Author: NM Jesse Cohen

The Russian Chess Federation’s decision to leave the European Chess Union and join the Asian Chess Federation has stirred up controversy in the chess community. The move was approved by FIDE, the international governing body for chess, and is expected to be confirmed by the ACF at its General Assembly in Abu Dhabi on February 28.

The decision to switch to the ACF was made by a vote of 29 in favor, 1 against, and 6 abstentions. The change will take effect from May 1, 2023, if approved by the ACF. According to FIDE, a chess federation cannot be part of two continental bodies at the same time, so Russia will automatically withdraw from the ECU if its request is accepted.

The move is seen by many as a response to the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in sanctions being placed on the Russian Chess Federation by the European Chess Union. European Chess Union Vice President Malcolm Pein called the move “scandalous,” while Peter Heine Nielsen, head coach for Magnus Carlsen, criticized it as an attempt to “avoid the sanctions that have been rightfully placed upon the Russian Chess Federation.”

The decision is also controversial because Russia is one of the strongest chess federations in the world and has long been associated with European chess. However, it is worth noting that geographically, 77% of Russia’s landmass is in Asia, which makes the move justifiable in some respects.

The move will have implications for Russian chess players, who will now have to choose whether to continue playing under the Russian flag or switch to the Asian Chess Federation. FIDE has said that Russian chess players who wish to join other federations can do so immediately upon request and without incurring any fees. Players can later return to the CFR under the same conditions, FIDE added.

It remains to be seen how the move will affect the chess world as a whole, but it is clear that it will have significant implications for the Russian Chess Federation and its players. Whether this move will ultimately benefit or harm Russian chess remains to be seen.

Losing weight and playing chess might seem like two entirely unrelated activities, but there are actually ways to combine them to achieve your weight loss goals. Here are some tips on how to lose weight using chess:

Play chess while standing up

One simple way to incorporate physical activity into your chess routine is to play while standing up. Instead of sitting at a desk or table, set up your board on a counter or elevated surface and stand while you play. This will help you burn a few extra calories and improve your posture.

Play chess while walking

Another way to add some physical activity to your chess routine is to play while walking. You can either use a chess app on your phone or bring a portable chess board with you on a walk. Walking can be a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on your joints and can help you burn calories.

Limit snacking while playing chess

Many people tend to snack mindlessly while playing games or watching TV. If you want to lose weight while playing chess, it’s important to be mindful of your snacking habits. Try to limit your snacking while playing, or opt for healthy snacks like fresh fruit or vegetables.

Set goals and rewards for yourself

Setting goals and rewards for yourself can be a great motivator when it comes to weight loss. For example, you might set a goal to lose a certain amount of weight or to improve your chess rating, and then reward yourself with something you enjoy once you achieve that goal.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water can help you stay hydrated and feel full, which can help you eat less and lose weight. Make sure to have a water bottle nearby while you play chess, and take regular sips throughout your game.

In conclusion, while chess might not be the most obvious form of exercise, there are ways to incorporate physical activity and healthy habits into your chess routine to help you achieve your weight loss goals. By being mindful of your snacking habits, staying hydrated, and adding some physical activity to your chess games, you can create a more holistic approach to your weight loss journey.

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I’ve recently got into chess and I’m pretty low ranked (high-400). I started a 10min game with someone. It was a very weird game (he opened with wayward queen and I tried to defend it in a pretty unorthodox way). We got about 5-6 min into the game (19 moves) and they send me a message saying they need to leave and offer me a draw. The material was even but I didn’t want to accept because this was the game that, if I won, would’ve put me in 500. They started chatting with me and tried to convince me to take the draw. I didn’t take the draw and they called me a jerk and ended up resigning.

My only foray into games with competitive rankings like this are video games, and usually if I’m playing someone in a ranked game online and they have to leave, they forfeit. I guess I’m just worried that I made a chess faux pas for not accepting their draw. I personally don’t think I did anything wrong. I definitely could’ve been nicer during the whole exchange and I feel bad about that, but did I break any “unwritten rules”?

Playing games online is becoming more popular every day, and with that comes a set of rules and etiquette that can be different depending on the game you’re playing. Chess, being a game with a long history and tradition, also has its own set of unwritten rules and social norms.

In this particular situation, the player who messaged you was in a position where they had to leave and offered you a draw. You declined, and they tried to convince you to take the draw. When you refused, they became upset and called you a jerk.

So, did you do something wrong? The answer is not so straightforward. In chess, it is not uncommon for players to offer or accept draws in certain situations. For example, if the position is equal and neither player sees a clear path to victory, they may offer a draw to avoid playing a long, drawn-out game. However, in this case, the material was even, and you had a chance to win the game and increase your ranking.

In competitive online games, such as those you mentioned, it is common for a player who has to leave to forfeit the game. However, in chess, it is generally accepted that if a player has to leave mid-game, they can offer a draw to avoid resigning and taking a loss.

So, did you break any “unwritten rules”? Not necessarily. While it is courteous to accept a draw in certain situations, such as a position with no clear winner, it is ultimately up to the players to decide whether to accept or decline. If you felt that you had a chance to win the game, it was within your rights to decline the draw.

However, it’s important to note that the way you handle these situations can affect your reputation among other players. If you come across as rude or abrasive, other players may be less likely to want to play with you in the future. It’s always a good idea to be polite and respectful, even when declining a draw or engaging in a competitive game.

In summary, while declining a draw may not have been poor form in this situation, it’s important to remember that your actions can have an impact on how other players perceive you. Being courteous and respectful can go a long way in building a positive reputation among your fellow chess players.

Baadur Jobava, a Georgian grandmaster, has been banned from all prize events on Chess.com for the rest of 2023 after making offensive comments during and after a game against Chinese grandmaster Xiangyu Xu during the Airthings Masters Play-In on February 3, 2023.

Jobava accused Xu of cheating after losing to him, despite not being able to prove it. He also made public offensive comments, including using a racist and vulgar slur directed towards all Chinese players, which were overheard by members of the Chess.com team. Xu had previously beaten well-known players such as Hikaru Nakamura and Levon Aronian before being paired with Jobava.

In his response to the ban, Jobava denied any racist intent and apologized to anyone who may have been offended by his comments. He argued that online cheaters usually get a second chance if they confess, and that Chess.com did not follow the FIDE Code of Ethics in their decision to ban him.

However, Jobava’s offensive language and accusations of cheating have violated the fair play principles that Chess.com upholds. In response to the situation, Chess.com chose to ban Jobava from all prize events for the rest of the year and launch a worldwide defamation campaign against him.

While it is important to take allegations of cheating seriously, it is equally important to treat all players with respect and uphold the principles of fair play and good sportsmanship. Jobava’s comments were inappropriate and harmful, and they do not align with the values of the chess community.

This situation highlights the need for clear and transparent procedures in dealing with allegations of cheating and inappropriate behavior in online tournaments. It also reminds us of the power that online platforms hold in the chess community and the importance of using that power responsibly.

Ultimately, it is crucial that the chess community remains focused on fair play and the principles of good sportsmanship. Only then can we create an environment where all players feel safe, respected, and free to pursue their love of the game.

Chess has been one of the world’s most popular board games for centuries, but its popularity has experienced a significant resurgence in recent years. In the age of digital entertainment, it’s fascinating to see an ancient game like chess hold its own and even thrive. So what makes chess so popular nowadays?

1. Chess is a classic game that has stood the test of time.

Chess has been around for over a thousand years and has endured many changes, innovations, and adaptations. Throughout history, it has remained a fixture of intellectual and strategic pursuits. Its rules and gameplay have stayed relatively constant, but the game’s complexities and depth have kept it interesting and challenging. The timeless quality of chess is a significant factor in its enduring appeal.

2. The game of chess is accessible to all.

Chess is a game that anyone can learn to play. The game’s simplicity is one of its strengths; the rules are straightforward, but the game’s strategies are endless. People of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy the game, regardless of their physical ability. Chess is also widely available, with clubs, tournaments, and online platforms catering to players of all skill levels.

3. Chess is an intellectual challenge.

Chess requires critical thinking, concentration, and strategic planning. It’s a game that rewards creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability. Chess players learn to analyze positions, make predictions, and develop long-term plans. The game is a mental workout that can improve memory, cognitive function, and decision-making abilities.

4. Chess is a social activity.

Chess is a social game that encourages interaction and collaboration. It can be played with friends, family, or strangers, and tournaments offer opportunities to meet new people and build a community. Chess clubs and online platforms provide spaces for players to connect, discuss strategies, and share their passion for the game.

5. Chess is a global phenomenon.

Chess is a game that transcends borders and cultures. It has become a global phenomenon, with millions of people playing, studying, and following the game. Chess players from different countries and backgrounds can come together and communicate through the game, regardless of their language or cultural barriers.

6. Chess is accessible in the digital age.

The rise of the internet has brought new life to the game of chess. Online platforms, such as Chess.com and lichess.org, have made the game accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Players can participate in online tournaments, study openings and endgames, and watch grandmasters play live from anywhere in the world. Chess has also become a popular subject on social media, with chess-related content attracting millions of views and followers.

In conclusion, the popularity of chess in the modern age can be attributed to its timeless appeal, intellectual challenge, accessibility, social aspect, global reach, and availability in the digital age. As a result, the game has seen a surge in interest, particularly among younger players. Chess is a game that offers countless benefits and can be enjoyed by anyone who wants to exercise their mind and indulge in a challenging, strategic pastime.

So, you’ve found yourself in a bit of a sticky situation. You’re sitting across from a chess grandmaster who’s kidnapped you and is now forcing you to play a game of chess. The stakes? Your life. If you win, you get to walk away free. If you lose, well, let’s just say it’s not going to be pretty.

Now, if you’re anything like me, the last time you played a game of chess was probably in middle school, when your teacher made you play in class. And let’s be real, you didn’t even know how to move the pieces properly back then. So, what are your chances of beating a grandmaster now?

Let’s break it down. Chess grandmasters are the elite of the elite. They spend their entire lives studying the game, analyzing moves, and playing against the best players in the world. They know every strategy, every trap, and every trick in the book. It’s safe to say that they’re not going to be an easy opponent.

But don’t worry, I’m not here to crush your dreams. I’m here to help you win this game and walk away from this situation alive. Here are a few tips:

1. Try to distract your opponent: This might seem like a dirty tactic, but hey, desperate times call for desperate measures. Strike up a conversation with your opponent about something completely unrelated to the game. Ask them about their favorite movie, their childhood, or even their favorite type of cheese. The idea here is to distract them and throw them off their game.
2. Take your time: Don’t rush your moves. Take a deep breath, relax, and think about your next move carefully. Chess is a game of strategy, and you need to be strategic about your moves.
3. Use your pawns wisely: Your pawns might seem like the weakest pieces on the board, but they can be powerful if used correctly. Use them to control the center of the board and block your opponent’s pieces.
4. Focus on defense: Don’t worry about launching an all-out attack on your opponent’s pieces. Instead, focus on defending your own pieces and creating a solid defense.
5. Don’t be afraid to sacrifice a piece: If you find yourself in a tight spot, don’t be afraid to sacrifice a piece to gain an advantage. Sometimes, losing a piece can be the key to winning the game.

Now, with all that said, let’s be real. Your chances of winning this game are slim to none. But hey, stranger things have happened, right? Maybe your opponent will have a heart attack mid-game or get distracted by a butterfly. You never know.

In all seriousness, though, if you find yourself in a situation like this, don’t try to be a hero. Your life is more important than winning a game of chess. Try to negotiate with your captor, or find a way to escape. And maybe, just maybe, take some time to brush up on your chess skills in case you ever find yourself in a similar situation in the future.

As an actor, I’ve had the privilege of embodying a wide range of characters, from quiet and introspective to bold and commanding. When it comes to chess, though, I believe the piece that most closely mirrors my identity is the king.

The king is the most important piece on the board, and like the king, I believe in taking a leadership role and being a guiding force for those around me. At the same time, the king must also be protected, and I strive to maintain a sense of balance and stability in my own life.

But it’s not just about being a symbol of power and authority. The king is also a symbol of wisdom and patience. Like the king, I believe in making strategic moves, thinking ahead, and not being rash or impulsive. I also understand that sometimes, the best move is not to move at all.

Furthermore, the king is often seen as the final authority in a game of chess, but it is also dependent on its other pieces to secure its position and protect it from danger. In the same way, I believe in the importance of community and working together with others to achieve a common goal.

In conclusion, the king is a complex piece, reflecting qualities such as leadership, wisdom, patience, and a sense of community. These are all traits that I aspire to embody in my own life, and I believe that they have helped me to navigate the ups and downs of my career and personal life with grace and poise. Just like a king on the chessboard, I believe in making calculated moves and always striving to be my best self.