, Shabalov-killer Chris Williams was mortally wounded when Jason uncorked the stunning 1. e4! After struggling to a draw in the previous round, Chris was already reeling in this event before this loss. Although Jason had slightly exposed his king by moving its pawn cover, ChrissyBear turned tail and fled, forfeiting the game and incurring the Boylston Chess Club forfeiting penalty.After Eric Godin and Simon Warfield played to a draw, Jason's defeat of the frightened ChrissyBear put him into a tie for first place going into the final round.Update update: (Translation: Jason played e4.! and started Chris's clock. Chris never showed up, and he forfeited. Jason assumes Chris was scared off by his bold play.)
You can check this out and more at http://boylston-chess-club.blogspot.com/ with more of the same, I thought you nice people might like to check it out.
ChrissyBear Turns Tail
Update on the Thursday Night Swiss, currently running.Paired against sometime expert Jason Rihel, Shabalov-killer Chris Williams was mortally wounded when Jason uncorked the stunning 1. e4! After struggling to a draw in the previous round, Chris was already reeling in this event before this loss. Although Jason had slightly exposed his king by moving its pawn cover, ChrissyBear turned tail and fled, forfeiting the game and incurring the Boylston Chess Club forfeiting penalty.After Eric Godin and Simon Warfield played to a draw, Jason's defeat of the frightened ChrissyBear put him into a tie for first place going into the final round.Update update: (Translation: Jason played e4.! and started Chris's clock. Chris never showed up, and he forfeited. Jason assumes Chris was scared off by his bold play.)
You can check this out and more at http://boylston-chess-club.blogspot.com/ with more of the same, I thought you nice people might like to check it out.
Wednesday, 16 April 2008
Choosing Materials For Your Chess Set.
Tips for Choosing a Material for Your Chess Set
By Bradford Roegner
With the abundance of options in chess sets, it is easy to become overwhelmed, especially at the delicate pricing point. This article will point out the reasons for price variation on chess sets, for a given l. Of course such choices as size of the chess pieces, the length of the chess board, or thickness will have an overall effect on the price. This article focuses on the relative differences when all such things are held equal.
The first thing that will dictate the price of the chess set is choice of the materials that are used in its production. The most popular options include Metal and Wood. Additionally there are several woods that are available and each will influence the price of the chess set.
Chess pieces that are made from metal are going to be the most expensive, while chess pieces that are made from wood are less expensive, in some cases extraordinarily so. Metal chess pieces are more expensive because of the extra equipment that is needed. The hardness of the metal that are used will force replacement of equipment due to wear faster than wood. Additionally, mining the ore needed for metal is usually more expensive than that of obtaining wood.
Even with choosing wood chess sets, there will lie a large price variation in pricing amongst the possible woods. Sheesham wood, Rosewood and Ebony are the three most popular choices for chess sets. This also their order of increasing cost. Sheesham is a lighter colored brown. It is an excellent choice for chess pieces, with its ability to be carved. Identical sheesham set can be up to 50% less that Rosewood set and 70% less that Ebony. Sheesham pieces are just as beautiful as their counter part, with a warm traditional feel to them.
Rosewood chess sets are then next on the ladder. Rosewood is a darker wood with even darker grain running through it. It is also a harder wood and more difficult to procure. As such, the skill needed to work with rosewood drives the cost higher. The wood varies in color from a Brown to a very deep coffee color, and can be found to have red hints throughout. As such, this wood produces a rich chess set that is a beautiful centerpiece to any chess collection.
Finally there is Ebony. When a player is looking to make a statement in a room or in a match, this is certainly the choice to make. Ebony is a dense hardwood that is difficult to find. The wood will vary in color from dark purple to deep black. Carved, it is a very impressive as chess pieces. Because of how hard it is, creating chess pieces from ebony is something that left to the most skilled of the trade. That, coupled with its rarity and demand causes the ebony chess sets to rise in price. The result is a severe and well heeled chess set.
With all the chess set that are available for purchase, this article was able to provide the guidelines explaining the source of the costs in a chess set. While there is a large range of the prices to choose amongst, a chess set is an investment that will return hours of joy and satisfaction to anyone who empowers them selves to own one.
Bradford Roegner is webmaster for BraRoe Chess Sets He is available to help provide people with the tools to bring chess into their life. You can contact him Bradford@braroechess.com any time with question.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bradford_Roegner
By Bradford Roegner
With the abundance of options in chess sets, it is easy to become overwhelmed, especially at the delicate pricing point. This article will point out the reasons for price variation on chess sets, for a given l. Of course such choices as size of the chess pieces, the length of the chess board, or thickness will have an overall effect on the price. This article focuses on the relative differences when all such things are held equal.
The first thing that will dictate the price of the chess set is choice of the materials that are used in its production. The most popular options include Metal and Wood. Additionally there are several woods that are available and each will influence the price of the chess set.
Chess pieces that are made from metal are going to be the most expensive, while chess pieces that are made from wood are less expensive, in some cases extraordinarily so. Metal chess pieces are more expensive because of the extra equipment that is needed. The hardness of the metal that are used will force replacement of equipment due to wear faster than wood. Additionally, mining the ore needed for metal is usually more expensive than that of obtaining wood.
Even with choosing wood chess sets, there will lie a large price variation in pricing amongst the possible woods. Sheesham wood, Rosewood and Ebony are the three most popular choices for chess sets. This also their order of increasing cost. Sheesham is a lighter colored brown. It is an excellent choice for chess pieces, with its ability to be carved. Identical sheesham set can be up to 50% less that Rosewood set and 70% less that Ebony. Sheesham pieces are just as beautiful as their counter part, with a warm traditional feel to them.
Rosewood chess sets are then next on the ladder. Rosewood is a darker wood with even darker grain running through it. It is also a harder wood and more difficult to procure. As such, the skill needed to work with rosewood drives the cost higher. The wood varies in color from a Brown to a very deep coffee color, and can be found to have red hints throughout. As such, this wood produces a rich chess set that is a beautiful centerpiece to any chess collection.
Finally there is Ebony. When a player is looking to make a statement in a room or in a match, this is certainly the choice to make. Ebony is a dense hardwood that is difficult to find. The wood will vary in color from dark purple to deep black. Carved, it is a very impressive as chess pieces. Because of how hard it is, creating chess pieces from ebony is something that left to the most skilled of the trade. That, coupled with its rarity and demand causes the ebony chess sets to rise in price. The result is a severe and well heeled chess set.
With all the chess set that are available for purchase, this article was able to provide the guidelines explaining the source of the costs in a chess set. While there is a large range of the prices to choose amongst, a chess set is an investment that will return hours of joy and satisfaction to anyone who empowers them selves to own one.
Bradford Roegner is webmaster for BraRoe Chess Sets He is available to help provide people with the tools to bring chess into their life. You can contact him Bradford@braroechess.com any time with question.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bradford_Roegner
Tuesday, 15 April 2008
Chess Downloads.
Chess Games For The Computer
By Tom Gosselin
If you fancy a change from playing traditional chess, or you simply can't find an opponent, why not turn to your computer to play chess games on your own?
There is a wealth of chess games available online, ranging from simple two dimensional versions of the classic game up to three dimensional ones where all the playing pieces come alive as you play.
Suitable For All Ages?
There are a number of online games which are aimed at younger players who are learning chess. One is based on Disney's Aladdin, which allows the player to visit different worlds and meet all kinds of characters while learning the rules of chess.
This makes the process of learning much easier to digest for younger players, who can find chess a little hard to understand at first. The extra elements (and the colourful three dimensional game boards) make it much more enjoyable.
Free Downloads
Many sites offer free downloads but sometimes you will only get a limited version of the game to try at home. If you want the full version you will have to buy it, which you can do immediately online if you wish.
For the more advanced player seeking to improve on their game, there are chess games available in which you can pit your wits against the ultimate player. This kind of game acts as a tutorial and teaches you the best moves, making it easier to learn how the game can be played.
Two Views
All computer chess games have one of two views. The first one is the two dimensional overhead game, where you are looking down on the pieces directly from above. The second one is more like a real life game - three dimensional and viewed from behind your chess pieces, as it would be in a real game.
This is more realistic but it can take a little getting used to on the computer screen. You will often find you can adjust the viewing angle to see the board from different positions however. This provides an excellent learning tool as you can get a better idea of how your pieces look to your opponent.
Computer chess games will never replace the excitement of playing a real live opponent, but if you are struggling to find good players to learn from, your computer could be the best chess player you've ever known.
As long as it has the right software.
Tom Gosselin is a chess enthusiast who created http://www.unique-chess-sets.com/ as a resource site for those interested in learning and playing chess.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Gosselin
By Tom Gosselin
If you fancy a change from playing traditional chess, or you simply can't find an opponent, why not turn to your computer to play chess games on your own?
There is a wealth of chess games available online, ranging from simple two dimensional versions of the classic game up to three dimensional ones where all the playing pieces come alive as you play.
Suitable For All Ages?
There are a number of online games which are aimed at younger players who are learning chess. One is based on Disney's Aladdin, which allows the player to visit different worlds and meet all kinds of characters while learning the rules of chess.
This makes the process of learning much easier to digest for younger players, who can find chess a little hard to understand at first. The extra elements (and the colourful three dimensional game boards) make it much more enjoyable.
Free Downloads
Many sites offer free downloads but sometimes you will only get a limited version of the game to try at home. If you want the full version you will have to buy it, which you can do immediately online if you wish.
For the more advanced player seeking to improve on their game, there are chess games available in which you can pit your wits against the ultimate player. This kind of game acts as a tutorial and teaches you the best moves, making it easier to learn how the game can be played.
Two Views
All computer chess games have one of two views. The first one is the two dimensional overhead game, where you are looking down on the pieces directly from above. The second one is more like a real life game - three dimensional and viewed from behind your chess pieces, as it would be in a real game.
This is more realistic but it can take a little getting used to on the computer screen. You will often find you can adjust the viewing angle to see the board from different positions however. This provides an excellent learning tool as you can get a better idea of how your pieces look to your opponent.
Computer chess games will never replace the excitement of playing a real live opponent, but if you are struggling to find good players to learn from, your computer could be the best chess player you've ever known.
As long as it has the right software.
Tom Gosselin is a chess enthusiast who created http://www.unique-chess-sets.com/ as a resource site for those interested in learning and playing chess.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Gosselin
Decorative Chess Sets.
Chess Game Pieces
By Eddie Tobey
The game of Chess contains two sets of 16 pieces, made up of one king, one queen, two bishops, two knights, two rooks, and eight pawns -- all having distinct positions on the board. Chess pieces have always been crafted in various styles and materials, giving them not just game value but also a decorative worth.
The latest traditional pieces are very are beautifully carved with intricate and elegant details. These chess pieces are triple weighted, providing a rich feel with excellent balance. The extra wide and oversized profile makes them amazingly striking and excellent for play. They are made in various types of woods such as rosewood and boxwood, red sandalwood and boxwood, ebony and boxwood and even bud rosewood and boxwood.
There is outstanding range of chess pieces in metal and brass. These chess pieces are eloquently sculptured, and beautifully combined with wood. Chess pieces in metal and brass are marvelously crafted, in patterns of different themes such as Egyptian Chess pieces, Samurai Chess pieces, Lansquenet Chess pieces, Napoleon chess pieces, Roman emperor chess pieces, Small Carnelot chess pieces, and Barbarians chess pieces. The theme chess pieces are also hand painted, making them look exquisite and awe-inspiring.
The latest chess pieces are made in plastic that are used for tournaments. These chess pieces are available in combinations of black and ivory, red and ivory, black and caramel and burgundy and caramel. The plastic chess pieces are made from a durable solid plastic and are virtually indestructible. The chess pieces are single weighted and padded with green field paper for balance. These pieces are predominantly used in high-end chess clubs and for international tournaments.
Special Chess pieces are made with a magnetic base, mainly used during travel. Creativity and art has reached its reach peak as far as making of chess pieces are concerned. Many chess pieces are sculptured so finely that they are treasured as family heirlooms.
Chess Game provides detailed information on Chess Game, Free Chess Game, Online Chess Games, Free Chess Game Downloads and more. Chess Game is affiliated with Glass Chess Sets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
By Eddie Tobey
The game of Chess contains two sets of 16 pieces, made up of one king, one queen, two bishops, two knights, two rooks, and eight pawns -- all having distinct positions on the board. Chess pieces have always been crafted in various styles and materials, giving them not just game value but also a decorative worth.
The latest traditional pieces are very are beautifully carved with intricate and elegant details. These chess pieces are triple weighted, providing a rich feel with excellent balance. The extra wide and oversized profile makes them amazingly striking and excellent for play. They are made in various types of woods such as rosewood and boxwood, red sandalwood and boxwood, ebony and boxwood and even bud rosewood and boxwood.
There is outstanding range of chess pieces in metal and brass. These chess pieces are eloquently sculptured, and beautifully combined with wood. Chess pieces in metal and brass are marvelously crafted, in patterns of different themes such as Egyptian Chess pieces, Samurai Chess pieces, Lansquenet Chess pieces, Napoleon chess pieces, Roman emperor chess pieces, Small Carnelot chess pieces, and Barbarians chess pieces. The theme chess pieces are also hand painted, making them look exquisite and awe-inspiring.
The latest chess pieces are made in plastic that are used for tournaments. These chess pieces are available in combinations of black and ivory, red and ivory, black and caramel and burgundy and caramel. The plastic chess pieces are made from a durable solid plastic and are virtually indestructible. The chess pieces are single weighted and padded with green field paper for balance. These pieces are predominantly used in high-end chess clubs and for international tournaments.
Special Chess pieces are made with a magnetic base, mainly used during travel. Creativity and art has reached its reach peak as far as making of chess pieces are concerned. Many chess pieces are sculptured so finely that they are treasured as family heirlooms.
Chess Game provides detailed information on Chess Game, Free Chess Game, Online Chess Games, Free Chess Game Downloads and more. Chess Game is affiliated with Glass Chess Sets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Chess Computers.
Chess Computers - Should You Get One?
By Mike Singh
The chess computer is a tool, a skill builder if you will. For those that truly enjoy the game of chess, there is no better partner to play with. While many that enjoy playing chess would like to own one of these computers, it should be said that they are often costly and often are complicated to use to a beginner computer user. But, for others, these are the most excellent of tools for your chess career.
The Good
There are a number of benefits to owning your own chess computer. For example, you can play whenever the mood strikes you from early morning to the middle of the night. You don’t have to wait around for your friend to be in the mood. You also have the ability to use tutorials that can help you to learn to play or to increase your own playing abilities with these computers. They are designed to allow for all sorts of play, so you get to do what you feel is necessary. You can also restart a game that has gone bad ;-)
The Bad
There are some disadvantages of owning these computers as well. A chess player that is not human can not make the mistakes that a human can make. Therefore, the computer is a much more difficult competitor. Not only that, but they also do not prepare you for the reactions of human play. And, of course, they can be quite an investment as well. You can find various options to choose from, though, from software programs to complete programs.
The Verdict
It’s important to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages when it comes to computers like these chess computers. For many, the goal of owning a chess computer is only a dream. You should realize that they are mainly for those who are advanced players who are playing chess at the club level. Then again, to get to this point, many will need a chess coach. The chess computer can be the chess coach that you need to take your game to the highest level it can be at. If you have the funds for a chess computer and a true love of the game, making that purchase can put you one step ahead of the rest.
Mike Singh is a successful webmaster and publisher of chess-made-ez.com . He provides the basic chess rules and excellent chess tips to take your game to the next level.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Singh
By Mike Singh
The chess computer is a tool, a skill builder if you will. For those that truly enjoy the game of chess, there is no better partner to play with. While many that enjoy playing chess would like to own one of these computers, it should be said that they are often costly and often are complicated to use to a beginner computer user. But, for others, these are the most excellent of tools for your chess career.
The Good
There are a number of benefits to owning your own chess computer. For example, you can play whenever the mood strikes you from early morning to the middle of the night. You don’t have to wait around for your friend to be in the mood. You also have the ability to use tutorials that can help you to learn to play or to increase your own playing abilities with these computers. They are designed to allow for all sorts of play, so you get to do what you feel is necessary. You can also restart a game that has gone bad ;-)
The Bad
There are some disadvantages of owning these computers as well. A chess player that is not human can not make the mistakes that a human can make. Therefore, the computer is a much more difficult competitor. Not only that, but they also do not prepare you for the reactions of human play. And, of course, they can be quite an investment as well. You can find various options to choose from, though, from software programs to complete programs.
The Verdict
It’s important to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages when it comes to computers like these chess computers. For many, the goal of owning a chess computer is only a dream. You should realize that they are mainly for those who are advanced players who are playing chess at the club level. Then again, to get to this point, many will need a chess coach. The chess computer can be the chess coach that you need to take your game to the highest level it can be at. If you have the funds for a chess computer and a true love of the game, making that purchase can put you one step ahead of the rest.
Mike Singh is a successful webmaster and publisher of chess-made-ez.com . He provides the basic chess rules and excellent chess tips to take your game to the next level.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Singh
Monday, 14 April 2008
An Interesting Article On The History Of Chess
History of Chess By Arilyn K
Chess is indeed one of the oldest games in the world. However, just how old it is isn't really known. Some rumors have is as more than 2,000 years old. However, the best supporting evidence suggests that the earliest form of chess was played in India in the 6th century AD. Since then chess has spread around the world. Chess became more like the game we now play in the 15th century. However, it wasn't until the 1800’s when the game really became popular. That's when tournaments, chess clocks, championships, and titles like Grandmaster were introduced.
Chess is now one of the most popular game in the world! Chess clubs can be located all over earth holding hundreds of millions of players. Chess is growing even more quickly now that schools and parents recognize the benefits to children's social and intellectual skills. Chess clubs are popping up all over in school. The Internet and chess computers have also enabled more to play and to increase their skill level in the game. Anyone can now play anytime, you don't need to worry about finding an opponent to play with. Players can also use the Internet and chess software to help them train and learn. Chess was once predominantly a man's came, has women and girls learning chess in record numbers.
Chess will certainly keep growing. Younger and younger players are achieving Grandmaster status. Players will have to be more accurate in their openings as computer training becomes more available. As chess becomes more competitive, it is hoped that the basic fun of the game doesn’t change at all!
To learn more or to order premium chess sets and pieces, go to http://www.premiumchessset.com/. Wholesale Chess was used as a resource for this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arilyn_K
Chess is indeed one of the oldest games in the world. However, just how old it is isn't really known. Some rumors have is as more than 2,000 years old. However, the best supporting evidence suggests that the earliest form of chess was played in India in the 6th century AD. Since then chess has spread around the world. Chess became more like the game we now play in the 15th century. However, it wasn't until the 1800’s when the game really became popular. That's when tournaments, chess clocks, championships, and titles like Grandmaster were introduced.
Chess is now one of the most popular game in the world! Chess clubs can be located all over earth holding hundreds of millions of players. Chess is growing even more quickly now that schools and parents recognize the benefits to children's social and intellectual skills. Chess clubs are popping up all over in school. The Internet and chess computers have also enabled more to play and to increase their skill level in the game. Anyone can now play anytime, you don't need to worry about finding an opponent to play with. Players can also use the Internet and chess software to help them train and learn. Chess was once predominantly a man's came, has women and girls learning chess in record numbers.
Chess will certainly keep growing. Younger and younger players are achieving Grandmaster status. Players will have to be more accurate in their openings as computer training becomes more available. As chess becomes more competitive, it is hoped that the basic fun of the game doesn’t change at all!
To learn more or to order premium chess sets and pieces, go to http://www.premiumchessset.com/. Wholesale Chess was used as a resource for this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arilyn_K
A Guide To Themed Chess Sets.
A Guide to Themed Chess Sets
By Bradford Roegner
Ask some one to envision a chess set, and invariably they have just thought of a Staunton chess set. Why shouldn't they? Simple and elegant, what started as a blue print for standardizing designs - has turned into a familiar friend that still allows for special touches to be added to the chess pieces. The Staunton design has been so popular for over one hundred years, that it is the standard for chess clubs and tournaments throughout the world.
But, not everyone's style goes with the flow of the norm, and this includes chess sets. Thankfully, there are several different types of themed chess sets for players and collectors alike.
Since chess is considered to be the ultimate battle of the mind, themed chess set typically revolve around historical battles and wars that we all remember. By far the most known of these is the civil war. Collectors and casual players alike have long been fans of the civil war chess set. Depicting one of the darkest times of American history, players have a myriad of options for chess sets. The majority of these center around either brass sets or a more popular and colorful marble-resin chess set.
While the civil war is not always everyone's favorite war, there are still several options. One may choose amongst sets that commemorate the American Revolution, the historical battles of England and Scotland, or the trials of the Greeks vs. the Romans. No matter the battles, a chess set can be found.
While the battle themes do dominate the themed chess set category, there are still a multitude of chess sets that do not center on war. Literary buffs can focus their sights on sets from Shakespeare. A popular group of themed chess sets are the mythological chess sets. Characters in these chess sets include the powerful Hercules, God of the Seas Poseidon, and even the menacing Minotaur.
Never forgotten, the sports fans are also have their choice of themes that match their own interests. Hockey, golf, football or baseball, there is a chess set that satisfies the need of every fan out there.
Finally there are sets for the TV buff. Characters from shows such as South Park or the Simpsons have the effect of both being a talking point and even a welcome distraction from a difficult chess game.
Whether the chess set is used for regular playing or for more ornamental uses, a themed set will give the opportunity to have a set that defines a player's own style and flair.
Bradford Roegner is webmaster for Themed Chess Sets. He is available to help provide people with the tools to bring chess into their life. You can contact him Bradford@braroechess.com any time with question.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bradford_Roegner
By Bradford Roegner
Ask some one to envision a chess set, and invariably they have just thought of a Staunton chess set. Why shouldn't they? Simple and elegant, what started as a blue print for standardizing designs - has turned into a familiar friend that still allows for special touches to be added to the chess pieces. The Staunton design has been so popular for over one hundred years, that it is the standard for chess clubs and tournaments throughout the world.
But, not everyone's style goes with the flow of the norm, and this includes chess sets. Thankfully, there are several different types of themed chess sets for players and collectors alike.
Since chess is considered to be the ultimate battle of the mind, themed chess set typically revolve around historical battles and wars that we all remember. By far the most known of these is the civil war. Collectors and casual players alike have long been fans of the civil war chess set. Depicting one of the darkest times of American history, players have a myriad of options for chess sets. The majority of these center around either brass sets or a more popular and colorful marble-resin chess set.
While the civil war is not always everyone's favorite war, there are still several options. One may choose amongst sets that commemorate the American Revolution, the historical battles of England and Scotland, or the trials of the Greeks vs. the Romans. No matter the battles, a chess set can be found.
While the battle themes do dominate the themed chess set category, there are still a multitude of chess sets that do not center on war. Literary buffs can focus their sights on sets from Shakespeare. A popular group of themed chess sets are the mythological chess sets. Characters in these chess sets include the powerful Hercules, God of the Seas Poseidon, and even the menacing Minotaur.
Never forgotten, the sports fans are also have their choice of themes that match their own interests. Hockey, golf, football or baseball, there is a chess set that satisfies the need of every fan out there.
Finally there are sets for the TV buff. Characters from shows such as South Park or the Simpsons have the effect of both being a talking point and even a welcome distraction from a difficult chess game.
Whether the chess set is used for regular playing or for more ornamental uses, a themed set will give the opportunity to have a set that defines a player's own style and flair.
Bradford Roegner is webmaster for Themed Chess Sets. He is available to help provide people with the tools to bring chess into their life. You can contact him Bradford@braroechess.com any time with question.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bradford_Roegner
Sunday, 13 April 2008
Chess Strategies For Beginners.
Chess Strategies For Beginners - Say "Check Mate" More Often!
By Maxwell Powell
This short article will give fundamental chess strategies for beginners. Using the following strategies, the complete beginner through to a player of more experience will see an improvement in their game and an overall increase in the number of chess games they win.
The game of chess has been played for centuries and has stood the test of time. It is a game of skill, wit and knowledge and is a great exercise of the mind. To this day people from all walks of life enjoy pitting their wits against other chess opponents. Chess has also seen a bit of a comeback in recent years.
When the game of chess is first taken up the fundamental rules must be learned, that govern how a game is won and how each if the chess pieces can move around the board. Once an understanding has been obtained by beginners, basic chess strategies can then be added into the mix. Simple chess moves can have a dramatic effect on the overall success rate of the beginners game.
The following are my top chess strategies for beginners, although they can also be used by more experienced players;
1) Take your time. A much overlooked chess technique but it's fundamental to ensure mistakes are not made.
2) Undertake a 'castling' move wherever possible.
3) Try to plan several (at least 3) moves in advance.
4) Beware of your sacrifices. Never sacrifice a piece for one of lower value.
5) Linked to the above point never sacrifice a queen, and although bishops and knights are the same in points, always favour keeping a bishop above a knight.
5) Avoid premature attacks. Bind your time to favour your overall long term chess strategy.
6) Do not be tempted to advance one side only of your pieces. You must keep a uniform defensive front as far as is possible.
Although my top chess strategies for beginners will give a sound platform for building your chess game upon, there are hundreds more advanced techniques that can be adopted to further develop your game. You will never know every single trick and technique in the game of chess but the above strategies will improve your game no end.
So, now that you have a few basics to use, to continue your quest for knowledge of chess strategies for beginners and advanced players alike, visit http://chess.247info.us/ for more great information. Within minutes from now you'll be able to use these chess smoves and techniques and increase the number of times you'll be saying "check mate".
To continue your quest for knowledge of chess strategies for beginners and advanced players alike, visit http://chess.247info.us/ for more great information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maxwell_Powell
By Maxwell Powell
This short article will give fundamental chess strategies for beginners. Using the following strategies, the complete beginner through to a player of more experience will see an improvement in their game and an overall increase in the number of chess games they win.
The game of chess has been played for centuries and has stood the test of time. It is a game of skill, wit and knowledge and is a great exercise of the mind. To this day people from all walks of life enjoy pitting their wits against other chess opponents. Chess has also seen a bit of a comeback in recent years.
When the game of chess is first taken up the fundamental rules must be learned, that govern how a game is won and how each if the chess pieces can move around the board. Once an understanding has been obtained by beginners, basic chess strategies can then be added into the mix. Simple chess moves can have a dramatic effect on the overall success rate of the beginners game.
The following are my top chess strategies for beginners, although they can also be used by more experienced players;
1) Take your time. A much overlooked chess technique but it's fundamental to ensure mistakes are not made.
2) Undertake a 'castling' move wherever possible.
3) Try to plan several (at least 3) moves in advance.
4) Beware of your sacrifices. Never sacrifice a piece for one of lower value.
5) Linked to the above point never sacrifice a queen, and although bishops and knights are the same in points, always favour keeping a bishop above a knight.
5) Avoid premature attacks. Bind your time to favour your overall long term chess strategy.
6) Do not be tempted to advance one side only of your pieces. You must keep a uniform defensive front as far as is possible.
Although my top chess strategies for beginners will give a sound platform for building your chess game upon, there are hundreds more advanced techniques that can be adopted to further develop your game. You will never know every single trick and technique in the game of chess but the above strategies will improve your game no end.
So, now that you have a few basics to use, to continue your quest for knowledge of chess strategies for beginners and advanced players alike, visit http://chess.247info.us/ for more great information. Within minutes from now you'll be able to use these chess smoves and techniques and increase the number of times you'll be saying "check mate".
To continue your quest for knowledge of chess strategies for beginners and advanced players alike, visit http://chess.247info.us/ for more great information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maxwell_Powell
Saturday, 12 April 2008
Wood Chess Sets.
Hi, here is an article on wood chess sets, over the next few weeks I will be adding more articles on chess.
If you have anything relating to Chess that you would like me to post here, or if you have any articles, perhaps you could let me know.
Hope you enjoy the article on wood chess sets and let me have any comments you may have.
Wood Chess Sets - A Touch of Class
by Michiel Van Kets
Early chess master Siegbert Tarrasch once said, “Chess, like love, like music, has the power to make men happy”. Why not add to your game-playing enjoyment by incorporating the natural beauty of a wood chess set. Wood chess sets are classic in the chess playing world because of their association with the Staunton style of design. But wood chess sets have also pushed and continue to push the boundaries of their visual stereotype due to avid and inventive chess artisans with advancing CNC technology, also known as robotic manufacturing methods.
Before you go out and purchase a wood chess set, understand that a wood chess set’s style isn’t the only feature worth considering in your purchase. Natural wood materials lend an innate touch of class to wood chess sets and can really emphasize chess set design. So the inquiring buyer should be aware of what materials are available in the manufacture of wood chess sets. This wide variety of timber contains species such as:
Mahogany – Particular strains of mahogany such as Khaya grandifoliola are popular choices in constructing wood chess sets. This particular wood chess set-friendly variety grows mostly on the West Coast of Africa. The color of mahogany’s heartwood can range from a pink to a dark cocoa brown.
Maple – Sugar Maple is a popular material used to manufacture wood chess sets. Wood chess sets using this species of maple have a faint red coloration that can also be interpreted as pink. Sugar Maple is readily accessible in North America as its found in New England, southeastern Manitoba, Nova Scotia, North Carolina and eastern Kansas.
Walnut – European Walnut, also known as Juglans regia, came to Western Europe via the Romans and Asia Minor. European walnut is a market rarity as it is not in high supply and can only be found in the processed form of veneer. Wood chess sets made with European Walnut tend to have a grayish-brown hue with a darker irregular grain. European walnut is durable and polishes well. Walnut, great for staining and enduring UV exposure makes a logical choice for use in the manufacture of wood chess sets.
Sheesham (Indian Rosewood) – Otherwise known as Palisander. Dalbergia latifolia grows in such places as the Indian peninsula. Sheesham can also be found near the Himalayan Mountains in Orissa, Sikkim, Bihar and Oudah. Chess sets usually incorporate Indian Rosewood as a veneer as it isn’t shaped easily by hand. Sheesham comes in hues from rose to dark brown.
Erable – Also called European Field Maple, this timber calls Europe home. Erable can be found in Europe’s old growth forests, but it is more commonly harvested from human-regulated forests in places like Spain. Erable carves easily and wood chess sets made with erable have a soft golden coloring and strong inset grain that comes to life with a lacquered finish.
Aspen – Aspen is a popular material used in North American wood chess sets. The Populus tremula strain of aspen or Trembling Aspen is found in an area that includes Virginia, Newfoundland and Alaska. Trembling Aspen is also found in the Rocky Mountains, southern Arizona and northern New Mexico. Aspen is colored from a light white to soft beige and adds a beautiful accent to wood chess sets.
Many of the aforementioned materials can be found in wood chess sets sold by online distributors. Many online retailers have a wide selection to choose from.
John Sokol is the creator of Quality Chess. Quality Chess is a provider of a large selection of unique and classical chess boards including wood chess sets of maple, rosewood, hazelnut, mahogany, walnut and ash.
View more articles from Michiel Van Kets
If you have anything relating to Chess that you would like me to post here, or if you have any articles, perhaps you could let me know.
Hope you enjoy the article on wood chess sets and let me have any comments you may have.
Wood Chess Sets - A Touch of Class
by Michiel Van Kets
Early chess master Siegbert Tarrasch once said, “Chess, like love, like music, has the power to make men happy”. Why not add to your game-playing enjoyment by incorporating the natural beauty of a wood chess set. Wood chess sets are classic in the chess playing world because of their association with the Staunton style of design. But wood chess sets have also pushed and continue to push the boundaries of their visual stereotype due to avid and inventive chess artisans with advancing CNC technology, also known as robotic manufacturing methods.
Before you go out and purchase a wood chess set, understand that a wood chess set’s style isn’t the only feature worth considering in your purchase. Natural wood materials lend an innate touch of class to wood chess sets and can really emphasize chess set design. So the inquiring buyer should be aware of what materials are available in the manufacture of wood chess sets. This wide variety of timber contains species such as:
Mahogany – Particular strains of mahogany such as Khaya grandifoliola are popular choices in constructing wood chess sets. This particular wood chess set-friendly variety grows mostly on the West Coast of Africa. The color of mahogany’s heartwood can range from a pink to a dark cocoa brown.
Maple – Sugar Maple is a popular material used to manufacture wood chess sets. Wood chess sets using this species of maple have a faint red coloration that can also be interpreted as pink. Sugar Maple is readily accessible in North America as its found in New England, southeastern Manitoba, Nova Scotia, North Carolina and eastern Kansas.
Walnut – European Walnut, also known as Juglans regia, came to Western Europe via the Romans and Asia Minor. European walnut is a market rarity as it is not in high supply and can only be found in the processed form of veneer. Wood chess sets made with European Walnut tend to have a grayish-brown hue with a darker irregular grain. European walnut is durable and polishes well. Walnut, great for staining and enduring UV exposure makes a logical choice for use in the manufacture of wood chess sets.
Sheesham (Indian Rosewood) – Otherwise known as Palisander. Dalbergia latifolia grows in such places as the Indian peninsula. Sheesham can also be found near the Himalayan Mountains in Orissa, Sikkim, Bihar and Oudah. Chess sets usually incorporate Indian Rosewood as a veneer as it isn’t shaped easily by hand. Sheesham comes in hues from rose to dark brown.
Erable – Also called European Field Maple, this timber calls Europe home. Erable can be found in Europe’s old growth forests, but it is more commonly harvested from human-regulated forests in places like Spain. Erable carves easily and wood chess sets made with erable have a soft golden coloring and strong inset grain that comes to life with a lacquered finish.
Aspen – Aspen is a popular material used in North American wood chess sets. The Populus tremula strain of aspen or Trembling Aspen is found in an area that includes Virginia, Newfoundland and Alaska. Trembling Aspen is also found in the Rocky Mountains, southern Arizona and northern New Mexico. Aspen is colored from a light white to soft beige and adds a beautiful accent to wood chess sets.
Many of the aforementioned materials can be found in wood chess sets sold by online distributors. Many online retailers have a wide selection to choose from.
John Sokol is the creator of Quality Chess. Quality Chess is a provider of a large selection of unique and classical chess boards including wood chess sets of maple, rosewood, hazelnut, mahogany, walnut and ash.
View more articles from Michiel Van Kets
Friday, 11 April 2008
Chess openings
I thought you might be interested in some useful tips for beginners.
Please post your comments after reading it, I would be pleased to hear them.
Chess Openings: Classic and Modern Chess Openings To Start On Top
by Mike Hirn
The first moves of a chess game are collectively known as the opening. Chess openings vary widely in character, from quiet positional play to wild tactical play.
Sometimes a player can opt to start off with a sequence of opening moves that is considered standard. These moves are referred to as book moves. At other times, a player may opt for an opening that is an improvisation on a standard book move. The moves vary, but the aim is the same--to get off to a solid start and into an aggressive position from which to launch an attack on the opponent's King.
In chess one needs to make the best use of the openings to put their pieces in a strong position. At the onset it is never clear on which part of the board the pieces will be needed most. Therefore it is essential to retain effective control over the squares in the central area of the chessboard, so that specific pieces can be moved with minimal problems whenever required. According to classical theory, placing Pawns on d4 and e4 is the best way to retain control over the central areas of the board.
The modern school of chess theory advocates a different approach for effective control. Instead of occupying the center, the idea is to control the center from a distance with pieces breaking down the opponent's center. Accordingly, the King is placed at the middle of the board. This makes it easy for both players to castle in the opening or to bring the King to the side of the board via artificial castling.
Chess openings usually try to avoid the creation of Pawn weaknesses. Pawn weakness is a term used to describe the presence of isolated, doubled and backward Pawns, or clustering many Pawns together in the form of a Pawn island. Some players sacrifice at the endgame in favor of a fast attack on the opponent's position. Another option is to sacrifice Pawns at the beginning to create a fast attack on the enemy at the endgame stage.
Strategic plans used in the middlegame can also be used in conjunction with chess openings. These include preparing Pawn breaks to create a counterplay, creating weaknesses in the opponent's Pawn structure, seizing control of key squares, and making favorable exchanges of minor pieces.
Different authors on the subject of opening chess moves have opined that it is the White set's task in the opening to preserve and increase the advantage by moving first while the Black set's task is to equalize the game. However, as many players know, not all chess openings by the White set are aggressive, and it is sometimes possible for the Black set to be aggressive in the initial stages and take the initiative away from the White set.
Learn chess tips for beginners and experts that will bring your game to a whole new level at http://www.chessmovespro.com
View more articles from Mike Hirn
Please post your comments after reading it, I would be pleased to hear them.
Chess Openings: Classic and Modern Chess Openings To Start On Top
by Mike Hirn
The first moves of a chess game are collectively known as the opening. Chess openings vary widely in character, from quiet positional play to wild tactical play.
Sometimes a player can opt to start off with a sequence of opening moves that is considered standard. These moves are referred to as book moves. At other times, a player may opt for an opening that is an improvisation on a standard book move. The moves vary, but the aim is the same--to get off to a solid start and into an aggressive position from which to launch an attack on the opponent's King.
In chess one needs to make the best use of the openings to put their pieces in a strong position. At the onset it is never clear on which part of the board the pieces will be needed most. Therefore it is essential to retain effective control over the squares in the central area of the chessboard, so that specific pieces can be moved with minimal problems whenever required. According to classical theory, placing Pawns on d4 and e4 is the best way to retain control over the central areas of the board.
The modern school of chess theory advocates a different approach for effective control. Instead of occupying the center, the idea is to control the center from a distance with pieces breaking down the opponent's center. Accordingly, the King is placed at the middle of the board. This makes it easy for both players to castle in the opening or to bring the King to the side of the board via artificial castling.
Chess openings usually try to avoid the creation of Pawn weaknesses. Pawn weakness is a term used to describe the presence of isolated, doubled and backward Pawns, or clustering many Pawns together in the form of a Pawn island. Some players sacrifice at the endgame in favor of a fast attack on the opponent's position. Another option is to sacrifice Pawns at the beginning to create a fast attack on the enemy at the endgame stage.
Strategic plans used in the middlegame can also be used in conjunction with chess openings. These include preparing Pawn breaks to create a counterplay, creating weaknesses in the opponent's Pawn structure, seizing control of key squares, and making favorable exchanges of minor pieces.
Different authors on the subject of opening chess moves have opined that it is the White set's task in the opening to preserve and increase the advantage by moving first while the Black set's task is to equalize the game. However, as many players know, not all chess openings by the White set are aggressive, and it is sometimes possible for the Black set to be aggressive in the initial stages and take the initiative away from the White set.
Learn chess tips for beginners and experts that will bring your game to a whole new level at http://www.chessmovespro.com
View more articles from Mike Hirn
Tuesday, 8 April 2008
Welcome To Chess World.
Welcome to Chess world news where we aim to give you free tips about the game of Chess.Chess world news will keep you up to date with the rules and inovations about chess.We aim to give you more enjoyment with your game of Chess and your leisure time.
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