Hello Chess Enthusiasts,
Welcome to our blog, where we are dedicated to all things correspondence chess. If you’re just discovering this slower-paced, deeply strategic variant of the game we all love, or you’re an experienced postal player, we’re thrilled to have you here!
For our first post, we thought it would be fitting to give an overview of correspondence chess, discuss its rich history, and highlight why you might find it an intriguing change of pace from over-the-board play.
What is Correspondence Chess?
Correspondence chess is a form of chess where players compete without sitting across a board. Instead, they exchange moves through post, email, online servers, or chess apps that allow slower time controls. It’s a style of play that nurtures deep strategic thinking, as players often have days to contemplate their next move.
A Brief History of Correspondence Chess
The history of correspondence chess can be traced back centuries. Before the convenience of digital communication, moves were shared through letters sent by post. This ‘postal’ chess allowed people from distant locations to compete, opening up a world of new opponents.
The first correspondence game may have occurred between between the Emperor Nicephorus and the Caliph of Baghdad, Harun al-Rashid, in the 9th century! Over the ensuing centuries, correspondence chess has remained popular, adapting with each new advance in technology.
Why Play Correspondence Chess?
Correspondence chess might seem odd in a world where speed is often valued above all else. However, it offers several unique advantages:
- Deeper Analysis: With ample time to consider each move, players can delve deeper into the game’s strategic and tactical possibilities. It’s a fantastic way to improve your chess understanding and decision-making skills.
- Flexible Scheduling: Busy schedule? No problem. The beauty of correspondence chess is that you can make your move when it suits you. You don’t need to carve out hours at a time to play a full game.
- Broaden Your Opponent Base: Play with anyone in the world, regardless of geographic distance or time zones.
- Less Stress, More Fun: Without the pressure of a ticking clock, you can enjoy the game at a leisurely pace. It’s chess in one of its purest, most thoughtful forms.
We hope this post has sparked your interest in correspondence chess. Whether you’re new to this variant or an experienced player, this blog aims to provide insights, strategies, game analyses, and much more.
So, get ready to explore this fascinating side of chess with us! Please share your thoughts, experiences, and questions about correspondence chess in the comments below. We can’t wait to embark on this chess journey with you.
Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll delve into the strategies unique to correspondence chess.
Happy Checkmating!