Like a good song that has been around for quite some time, the popular form of chess as we know it is bound to have its own sets of "remakes" and "versions". It can even be argued that the chess we have right now is actually a derivation of an older form of the game. Current practice, however, does not actually make a distinction between whether a "variant" was a predecessor of the modern form of chess or was derived from it.
Some variants were conceived to solve a problem. It is said that Fischer Random or Chess960 is actually an attempt to remove the "advantage" of those who have mastered opening theory, thereby providing a game of chess that is intended to be more challenging and at the same time friendly for those new to the game. Others were popularized out of nostalgia, especially for those kinds that were perceived to be the predecessor of modern chess. Still others came about as a byproduct of the imagination and fun-lovingness of its creators. Some variants actually goes to elaborate lengths that a new set of somewhat complicated rules had emerged.
Of course, none of these innovations are not without its fault, especially for one who have a deep appreciation of chess in its natural form. And I have to say, having played a few of them, they aren't easy! It takes a whole lot of mental conditioning and immersion to be able to even play the games well. But if my experience are any indication, knowing a couple of these variants are a fun way to appreciate chess in its fullness, as well as take a respite from the usual lines.
As the number of these variants far exceed my ability (and interest) to know each one well enough to write about it, I will soon be featuring a couple of players who are avid fans of the variants they have chosen to play. Instead of the usual "Here are the rules, the pros and cons, and you can go on now" kind of writing, the writers will take you down on a journey, from how they first got introduced to their variants, and how they came to love it and stick with it (or hate it, if that's the case). I hope their experiences will entice you to dip your toes into these new rivers, as I have done lately. As this is intended to be a regular feature, I will be adding links in this post regarding variants as I feature them. Check them out:
- Suicide/Suicide 960 - a fun way to lose!
- Chess960/Fischer Random - no more opening lines!
- Shatranj - did this game started it all?
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