Chess

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September 21, 2005

Learning Chess

I created this section to document the path I'm taking while learning chess. It's a game I've always found interesting, but never really took to in my younger years. The thing that interested me was that it was something that required you to think. Luck had nothing to do with it. You didn't have to be lucky enough to 'roll' something to win. The thing that kept me from it was the competitive nature of the game. It seemed so cutthroat - almost like boxing.

I'm not exactly sure what changed in me from then until now. But, I am sure about what changed with the game. It's now possible to play against a program instead of a person. That changes a lot. I no longer have to convince someone to play against me. All I have to do is turn on the video game and can play just by pushing a button (instead of pushing someone's buttons). I can also vary the challenge with a selection. I can play a beginner's game while I'm learning... and increase the level as I progress. It's now worth taking a second look at learning this game.

The side bar will be a bit sparse at first. As a new section, it always takes time to build up the uniqueness of each area. And as I find great chess learning links, I'll list them here. I'll also be listing the chess books I'm using to learn strategy and technique.

One of the things I've seen so far has been the recommendation to document your games. They say you can go over them and see where your 'ooops' move happens and learn from it. Perhaps I'll be able to put a few up here. And as I build confidence (and ability), I'll start playing against people online. If I really get decent at it, I might even join a league or something. Who knows where this may lead?

Posted by BlueWolf on September 21, 2005 10:30 PM