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Game result (chess) B. Ozen, 2232 J. Dyson, 2079 1/2-1/2 See game 144554 |
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Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-04 03:54:36)
FICGS forum is open !
The forum is open to all discussions. Feel free to suggest and debate all kinds of improvements for the website. Please speak english only.
Have good games... :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-08 13:45:15)
Inaugural match : Big chess
Hello to all.
The inaugural Big chess game (on the 16x16 board) restarts. As it was a bit hard to organize such a game between 2 GM, the two players finally are myself and... you :)
This is is 'priority game', just for fun. If you want to play a move just connect with the guest/guest account, if it is 'guest' turn, you can play...
http://www.ficgs.com/game_1.html
Have a good big chess game :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-08 14:49:23)
FICGS titles
As you may have read on TCCMB forum, ICCF officials reacted when they learnt about FICGS titles. My idea was it first to be informative (titles from ICCF/IECG/FIDE), because I think players like to know who they play against, particularly if their opponents are titled. It seems obvious to me that FICGS titles are FICGS ones, not "official", not ICCF or FIDE.. even if words are quite the same (titles are FICGS IM, not IM).
I would like to know what you think about that. Do you think FICGS titles should be renamed (ie. FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM), or do you think there's no possible confusion between FIDE/ICCF/IECG/FICGS titles ? This is an interesting debate I invite you to follow :
http://pub11.bravenet.com/forum/924995304/fetch/552912/
Thank you for your advices.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-08 17:02:06)
First tournament started !
A small bug delayed (1 hour) the start of the first FICGS tournament (class A) ! Sorry to the players. It's fixed now.
Have good games :)
Per Lea (2006-04-08 23:15:01)
Elo overlap
I think the overlap is a great idea. The ratings may come from a lot of different sources and are therefore not necessarily compatible. My ICCF rating is 2136 (why I was given 5 extra points on FICGS, I cannot explain...), but my Norwegian OTB rating is 1631 or thereabouts. That number is probably more realistic....
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-09 10:27:28)
TITLES !
I think the rating system tell a lot, titles just tell something more. What I think is to let appear "official" titles EM, IM, SIM, GM (note that I consider IECG titles as official ones)... Titles obtained on FICGS will appear differently (ie. FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM, and in another color..) I think it may fit to everyone, what do you think about ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-09 11:12:49)
FICGS council / staff
Hello to all.
As I just said on TCCMB about the server, I clearly don't want to reproduce the Chessfriend waste... For obvious reasons, I won't administer alone the whole server forever. That's why I want to create a council-staff and to turn FICGS at least partly towards a IECG-like structure...
Feel free to tell me if you're interested to take part of the adventure !
Best wishes.
Sebastien Marez (2006-04-09 11:16:30)
FICGS council / staff
I wish to take part in this adventure Best Regards Sebastien
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2006-04-10 10:18:26)
FICGS council / staff
In will have a lot of time!
Patrice Verdier (2006-04-10 11:59:55)
FICGS council / staff
I am very pleasant to takepart in this new adventure Best wishes, Patrice
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-10 12:26:52)
To low rated players...
A second CLASS M tournament (category 4) already started ! I suppose once FICGS will be sumitted correctly to search engines, more low rated players will join us. Be patient :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-10 12:53:29)
FICGS and internet
Hello to all & thanks again for support.
I announced FICGS starting into main chess forums (FIDE, TCCMB, Talkchess, France-Echecs...), now working on search engines.
Feel free to talk about it in other forums (in your country or chessclub) and to your chessfriends... Website success is here, and the more players, the more players :)
Thank you in advance. Have good games !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-11 05:18:57)
FICGS council / staff
About job specification, as I said, I would like FICGS to be a place that fits to the most, and not under a dictatorship (even mine :)), so the idea to create a council with all members who want to be part of it, voting all decisions relating server rules, tournaments, wch cycles, titles... (or simply opinion poll on the website ? or both...)
The FICGS staff should be able to manage the server (registering new members, moderating the forum, referees...) Nothing difficult, just needs motivation. Most important is that it could completely work without me. Of course, if developers want to help, making a drag & drop interface ie. or improving whatelse..) About "go", we'll see later, Hannes :) (it's a fine game, you should learn !)
Anyway I'll send an email to all players responding in this thread soon. We will discuss about that.
Best wishes & thank you !
Marc Lacrosse (2006-04-11 10:36:45)
Computer accounts ?
Just an idea : as computer use is explicitly allowed on FICGS, it could be nice to offer chess program authors the possibility to have a "semi-official" account for their latest beta babies on FICGS.
Some of them would surely like the idea of having quite a tough test against good correspondence players ...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-11 14:54:36)
FICGS titles
Hello to all.
I would like to have players opinion !
As you may have noticed, I already changed FICGS titles to FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM. (not titles obtained elsewhere) Do you agree with titles appearing this way ?
I thought several other ways : EFM, IFM, SFM, GFM, or only to mention norms obtained ! (not titles) At last, of course, we can suppress definitely titles from FICGS, a bad idea in my opinion. What do you think about that ?
Thank you in advance for your responses.
Daniel De Noose (2006-04-11 23:46:29)
FICGS council/staff
I'm interested too. I don't have always lot of time but I have lot of holidays ! ;-) You can see my description on echecsemail.com (login : danideno)
Dinesh De Silva (2006-04-12 07:24:22)
TITLES
I think the answer is obvious. FICGS titles should be named FICGS EM, FICGS IM etc, so that it's clear from where the titles are got from. By putting the organization's name in front of the title this way, I don't see any problems. I think the majority are bound to agree, and there won't be any sorta arguments with other organizations. After all, the world is a very big place.... there's enough room for everybody! I find FICGS a very friendly place. Also, organizations like IECG, ICCF, LIAPE etc. are very hardworking, dedicated organizations too, and I enjoy playing in them too. My thanks to you all.
Patrice Verdier (2006-04-12 09:49:26)
FICGS Council / Staff
Can you send your email adress for discuss about this organisation ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-12 09:55:40)
Ok.
I send an email to you now. My email : ficgs (at) ficgs.com
Dinesh De Silva (2006-04-12 12:27:56)
FEM,FIM,FSM,FGM
I saw the rating list, with the title changes....Interesting idea......But what will the titles be called when some of us eventually gain FICGS titles?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-12 12:46:22)
FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM
About titles obtained on FICGS, it would be the same ones. We have choice : We could add a special letter, from the organization the title comes from (very confusing I think : IIM.. IECG / ICCF) .. or consider EM, IM, SM, GM are "official" titles, and FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM are the other ones, including FICGS ones... Probably not perfect. Any idea ?
Dinesh De Silva (2006-04-12 12:52:51)
FEM,FIM,FSM,FGM
How about contacting IECG, ICCF etc and reaching an amicable solution regarding how to name the titles on FICGS?!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-12 14:02:49)
Solution...
One solution could be to display titles from organizations in separated columns named FICGS, ICCF, FIDE, IECG etc... (as Chessfriend do) It's quite heavy for the rating list page :/ So the idea was to display the player's highest title only, and player is free to mention his titles in his own informations page.
That's not a completely satisfying solution, I agree...
Dinesh De Silva (2006-04-12 14:15:16)
Solution...
I have 2 suggestions which might be viable..... *The FICGS decision making committee should make a decision regarding it. OR *Have some sorta poll/voting on FICGS to decide on it.
Hannes Rada (2006-04-12 19:15:19)
Titles
>> One solution could be to display titles from organizations in separated columns named FICGS, ICCF, FIDE, IECG etc... (as Chessfriend do) It's quite heavy for the rating list page :/ So the idea was to display the player's highest title only, and player is free to mention his titles in his own informations page.
I think that's the best idea. Maybe you can use smaller fonts, so that all information can be displayed on that page.
Michal Holes (2006-04-13 10:26:04)
ein Turnier
Hallo! Kann ich bitte fragen, wann beginnt das Turnier ´´FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000001 ´´ Danke fúr die Antwort! Michal
Hannes Rada (2006-04-13 11:24:49)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000001
Wir benoetigen noch einen Teilnehmer. We need one more participant.
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2006-04-13 15:19:03)
New Titles!
To make FICGS more atractive and original I propose to make new titles for every category of players: Candidate for Master(FCM) - 2000-2200 First category (FI) - 1800-2000 Secound category (FII) - 1200-1800 Third category (FIII) - 800-1200 Every of this category could be obtain if a player plays more than 12 games in tournaments with tha same ELO. What do you think about it ? P.S.:Don't be mad on me...It's just a proposition.
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2006-04-13 16:30:20)
New Titles
Again, Their is no problem if you don't create such titles... I was only proposing... and I will submit to the decitions of the FICGS council... God bless FICGS!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-14 04:54:25)
Proposal from a visitor (anonymous)
" >>> Hi Thibault
Congratulations for the launch of your new CC server! I fully support your initiative and hope I will join very soon.
Meanwhile I would like to share some ideas about the Ficgs Titles, which I also fully and unconditionally support.
My proposal is to adopt/or "recognize" any title awarded by FIDE/ICCF/IECG as a FGM, FSIM, FIM, FEM titles. (e.g. not just IECG IM = FIM, but all others too).
That is, a ICCF GM should be named FGM much as a FIDE GM, or IECG GM (or SIM, IM or EM for CC). There shouldn't be special treatment to those players with a title from FIDE/ICCF
Then, to differentiate them, there could be a color scheme or a footnote explaining the procedence of the title: FGM (ICCF) ...FSIM (IECG) and simply FSIM for the truly SIM title obtained at FICGS.
In adition, those players who do not have a title, but have norms either at FIDE/ICCF/IECG (my case ;) either will have them "homologated" (as the titles are) or better, when/if the title has been awarded later, his Ficgs title will be "updated" to the newly awarded title (by FIDE/ICCF/IECG), which must be the highest of them all (as in IECG SIM > ICCF IM > FEM ..etc)
This way FICGS will be the first organization to homologate norms and titles in CC world ;) <<< "
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-14 05:16:26)
re: Proposal
What do we call "legitimacy", "official" ? This is quite subjective. In my opinion each organization can create his own titles and choose to recognize titles from other ones. IECG titles are recognized by FICGS, but it's obvious titles from FIDE / ICCF have more value in players mind (legitimacy is not the subject), and players from everywhere could appreciate this distinction. Anyway the FICGS council will discuss about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-16 11:58:58)
IECG & ICCF webserver
Hello to all.
Congratulations to Ortwin Paetzold who just started with success (src. IECG forum) the new IECG webserver.
Feel free to compare IECG, ICCF & FICGS servers (if you already played on) in this thread, it may help me to feel future improvements, as I have no more time to play on the other ones :(
Thank you for feedback.
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2006-04-18 12:43:47)
Deadline ?
When is the deadline for a player which didn't moved ? In IECG is 10 days... Is in FICGS some limite ?
Daniel Cinca (2006-04-18 16:12:59)
Help (email ficgs)
Dear chessfriends, Can you help me somebody with e-mail address of Mr de Vassal, Thibault?Thank you !Daniel Cinca
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-18 16:16:18)
my email
Hello Daniel. My email is : info (at) ficgs.com
[just replace ' (at) ' by '@']
Glen D. Shields (2006-04-18 21:39:57)
A Suggestion
Thibault my e-mail notification will be turned off :)
I'd encourage you to re-consider your 60 day ruling. I can foresee individuals getting late in a game and accumulating hundreds of reflection days. Not many, but a few players could go 59 days per move 2 or 3 times in a row just to irritate their opponent. Not everyone is a "good sport" unfortunately :(
IECG does it right by limiting time to 30 days max per move. You violate the limit once, game is over no questions asked. ICCF does it half right and half wrong. They set the limit at 40 days, but then make the person waiting beg the TD to do something. If the TD refuses to enforce the rule, the violating player can stall as long as he wants :(
This is your chance to pick and chose from the best things done in other organizations. Either set a limit on the number of accumulated days so it doesn't go into the hundreds or set a reasonable limit on the number of days per move. Just don't let both become large. Also don't be wishy washy on the limit. Set a limit and enforce it, no questions asked. No hard reasonable limit and too many accumulated days is an infrequent, but irritating problem in the making. There won't be many, but sadly there will be those few "bad losers" who think it's "cute" to string their opponents along. Don't let that happen at FICGS!
Just my two cents :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-19 19:13:56)
Vacation implemented
Dear chessfriends, a major update on FICGS : Vacation has been implemented. You now have 30 days leave per year (for all games !)
Be careful using it, as days can't be took back (or vacation stopped before the end date) by playing a move for example. But you can add days to your vacation simply taking days more. You can play while you're in vacation, the days leave you take are simply added to your clock for all your running games. A message tells your opponent you're in vacation in the viewer page.
Also please note this new rule : Time accumulated is now limited to 100 days ! (taking effect at your next move) The 60 days limit per move is kept for the player's convenience.
Have good games !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-20 11:59:21)
Cheating / Forfeiting
Hello to all.
The website detected 2 'probable' cheaters registered (one playing), with a 1400 rating.
Of course, FICGS will face problems encountered by all correspondence chess sites but I think it will be minimal here, as I'm enforcing detection rules so that aliases couldn't register anymore.
Important : Games forfeited without a valid explanation won't be rated, and the account for the player closed. A player who may forfeit should send an email with explanation to : ficgs (at) ficgs.com
Thanks.
Glen D. Shields (2006-04-20 01:47:29)
Congratulations!
Thibault - I don't know if FICGS is the first server to do so, but it's the first server I play on that has made the intelligent decision to limit accumulated time. Hopefully you will set a trend that other servers will follow :)
60 days max for one move may be too much, but with a 100 day limit, abuse will be minimal.
Good job :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-20 15:12:34)
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_B__000002
All games played against Daniel Grecu (forfeit) won't be rated in this tournament. Sorry about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-20 23:18:32)
Vote for the best game
A funny feature has been implemented : You can vote for the best game played on FICGS. I hope it will reveal great games... :)
The votes have a lifetime.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-23 17:03:16)
Spanish / Deutsch (help...)
Hello to all.
As you can see, the home page is now "translated" (thanks babelfish :)) in 4 languages... It would be helpful if players speaking well spanish and deutsch can tell me about the faults... Please email me : info (at) ficgs.com
Thanks in advance :)
Trent Parker (2006-04-25 14:05:50)
Australian site
Hey Thibault! Thanks for this excellent chess server! Below is an Australian site which welcomes all. And is where Thibault advertised this chess server that caused me to be interested in FICGS. It is a Forum/ Bulletin Board www.chesschat.org BTW I am a moderator at chesschat.org I am username "TCN"
Graham Wyborn (2006-04-25 17:42:52)
Please join:-
I joined this site recently and still have not started a game! Forgive the advert 4 the following games. We need one more player! FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000002 (type : rated round-robin, time : 40 days, increment : 40 days / 10 moves) 7 players, 6 game (1 game against each opponent) elo : 1600-2000 Cridland, Graham (USA) 1700 Grady, Richard (USA) 1654 Höppenstein, Michael (DEU) 1700 Fillion, Nicolas (CAN) 1640 Wyborn, Graham (GBR) 1700 Muller, Henri-Louis (BEL) 1923
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-25 23:23:09)
Forums
Here are some forums where I announced FICGS. Most of them are well known & good places :
http://pub11.bravenet.com/forum/924995304
TCCMB
http://www.quebecechecs.com
Quebec Echecs
http://www.talkchess.com
Talk Chess
http://www.chessninja.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi
Chess Ninja
http://chessexchange.com/
Chess Exchange
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-26 16:07:15)
Special tournaments
Hello Daniel. Chess 960 & Thematic tournaments (actual is king's gambit) are in category :
Ficgs__Chess__Special__Tournaments
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-26 19:42:16)
Russian, Italian, Chinese, Dutch....
The Babelfish versions of the FICGS home page in other languages are at the bottom of the home page... Quite funny :)
If players from these countries have time to help to translate, feel free to send me an email to info (at) ficgs.com ! Thanks.
Glen D. Shields (2006-04-28 01:35:12)
Congratulations FICGS!
Congratulations FICG! The rating list now has over 200 members. 200 members in about 1 month of operation. Outstanding :) The more players we can attract, the quicker tournaments will fill.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-04-28 02:06:16)
Next month...
... will be much more interesting ! I've worked to make FICGS appear in good places on search engines and link directories. The results should happen in two weeks from now.
Anyway, that was a quite good start (actually the most difficult for a chess server), so... many thanks to you all :)
Amir Bagheri (2006-06-13 11:22:45)
FICGS
this site looks like a great site just cant wait to get started...Nice to see that Suat Atalik is there as i am of to turkey next month and hope to meet him in his club in taksim (istanbul)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-04 17:25:27)
FICGS statistics
2006 may 4
Dear chessfriends, the first FICGS statistics (1 month after server start) are displayed on the informations page : http://www.ficgs.com/informations.html
Google just reacted (today), so I hope for new players coming from search engines soon...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-05 15:19:03)
FICGS world championship
Hello to all.
Please post here all your questions / suggestions about the FICGS world championship rules.
There are many answers to bring yet : about the building of groups, who exactly will play which stage, etc...
It seems that many players like this scheme : knockout / round-robin tournament, that is more fair and much more interesting than a pure round-robin cycle. The final match rules are particularly hard (24 games, 30 days + 1 day / move), but I think it's a good way to make it different and give value to the title. Rules are not far from the old classical world championship, the champion will only play the next final match against the challenger...
FICGS WCH Rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#tournament
Jose Carrillo (2006-05-05 18:37:09)
Re: 2 players matches
Don't we need only 2 players for a two-game match? Why do we need to create a whole tournament? I'm only interested in playing one other player. Are all the games in FICGS tournament based? Are there no individual matches?
Glen D. Shields (2006-05-06 11:51:16)
Two Others
Two other sites are ICCF (http://www.iccf-webchess.com/) and IECG (http://lss.chess-server.net/). They're similar to FICGS in that both require one to play with their real name. Neither site promotes computer use, yet neither site discourages it. ICCF is a fee-based. IECG is free.
Sebastien Marez (2006-05-06 15:47:35)
Cup
Cher ami, Avez vous prevu un tournoi du style COUPE FICGS? Bien amicalement Sebastien Marez
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-06 16:58:07)
FICGS cup...
Bonjour Sebastien.
Non, pas encore. D'abord pour ne pas multiplier les tournois, au risque de diviser leur popularité. Le problème reste d'imaginer une formule un peu originale, qui ne ressemble pas trop au championnat du monde (donc peut-être éviter le classique cycle de tournois round-robin). A suivre...
(about a FICGS cup, the problem is to imagine an original scheme, that doesn't look like too much to the FICGS world championship... a classical round-robin cycle is maybe 'not enough' to justify this special event)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-08 04:38:51)
F.A.Q.
Hello Konstantin. As Trent said, your opponent has to resign. Please take a look at this thread : http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_185.html
I'll make a F.A.Q. very soon.
Sebastien Marez (2006-05-08 20:03:32)
FICGS
Bonsoir, Il sera difficile d'éviter la fourmule du Championnat du monde car il faut qu'il soit ouvert à tous. C 'est le cas pour tous les autres sports.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-11 09:34:03)
Wikichess !
Hello to all.
You may have noticed this novelty on FICGS :) .. no need to say more.
Thanks in advance for feedback and suggestions. Please note that transpositions are not supported yet.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-05-13 17:58:51)
Swiss
Hello Thibault, Chessfriend.com has started the Championship as a 3 rounds Swiss tournament. Why don't we try this form under the name FICGS-CUP? I have liked the mode. Heinz-Georg
Dinesh De Silva (2006-05-14 07:43:13)
An alternative to Cup Championship
In my opinion, instead of a Cup Championship, perhaps a Knock Out Rapid Championship maybe more interesting!? This is simply an idea. (Otherwise, FICGS might begin to look too similar to other correspondence chess sites, don't you think?!)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-14 16:07:16)
"Blitz" cup...
Thank you Heinz Georg, for the files you sent to me.
Now I understand better the work and ideas of Reimund Lutzenberger in Chessfriend.com, a great experimentation field for sure...
I first concluded some things not to do in FICGS WCH. In example, a player rated 2500 (even provisional rating from fide) shouldn't have to play in the first stage against a low-rated player in a world championship [but that could be possible in a cup tournament cycle]. So I'll add special rules for high rated players (who are not qualified for the WCH knockout tournament) to begin directly in a 2nd stage tournament...
I agree with Dinesh, the aim is not to use the same formulas, even good ones. Anyway I think we can find new interesting (better :)) ones. But as the WCH is already a rapid tournament cycle, the CUP could be an unrated "blitz" (30 days per game with no increment, or even 10 days + 1 hour / move) knockout (2 games / match + playoffs) !! Something quite "brutal" and unfair between correspondence chess & classical rythms. What do you think ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-15 08:33:32)
Team Championship
In brief : The idea of a team championship is very good, but of course it's too early... Such a championship could be a 2 stages round-robin tournament with teams of 6 or 7 players.
Bonjour Sébastien. Pourquoi discorde ? :) Au contraire...
Pour le moment j'envisageais des matchs par équipe occasionnels (FICGS vs. fédération ou autre serveur de jeu).
Le problème d'un championnat est qu'il soit représentatif, il serait donc souhaitable (dans le cas par pays) de pouvoir monter des équipes complètes (6 ou 7 joueurs) et que les plus forts joueurs trouvent un "intérêt" à défendre leurs couleurs (dépend de la popularité du serveur). L'idée est de toutes manières des plus intéressantes, mais le serveur doit gagner en confiance et en expérience sur la durée, il est encore tôt. Par contre je me demande comment se déroulerait un tel championnat... Un tournoi toutes ronde (round-robin) entre 5 à 9 pays, divisés par groupes, puis une phase finale ?!
Dinesh De Silva (2006-05-15 13:49:57)
Team Championship
I like Sebastien Marez's idea, for a team championship somewhere in the near future. It could perhaps be termed FICGS Team World Championship. It's a good way of building camaraderie between chess players too!
Per Lea (2006-05-17 13:27:46)
FICGS is not alone....
I have encountered a similar problem on another website: when accepting an offer of a draw, the system wouldn't accept the result unless you played a move as well!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-18 20:10:13)
ECO code
Search by ECO code (actually by opening) is now implemented. You need to disconnect (or open a new window) to use it.
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_openings.html
Find your opening, then click on the ECO code (not on the magnifying glass, that is linked to wikichess) and you'll have results in a second...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-19 19:04:26)
Future rating !
Hello to all.
I've added a feature to know the future rating, based on games finished since the last rating calculation.
Click on the magnifying glass near the player's name, then click on ELO, it will appear on the elo history page.
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_players.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-21 12:51:03)
Crosstables
Hello Karlheinz.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=158
Just click on the magnifying glass near the name of the tournament to see the crosstable.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-22 07:35:15)
Checkmate / Stalemate...
Hello Mircea.
Please read the F.A.Q. in Help :
http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
You may read this discussion too :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_302.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-23 12:16:14)
Help
Hello Amir.
You could try to enter a waiting list. (ie. FICGS CHESS CLASS SM in CHESS CLASS category)...
Anyway, feel free to read the Help section.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-24 14:46:20)
New features
Here are some new features :
- Countries directory - http://www.ficgs.com/directory_countries.html
(with players sorted by name)
- Players sorted by rating for each country (click on the flags on the rating list)
- More player statistics (results with white and black, elo average opponents)
Phil Cook (2006-05-25 12:18:34)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_G__000001
Have I entered the above tournament?I dont see my name anywhere.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-25 12:22:25)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_G__000001
Did you confirm your registration at this tournament ?
(please don't post your messages several times ;))
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-27 03:30:57)
Ok.
Hello Ryaad. I'll replace you by another player soon.
Go tournaments are unrated but count for the FICGS championship qualifications, so I'll replace forfeiting players as much as possible.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-28 14:06:07)
Go games - SGF format / Java viewer
Hello to all.
Go games can be replayed with the Java viewer. Click on the magnifying glass near Game #
SGF format is available for your games (see help), ie. :
http://www.ficgs.com/format_viewer_sgf.php?game=805
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-28 15:40:14)
go 9*9
Hello David.
I didn't implement 9x9 goban firstly because I didn't have a Java viewer for this size... Then, I thought it was a good thing not to propose other sizes, 19x19 is "real go", most interesting and challenging games ! 9*9 is only tactical training... Actually my games here are the very first I play on a 19x19 goban. I use to play 9x9 with friends, on a chessboard :-)
We could offer different times, goban sizes, handicaps etc... but I think this is not the way FICGS goes : Purity of games and competition. 19x19 go games are long, but we have time... Not a bad thing to cut idleness (particularly mine :))
David Grosdemange (2006-05-28 22:08:48)
challenge ?
if trying to become the ficgs go world champion is a challenge , playing go can be a challenge for chess players who discover go . and beginning with 19*19 is a little hard ...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-30 01:19:41)
Depends...
... obviously more in big chess :)
Actually I already love this game... very exciting ! So many strategies... Just look at this position - http://www.ficgs.com/game_1.html
Now I have to work on the board (size / coordinates) and tournament formula before to offer it here.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-30 13:23:44)
1st SM chess tournament, elo 2443
The first FICGS CHESS SM tournament just started !
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_SM__000001.html
3 ICCF titled players, 1 FIDE GM, 1 IECG titled player, and 2 'newbies'.. :)
FEM norm : 3 points, FIM norm : 3.5 points, FSM norm : 4 points, FGM norm : 4.5 points...
Have good games !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-05-31 15:34:58)
Including games into webpages
Hello to all.
I've added a small feature : it's an adaptable viewer that enables to include a game into a webpage (ie. with frame).
You can easily change text, board & background color, display pgn or not...
See the Help section (bottom) - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
Lionel Vidal (2006-05-31 19:33:20)
Go komi / Rules
Hello to all,
As a brand user FICGS user, I first read the rules (of course!), and I am wondering about the komi value of half a point. AFAIK it is not very common, unlike, say, 5.5. Is there a specific reason for such a komi value?
Best wishes, Lionel
Lionel Vidal (2006-05-31 21:15:10)
Weiqi komi
Hello,
Thanks for that link: it is indeed a good reading. I would suggest also to read the chapter on the rules of Go in 'The go player's almanac' (Bozulich 2001), that gives much more details.
By reading these, you can see that half a point komi is indeed quite uncommon :-)
But an important point is that it should probably depend on the chosen rule, or more precisely on the counting mode, area or territory.
BTW, what is the counting rules here in FICGS ?
Note that this rule question may be quite critical on some life-and-death situation and may change the result of a game! And some of the simplest cases (like bent four in the corner) can arise not too uncommonly.
Lionel
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-01 06:17:28)
FICGS go rules + quick link
Hello Tom.
You have 30 days + 1 day / move !
About the 'quick link', that's a good idea, I'll think about that.
Lionel Vidal (2006-06-01 15:08:53)
A missing link to the rules
Hello,
Would it be possible to have a direct link to the rules on the menu list of your home page in FICGS?
I would find useful to be able to access the rules at the same level of waiting lists, tournaments, forum and so on.
Or maybe there is an easy way I did not see?
(This is nitpicking, the site is already great :-))
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-01 15:14:43)
FICGS rules
The Membership (& rules) page link is reachable when your are not connected. (so, from the home page)
Or you can find the link in Help section.
Ryaad Aabid (2006-06-01 15:30:25)
Go Tournament # 1
Hello all players - GO tournaments I have applied to this new started tournament by mistake , I will be thankful if any player can replace me to reply here or e-mail to FICGS. *I never done moves yet. Kind regards Ryaad/Norway
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-01 15:37:17)
FICGS rules
No problem, the website may be quite unclear in some places. Anyway I have to improve many parts of it.
(FICGS, Lionel... FICGS :))
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-01 15:47:28)
Replacement
I did not forget you, Ryaad. (time sometimes misses, sorry to your opponents..)
Does anyone would accept to replace Ryaad in the first Go tournament that started a few days ago ? Thanks in advance.
Reminder : If players wish to qualify for the FICGS Go championship, they must be among the 11 players who obtained the best results in Go tournaments (see rules).
I think 2 (maybe 3 if the number of players increase quickly) victories in tournaments should assure a place in the WCH tournament.
Michael Aigner (2006-06-01 20:48:46)
FICGS reminder
I have a lot of time left in all off my games and got the following reminser mail.
Did anyone get the same strange mail?
This is a reminder.
You did not connect to FICGS for 13275 days. You may have running games that will be lost on time. If you don't want to receive any reminder, you can turn off the notification options in preferences. There will be no more than 3 consecutive reminders. This email was generated automatically by http://www.ficgs.com/
Michael Aigner (2006-06-01 20:48:58)
FICGS reminder
(repetition)
Lionel Vidal (2006-06-01 22:17:30)
Go rules
I don't quite understand what kind of problems with draws remains with FICGS (sic!) rules: as passing is not allowed, if you add the non repetition of the same whole board position and a non integer komi, I do not see how a draw is still possible.
BUT... this solution does actually not solve anything as I don't think you can forbid passing (as a matter of fact, I checked the official japanese, chinese, new-zealand, AGA (USA) and SST rules: pass is allowed and needed)
The main reason is, IMO, that you need a legal way to end the game (double pass). And yes there are situations where the best move for BOTH players is NOT to move at all in the area: the simplest case I can think of is thousand-year kos, which in the case of japanese rule usually end in seki.
Note that a single pass (that is the game goes on after it) can change the difference in scores in area mode: the AGA rule introduces the concept of pass stone to compensate and insists on white making the last move (if necessary with an additional pass and pass stone) to ensure that the total number of stones played by the two players are equal!
(BTW this is one of the reasons, admitedly far behind familiarity, why I prefer the japanese rule in face to face go)
To sum things up (!!), while I agree that FICGS could develop its own set of rules, I feel that the subject is too complex and error-prone, and has been long, and still is, disputed by highly competent authorities : why not use the result of their work?
I would add that the point of all this is rather moot if you consider that situation like triple ko and alii are indeed rather rare: why not stricly stick to, say, the official chinese rule, and replay the game by referee decision in the rare cases where neither playing side will yield?
oh, but I could also check what they do in the kiseido server ?!?
oh, and do take what I say with great caution: I don't feel and I am certainly not competent enough on the subject! Any other advice over there? :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-01 21:25:04)
Discrepancies
It is very clear Lionel.
In another hand, each tournament rules and generally each situation influence the strategy at chess (so other games). And FICGS chess wch rules are special ones in the knockout tournament that should avoid draws. Actually, only a "one game match" can have no influence on 'the game'. (not perfectly true, as the player's strength is another factor)
Rules are flexible, particularly for the game of Go, so I think we can use even uncommom ones, if it is balanced enough (= there's still a challenge). Do you have an idea about this rule avoiding repetition, how many stones or komi it could be worth ?
Another question : Are there situations that look like zugzwang in Go (where the best move could be 'passing') ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-02 12:24:54)
Weiqi : FICGS rules
Thanks for your explanations Lionel. (forum bug is fixed)
I've changed the rules. I would like some opinions before I announce it :
First, now you can pass, just entering 'pass'... Special rules in FICGS are : Suicide of more than one stone is authorized, and infinite repetition means a win (full point) for White. Both players must play until one resign, both players pass (then call referee) or game is adjudicated. Scoring method is area scoring with chinese counting. Eyes in seki count as territory.
Thanks in advance !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-02 16:52:40)
Famous quotes about FICGS :-)
"Who needs drugs and alcohol if he can play big chess on FICGS ?" (HG. L.)
Sorry to the author, I couldn't resist ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-02 17:48:34)
Go rules
Hello Lionel. I just read the 1988 version of the official rules of the Chinese Weiqi Association.
The point here is to play with the most interesting & fair rules, not 'official' ones or others if it could be improved...
Note that FICGS chess rules have a peculiarity : 50 moves rules isn't applied if the mate can be forced. FICGS chess world championship rules are not (of course) the rules used by FIDE. I spent much time thinking about rules which are IMO the best thing in this server and I think most players will appreciate these points.
I think avoiding draws in Go is interesting because energy consuming could be too different in some games and lead to unfair situations in tournaments.
Hash keys don't solve all problems, 'superko' situations could remain as draw, furthermore these special rules could avoid any ambiguity. It is clear, it brokes 'symmetry' and I feel it is fair enough.
Then, rules exist to be enforced ! :) .. More seriously, I'm not convinced these new rules don't make sense, even if it needs adjustments. Still inquiring, but unless I find (or you convince me :)) a solid argument in another way, I think I'll apply them.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-02 20:39:25)
FICGS : Chinese rules !
You convinced me :)
(sorry, I didn't understand well some concepts before)
Good news : I have implemented the non-repetition rules with hash keys...
Now the rules are exactly CHINESE RULES with a 6.5 komi, which is the value which tends to be used in tournaments.
Thank you Lionel :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-02 20:50:09)
Positional superko
The superko rule says that it is forbidden to repeat a previous board position. There are two versions of this: 'positional superko', where it is forbidden to repeat a board position, and 'situational superko', where it is only forbidden to repeat a board position with the same player to move.
FICGS now uses the positional superko rule.
Kuzma Pecotic (2006-06-03 07:28:29)
Incorrect move
This is my game:
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_A__000003"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2006.04.22"]
[Round "1"]
[White "Pecotic,Kuzma"]
[Black "Sobrecases,Guy"]
[Result "*"]
[WhiteElo "2179"]
[BlackElo "2105"]
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 e6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 Nc6 6.Nxc6 bxc6 7.e5 Nd5 8.Ne4 Qc7 9.f4 Qa5+ 10.Bd2 Qb6 11.Bd3 Qxb2 12.O-O Qd4+ 13.Kh1 Ba6 14.Bxa6 Qxe4 15.Rb1 Qa4 16.Bd3 f5 17.*
For what reason: Incorrect move : 17.exf6
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-03 19:22:18)
Download games + RSS feed
Hello Karlheinz.
It's now possible to "directly" download games in PGN format. Please try the 'download' link on the viewer page for any game, or try ie. this one - http://www.ficgs.com/game_136.pgn
I've also added links to RSS feeds for games in the viewer page, and for the forum.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-05 14:11:42)
Rules : Forfeiting / Replacement
Hello to all.
As a few players stopped to play (forfeit) in their games, I answer here to questions from their opponents.
- Rated games lost on time / forfeited are not calculated for the winner's (only) rating if less than 10 moves have been played and position is equal.
- If a player forfeits in a rated tournament without having played a single move, his games will be lost and he will be replaced, ie. FICGS CHESS CLASS B 000003 ... furthermore, his account will be closed. (obvious cheating)
Best wishes.
Dinesh De Silva (2006-06-06 05:11:01)
Trent, Here's An Interesting Question!
Trent, IF future teams are named after countries, under what country would I fall?!??? (As I'm from Sri Lanka, and as far as I know I'm the only player actively playing on FICGS, ICCF, IECG etc). Then the only option would be for me to play under another country's banner, eh?! Quite an interesting idea, I might say!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-06 17:39:44)
7.5 komi + Superko
Hello to all.
In accordance with Chinese rules, the last update of the FICGS rules of Go states a 7.5 komi (3.75 by chinese counting)
http://www.britgo.org/rules/compare.html#threeKK
The last ambiguity may concern the superko rule, as now FICGS graphical interface forbids any board repetition (not only previous move). See this page on BRITGO site, at the very bottom : Positional superko (PSK) means a play may not recreate a previous board position from the game, referring to the position just after the play and consequent removals.
However, forbidding any board repetition is the only way to prevent draw games.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-07 00:38:57)
Go / Chess
Hello Tommie.
I chose not to implement a Go rating system for several reasons, first and main is: a quite true correspondence Go rating may be very (!) long to achieve, maybe even impossible. It seems to me that the challenge could be elsewhere ie. tournament results, to qualify for the FICGS championship tournament.
About the rating list, so far all new players appear in a unique rating list, soon there will be an established rating list, a provisional rating list and a new player rating list.
About this rating for Ion (2600), where did you see it exactly ?
... at last what happens with the Go applet ? You have to click on 'game description'. If it doesn't work, feel free to tell me what game you try to watch and what happens... Thanks in advance :)
Dinesh De Silva (2006-06-07 06:59:09)
Interesting Debate!
Hi, everyone It's quite an interesting debate......regarding whether to name teams after countries or not. Marc, for players like you and I, perhaps we could find some sorta compromise if the team rules allow it. As Thibault says, the problem is that even though our (small)countries hardly have any players interested in correspondence chess to form national teams, playing under another national/country banner is kinda a unique situation (IF allowed). It all depends on whether future FICGS team championship rules might allow it or not. Any creative ideas/suggestions left to make?!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-13 11:58:41)
2 players matches
Hello Amir.
Sorry, this is not possible yet to invite players for a 2-games match.
Nevertheless, you can start a game with Nigel instantly just entering the FICGS CHESS CLASS M 000005 tournament waiting list. One player more, and the tournament will start !
Another way, as it would be an interesting match for sure, I can create a special match if Nigel agrees to play.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-13 18:02:00)
Chess tournament
FICGS CHESS CLASS M 000005 just started. Another strong tournament I'll follow with interest :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000005.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-13 18:28:54)
FICGS chess world championship 1 & 2
Hello to all.
FICGS chess world championship deadline (2006 june 15) is 2 days far from now ! Here is the scheme, allowing all players who registered to start playing at the same time, without loosing the opportunity for new players to register at a later date :
As 2300+ players will enter the cycle at stage 2, the idea is to start 1st (from stage 2) and 2nd (from stage 1) world championship at the same time. Thus, all tournaments will begin at the fixed date for all players who already registered, then a new deadline will be fixed (probably in august/september), and all players registering late for chess wch would begin a tournament each time there's enough new players in the waiting list, with the condition that the ELO average of these new tournaments be equal or superior (as few as possible) to the tournaments that began on June 15.
And good luck to all... :)
David Grosdemange (2006-06-13 21:58:25)
..
so players who aren't 2300 rated can't play the real first ficgs_wch ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-14 08:12:37)
FICGS 1st chess world championship
That's right.
However, it's more like an extra championship, it doesn't change anything for players rated under 2300, ie. a player rated 1700 who register next year couldn't play the 2nd FICGS chess championship since 2nd stage begin... But he could register for the 3rd wch.
The positive points are everyone can play immediately and 2nd wch could be a complete cycle (with a final match)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-14 12:08:12)
FICGS 1st chess world championship
Hello Thibault
I don't like your rules. I think it would have been better if all players start in the 1st wch (this time and in future cycles). It would be more attractive for the most players. What do you think is the rating average of the 1st stage groups?
I cannot remember that the 2300-restriction was in the rules when I have registered ...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-14 13:15:33)
FICGS 1st chess world championship
Hello Heinz-Georg !
It's only a logical extension to the rule that divide the championship in a round-robin and a knockout (for the 8 best rated players) tournament. Of course, there's no rule that fit to everyone, only choices... I hope to make the most balanced ones for the whole site.
By this rule, high rated players have a stage less to play (that they would probably win) and it limits the rating gaps (otherwise it would be more like a cup). In most wch competitions, winners and high rated players/teams are qualified for an advanced stage in the tournament.. A quite common and logical system, used everywhere from football world cup [winner qualified for quarter final] to Roland-Garros [qualifications stage], FIDE world championship etc... 2300 rule is a statistical choice, used in IECG too with more parameters. (nevertheless at IECG high rated players can choose to play the first stage too, but IMO it's quite complicate)
I hope to make it as simple and attractive as possible, believe me ;) Of course (and it is mentioned in the rules- preliminaries) rules could still evolve if improvements are decided by the [future] council.
The only negative point is, indeed, only 2300+ players can play the 1st wch, that is in a way not a "complete" championship. But compared to all other positive points (first, everyone can play now), and as 2nd wch starts at the same time, I think this choice is best.
What I think to do is to send all tournament tables to players who registered on 2006 june 16. If finally there are players who don't want to play it, they'll just have to tell me within days, responding by email. It should avoid any forfeit.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-14 14:40:34)
FICGS 1st chess world championship
Hello Thibault!
Thank you for your answer.
Two points:
It isn't sure at all that a player with a rating > 2400 will win his group if he had to play a 1st stage group. The CFC-Ch 2003 has shown, that less than 50 percent of the best rating players (even players with rating > 2600) have won their qualification groups.
In the moment we have about 100 players with a rating < 2300 who have registered themselves for the wch. Their rating avarage is about 1720 (!). Is that right? This means (if I understand your rules) the wch groups of the 1st stage will have this rating (+ or - some points). In these groups for a 2200 player it is nearly impossible (even as winner of a group) to get a tournament performance > 2050 (I suspect that this is the reason that players with rating > 2300 not have to play this stage). After the first stage the distance to 2300 will be greater than before.
I have registered myself and I will play. But I'm not really satisfied with that situation.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-14 15:32:51)
Rating formula
Hello Thibault!
Where can I found the exact rating rules of FICGS? I have found only these lines in the Memberships - Terms and Conditions:
"11. 7. Rating rules
The FICGS rating scheme is a numerical scheme, in which percentage results can be exchanged into rating differences, and rating differences into percentage performance probabilities. It is mainly based on the principles of rating calculations of prof. Arpad Elo.
The rating formula : New Elo = ((16 x Elo) + (Games x Perf)) / (16 + Games) ..."
What means "mainly based"?
You write in another topic
"1. The rating system do not take account of wins when the ELO difference is superior to 350 points "
Is this valid only for wins or for all games with a rating difference of more than 350 points?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-15 16:36:17)
Criteria
Hello Dorel and Daniel.
As you noticed, rating is quite important in FICGS world championship cycle (particularly established ratings, obtained from IECG / ICCF or after 9 games finished in FICGS) !
I think these rules are really the best choice in order to designate a world champion. It's more logical IMO to favour players who obtained previously the best results in FICGS and recognized organizations, and consequently a high rating. It takes time, of course. Even very strong players starting with a 1700 rating won't achieve a 2300 established rating before months !
Criterias in FICGS wch are (from most important to least) :
1) Winner of the previous cycle (qualify for the final match)
2) The eight best established ratings (play the KO tournament)
3) Points obtained in the wch tournaments
4) The tournament entry rating (TER)
Of course, there are some provisional ratings that will increase a lot, but it is not possible to grant a 2300 rating to any player saying so. It's already a lot of time gained that ratings from FIDE, ICCF, IECG be recognized.
Finally it is the same in IECG / ICCF : it's very hard to achieve a high rating, it's very hard to directly qualify for a 2nd stage too, it takes months, probably years in email chess...
Now, please consider this, if we start 1st wch at stage 1 : It won't change anything for your play, as the 1st stage of the 2nd wch is exactly the same... 2300+ players won't play before months... and if the rule is changed about 2300 mark and everyone playing 1st stage, probably all games for 2300+ players won't be rated with a 100% result... and at last it will be harder for you to qualify for 2nd stage...
It is a hard work to write rules as fair, balanced and interesting as possible. Rules can't satisfy everyone, sorry about that.
Daniel De Noose (2006-06-15 17:23:38)
It is not the same !
Playing 1st or 2nd Championship is not the same because if you play only the second you can't be the first FICGS champion ! ;-) Secundo, as you explained it at the start of the site, everybody can use databases, computers, ... In that case a 1600 can beat a 2300 if he enters correctly parameters in his chess engine. Because the tournament is not again started you can correct this. After the beginning it will be harder. And what's my rating now ? ;-)
Amir Bagheri (2006-06-16 13:28:21)
FICGS CHESS CLASS M 000005
well apparently I cannot enter the tournament due to rating retrictions
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-17 19:56:11)
FICGS encyclopedia
Hello to all.
The FICGS Chess and Go encyclopedia just started ! (version beta)
This is a wikipedia-like encyclopedia, where you can write about everything related to Chess and Go in 184 languages...
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=encyclopedia
It will be improved soon with new features. Feel free to tell me what you think...
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-18 14:10:23)
FICGS 1st wch (my last try)
Hello to all,
I think it would be better to start our 1st wch with the regular rules (knock-out and round robin)? Players with rating > 2300 who are not starting in the knock-out can start in the 1st stage of the round robin if they want. If they do not win their group they can neverthless start in the second stage (if their rating is > 2300) of the 1st wch. World champion is the winner of a 24 game knock-out between the winner of the 3rd stage round robin and the 3rd stage knock-out.
What do you think about this?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-18 23:07:45)
FICGS 1st wch
Hello Heinz-Georg.
I can't see any reason why these players would enter 1st stage if there's no real motivation... Most won't play, for sure.. Logical consequence is they won't play before months... That's a pity in my opinion.
I really think we found a good compromise with Daniel, that can satisfy everyone. Thus 1st wch is a complete cycle, that will designate the 1st FICGS champion. Is there really something more to hope ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-18 23:20:14)
Deadline / Start date
Hello Tim.
FICGS 1st wch will start on 2006 july 1st. A new deadline will be fixed, so that players can begin other tournaments lately, but all players who entered the waiting list already will begin their games on july 1st.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-19 15:45:34)
FICGS 1st wch
Hello Thibault!
It seems that I haven't really understood what will happen on July 1st. You write "Thus 1st wch is a complete cycle". Does this mean, that the knock-out tournaments of the 8 players with the highest established rating also will start (stage 1)? If not it is not a complete cycle according to FICGS (your) rules - in my opinion.
What happens if a player has a rating > 2300 at the beginning of stage 1 and a rating < 2300 at the beginning of stage 2? May he play stage 2?
What happens if a player has a rating < 2300 at the beginning of stage 1 and a rating > 2300 at the beginning of stage 2? May he play stage 2 even if he hasn't won his round robin group? The rating at which time is essential?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-19 16:34:56)
GM special match
Hello to all.
From time to time, special events will take place on FICGS.
A 4-games match just started between GM Nigel Davies (GBR) and GM Amir Bagheri (FRA).
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__MATCH_EVENT__000001.html
I think we'll watch these games with interest :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-19 18:42:16)
FICGS 1st world championship
Hello Heinz-Georg.
While watching the wch waiting list, I realized that there could be an improvement more about this "extra-group". So here is the 1st wch scheme (and next ones, without the special group in the first stage), according to the rules.
Stage 1 :
-- Knockout tournament --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_1__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_2__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_3__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_4__000001
with John Anderson, Petr Makovsky, Daniel Cinca and 5 other players...
-- Round-robin tournaments --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_1__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_2__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_3__000001
(...)
And at last, a special and one-time group :
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_M__000001
This will be a high rated group, with GM Nigel Davies, GM Amir Bagheri and the ~10 players 2300+ who won't play the knockout tournament according to the rules. The winner of this group will directly qualify for stage 3 round-robin final tournament (a one-time rule). The others can play stage 2 as specified in the rules.
Thus, only the 1st wch will start on july 1st. I think it's fair enough and finally everyone can play...
Stage 2 :
-- Knockout tournament --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_SEMI_FINAL_1__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_SEMI_FINAL_2__000001
-- Round-robin tournaments --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_1__000001
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_2__000001
(...)
Stage 3 :
-- Knockout tournament --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000001
-- Round-robin tournament --
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_ROUND_ROBIN_FINAL__000001
Stage 4 :
-- Candidates match --
FICGS__CHESS__CANDIDATES_FINAL__000001
Stage 5 :
-- Title match --
FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000001
... if there's a world champion and if he defends his title. Consequently we won't have a stage 5 this time, but as it could happen again in the future...
That's all folks !
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-06-19 20:29:55)
FICGS 1st world championship
Hello Thibault,
thank you for your answer. Even I have understood this now. I have always missed the knock-out tournaments in the postings. It wasn't clear to me (and I was probably the only one ...) whether these tournaments take place also.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-27 16:58:03)
FICGS world chess championship
A minor update in the rules that fixes many problems for future wch cycles... Nothing has changed in the rules for the 1st cycle that begins in 4 days, changes only concern next cycles, with the extension of the one-time rule mentioned above.
The equation was :
- No confusion with the cycles when entering the waiting list (2300+ players qualified for 2nd stage of the previous cycle is too confusing).
- Avoiding tournaments with too big rating gaps (and encourage high rated players to participate)
- The formula combining knockout tournament, round-robin cycle (so that everyone can play wch, with no more than 5 stages), and the final 2 players matches in the last stages.
- Making it as understable as possible...
It is now mentioned in the rules that 2300+ players will play 1st stage in high rated groups (ratings superior or equal to 2300). Winners of such groups (same criterias) will be qualified for the 3rd stage round-robin tournament, the others will play 2nd stage.
As all games are played with rapid time controls, a new cycle will probably begin every 6 months !
Wayne Lowrance (2006-06-28 19:31:18)
Ficgs chess world championship 1&2
here is easy qurestion. I a 1800 + player at july 1 (2250+ at other correspondence cites). Now the easy question. If I should win all my rounds, will I or will I not be overall world champion. Not likely, but a nice goal to think about. I am not used to losing tournaments, never have yet, anywhere
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-29 10:25:55)
Ficgs correspondence chess wch 1
Easy question, easy response : Yes ! :)
A hard challenge for anyone, for sure...
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2006-06-30 10:50:31)
Forfeit problem
Game 934 (chess)
White clock - 30 days 23:29:09
Black clock - Out of time.
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_C__000002"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2006.05.31"]
[Round "1"]
[White "Guralivu,Paul-Iosif"]
[Black "Alessandrini,Alfredo"]
[Result "*"]
[WhiteElo "1293"]
[BlackElo "1400"]
1.e4 *
Should this game be forfeit ? Should all the games of Mr. Alessandrini be forfeit ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-06-30 13:23:48)
Replacement
Two players (who played no move for 30 days) have just been replaced in tournaments :
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_C__000002
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_B__000006
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-01 17:20:35)
1st FICGS chess championship started !
Hello to all.
As you may have noticed, 23 new tournaments just started :
http://www.ficgs.com/category__ficgs__chess__wch.html
4 matchs (quarter final) started in the knockout tournament
QF 1 : John Anderson (SM) - Farit Balabaev (GM)
QF 2 : Daniel Cinca - Peter Schuster (SM)
QF 3 : Gilles Hervet (SM) - Gino Figlio (IM)
QF 4 : Petr Makovsky (SM) - John Knudsen (SM)
19 tournaments (groups) started in the round-robin cycle, 17 tournaments with an elo average between 1672 and 1732 (16 tournaments of 17 are in a 32 points range), and 2 "group M" with an elo average about 2390.
All round-robin tournaments are groups of 7 players as it was the best way to make it fair.
I wish you all good games and have fun :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-01 17:44:41)
Format For Championship
Hello John.
After all, if it wasn't unusual, the interest would be lower for sure... :)
So you noticed, the 8 players with the highest established correspondence chess ratings play a pure knockout tournament.
I thought about this format a long time ago (and a long time). Combining a knockout tournament (more "spectacular") and a round-robin cycle (everyone can play, no more than 5 cycles) gather together the advantages of both. It is one of the reasons I made FICGS... I think pure knockout or pure round-robin wch cycle is not efficient enough for chess championships.
The other thing you'll notice in the rules : "The special rule is that in case of equality (4-4), the winner is the player with the strongest tournament entry rating if all games are draw, the player with the lowest tournament entry rating if not all games are draw. The winner is qualified for the next stage."
This rule (in case of equality in the round-robin tournaments, the player with the strongest TER is qualified too) is another way to avoid short draws... It may sound strange at a first sight, but I really think it's fair enough and a good way to find most probably the really strongest players in the last stages. Anyway, it's amazing for sure :)
The FICGS chess wch rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#tournament
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-04 19:33:17)
Symmetrical games
It's not possible to reach such a situation so that a player would have to play against himself... Cheating is obvious !
If you play your moves with a small delay (2 or 3 moves) in the other game, it will be always possible to find another line. Then it is mentioned in the rules there's an algorithm in FICGS that detects (!) symmetrical games. If needed, I can bring the proof with the moves dates.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-04 20:15:35)
8-game matches
John... ??? :)
Vladimir Kramnik - Peter Leko (match for WCH classical title)
Vladimir Kramnik - Deep Fritz...
Of course it is desired... Who will remember the names of the players in the last ICCF final tournament ? Even if ICCF doesn't use this format, and (as you say) serious CC players didn't have the opportunity to play such tournament, knockout format is still desired.
My first idea was a pure enormous knockout tournament, but it's obviously not possible (too much rounds, a time problem), that's why I thought about this combined system.
Now look at the chess world : Many players don't understand why FIDE progressively reduces the number of games and time controls in WCH matches. It is the main reason why FIDE world champion title looses value. Not hard / accurate, not spectacular enough !! ..
What many players (me, at least :)) expect is a classical world championship with a big final match. You may have noticed that FICGS champion will have the opportunity to defend his title in a... 24 games match against his challenger... (!!) That's real fight, that's real challenge and that's what I expect to see from a championship, a big opposition between 2 players, and not a round-robin more or less aleatory, with too much names, not understandable for the most.
Now, as we said on TCCMB : FICGS is not "official" matter, chess is for fun here, but chess must be a show and I'm convinced it is relevant in correspondence chess too. We'll see that ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-04 21:40:51)
statistics and cheating
Gino, this is one thing sure : symmetrical games played on FICGS will be detected... No statistics here in question.
Anyway, symmetrical games (cheating) consequences won't be the same in correspondence chess and on ICC, that's obvious. A computer is much stronger than any human in rapid chess, and computers are easily available on ICC. In correspondence chess, very strong players are not so easy to reach ;)
Actually that's not so comparable. Note it is mentioned in the rules "any kind of help is authorized", so a player could be helped by a computer, or even by other players...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-05 19:14:09)
Leave/Reflection Time
That's right. You take 5 days leave, 5 days are added to your clock... This is quite logical, after the leave period your clock is the same again. The difference with other systems is you can play during your leave.
We discussed about it in another thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_144.html
Glen D. Shields (2006-07-06 03:54:49)
Congratulations - 500 members now !
Not sure how many noticed that FICGS reached 500 members this past week. That's a fantastic milestone considering FICGS is only three months old.
Congratulations Thibault and thank you for making this site available for all of us to enjoy!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-06 16:16:01)
Thanks to all...
That's quite a good start indeed... (to be continued) :)
I'd like to thank all players who helped to introduce FICGS to their federation, forums, friends... We just welcomed many Turkish players this way, and I hope many other players from continents not very represented yet (asia, arabia..) will join us soon. That's great to see people here from everywhere in the world, even countries I did not ever heard about before :)
John Knudsen (2006-07-06 18:33:27)
Leave/Reflection Time
Hi Thibault: Of course you can take leave in any cc organization. FICGS, however, is the only one that I am aware of that, not only do you get annual leave, but also 1 day extra reflection time per day of leave! :) The concept is simply ridiculous in a 30 +1 time control format. Look, I hope you don't think I just complain about stuff - there is a lot that I like here, too. I also do have a bit of experience playing serious correspondence chess (since 1978). New cc players, or OTB players, are the last people who know anything about the ins and outs of correspondence chess, IMHO. John
Ryaad Aabid (2006-07-07 16:46:31)
Game 1006
Hi !
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_D__000005 , in the mentioned game above , White clock was 0 days yesterday , while today turned from 0 days to 5 days !
Best regards. Ryaad
Marc Lacrosse (2006-07-08 11:08:51)
Modifying "rapid" tournament rules ?
Hello all,
Hello Thibault
As I already said in an earlyer thread, one of the reasons why I joined FICGS was the possibility to play fewer games simultaneously at a faster pace than in other corr. chess associations.
So I enrolled in a first rapid tournament where I find two things unpleasant for a so-called "rapid" category:
1. some of my opponents (and myself also) accumulated reflection time "reserves" of 40 or even 50 days in some cases, which is not appropriate for a "rapid" tournament IMHO.
2. my last unfinished game is completely won for more than ten moves now (it's K+pawns against K+pawns with an unstoppable passed pawn for me where computers announce forced mate in ... max 40 moves). My 2200+ opponent continues to play at a very slow pace. It's pretty annoying : I bet I could win my game at blitz tempo against Kasparov analysing for three days per move but I suppose I will have to play for weeks until his king is mated!
So I propose :
1. To have an absolute limitation of the time reserve a player can accumulate in rapid tournaments (30 ?)
2. To have a procedure allowing to call for external adjudication when a player refuses to resign a forcefully lost game.
Your opinion ?
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-08 17:37:33)
Vacation (change)
Hello Stefano... That's not possible. (see rules & thread below).
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_144.html
Anyway, it won't change anything to your clock as days have be added already (works like a "reservoir"). You can play all month long if you want.
Glen D. Shields (2006-07-08 21:05:41)
Thibault You Have a Golden Opportunity
Thibault - one of the reasons that FICGS has grown so quickly is that you've welcomed input and implented the things the players have asked for. John is right on this issue. I urge you to listen to him. Take this opportunity and make FICGS the chess server that leads the way in establishing logical time rules.
Here are some suggestions for regular tournaments. You and others can build on these:
- 30 days start +2 days added per move
- 100 days maximum accumulated time
- 30 days maximum limit for one move
- 4 weeks (28 days) annual leave
- no time lost or added during leaves
- no moves made during leaves
- all time calculated by a running clock in hours and minutes
My recommendation for rapid tournaments are:
- 14 days start +1 day added per move
- 30 days maximum accumulated time
- 10 days maximum limit for one move
- 2 weeks (14 days) annual leave
- no time added or lost during leaves
- no moves made during leaves
- all time calculated by a running clock in hours and minutes
I recommend you let the server automatically handle time limit oversteps and make no exceptions. The only exception I would offer is if someone is ill or injured and needs to take an extended medical leave (these things happen). Let there be an option for that player to file an approved leave with you.
Thibault love your server and the hard work you put into it. You and others feel free to critique my suggestions. I strongly urge you to use this opportunity to lead the world in logical time rules. You don't have federations or tempermental world champions to appease. You are the boss. Do it RIGHT. Good luck.
Alarich Lenz (2006-07-09 15:40:32)
Leave/Reflection Time
whats the maximum limit for one move in the FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1 tournament?
Glen D. Shields (2006-07-10 15:21:09)
Sounds good ....
Thibault - thanks for the feedback and your openess to make changes in the vacation rules.
It's important to get some of these rules right while the player list is still relatively small and the players are still geting use to playing at FICGS. It will be harder to make rule changes in the future.
The 100 day maximum you set on accumulated time establishes FICGS as the trend setter in how to manage modern correspondence chess games. Excellent decision! Much of the problems people talk about in time control are prevented by the addition of this rule.
I'm sure you are aware the IECG has a 30 day maximum per move and the ICCF a 40 day maximum. The IECG limit is firm. You exceed 30 days once you lose. The ICCF's rule is unclear and unevenly managed. You reach 40 days, you need to beg the TD to do something. Sometimes he helps, sometimes he doesn't. Not a good situation.
Whatever limit you set at FICGS, I recommend you keep it firm and automatic like IECG. Personally I prefer 30 days, you prefer 60. IMHO 30 days is plenty of time to make a move is someone is serious about playing. 60 days is too long to wait. My preference is to make the rules enjoyable for those who want to play, not for those who sign up and then get "busy" and rudely make their opponents sit and wait. IMHO you'll attract and keep a better membership base by making the rules player friendly, not player annoying.
Thanks again. My best to you.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-12 23:00:09)
Email webmaster
Hello Wayne.
You can email me at : info(o)ficgs.com ... just replace (o) by @ ;)
I couldn't respond before friday, I'm away right now.
Best wishes.
Don Groves (2006-07-14 02:59:50)
Time limit per move
I feel there should be a firm limit (I would like to see 10 days) and a penalty for exceeding it: (1) Subtract one day from offending player's clock for each day over the limit. (2) If limit is exceeded more than double, game is forfeited. If player cannot abide by these time constraints, they should take leave (or perhaps play in fewer games ;-) Also, I agree with the idea of no moves at all during leave. Leave is leave from FICGS, not just from one game or tournament. Regards to all, Don
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-15 13:21:58)
Time limit per move
The idea is interesting, however it could be difficult to display the remaining days (confusing)...
About the 60 days limit, I think there are clear advantages, and the bad effects are not so important if you consider there's no real way to prevent a player to last a game and the rating period of 2 months. The point that makes it difficult to compare to other organizations is some FICGS rules are harder : All lost games are rated, forfeits or not... I think this rules takes off some pressure. And many players can't assume regular play. Players who think 60 days per move is too long may play only rapid tournaments...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-15 18:33:11)
Google pagerank
First round vs. Google just ended these days :
Pagerank 5 for URL http://www.ficgs.com
The number of visitors from Google increases week after week, even if it's really hard to be well placed for most asked words. In examples :
Google request : Go server -> 17
Google request : Chess server -> 38
Google request : Correspondence chess -> 41
Google request : Correspondence chess forum -> 1
Google request : Chess -> (far away)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-19 18:05:41)
FICGS championship : new groups
A new group just started in the 1st FICGS wch :
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_18__000001
Waiting for another player with a ~1700 rating and a new one will start.
As the rating average of new players significantly decreases, I can't guarantee all players (most with a 1200 rating and below) who entered the waiting list after the start of the tournaments will play this first WCH (late groups rating average should be equal or superior to other groups).
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-20 14:39:21)
Google pagerank
Hi Dinesh.
Ironic ? ;)
Google is definitely the best search engine for several years. Maybe his statistical concept will be outdated soon (or already), but it's the most powerful one (speed, capacity, accuracy...) and most : it still represents 85 % of visitors from search engines (for all websites). Yahoo represents 9% .. the others nothing. About 30 % (only) of FICGS visitors come from search engines, but it will undoublty increase and over 90 % as time passes.
Pagerank is decided on the value (Pagerank) of the links towards a website.. Actually this is a complex formula based on many parameters, but first of all the Pagerank of the websites referrers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pagerank
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-21 11:24:02)
Mise a jour classement ELO
Bonjour Eric.
Tout est là (11.7) : http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
"The rating period is 2 months. The first period of a year starts on January 1st. For ratings calculations, the opponents' Tournament Entry Rating (TER), which are valid on the day of the rating run, are used."
La prochaine mise à jour sera donc pour le 1er septembre.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-22 12:03:53)
Vacation rules
This is not a bug, but the rules will change on 2006 august 1st !
See this thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_599-Leave.html
Glen D. Shields (2006-07-22 19:50:51)
Interesting Discussion Topic
Thibault - this is a interesting discussion topic. Of course, no one knows the future with certainty, but we can all offer an opinion :)
I'm nearing my 40th year of correspondence play. Sometime later this year I will complete my 1000th tournament game. All my games were played by postcard until the mid 90's. E-mail dominated my CC schedule from about 1998 until 2002. Now I only play server chess. I've played on the FICGS, IECG, GameKnot, ChessFriend, Schemingmind and ICCF servers.
Contrary to many people who've played as long as I have, I do NOT see chess engines as a threat to the game. I think they've changed the game, but not hurt the game. I believe they've increasd CC's popularity and game quality. The same is true for opening and ending databases.
Some of the changes that will occur in CC the next ten years:
- Servers will improve functionality and ease of use.
- Due to engine use we will grow to accept 2200 as an "average" rating rather than "Master."
- Tournaments will be re-structured to include fewer players per section and shorter tournament durations. This particularly applies to ICCF where 15 player sections and slow time rules to simulate postal chess are used.
- New server functionality will be added to allow players the option to SLOW down the game. It's too easy to get caught in a mindless "server flurry."
- New chess software will be developed to analyze games. This analysis tool will give proability estimates on what engine one's opponent is using. That information will allow one to counter and plan against one's opponent.
- There will be more anti-computer books written and theories developed. We will use these techniques to beat our opponent and and improve our chess planning skills.
Bottomline ... I am excited by the new technology. I see continued advances in the way we manage our gameload, the way we send moves, the way we play, plan and analyze our moves. The way we play in the future will be different and will still be fun for those who embrace new technology. My disappointment is I am an old man and unlikely to enjoy all the advantages the future brings. I hope those who follow me enjoy what I will miss :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-23 19:54:58)
Chess thematic tournaments
Hello to all.
The 7th chess thematic tournament (waiting list is open) may be a very interesting challenge...
The opening : 1.Nf3 Nf6 2.d4 Ng8 3.e4 Nf6 4.Nc3 Ng8
Is it a lost position or not, you can try to respond ! (it is at least very hypermodern style, but is there a name for such a manoeuvre ? :))
There are many other ideas of openings, but you can make suggestions for future thematic tournaments.
Previous ones :
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000001
King's gambit (winner : Josef riha)
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000002
Wing's gambit
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000003
Benko gambit
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000004
Orang-utan
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000005
Danish gambit
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000006
Scotch gambit
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-24 13:03:25)
Future of correspondence chess......
That's a fine analysis, Glen.
However, it's legitimate to consider that chess at a higher level is becoming much harder so that some of the very best players may stop their career, thinking that it's no worth the energy anymore, for results more influenced by 'chance' in statistics...
How many "super-grandmasters" (2700+) said that each point over this mark represents more and more work ?
It's probably the same (and more) in correspondence chess. I do think that it's still possible to improve a lot ! .. but there's a lack of a higher class of players. That's a pity the very best correspondence chess players (ie. former ICCF world champions : Joop van Oosterom, Gert Jan Timmerman...) retire or at least don't defend their title since they achieved it. Of course it's a lot of time, but result is the top class appear to be bigger and there's no clear champion. That's not good IMO to popularize correspondence chess.
All games need champions. I read recently on a Go forum that the success of Chess nowadays was due to his champions (Go is not popular yet in the west because there's noone to represent it, except a manga [Hikaru No Go]..), Garry Kasparov, Bobby Fischer... That's true IMO, and that's what particularly misses to correspondence chess. Maybe things won't change in ICCF (maybe I should pretend to the board :)), but anyway that's why I chose the knockout system for the FICGS world chess championship, and the possibility for the winner to play a final against a challenger. We'll see...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-24 15:52:50)
TCCMB exhibition match
Hello to all.
I couldn't resist.. chess and hormones, an explosive cocktail :)
The whole story - http://www.ficgs.com/game_2222.html
... and of course on The Correspondence Chess Message Board :
http://pub11.bravenet.com/forum/924995304
Have fun ! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-24 19:23:24)
Copyright issues
Like everywhere else, Dirk Jan... at your own risks ;)
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
06. Warranties and limitations of liability
(...) FICGS shall not be liable for what members will do if they don't respect these "Terms and Conditions" or for what members will publish in the forum, news, comments or messages to other members.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-27 11:20:24)
ajout en cours ;)
ce ne sera pas dans la liste ELO mais dans la liste des joueurs (classés par ordre alphabétique).
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_players.html
je suis en train de le rajouter, ça devrait être en ligne d'ici quelques minutes...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-07-31 16:38:04)
Ireland flag
... and Ireland, of course. (sorry ! :))
Flag - http://www.ficgs.com/images/flags/irl.gif
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-02 23:07:36)
Adjudication, forced mate & rules
Hello Marc.
According to the rules, the game has been adjudicated.
I think this is a good moment to discuss this adjudication rule.. (see 11.5 - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html)
Surely it can be improved, but how.. I'd like to have players opinion on what cases (position + time) should be adjudicated or not, so that we find a better & fair compromise.
Any ideas ?
Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-03 10:49:34)
Special cases (health..) & server rules
Hello Roger !
I hope you are fine now...
I'm afraid that health problems have no reasonable solution, as many people expect from server rules to avoid human factor as much as possible...
A high rated player, also one of the very first registered player on FICGS had this problem too, and I did not find a solution to save his games. We both "resigned".
Anyway, I see that only your games in 1st WCH have been lost on time, and you have been replaced already in the tournament. Even if you are in the waiting list again, you probably couldn't play this WCH, cause several 1200 players are waiting already. Sorry about that :(
Best wishes.
Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-04 12:02:56)
tricks
Hi Gino.
You may be right... However many cases (ie. clear material advantages, draws in closed positions) couldn't be considered. I think we can try this rule as is, if it's not sufficient I'll add some criterias or abuse cases.
Note : This rule also works for Go game (and all games on FICGS)!
I think that's an interesting rule, as the "human decision" (I agree with you it must be avoided as much as possible) finally is provoked by the player who obviously lasts the game.
Dinesh De Silva (2006-08-07 22:23:56)
Suggestion (sponsors)
Thibault, Are you looking at the possibility of getting some sponsors for this FICGS website in the near future?! If it materialises, it'll be a win-win situation for all.
Dinesh De Silva (2006-08-08 09:49:06)
Re:
Hi, Brian! Just FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD. Haha! Click on "Waiting lists", then click on "FICGS Go Tournaments. It's that simple.
Graham Wyborn (2006-08-09 16:03:46)
(download) button
When I first press the (download) button I move to:- http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move &...
which does not show the (download) button.
When I press the (download) button a second time it moves to :- http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move &...
where I can now see the (download) button.
Does the above help? I was looking at game 690.
If the above does not help, could it be my IE settings. I am using IE 6 with Windows XP Home
Graham Wyborn (2006-08-09 16:07:03)
Correction previous response
Second press of (download) button goes to:- http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer &...
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-08-14 16:46:36)
Activities on the FICGS server
Hello Thibault,
nice statistics! Can you tell us how many of the FICGS members have started to play at least one game of chess, one game of go, and how many haven't started to play any game at all?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-14 19:39:28)
Activities on the FICGS server
I'll think about that. I have to make a "static" statistic page anyway...
Inactive players
Active chess players
Active Go players
Any other ideas ?
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-17 19:42:02)
Ratings ???!!!
Hello, i have a question about the Rating-System here. There are many players here, with an offical FIDE or NATIONAL ratingnumber under 1800. Some of these players have here at FICGS a ratingnumber over 2000 !!! Of course, this is correspondence-chess, but it would be a nice ratingfeature, to include the official FIDE/NATIONAL ratingnumber at the FICS-Ratingformula. Benny
Jaimie Wilson (2006-08-19 17:42:17)
Ratings
I understand that the ratings on here are special ficgs ratings that are brought up to date every two months.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-20 21:59:53)
TCCMB exhibition match
Game over, John did it well !
http://www.ficgs.com/game_2222.html
I hoped a miracle until the end. The trap did not work, 28.Qd8+ and it was probably a draw... After 28.Qf8+ ! .. I only can resign. Lots of fun :)
I'll look at the next chess thematic tournament (same opening) with interest...
Thanks to John Knudsen for this nice game !
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-20 22:37:05)
How can i send a message to another.....
Hi,
how can i send a messages to another member of FICGS ? Is it only possible by playing with a member move by move, or is there another way ? It would be nice to send a message to anyone anytime.
Benny
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-22 04:06:33)
All finished games downloadable !
Hi friends,
I think it would be nice, to have a PGN-File with all finished FICGS-Chessgames as a download.
And here it is:
http://laperacologne.la.funpic.de/ficgs-all-finished-games.pgn
1138 games inside
I will update this PGN-File every week.
Benny
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-22 04:29:15)
TWIC Loader
Hi friends,
you know the Chesspaper TWIC ? A really great Chesspaper with many new Chessgames every week. From now on, its really easy to get it. Just use my TWIC Loader. It's for free and easy to use.
You can download it at:
http://www.twic-loader.de.vu/
Next week i will present you the FICGS-Loader. With this loader, you can download every week all new finished FICGS-chessgames.
Benny
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-22 04:29:57)
TWIC Loader
Hi friends,
you know the Chesspaper TWIC ? A really great Chesspaper with many new Chessgames every week. From now on, its really easy to get it. Just use my TWIC Loader. It's for free and easy to use.
You can download it at:
http://www.twic-loader.de.vu/
Next week i will present you the FICGS-Loader. With this loader, you can download every week all new finished FICGS-chessgames.
Benny
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-22 14:45:55)
Future Rating
Hi Wayne.
Reason is game 2179 was not agreed as a draw yet... It's your turn, so you may have forgotten to confirm your move ;)
Future rating is updated instantly.
You can email me at : info [at] ficgs.com
Thibault de Vassal (2006-08-22 19:52:28)
Thematic tournaments & King's gambit
Danish gambit and scotch gambit have been played already. (not far)
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000005
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000006
I'll keep the idea...
Where did you see that king's gambit is not playable ??? Disproved doesn't mean anything IMO... (& this is probably the most known chess 'troll' :))
Elmer Valderrama (2006-08-25 13:08:31)
bug: en-passant captures
In the ongoing games of players Herr, Jeff v Sarihan, Sefa FICGS_CHESS_RAPID_C_000004 and FIGCS_CHESS_CLASS_G_000003 there is an "en-passant" capture (move 10.dxc6) which is not allowed by the chess rules (as I know them, maybe FIDE Congress has already changed them ;) The pawn c was first moved to c6 (3...c6) and then to c5 (9...c5) Somehow, the player Herr managed to capture the pawn by playing 10.dxc6 after 9...c5, which was accepted by both the player Sarihan and the interface ..(!?!) And the same happened in the game Ducreux, Regis v Sarihan, Sefa FIGCS_CHESS_CLASS_F_000007, this time pawn c was moved twice again (2...c6 and 10...c5) and captured ("of course") by 11. dxc6.. 8()
Ryaad Aabid (2006-08-27 14:33:55)
CheckMate = Not lost yet
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000006 (type : rated round-robin , increment : 40 days / 10 moves) Game 972 Hi! The mentioned game is still at my games list ! Thanks for your attention. Ryaad
Benjamin Aldag (2006-08-29 22:39:48)
English please...
Hey Thibault,
just read your own F.A.Q. !
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=help
There you will can find this one:
Please speak english only on the forum.
Thank You
Benjamin Aldag (2006-09-01 16:52:35)
a title with no worth
Hmmm....FICGS-Titles are nothing worth. It's just a nice feature. Your stats will be updated every two month.
Benny
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-01 17:37:52)
FICGS titles update
This site will work by itself soon... :)
Thanks Benjamin. I'll post soon again about the council/staff, moderators etc.. Feel free to tell me if you're interested ;)
About titles, I'll add that players who will get a FICGS title could probably have one at ICCF, so they're invited to try...
The first norms calculation just occured. Here are the result(s) :
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_M__000001 : Zubac, Marius EM=1,IM=1
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-02 11:39:12)
Re: FICGS titles update...........
As a fellow correspondence chess player, let me take this opportunity to CONGRATULATE Marius Zubac for achieving the title norms. Well done!
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-03 14:04:49)
Re:
All the players I've come across on FICGS are quite friendly: 1. Some of them keep a good chess conversation going. 2. Some of them ask & answer questions. Oh, I almost forgot! 3. A few say nothing at all.... absolutely nothing..... silent mode.
Charlie Neil (2006-09-05 09:50:08)
why play corr-chess
Marc, excuse me I didn't make the difference between chess engines/databases and someone playing straight moves straight off their own computer. Yes, use books and databases that's what they are there for. But I feel sorry for the individual who relies solely on their computer to play their games for them. It is a bit like taking a fork lift to a weight lifting competition. The use of computers and servers is still relatively new to me. There are sites that ban the use of computers. but who is to know who is using their computer in an illegal way? There can be no profit for them or enjoyment in the game. It is good that FICGS has this forum for free discussion. I enjoyed reading "The future for Corr-chess" thread. There has always been points in time when it has been discussed that chess has "burnt-out" and the game will die off. I don't think that will ever happen in light of the passion for this terrible game expressed in all these forums. So, forgive an ignorant "free-range" "organic" chessfriend for not being clear about the differences about databases and computer-slaves who rely on their machines. The game is the thing. ( and maybe just maybe I wasn't drinking just coffee the time I posted the cheats slur...:-/)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2006-09-06 14:16:25)
Time to display all informations
yes, it is much faster than the first version.
Two remarks:
- The reflection time also is shown if the game is already ended - and the time goes on.
- What does it mean if a text stands above the diagram? Example: in the game 1626 (FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_12__000001) I can read "ok".
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-06 17:08:56)
Other games on FICGS ?
Hello to all.
Just wondering... after Chess, Chess 960, Go and Big Chess (soon available, as the graphical interface works better now) what other games you'd like to see here in the future ?
FICGS is firstly a correspondence chess server, without any doubt, but that's great to see chess players discovering Go game this way.
I have been told about Chinese Chess (Xiangqi), Shogi, Blokus.. Maybe not Draughts, as it is a solved game now.
Any ideas ?
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-07 13:13:08)
Re:
Oops, sorry! I meant FICGS.
Lionel Vidal (2006-09-09 10:40:13)
arimaa ?!
Arimaa may be a good choice too: it may be played on a chessboard, it is deep, fun and invented precisely to make any computer ridiculous :-) (Just like with Go and ChuShogi it is a very satisfying ego-boost-experience to feel vastly superior once in a while to even the best silicon brains :-))
And another point is that I don't know any site where you could play correpondence arimaa with a server. (whereas you can play Go or Chusogi at pbem server for instance... with even a graphical interface but not as comfortable as FICGS!)
Oh but wait... if you add a game, you'll have to change the name FICGS ? :-)
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-10 13:02:14)
Suggestion: A best game prize in future
I suggest there should be a BEST GAME PRIZE in the future (if Money Tournaments are a success in the future, which I'm sure it will be. That itself might generate some extra cash needed for this). A prize of.... say....US $ 100+ would be nice! Contenders for best game should be judged by a competent panel appointed by FICGS. Best Game could be selected once every month or once every two months. I think only one game should be submitted per each player, so that there's time enough for the panel to make a proper evaluation of the submitted games.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-11 14:40:57)
Chance & casino games
Hi Dinesh.
Problem is FICGS shouldn't become a casino.. (with stud poker, blackjack, roulette or whatever chancy game like this :)) It's legally difficult already to organize tournaments with prizes for "mental sports"... Adding confusion may create some problems.
Mladen Jankovic (2006-09-11 19:38:23)
Big chess name
Well, I was thinking, maybe you should formaly call your variant FICGS big chess, to avoid confusion. with that and other variants. Anyway, my opinion on Big chess is somewhat split.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-12 03:42:57)
Match FICGS vs. GameKnot
Dear chessfriends, a match FICGS vs. GameKnot may start in a few weeks ! The idea is to oppose players in different rating categories (1200 to 2400+ elo), playing one game with Black on FICGS, one game with White on GameKnot.com ... Please send an email to info (at) ficgs.com (specifying your name) if you're interested. More info in a few days & weeks...
It seems that many players from GameKnot want to play this match, we need a large team ! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-12 13:40:08)
FICGS team
We have 4 players already... I hope many others will join for this funny challenge ! :)
Miguel Pires (2006-09-12 15:08:51)
Match FICGS vs. GameKnot
I wana say they have a lot of strong player signing to play. I hoppe we can create a very strong team
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-09-14 05:19:28)
Greetings from GameKnot :)
Hello friends, my name is Thomas, and I am the representative from GameKnot. We look forward to playing a match against you! GameKnot has played two matches vs. other sites in the past, and we have enjoyed the competition very much. It is my sincere hope that we can pull this thing off! As FICGS is a newer site with a smaller community than ours, we hope that you guys can field a team of approximately 12-20 players of ALL ratings ranges. We intend to put up at least 2 players in each of 7 ratings classes (U2400, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, and U1200). The rules of the match are currently being negotiated between Thibault and myself, and we would like to commence as soon as possible. I highly encourage the members of FICGS to participate, as these matches are a lot of fun! You guys will get a chance to visit our site, and we yours. Please contact Thibault and sign on! We look forward to seeing you OTB :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-15 03:08:36)
Ratings used
It's logical IMO to consider OTB ratings if we all play in OTB conditions, without computer assistance... FIDE or self-estimated OTB ratings should prevail over CC ratings (ICCF, FICGS or so) for the pairings.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-15 17:09:17)
Scoring function for Go
The scoring function for Go is now online !
When you are to play your move, there's a (Score) link under the Goban, that leads to the score page. Just enter a stone coordinates (ie. f14) for each group to remove, separated by space or coma, then Submit.
The score is calculated by covering the board horizontally, then vertically... If the two results are near from each other, the estimation may be quite good. Empty points between black stones and white stones are shared !
Here is an example - http://www.ficgs.com/game_814.html
Game 814, removed groups : m19 l16 f13 d11 f7 g4 k4 b5
Scoring method : Horizontally
Black points : 240 White points : 106 Unknown points : 15
* Scoring method : Vertically
Black points : 238 White points : 102 Unknown points : 21
Black wins the game by about 135 points.
Reminder : This program doesn't decide the game, it gives an evaluation only !! .. It's up to the players to discuss the score, then resign.
All feedbacks welcome !
Don Groves (2006-09-16 05:05:55)
Go rules
Thibault, I have searched for "go rules" but cannot find anywhere on FICGS where all the rules are spelled out, komi, passing, etc. What is the standard komi for our games?
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-09-18 01:03:29)
Thibault
If possible, could you post the names and ratings of those players from FICGS who are interested in playing against GameKnot? I would like to go ahead and get some idea of the pairing possibilities. Thanks:) Thomas
Claude Brisson (2006-09-18 06:40:34)
Problem with Go scorer
Hello.
Nice effort to have a go scorer, but it still needs some improvements.
Look at this game:
http://www.ficgs.com/game_2093.html
After move 138, there isn't any ambiguity on the goban.
After removing dead groups,
q1 t3 k3 s5 t9 s10 q11 h11 t12 p12 h15 t16 f16
all the intersections are either black or white.
The scoring methods says:
* Scoring method : Horizontally
Black points : 103
White points : 244
Unknown points : 14
* Scoring method : Vertically
Black points : 103
White points : 268
Unknown points : -10
Rather strange. Scores should be the same. Where do those unknown points come from?
Thanks,
Claude
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-09-18 12:55:35)
My friends at FICGS:
I am a little concerned, yet understanding, of your feelings about the possibility of cheating in our proposed match. Please understand that there are two sides to the suspicion coin. For those of you who are not familiar with the GameKnot website, let me assure you that I will only be putting up players who I am familiar with, and who have proven themselves to play honorably. I am a three year veteran of GameKnot, and play on the site daily. I will be selecting my team from players whom I feel confident will conduct themselves within the rules we agree on. The intent of arranging this match is NOT to simply put up all of our master level players and attempt to whitewash you guys 100-0. The intent is to provide as MANY matches of ALL ratings ranges for a fun, competetive match. If we lose every match we will have no hard feelings towards you. As the game results in our proposed match will have no bearing on ratings changes, we view the match as a simple, friendly exercise. So, having said all of that, we hope that FICGS will offer up as many people as possible, and Thibault and myself will pair them with my guys in such a way that is FAIR and equitable to both sides. Should anyone here at FICGS have any questions, please feel free to post them here or in the GameKnot forum (in the GameKnot Related threads). Thanks:) - Thomas
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-18 13:32:15)
Re:
Hey, Thomas! That was nicely said. As it's a friendly match, I think the right spirit of sportsmanship will prevail. By the way, why were some players thrown out of GameKnot?!? When you say some of them were a "nuisance", what exactly did they do?!? I don't think a single player of FICGS has so far been thrown out by FICGS officials.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-18 14:00:30)
FICGS vs. GameKnot
Thomas :
I agree with you, the match is for fun only, I like the idea whatever the result, even 100-0 :) .. If players use engines, their problem.. we can't avoid the risk totally... I think it's more logical to prohibite databases too or to allow both databases and chess engines, playing "real correspondence chess", and we could have a larger team for sure... Still discussing.
Miguel :
I prefer to avoid to "mail" everyone about the match.. It's clearly announced in the news, so I think most players here are "more CC ones" and don't trust the no use of engines...
Dinesh De Silva (2006-09-18 14:31:11)
Re:
Thomas! Thanks for the info. I hope the FICGS vs GAMEKNOT match will be a success! Hope there'll be some very exciting games!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-18 18:06:50)
FICGS correspondence chess database
Hello to all.
FICGS chess database (games rated + unrated, finished + unfinished) is now a unique static PGN file, that will be updated at least every 2 months. You can find it by clicking 'Search games' or at this link :
http://www.ficgs.com/databases/chess.pgn
Other free chess databases (ie. games played by famous players) will be added at :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_databases.html
Best wishes.
Henri Muller (2006-09-19 12:53:49)
match GameKnot-FICGS
Hello Dirk (Ghysens ) Accordingly with you, there are exceptions - I said that 95% players from GameKnot used computers ! Therefore not 100% !!
Jaimie Wilson (2006-09-19 14:28:46)
match GameKnot-FICGS
Here at FICGS, real names have to be supplied. This gives FICGS a human element that encourages honour and sportsmanship and in my opinion gives this site a clear edge over its rivals.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-19 14:40:42)
match GameKnot-FICGS
That is the case. GameKnot players who already registered will play under their real name.
Now, there are 12 players in FICGS team.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-19 15:03:13)
Computer use on GameKnot......
I just read GameKnot forum about the FICGS vs. GameKnot match :
http://gameknot.com/fmsg/chess3/3860.shtml
It seems to me this question of computer use on GameKnot is quite out of topic (and on the wrong forum)... I proposed to GameKnot rep (Thomas) to prohibite any computer assistance (engines + databases) for the match or to simply authorize it, as I think more players from FICGS would play, and surely players from GameKnot too... Then everyone is free to play, accepting the rules and the risk of cheating (quite small IMO), but it's up to I & Thomas to deal with that. This debate shouldn't happen here IMHO.
Elmer Valderrama (2006-09-19 19:42:56)
FICGS correspondence chess database
That's a great improvement on the former listing of un/finished games (somehow it took ages to load those pages on my PC).
Now why is it that it will be updated 'at least' every 2 months, not daily as the former pages? (assuming fetching all the PGN scores into a single PGN file is done automatically by a script) Thanks
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-19 20:43:18)
Traxler Counterattack
HAHAHA :=)
I see you're to solve the Traxler counterattack in Wikichess ! (at least this line 5.Nxf7)
http://www.ficgs.com/wikichess_611.html
I don't think I'll play this tournament :/ .. I've already too many running games, and a lot of work, yes... That's a pity, this opening is really interesting !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-19 21:25:57)
FICGS correspondence chess database
Hello Elmer.
Former databases were not updated daily, it were generated in real time... It could be updated daily yet, but as it will grow up a lot & quickly, I prefer to make it myself (instead of the robots).
Best regards.
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-09-24 02:45:17)
One week till our sign up deadline:
To my friends at FICGS - the GameKnot team will be set in one week. Thibault - please begin finalizing your team. I will send you (via e-mail) my proposed matchups by Oct 2, 2006. Thomas
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-28 17:28:04)
Re: Offering duel (go)
Hello Ismail.
2 players Go matches are not available right now, sorry... The next Go tournament (FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU__000004) will begin soon... Be patient ;)
(but feel free to offer games played out of the server, of course)
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-29 13:07:02)
Tournaments winners list updated
Hello Wayne.
Tournament winners are displayed when you browse the tournaments lists in 'Tournaments' or 'My tournaments'.
This link gives all results so far in all tournaments played on FICGS :
http://www.ficgs.com/category__all.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-30 01:26:09)
Server / Email - Time control
Hello to all.
Two players, formerly playing email chess at ICCF, recently lost a game on time with the 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves time control and mentioned the difference between FICGS and email chess ways to count time.
FICGS time controls are a bit harder because there's no classical email chess 'bonus day' added for each move due to time difference between countries. It seems to me that the difference is not so important with 40 days... On the contrary, the 30 days + 1 day / move scheme is quite hard ! ...
Now the question : Do you think a slower time control should be offered in future ?
Thanks for feedback. Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2006-09-30 01:35:07)
FICGS Go / Weiqi rules
Hello Roger.
Two ways to reach FICGS Go rules :
1. 'Help', then 'FICGS general rules' or 'Chess & Go playing rules' links.
2. 'Membership' link after you logout. Or this direct link :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#playing
Reminder : FICGS Go rules (2006 september 30)
"Go games are played on a 19 x 19 goban. Go moves are given by coordinates a1 to t19 (e.g. : s13), as showed on the go viewer. Please note that i letter doesn't exist on the viewer, so any move with letter i (e.g. : i5) won't be understood by the viewer, consequently the move is false. Please let the graphical interface generate the move. Komi is 7.5 points. Please note that you can pass, just entering 'pass'.
Rules for Go are chinese rules, as defined by the Chinese Weiqi Association. Both players must play until one resign, both players pass (then call referee) or game is adjudicated. It's up to the players to discuss the score at the end of the game, so calling referee should be exceptional. Scoring method is area scoring with chinese counting. Positional superko rule apply, it's impossible to repeat a previous board position."
Smith Dhumbumroong (2006-10-03 14:10:29)
How many people actually use chessengine
Just curious, how many people here uses chessengine when playing on FICGS? And what engine do you usally use?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-03 15:19:04)
Humans vs. centaurs
This kind of discussion happened already here :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_857-Why-do-you-play-corrchess.html
People obviously play chess here for many different reasons, and there are very different ways to improve... I think that using a chess engine or not is not so important, centaurs will play with centaurs & humans against humans. The fact is chess engines are allowed here, and we can suppose that most players under elo 1700 don't use engines and most players over elo 1700 use engines.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-03 16:07:34)
Tournaments
Hello Tony & welcome...
You'll notice FICGS is quite different from GameKnot... You can play tournaments here, just follow the 'Waiting lists' link and choose the tournament (according to you provisional elo) you want to play...
Feel free to read Help - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
Glen D. Shields (2006-10-04 17:52:20)
Yes Thibault - Thanks for Asking
Thibault -
I see a need to offer player defined delays. My desire would be that when a move is sent, I have the option to post the move immediately or 1, 2 or 3 days later (using my reflection time during the delay). This option allows players to stagger their games and better manage the pace particularly at the beginning of a tournament.
Servers like FICGS have become the meeting place for postal players, e-mail players, correspondence server players and real time server players. It's a diverse and interesting group. Server chess is nothing like postal chess, but it shouldn't be a substitute for OTB chess either.
Starting a server tournament is like a ping pong match. You send a move and ten minutes later you have a reply. One can't ever keep their inbox empty.
Once the opening is over, the match then moves into "Groundhog Day" mode. You wake up to an inbox full of moves, you work all day on them and then wake up the following day to an inbox of moves from the same players. It's tiring.
I'd like the option to send a move, forget about it and then chose whether it should be visible to my opponent immediately, 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours later. The delay allows me to manage my game load better and gives me some flexibility how fast I want to play.
Server chess has grown rapidly the last five years. Its benefits are fantastic. Curiously, however, this year is the first year since e-mail chess was officially introduced that ICCF is reportedly (unoffical source) seeing an increase in postal chess. One of the biggest reasons talked about for this change is players are worn out from the fast server pace. I can relate to that. I'd hate to give up server chess because it makes so much sense. I know no one twists my arm to move fast, but why not give me server tools to help me manage my game load? I let the server count my time, keep my game score, chase my opponent when he forgets to move and report my results. Why can't it also help me manage my game load and slow down the pace when it needs to be slowed?
You asked ... so here are my two cents :)
Miguel Pires (2006-10-04 21:32:51)
Roger
Hello, about engines, please try this position with the engines you have: 2r2rk1/1bq1bpp1/p2ppn1p/1p4BP/3NP1P1/3B1P2/PPPQ4/2KR3R w - - 0 17 If you let them think for some time, of of the engines possible find the move for withe Bxh6! For me was easy to find. I have done this sacrifice many times. I FICGS or ICCF i use engines to check my variations and to see if i misse something. If the engine gives me a better move i try to understand whay and try to adjust the plan to that move. Soo using a engine, (for me) is not to make better moves, but to try to improve my game. In situations like that position my natural reaction is to sacrifice. Its only my 2 cents Regard's Miguel Pires PS: Sorry for the bad english
Rodrigo Jaroszewski (2006-10-05 11:42:35)
Re:
Basically, I'm playing to force myself to learn. In July, when I began my first game in FICGS, I knew nothing and had nobody to teach me. Since the probabilities of me ever having a tutor are dim, I knew I had to learn alone.
FICS won't cut it, because the guys at my level generally memorize a line and go for it until the bitter end. Having no opening knowledge I would generally end up in a bad spot until the midgame, where I can handle myself better. I rarely got past move 15 there.
OTB won't do for me, because I don't even know if there's a chess club in my city. I had a neighbor that used to play with me, but I quickly got past him on knowledge.
Studying database games is just not my style. I can't get drawn into the game if I'm not playing. If I choose the bad move I have to feel threatened by it, it has to have a consequence to me.
Thus, I'm here at FICGS. Before every move I'm able to analyze it and how the line goes forward, to understand why it is a good move. Plus, I'm able to test the moves that come to my head and check them (generally to find out they are outright suicidal).
In the end, I think my opponent wins something back, which is an entertaining and hopefully instructive game.
P.S.: BTW, just so you know, I play clean on FICS and OTB. I think those are, after some time at FICGS, becoming instructive environments on their own right.
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-10-08 02:40:55)
Thibault
12 of my 13 are ready. If my player ritt doesn't register with you within 48 hours, I propose to simply drop him from the match, as I don't have a fair match for Charlie Neil (I do have many higher rated players if he really wants to play). Let me know, and please explain to me the format here on FICGS as you guys only play tournament style - are you going to set up a tourney especially for our match? Get with me tonight or tomorrow, as we hope to start the match Monday:) Thanks - Thomas
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-08 13:24:25)
FICGS vs. GameKnot tournament
Hi Thomas.
The games here will be played under the tournament name :
FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_GAMEKNOT_MATCH
I just sent an email about pairings.
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-09 09:32:36)
FICGS vs. GameKnot ... about to start
Our friendly match against well-known GameKnot chess server is about to start.
2 players still have to tell me their nickname on GameKnot so that Thomas and I can create the games on both servers. If players want to register now, there could be a replacement... Feel free to send an email to info [at] ficgs.com if you're interested to play.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-09 11:19:53)
UCI / Winboard engine
Hello Yannick.
Maybe you could try a free chess engine like Crafty (quite strong already, also running on Chessbase / Fritz interface), GNUchess, Arasan, Ghost or any engine running on Winboard / Arena free interfaces...
See a list of chess engines here :
http://www.ficgs.com/wiki_en-chess_engines.html
A well-known french speaking website about computer chess :
http://perso.orange.fr/lefouduroi/computerchess.htm
Actually it's probably very hard not to be influenced by chess engines suggestions, but the point is to understand, then find better moves...
All depends on the level you want the engine to play. There are hundred of engines to download...
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-10-10 01:32:29)
Thibault
I can't seem to find FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_GAMEKNOT_MATCH .....is it up and running yet? I need to research the "how to's" and explain them to my guys. I'll post my guys names on FICGS sometime tonight. - - - Thomas
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-12 15:41:13)
FICGS chess championship #1
Pairings for the semi-finals in the first FICGS WCH knockout tournament are known :
GM Farit Balabaev / SM Peter Schuster
-
IM Gino Figlio / SM Petr Makovský
FICGS WCH round-robin tournaments (stage 1) are still running, next round should begin in 2007 january.
This time control, 30 days + 1 day / move, is definitely hard ! .. but definitely challenging :)
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-10-12 21:07:39)
cairo is ottesen_soren
.....but I've got him at board 2 vs. Miguel Pires.. I guess it doesn't matter what board we call it here on FICGS, as long as the players are correct. - Thomas
Miguel Pires (2006-10-12 21:45:05)
TIME CONTROL
Please setup the same time control for GK and FICGS games. I'm playing wit cairo in GK with this time control 10+1<10 Regard's Miguel Pires PS: I put a similar post in GK
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-13 18:13:05)
Re: Game of time ?!?!
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_SM__000002.html
I must say this is a quite strange strategy, if it is... Several 2300+ players continuously are in zeitnot (and finally loose some games on time). I don't think it can influence 'much' the play at correspondence chess time controls so that's probably their only way to manage time. Some can't play faster, obviously... Some also play at IECG, ICCF and so on. Anyway nothing can prevent that...
Hannes Rada (2006-10-14 00:03:36)
Tactics ?
Hi Wolfgang, I am playing against this guy in FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000002 But I do not have a problem with this tactic, if it can be called a tactic. Maybe it should be simply called Zeitnot .... Why do you bother about that ? It's wíthin the rules.
Dinesh De Silva (2006-10-14 06:45:39)
Re:
Hi, Utesch, Rada & Thibault, I guess this thread is about me?! Let me clarify...... I am in over 80 games at this time in FICGS, ICCF, LIAPE, and IECG. Quite a few of the games are world championship final matches, world candidate matches & world champioship matches. So I have to naturally concentrate on those critical middle games & end games matches mainly. I'm only human. I have a severe case of catarrh due to break of rest. So in ccertain games I get into time trouble, but as you can see I try to be very creative/original in my games & try to find new variations even in openings.
Dinesh De Silva (2006-10-14 07:16:49)
Re:
Hi, chess friend Utesch! I have no leave time left, as FICGS only allows 30 days leave, and I had to use it up in the early part of this year. So, there's not a single day of leave for this year. (If you check with Thibault, you'll see that I haven't entered for any new tournaments since more than two months).
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-14 18:33:37)
Chess and Go diagrams / Forum update
A major update for FICGS forums (& blogs) !
Now you can insert Chess & Go diagrams in messages...
(useful to submit chess problems, analysis and so on...)
See the FAQ in help section - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html - for details, in example here is the position of the last game in the FIDE world chess championship between Veselin Topalov & Vladimir Kramnik, just before Topalov blunder 44. ...Rxc5 ??
ChessPosition (see diagram)
Diagrams format is quite simple (see Help), please note only one diagram / position will be displayed per message.
Also minor bugs (links, search functions) corrected...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-17 12:43:42)
GM Suat Atalik
GM Suat Atalik is about OTB #100 ranked player in the world (GM FIDE), and one of the first players who registered at FICGS. Ratings & titles are also displayed in an informative way, some other strong players will probably register when it will be possible to play unrated simultaneous games for money, but they'll keep a provisional rating. I still have to separate the rating lists, but provisional ratings aren't displayed the same way already.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-17 12:56:02)
Games started / TIME CONTROL
Hello Miguel.
It seems that time controls can't be the same on GameKnot...
Games just started ! .. (there will be a replacement soon in the last 2 games)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_GAMEKNOT_MATCH.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-20 19:41:21)
Time Control Clarification
Hello Scott.
It is 40 days to make the first 10 moves then it is an additional 40 days to make next 10 moves and so on...
Note : There's an accumulated time limit (100 days) rule.
See rules - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#playing .. and particularly 11.4
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-21 12:19:48)
Game 2222
Really ?? .. Maybe my engines are outdated :) .. What engine prefer the last move ?
About the best game, I fully agree..... But I doubt a majority of players will choose the best game with the same criteria :/
By the way : FICGS with 'G', FICS is another one :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-23 18:00:29)
Rating / 8-game match
Hello Wolfgang. (FICGS, not FICS ;))
In these 1st FICGS WCH quarter finals, there were 2 forfeit cases & 1 match with 6 games out of 8 lost on time. In the first 2 cases, not all games were rated as a win (according to the 8-game match rule), the last case was a bit different but as far as I remember, the winner had a better position (winning or small advantage) in all games... Anyway, ratings wouldn't change significantly if 2 wins were not rated.
The real question is about 8-game matchs & fast time control 30 days + 1 day / move (quite hard). There's no perfect rule & particular cases could happen, but that's really interesting IMO & the number of games with rapid time controls are probably enough to balance ratings in time. We'll see...
Anyway, several players were surprised by the difficulty of this time control, I hope it won't happen again during the next cycle (that should start in january)...
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-26 15:20:20)
Re: Rating / 8-game-match
That's not right.
These quarter finals are particular cases because there were no forfeit before move 10 in all games... (games with less than 10 moves played are not rated for the winner) That's why there's a special rule 'general forfeit' for 8+ games matches.
Moreover, the waiting list for the 1st FICGS WCH remained open from april to july, maybe it was a too long period, that's why the waiting list for the 2nd FICGS WCH (that could begin in january) is still closed.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-28 15:59:37)
Chess quizz :-)
I see the interview (1) was also published on Chessbase news..
http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=3454
Some other questions...
3/ Will Kasparov return at competitive chess ?
4/ Will Kramnik defend his new FIDE title ?
5/ How many years Kirsan Iljumzhinov will still remain FIDE president ?
6/ Will Fritz 10 beat Kramnik ??
7/ Will chess be solved by a super computer in the next 200 years ?
8/ Who will win the 1st FICGS world championship ? :)
... my answers :
2/ Boris Spassky
3/ Yes !
4/ No
5/ 8 years
6/ No
7/ No
8/ Joker :)
Wolfgang Utesch (2006-10-28 17:32:08)
Chess quizz :-)
8) Peter Schuster will win the first FICGS-World Championchip! He's playing the most variable chess and his opening repertoire is the largest.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-28 17:43:05)
Match FICGS vs. GameKnot , the games
Hello to all.
It would be great to follow how the match evolve in this thread. As far as I know GameKnot leads by 1-0 (Ilmars blundered :))
http://gameknot.com/anbd.pl?bd=5966999&rnd=0.9197820842414586
It seems that's possible to link to all games (that started) on GameKnot, so feel free to post the links & results here.
Reminder, you can follow games played on FICGS there :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_GAMEKNOT_MATCH.html
Hannes Rada (2006-10-30 17:56:49)
Member No. 1000 !!
Thibault, Congratulation to the 1000th FICGS - member !! . As far as I know chessfriend had 1900 members after 3 years. . I am quite sure that FICGS is the fastest growing chess organization on the web.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-30 18:13:36)
Big chess "birthday" tournament !
FICGS now counts more than 1000 members :)
The display of Big Chess games has just been improved : Last move marked, coordinates, speed, bugs fixed... So it may be funny to see more games !!
A special tournament will start soon, if you want to enter it, just post "I'm in." (or something like that :)) in this thread. The first 7 players will be in.
The tournament will be there :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__BIG_CHESS__THOUSAND_MEMBERS_EVENT.html
Games unrated, time control is 30 days + 1 day / move... 7 players -> 6 games per player (big challenge).
Reminder : To see what Big Chess is, see the Inaugural match game...
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__BIG_CHESS__INAUGURAL_MATCH.html
100% human chess guaranteed, no chess engines & databases :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-30 20:20:03)
2nd FICGS chess WCH waiting list is open
Hello to all.
The waiting list for the 2nd FICGS chess world championship is open !
The 2nd stage of the first cycle may begin before the end of 2006. Thus, a new WCH cycle should begin every 6 months !
A small update in the rules : "A player can't be involved in two consecutive knockout tournaments." (of course, the 8 players involved in the quarter finals during the last cycle can enter the round-robin tournaments cycle)
Several logical reasons to this change : More fun & more chances for more high-rated players, decreasing the risk of rating peaks & to see a world champion involved in several knockout tournaments & candidates finals... to play the final match against himself :)
[edit : this rule is no more effective, simulations show the results wouldn't be interesting enough, and as it will be hard to start a new WCH cycle every 6 months, it's simply better to see the highest rated players in the knockout tournament, whatever the consequences]
Good luck & best wishes to all...
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-10-31 06:43:50)
Scoring update:
Here are the results I'm aware of: dewillget8 (GK) defeats Ilmars Cirulis in game one...........yanm (GK) draws with Peter Willoughby in game one.......tag1153 (GK) defeats Regis Ducreux in game one............ccmcacollister (GK) has just defeated Benjamin Aldag by virtue of a TIMEOUT.......Thibault, what happened with Aldag? Do we need to discuss this further?............current score - GameKnot 3.5, FICGS .5 after 4/24 games completed.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-10-31 09:58:18)
2nd FICGS chess WCH waiting list is open
Hello Wayne.
I can do this tomorrow. If the issue is about rating, please note that ratings taken in account at the start of the tournaments (TER : Tournament Entry Rating) are current ones at this time - november rating if this cycle starts ie. on december 15) - so ratings will be automatically updated in the waiting list...
Kind regards.
Wayne Lowrance (2006-10-31 21:49:40)
2nd FICGS chess WCYH waiting list is ope
Ahhhh, that was the reason. I wanted to enter with my best rating. If I understood you correct, That wont be a problem, given that the waiting lists ratings are updated. I would like to re-submit my name, can you do it, or should I resubmit ? Thank you Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-01 20:52:43)
Checkmate / Stalemate
Hello Stefano.
No, your opponent still has to resign if he's checkmated (or accept draw if stalemate).
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_185-Checkmate-Stalemate.html
Daniel De Noose (2006-11-02 01:45:41)
Pas du tout car voici le mail ...
que j'ai reçu de notification :
-----------------------------
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_17__000001"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2006.7.1"]
[Round "1"]
[White "De Noose,Daniel"]
[Black "Ould Ahmed,Samy"]
[Result "0-1"]
[WhiteElo "1470"]
[BlackElo "2166"]
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Bxc6 dxc6 5.O-O Bg4 6.h3 h5 7.d3 Qf6 8.Nbd2 Bd6 9.Nc4 Bxf3 10.Qxf3 Qxf3 11.gxf3 Ne7 12.f4 exf4 13.e5 Bc5 14.Bxf4 Ng6 15.Be3 Bxe3 16.fxe3 b5 17.Na5 Nxe5 18.Rf5 f6 19.d4 Nf7 20.Nxc6 Kd7 0-1
Move sent : 2006.10.29 - 11:35:31
Move replied : 2006.10.30 - 22:27:44
Non et j\'ai essayé ici mais cela ne me plaît pas ...
-----------------------------------
[j'ai volontairement coupé la fin du message car le reste ne regarde pas les autres utilisateurs.
Comme tu peux le voir c'est son coup qui est affiché mais le message est le mien ! C'est celui que je lui ai envoyé en jouant mon coup qui n'apparait pas càd 21.Cb4 !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-03 11:10:16)
Only 965 ?!
Do you travel in time, Hannes ? :)
Was it a page cached by Google, your browser or.. !?
I can't explain how you see this number !?
PS : FICGS ! not FICS :)
(by the way, FICS - http://www.freechess.org - seems dead for several days !? what happened ?)
Henri-Louis Muller (2006-11-03 11:19:19)
temps de réflexion
j'ai entendu - et j'en fais partie - énormément de plaintes et de discussions concernant le temps de réflexion ! Il est en effet totalement aberrant, illogique et...décevant, de devoir attendre parfois PLUS de 60 jours afin qu'une partie soit déclarée perdue par dépassement de temps - d'un adversaitre qui ne répond plus !! Ceci est d'autant plus illogique que cett façon d'agir profite à celui qui commet cette...aberration. L'erreur profite donc au fautif !?? Je connais des joueurs qui quittent FICGS pour cette raison !? Dommage. Mais il doit exister une solution....!!
Dorel Oltean (2006-11-10 22:00:27)
retire, come back. What's next ?
I’m playing in two tournaments with Mr Marez : class M02 and WCH M01. Mr Marez had practically retired from the FICGS tournaments because he did not play for a very long period (one-two month). He lost on time 4 of 5 remaining games in each tournament. Now he comes back to continue the games he did not lose on time. By proceeding like that he is not fair to all the participants in the given tournaments, ruins the results and gives a not serious character, an amateur-like flavor to the tournaments. On top of that he is now registered for other tournaments. I think someone must do something about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-11 06:16:23)
@ Sebastien Marez
Hello Sebastien.
That's always interesting to compare IECG and FICGS... Several players asked me about your forfeit in the previous tournaments, so I'm curious : Can I ask you why you finally came back to play some games at FICGS (after loosing about 240 points - future rating : 2204) ?? I suppose the time controls here are too slow for you (as Henri), do you have an idea about a "perfect" formula ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-11 06:31:12)
... translation
Sorry to all who don't speak french... This thread is another one about FICGS time controls. Several players complained about the 60 days rule and time controls which are too slow... We discussed it already : In my opinion, one can last a game the same way with a 20, 30 or 60 days limit per move rule. What's important is the global time control and I think the 30 days + 1 day / move scheme is fast enough.
Sebastien Marez (2006-11-11 07:11:18)
temps de réflexion
Je suis revenu, car j'ai trouver un equilibre en les deux serveurs et que votre site me plait aussi. Il est vrai que le temps des parties sur FICGS est bcp trop long, le fait d attendre trop devient vite enervant et lassant, amenant ainsi un desinteret complet. Le fait de perdre mon classement n 'est pas important car je le retrouverais. Je comprends Mr OLTEAN, car je risque de lui enlever toutes ses chances dans les tournois respectifs. Il faut applique la meme regle que pour l'IECG sans reponse au bout de 30jrs les parties sont perdues, mais surtout reduire la cadence des parties pour retrouver un interet plus grand.
Wolfgang Utesch (2006-11-11 10:24:20)
Can't enter in waiting list
Hello Thibault, why I can't enter the waiting list for FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_SM__000004 ? Greetings, Wolfgang
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-11 16:48:20)
temps de réflexion
Je comprends que la règle de 60 jours max. par coup puisse paraitre plus que nécessaire, mais je maintiens que cette souplesse pour les joueurs a sa raison d'être, notamment en tenant compte du fait que contrairement à l'IECG (par l'intermédiaire des directeurs de tournois) le "facteur humain" est quasi nul sur FICGS, toute partie perdue au temps l'est irrémédiablement et sans recours... Dans de nombreux cas, 30 jours peuvent passer très vite (voyage, hospitalisation, vacances en oubliant de prendre des jours sur le site)...
D'autre part, les joueurs qui veulent énerver leurs adversaires en prenant leur temps joueront 1 coup tous les 30 jours au lieu d'un coup tous les 60 après avoir accumulé du temps, la durée de la partie restera la même (dans le cas d'un forfait, il suffit d'attendre un peu plus pour le gain)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-12 18:00:44)
fxg5+
The battle just started :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=3506
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-12 18:41:41)
Incredible life of chess players...
Sometimes I'm simply stunned by the players informations I can read... :)
http://www.ficgs.com/display_informations.php?member=1065
That's great to welcome players from all horizons... and ages !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-12 18:45:39)
Nice endgame
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=3536
I quote you : "That's the nice endgame, which is won for White! .... really??? - definitely, but very complicate!"
Do you mean this is the line played by your opponent (Peter Daus, I presume) ?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-14 15:59:48)
First chess servers
1996... the very beginning of internet. Was there another way to play chess online than FICS (not FICGS :)) through Winboard on Unix system ?!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-15 02:35:07)
FICGS update : Security improved
Hello to all.
You may (sure :)) have noticed the new login page with two forms.
This is most probably temporary.
Of course, passwords are stored 'hashed' on the server so that noone can retrieve it, even me... Now, if you login with the first form, your password won't be even sent through the internet, it is hashed by your browser before. Second, passwords won't be stored anymore in cookies with the secure form. At last, a new barrier against hacking... The old form is still available because it might be possible for certain players to be disconnected early because of their changing ip address (according to the internet provider).
Please just tell me if you encounter any problem. Thanks in advance :)
Ilmars Cirulis (2006-11-15 09:43:58)
Hi! :)
What about http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=3555.
IMO, 54.fxg6 is better than 54.Nxg5.
Ilmars.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-15 14:23:14)
Go scorer (improvement)
Hello to all Go players.
A small improvement in the Go scorer : Komi (7.5 points) is now added to White score and the program says who 'probably' wins !
Also a small bug corrected in the count algorithm, about a few unknown points...
In example, you can score this exciting game Vorobev -Steveson :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=score&game=3102
Just remove these groups : n8 m9 g18 r18 g17
Score is 183 to 178 (+ 7.5) -> White wins by 2.5 points. (verified with a viewer)
See the game here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=3102
Ryaad Aabid (2006-11-16 01:42:44)
Something to be changed
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000005 Game 741 The clock of my opponent was almost 0:0 He came and has done his move #22 until the move #31 , then he hid after his clock drank 40 days! What type players is there? I think something should be changed. Another opponent (Game 1265) has appeared after his clock became almost 3 days! Either I am an unlucky player, or there is somerule should be changed. Because of this I will leave, but never leave those 2 games for the rubbish of the chess:Adrian and Balogh.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-16 13:27:51)
Please link to FICGS
Dear friends, you may know how it is important for a website to be linked from other places on the internet since Google created his famous ranking system Pagerank...
FICGS has got about 1,000 links so far (not too bad after 7 months) for a Pagerank 5, but the more links, the more players !
Feel free to link to FICGS from your website, blog, in forums and so on...
You may contact me - info (at) ficgs.com - if you have a chess or Go related website, so that I add it in the file that displays random links at the bottom of each game page, ie. http://www.ficgs.com/game_342.html
A link written one of these ways would be very appreciated :
<a href="http://www.ficgs.com " title="Correspondence Chess Server">FICGS</a>
<a href="http://www.ficgs.com " title="Chess Server">FICGS chess server</a>
<a href="http://www.ficgs.com " title="Go Server">FICGS Go server</a>
<a href="http://www.ficgs.com/forum.html " title="Chess forum">FICGS chess forum</a>
<a href="http://www.ficgs.com/wikichess.html " title="Wikichess">Wikichess</a>
Thanks in advance !
Glen D. Shields (2006-11-17 06:39:51)
Changing World
It's interesting to read players correspondence chess expectations as technology evolves.
What we see on servers like FICGS is the integration of players with various chess backgrounds and expectations. Players who grew up with the internet, and whose first chess experiences were real time chess servers expect games to move quickly. Players who grew up playing correspondence chess by postcard expect games to move much more slowly.
Personally I'm as equalled annoyed by players who stall (like the one described by Mr. Aabid) as I am by those who think move-a-minute correspondence chess is cute. It's going to take time and creativity by the server owners to balance players needs/interests. My ideal is when both players move at a steady 2-3 days per move pace (with the obvious exception for holidays, work, illness, etc). Those games stay interesting from start to finish and always seem to end with a pleasant thank you and congratulations.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-17 18:59:02)
Tournaments with money prizes
Hello to all.
Finally, Chess & Go tournaments with money prizes will begin in 2007 january !
"Money chess" is an all times controversy, many players play for fun only (even at the highest levels), others like much more this way of play. I think it's simply the most challenging, finally it quite looks like classical tournaments.
About Go, things are quite different, as software & particularly engines are a negligible factor in the play. The best players will probably always win, but weak players may be interested in a lesson.
You may have noticed some changes in the waiting list categories for money tournaments :
Two formats for 2-players matches will be available, 8 games matches (time control 30 days + 1 day / move) and 2 games duels (time control 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves) renewed in case of a draw.
Simultaneous games will be also organized with international masters for both games, with prizes shared if some players could beat the masters.
Of course, it won't change anything to the free tournaments & championships, it will be optional only. I hope it will help to provide prizes for the FICGS chess & Go world championships (sponsors are welcome :)) ...
The membership page - Terms and Conditions - has also been updated.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Some major changes (as in money tournaments pages) might happen until 2007 january.
Feel free to post here if you have any comment or suggestion.
Best wishes.
Mikhail Ruzin (2006-11-19 09:22:47)
Rating change (Go)
Hello Thibault. It is not normal! My initial raring was 1800. Then I lost the rated game in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT__000008 against a player rated 1900 and my rating changed to 1780. It is normal. But then I win the rated game in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_DAN__000001 against a player rated 1600 and my rating changed to 1752. It is not normal.
Mikhail Ruzin (2006-11-18 21:05:44)
Rating change
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_DAN__000001 Ruzin, Mikhail TER=1780 Rating=1752 Points=1/1 How can be such?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-18 22:38:06)
Rating change (Go)
Hello Mikhail.
Looks quite normal :
You won a rated game in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_DAN__000001 against a player rated (TER) 1600 and you lost a rated game in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT__000008 against a player rated 1900... The rating average of your opponents is inferior to your initial rating (1800).
Marc Lacrosse (2006-11-19 13:33:40)
Where else do/did you play corr. chess ?
I just wondered where else did some of us play before coming on FICGS (and do some of us still play elsewhere ?).
Thibault I could not find you on AJEC or ICCF listings although I see you are a regular poster on ICCF's forum (TCCMB): where did you play before ?
For what regards myself I played in ICCF tournaments in 2000-2003 than switched to playchess.de and then here. And now I just began with ICCF play at new : I had one half master norm there and thought it could be nice try to get the other half :-)
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-19 15:35:57)
Where else do/did you play corr. chess ?
:)))
Hello Marc.
That's funny you ask me... Hard to find correspondence chess info about me & indeed I did not play at AJEC & ICCF yet. That's not a secret, many of you already know that I made several movies, some (last one was a kind of parody of Stanley Kubrick's "A clockwork orange") under my name, others - english speaking ones - under my "real" director's name that I used on most chess servers & in another correspondence chess organization, where I achieved about the same rating. (damn, I may be disqualified for the WC final :))
Of course I tried a lot of correspondence chess places before, but none was interesting or challenging enough to me, that's why FICGS and its tournament & WCH rules.
Dorel Oltean (2006-11-19 15:51:50)
retire, come back. What's next ?
Is allowed to retire from FICGS tournaments (loosing around 10 games on time) and then come back to resume unfinished games and start new ones? The answer is YES , it happened and , after more then a week from my previous message, it seems it can happen again. The soft reaction of the administrator of the site and the totally (surprising for me) lack of reaction from any FICGS member showed it’s only me who has a problem. (Maybe, by changing the subject, my message was hidden behind the discussions about ‘the 60 days rule’). I cannot accept that ! For me chess is a serious thing. I consider chess a sport where the equality of chances and the respect for the competition must be the first rules. So I decided to retire from all FICGS tournaments . In M02 group I didn’t finished any game so my retiring will not affect the final standing. In WCH M01 I have only one unfinished game and my opponent will finish second last anyway. So my withdraw will only permit someone else to finish first and qualify instead of me. In my last group, A02 I wish to finish my remaining game (if I am allowed) than I will leave, with real sorrow, FICGS for good. Whishing you nice games Dorel Oltean
Charlie Neil (2006-11-19 17:05:27)
Retire and come back.
I'm sorry to read that you feel you have to leave because of the behaviour of some other people. I think that is just one of the drawbacks of having a free site on the internet. Anyone can join our "club" and conduct themselves in an unsporting manner. I think it is just one of those things. I have been the victim of similar unsportsman like behaviour in over the board games, by post and on similar sites here on the net. I just think you get that tiny minotiry (and that is all they are) who mess around. I do like playing on ficgs and , (so far) have been paired with well-mannered opponents who play fair. I have had a number of silent withdrawals but that is to be expected. I am just sad to think if any well meaning players would leave because of someone messing around. But life's like that, that's the way it is.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-19 17:56:13)
Retire and come back.
Hello Dorel.
I'm very sorry about that, but actually Charlie just said everything.
"It is just one of the drawbacks of having a free site on the internet."
This was only an obvious example, but the problem is quite more complex... What about a player who just looses a game on time and continue his other games. Farther, why a player should draw to another one and win to a third. Any result in any round-robin tournament is partly 'aleatory' and depends on many other factors than chess, particularly rules.
It also happens in over the board tournaments to get prizes, it can happen everywhere and at ICCF too... That's why I prefer knockout system. Of course, I'd like to solve all problems, but no rules are perfect. (by the way all suggestions are welcome)
The original post was in 'temps de réflexion' thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=1453
Best wishes.
Marius Zubac (2006-11-19 19:21:59)
A penalty system is needed
Hello Thibault. I think that time has come for you to add new rules to FICGS and a penalty system (using penalty points) to discourage players from retire-comeback behavior. Loosing some games on time unless provoked by some unforeseen event should be also penalized although less severe. Upon reaching a certain number of penalty points the player should be prevented to register for new FICGS tournaments (let's say a half a year) and on resuming the penalized player should be only allowed to play a limited number of games until the lesson is learned. If you would compare FICGS list with the server-based IECG list you should notice that FICGS is less populated in the strong players section (2200+) than IECG and this has an impact on the quality of high-end tournaments, norms and titles and of course ratings. If we want to improve FICGS some action in this regard must be taken. I sympathize with Mr. Oltean and wish he reconsiders his decision. Marius
Charlie Neil (2006-11-19 21:05:51)
Match FICGS vs GameKnot
How/where can I view the match games on GameKnot? Is it possible to see them as there being played as we can here? I'm just nosey.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-19 21:19:37)
Match FICGS vs GameKnot
It should be possible, but I don't know all links for the games... :/
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-19 21:40:49)
Re: A penalty system is needed
Hello Marius, thanks for suggestions.
My problem is : How to deal with ie. a player who can't play (personal or any good reasons) during a while and looses only one or two games on time in a tournament ? .. How to prove a 'retirement' ? .. Above all, we have to avoid cases that could be undecided by the rules.
Of course, IECG server is more populated in the strong player section ! .. But there is no link with this in my opinion, IECG - International Email Chess Group - exists for more than 10 years, it's a long way. I regularly read IECG forum but I did not try IECG server yet.
I only know that IECG & FICGS servers started about the same time (FICGS started one or two weeks before IECG server), as Ortwin gave me some advices about the server before it started...
Miguel Pires (2006-11-19 22:20:57)
Match FICGS vs GameKnot
I draw my GK game with Cairo. I hoppe i can win in FICGS, but... Regard's Miguel Pires
Marius Zubac (2006-11-20 00:25:05)
The penalty system - a proposal
A player that for a (good) reason is not able to continue his games should have two choices: A) Let some games get lost on time and then he would be treated under the penalty system. B) Ask for a retirement and in this case no penalties should be applied. Once a player asks for retirement the following actions should be taken: 1. His status in the rating list should be flagged to retired; perhaps a retired player should not be able to register a new tournament; 2. A retired player could get re-instated by applying directly to the FICGS adjudication commission; 3. All the retired player’s running games should then be frozen and dealt with on a by tournament basis: 3a) if in a tournament the retired player has finished games that are not lost the remaining games should be adjudicated by FICGS for rating purposes. However all the retired player’s games should not be counted for qualification purposes (if the tournament provides qualification to a next stage); how the games are to be considered for norms is a matter to be discussed. 3b) if in a tournament the retired player has finished games that are all lost the tournament director can act as in 3a) or has the option of canceling all the retired player’s games. This proposal is far from perfect but shows that we are not helpless and some action can be taken. The reason I mentioned IECG is because probably on the server the population is roughly equivalent with the FICGS’s one but in IECG’s case the distributed is more favorable in the upper section. This is the reason why there is enough active population at any given time for new tournaments and severe rules are not needed as much as in FICGS’s case in order to maintain a meaningful activity. My belief is that the centaur mode will prove in time to generate stronger games, stronger chess and FICGS will have chances to become in time the most relevant correspondence chess server. The technical conditions are already met. Marius
Lawrence Nesko (2006-11-20 00:52:58)
Perhaps a silly question, but...
Hello, all. I'm new to the world of correspondence chess. So if my question is naive, or has been answered at some point in the past, I apologize. It seems that there are no single-elimination tournaments available on FICGS. Why is this? Please don't take this question as a form of comlaint. I'm merely curious. Have I overlooked something? Or is it simply not the norm in the chess world, correspondence or otherwise?
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-20 01:03:54)
Re: Perhaps a silly question, but...
Hello Lawrence.
Do you mean "knockout tournament" ?
Reason is simple, it doesn't make sense in correspondence chess, as time controls are too slow and rounds can't be played at the same time. On the contrary, in round-robin tournaments all rounds can be played at the same time...
But knockout system is great and it remains in FICGS chess WCH, which is a multi-stages tournament.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-20 01:33:29)
Re: The penalty system - a proposal
Ok, I say why not... But once again the problem is : What to do if a player looses only one game on time (after 12 moves, very small advantage for his opponent) in a tournament ? .. How to be sure he has bad or good reasons ? How to prove a 'retirement' ? .. My opinion is you can't prevent all cheating attempts (obvious or agreements between players), but we have to discourage them as much as possible. At IECG, there are many tournament directors but a player can withdraw from a tournament without loosing a single point, and there are consequences on the result in all ways.
CJS Purdy : "The only valid excuse for withdrawal from a chess tournament is death, and then only with a death certificate" :)
I think FICGS rules are quite hard already. Most important is to follow clear rules, with no human decision as much as possible. Still looking for improvements.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-21 11:22:58)
Go handicap and rating
It makes sense. That's an interesting idea.
However I feel it could be quite difficult to balance the handicap with ratings and to keep the results of the games coherent. Finally, it is another rating system. Thinking about that...
Previous thread - http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_1611-Go-Komi.html
Glen D. Shields (2006-11-23 06:38:17)
No Thanks
Why in the world would I want to play on a site that sounds as disorganized as yours? There are tens of places to play like FICGS that are well organized and aren't shrouded in mystery. When you figure out what you want to be, want kind of tournaments you want to offer (turn based doesn't mean anything sorry), and you offer folks the opportunity to evaluate your site without harvesting their personal information, I'll take a look and re-consider.
Good luck.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-11-28 13:38:30)
FICGS chat !
Hello to all.
You probably noticed this new window on the right... :)
This is a chat window, here you can write to everyone in the international chat, and to people from your country only (in your own language !). You can moderate the messages by clicking on the arrow just before each message (please use it with moderation)...
Question is : Should it be permanent or not ??
Two ways :
1. It could appear only from time to time...
2. There should be a way to close the window during the session.
Feel free to tell me if you encounter any problem... Thanks for feedback !
Charlie Neil (2006-11-29 23:31:15)
Ficgs Chat
Hello Thibault, I logged in, switched off chat so I could make the moves i wanted to without distraction and now I can't get 'chat' back on. I am sure it is simple, like me, to do. and thanks for all your hard work.
Charlie Neil (2006-11-29 23:33:54)
Ficgs chat
go to preferences and switch chat off and on from there. have I answered my own enquiry? Is this a Ficgs record?
Charlie Neil (2006-11-29 23:35:37)
FICGS
Done it!
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-01 11:23:50)
buy it!
HAHAHAHAHAHA ! :))
Actually question is : What are the real improvements compared to Fritz 9 (engine speaking only) ? .. I just tried to start an answer in another thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_1713-Deep-Fritz-Rybka-future.html
Lionel Vidal (2006-12-02 09:54:32)
A lone engine in CC :-)
Suppose I make the following test (it has certainily be proposed before, but let's do it again, for the fun of the argument):
- I buy a recent engine (say the new Fritz10)
- I play in some CC tournaments (I do not want to pay fees, so let's say, here at FICGS of course :-), and at iecg)
- I choose the first moves of all my games based on some statistics made on a CC base (just to avoid some openings statistically bad in CC)
- starting from a few moves before the engine goes out of its opening book (to be defined, maybe 4 moves) I let my average computer run 10 hours by move (around one night per move... I know, I sleep too much :-)
- I *always* play the very move the engine finds as best
- I play as many tournaments as I can, considering the time constraint that limits the number of games (just to get a meaningful rating as fast as possible)
Now, what rating do you think I can reach at most, strictly following these guidelines?
(note that if I know some basic maths to do the stats, I do not even have to know chess rules... although a basic knowledge is assumed to ease the play in practice)
Are you ready to bet on your guess ? :-)
In pratice, the test does not work, because the tester dies from boredom long before he gets any rating :-))
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-03 22:10:26)
Google Adsense
Hello to all.
You probably noticed these ads under the search field and on the chat bar.
Google Adsense could work with such a site with more than 24,000 pages viewed per day and constantly increasing, so I try. The idea is quite clear, if Google can sponsorize the server and FICGS championships prizes, they are welcome IMO. Google Adsense is an intelligent system, and adverts are quite relevant.
However, this is a test only ! .. Let's see.
Feel free to tell me what you think, is it unbearable, is it useful ?! .. Thanks for feedback !
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-04 12:40:10)
Go: "Score" function
Everything is possible ! ... :)
But there is a question of place and design. I don't know where to put the (Score) link on the viewer page. However it is possible to score any game already, just replace the game id in this link :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=score&game=3814
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-05 12:52:08)
Tournament just started !
Have good games :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__BIG_CHESS__THOUSAND_MEMBERS_EVENT.html
Charlie Neil (2006-12-06 09:55:45)
Ficgs vs Gameknot
What is the current totals is the match. I can see the Ficgs score but I can't find the Gameknot results. I'm sure we (ficgs) are doing well.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-06 10:06:23)
Ficgs vs Gameknot
I hope so :)
Thomas will probably post a report here in a while.
Thomas Gilbreath (2006-12-06 23:11:19)
Scoring update
id=cyrano vs. id=gdshields (both games in progress) id=cairo vs. id=miguel_pires (.5/.5 - game in progress) id=ccmacollister vs. Benjamin Aldag (2/0) id=thumper vs. id=wulebgr (both games in progress) id=yanm vs. id=pedrinho (1.5/.5) id=taikaviitta vs. id=richgra64 (both games in progress) id=tag1153 vs. id=macounet (2/0) id=dewillget8 vs. id=ilmarscirulis (1/0 - game in progress) id=mozz vs. id=lejuju (1/0 - game in progress) id=lofix vs. id=cnile (0/1 - game in progress) id=tugger vs. id=kolarz (0/1) - game in progress) id=eqj2 vs. id=errantknight (0/1 - game in progress) The current score stands at id=GameKnot ----- 8, id=FICGS -----3. Please remember that 12.5 points are needed for the win. Contact me should there be any corrections........ Thomas
Ryaad Aabid (2006-12-09 02:57:17)
At last
I could know WHEN to do my moves for the 2 mentioned games successfully! At last my last 2 opponents became out of time. Thanks to FICGS and good luck for all. Ryaad
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-11 03:58:47)
Portuguese opening
Did you know this one ??
Miguel shows interesting lines in Wikichess... A future challenge for Ilmars ;)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=3731
Yannick Maret (2006-12-15 10:29:25)
Withdraw from WCH waiting list
I registered on the waiting list of FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP but I would like to retire. How can I do it? The reason, is that I started too many games in another site and cannot afford to play more chess at the moment!
Thanks,
Yannick
Marius Zubac (2006-12-16 02:51:34)
Vacation clock frozen, with 1 exception
Hello Thibault. Before I requested my vacation I have captured all the situation of my running games including the number of days. The clock is frozen for all games except my game 2932 from FICGS_CHESS_CLASS_SM_000002 against Mr. de Silva. Initially it was 51 days. Today I looked again and is 49. Maybe there is a bug somewhere. Please look into it. Thank you. Best whishes for the Holliday season, Marius
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-16 04:45:50)
Last game - Stage 1 / WCH 1
Stage 2 / WCH 1 did not begin yet... one 'undecided' game, take a look at game 1755 !
http://www.ficgs.com/game_1755.html
A double-zeitnot at correspondence chess time control, and an interesting endgame :)
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-17 01:38:17)
SEO forums
Hello to all.
You may have noticed new FICGS forums, linked from the Home Page (article follows) and from the bottom links...
http://www.ficgs.com/forums.html
The article : "The most famous game nowadays isn't chess or Go anymore, the game most played for several years is called SEO : Search Engines Optimization. The board is internet, rules are dicted by Google and players are the webmasters. Actually anyone who creates his homepage or a blog is interested at one time on how to get more visitors on his website. The stakes ? Glory or whatever, but first of all : Money, of course... FICGS now has his own SEO forums. Feel free to discuss anything about Google, his famous PageRank, Yahoo! search, MSN live, affiliate programs, AdSense, AdWords and so on... Have good-Google games !"
The idea is not to make this site a portal about everything or anything, of course :) .. But there are many good reasons to add such content to this site, even if it's completely separated.
SEO forums start today... first dedicated to webmasters, feel free to discuss anything about your website and search engines optimization. I'll try to give some advices :)
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-17 04:28:02)
Google results
Oldest sites are still best placed on some keywords, but FICGS slowly improves his rank :)
- "Correspondence chess server" :
FICGS is ranked 1st ! then SchemingMind, Chessfriend, Chessworld, ICCF, ChessHere...
- "Correspondence chess" :
Correspondencechess.com, ICCF, USCF, SchemingMind, EWCCF, Chessfriend, British federation, Scottish federation, RedHotPawn, QueenAlice... FICGS now is ranked about 20th.
- "Chess forum" : FICGS is ranked 13th
- "Chess server" : FICGS is also ranked 13th
Not bad after a few months :)
Steve Sabean (2006-12-23 16:58:08)
Traxler/Wilkes-Barre
I have heard from many players of a wide range of strength that the Traxler is busted for Black. The trouble is, none of them appear to have proof. A few years ago, I played in a Traxler thematic in IECG. I had a great time, learned a lot, and managed second place overall. My own assessment is: unclear, but Black is probably OK. So, why not have a Traxler thematic tournament here on FICGS, to settle the matter once and for all. :D Maybe it could be a double round robin, to be fair to those who feel that one side or the other has the advantage. I would sign on for such a tournament. Nice Latvian, btw.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-24 11:57:24)
Traxler/Wilkes-Barre
Hello Steve.
We had 2 Traxler thematic tournaments already :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000014.html
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000015.html
Maybe we'll have another one (or double round-robin, why not) :)
Miguel Pires (2006-12-26 20:25:02)
about the FICGS vs GK match
is to someone evaluate the position
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-26 20:51:18)
Opinion
Hi Miguel.
In rules, 'assistance' is the key word... So to evaluate a position is not allowed for FICGS vs. GK match ! ... But it is allowed in regular FICGS games.
Miguel Pires (2006-12-26 23:25:01)
Open challenge
Hello, I'm making an open challenge to all players (from the top to the bottom) in this site to play against me in the Portuguese oppening. Soo if someone accept the challenge please tell me. I play always with withe. To Thibault de Vassal If someone accept can you please setup the games in FICGS? Best Regard's Miguel Pires
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-27 20:51:21)
Ratings
Hello Jason.
Next rating calculation will occur on 2007, january 1st
All informations about rating calculation are here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
How many games must be completed until the rating is regular : 9 rated games
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-28 11:30:57)
Amazing
That's funny to see how this thematic tournament (portuguese opening) attracted players from Portugal.
I wonder if french players would fight for french defense the same... :-)
A high-rated one with a very strong correspondence chess player !
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000020.html
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-29 14:48:31)
To be continued
It has been discussed already, my conclusion was vacation had to be hard to use enough, in order to reduce influence on time controls, ie. a player shouldn't be able to take days to think more time when having difficulties in some games and cancel his 'holidays' after finding a solution... So it has to be discussed. Anyway, I'll add a message specifying vacation can't be canceled when taking days leave.
Reminder :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#playing
11. 4. Time rules
Any move in any game shall be played in a maximum period of 60 days, otherwise the game will be adjudicated on time. Time accumulated in a game can't exceed 100 days. Please don't call referee since you see your opponent's clock 'Out of time', you just have to wait a few hours a robot automatically adjuges the game.
Please be aware that it's possible sometimes your internet provider or a point between the server and you may block the connection between the server and you. Even it's a rare thing, it's strongly recommended to always have several days left at your clock. No result will be reconsidered or time added due to such a technical problem. No time will be added due to any problem during a period less than 1 day long.
It is possible to take a maximum of 30 days leave per year, called vacation. During this time, clocks are frozen and it is no more possible to play, in order to reduce the effects on time controls.
Please note the time limit per move clock still runs during vacation. Take your days carefully, as it's not possible to take back or displace your leave dates. However you can add days leave.
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-30 03:10:17)
English translation...
I know some basics... but looks strange to me.. what is context ?
One of your opponents at FICGS ??
Thibault de Vassal (2006-12-30 13:31:14)
Quad Silver?
Tournaments with money prizes will begin in january... By the way there will be changes in these tournament categories (it will be also possible to play "blitz" games, at probably 10 moves / 1 hour time control)
However I think this challenge should stay friendly... (at least 'on FICGS')
Charlie Neil (2006-12-31 01:02:56)
Blitz Chess on Ficgs
Hello Thibault,"10 moves in one hour". Starting next year. I am intrigued. That would be something! All those dull Sunday afternoon in January and Februuary just crying out for something like this. Tell me more.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-01 08:43:24)
Web directory
Hello to all.
A new extension (one more) to FICGS...
If you have a website, feel free to submit the url in the web directory to get more links :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory.html
Based on FICGS forums script, you can post your website, review other sites... You just have to create a free account that gives access to SEO (Search Engines Optimization) forums and Web directory.
Note : To create a hypertext link in the directory, just type ie. [url=www.yourdomain.com/page.html]Your site[/url] without http, see help.
Francesco Laghetti (2007-01-02 14:25:39)
No winner?
Dear FICGS responsible, I would like to know the reason that in the FICGS_CHESS_WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_09 there is no winner! Thank you very much. Regards, Francesco Laghetti
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-02 15:13:01)
Re: No winner?
Hello Francesco.
It's a design issue... Winner(s) / Leader(s) are displayed if no more than 2 players have the best score in the tournament. In this tournament, 3 players scored 5 out of 6 points.
Anyway, FICGS WCH rules state there's only one winner in WCH tournaments (according to tournament entry rating), so the result displayed may be not accurate in some cases.
Miguel Pires (2007-01-02 15:32:11)
Interesting
One of the most interesting games i've played in the Portuguese oppening: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=2851 The Novelty i intruduce is in move 15. I really don't now if is a good one but... Best regard's and an happy new year
Elmer Valderrama (2007-01-03 11:00:42)
Blitz correspondence chess
Well, as long as it's an unrated chess game, you can call it Silver Thematic and virtually any variation would qualify as a real chess game..
The way the winner is chosen in a 1-game (or 2-game for that matter) match is what is debatable, it's a little advantage to have White that's why having Black would be good if the color decides.
I think that players would agree to enter a tournament under some conditions (e.g. as playing on Satuday 3pm & Sunday 3pm), people were/are happy to enter the Chessbase "marathon" (freestyle with 3 rounds per day) and most here hang around making several moves per day in their CC games every day, so it's a matter of agreement about the appropiate time (easier to achieve with just two players (2-game match) than a tournament of course)
Maybe a poll would help although the players who would enter these events may not be even registered to FICGS yet, lol
Miguel Pires (2007-01-03 15:26:23)
Elo Question
So, if i correctly understand, in chess is used the TER. After the new rating was calculated i drew this game: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=2849 My opponent have a higer elo then me, soo whay, if the new rating list was calculated today, i lose elo? Best regard's Miguel Pires
Charlie Neil (2007-01-03 23:04:06)
Blitz Chess on Ficgs
Hello Thibault and New Year greetings to you and your team. Blitz on ficgs. I've beeen thinking, would it be possible to have "real time" games? The human element is the difficult one there. As for the tournament set-up, how about a six round swiss system? Speaking as one down in the ratings basement, single pairings with a rapid time limit in the swiss pairing set-up would be fun. Setting games between opponents on a real time basis I imagine will be very difficult so, what about a really rapid time limit tourney 10 days plus a day a move. I'm sure there lots of options available. Well it's just a thought. No one likes drawing in a Swiss tourney, you have to play for the win!
Charlie Neil (2007-01-04 12:07:29)
Blitz Chess on Ficgs
Hello Thibault, By "Real Time" I mean both players are on the site, at the board at the same time. " The rendez-vous system" as you called it. The Swiss system of pairings by rating and then the second round having the winnners play the winners and those with no points play each other and so on into the next 4 rounds just may work I think, draws are then discouraged. If it is possible to play 40 moves in two hours on this site that would be brilliant! But how about 2 hours each for the whole game! Games lasting 4 hours maximum would be a challenge, and maybe fun. Along with the correspendence chess features. Ficgs would have it all! But then "you may call me a dreamer but I'm not the only one".
Karsten Fyhn (2007-01-07 13:54:27)
Please remove me from the waiting list
Please remove me from the waiting list for FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000002. I am starting two other tournaments elswhere in mid January, so I dont have time for this one. Sorry.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-09 01:00:39)
Zucketort / Tennison / Chicago gambit
All explained here by Kieran :)
http://www.ficgs.com/wikichess_3832.html
First moves : 1.Nf3 d5 2.e4
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-10 20:20:51)
Chess sites
Category for chess related websites is :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory-board-games.html
Peter Schuster (2007-01-17 04:56:27)
First FICGS WCH
Hello, when starts the semi-finals in the first FICGS WCH knockout tournament? best wishes Peter Schuster
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-17 10:58:24)
Knockout tournament
Hello Peter.
It should have started for a while, I agree...
Unfortunately there's one decisive game that lasts in round-robin tournaments.
http://www.ficgs.com/game_1755.html
Knockout tournament games could start anyway, but it's better to start all games at the same time. Patience...
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-17 11:31:32)
Hi Benny
Welcome back ;)
Hope you had a nice journey. That's a pity you lost your games (FICGS vs. Gameknot also) on time, but I guess it would have been difficult to continue...
Your videos are great, especially lesson 8 (with your music). Actually it seems to be some games analysis. Did you use a particular software to make it ? .. Keep us informed of updates :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-17 14:26:42)
Correspondence chess & OTB chess
An interesting article by GM Nigel Davies on ChessCafe, a GM's view of this 'other' game :
http://www.chesscafe.com/davies/davies.htm
I hope you enjoyed your games at FICGS even (true) if it takes a lot of time... Also thanks for the link.
Best wishes :)
Dinesh De Silva (2007-01-17 14:49:23)
Re:
I had some interesting conversations with Nigel during some games on FICGS last year. It was great that a GM like him played on this site. Best wishes to him.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-17 17:59:25)
2nd FICGS chess world championship
Hello to all.
2nd FICGS chess WCH just started only 6 months after the first one and with about 75% players more.
24 tournaments with an elo average from 1620 to 1698, 1 group M (elo average 2363) and 4 quarter final matches in the knockout tournament :
GM Farit Balabaev (2569) - FEM Wolfgang Riemer (2415)
Thibault de Vassal (2514) - FEM Wolgang Utesch (2460)
SM Peter Schuster (2537) - FIM Harry Ingersol (2456)
Wolfgang Kund (2557) - SM Wladyslav Krol (2423)
By seeing the first moves, I predict the 4th quarter final will be a very exciting match with risky games :)
Thanks to all for enjoying these tournaments, I wish you good games and may the best player win !
http://www.ficgs.com/category__ficgs__chess__wch.html
WCH waiting list will stay open during next months for eventual replacements.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-18 11:58:31)
Titles update from FIDE / ICCF / IECG
Hello to all.
A reminder : "It is possible to update the best title obtained from FIDE, ICCF or IECG just by sending an email to FICGS."
Rule 11.8 - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
I just updated titles from IECG for Dinesh de Silva (FIM), Harry Ingersol (FIM) and Wolfgang Riemer (FEM). Congrats :)
Hossein Dabbaghyan (2007-01-18 02:10:52)
how can I play in the "class tournament"
Hi I would like to play in the class tournament here on Ficgs....how can I enter this tournament and start playing? I appreciate any help....
Don Groves (2007-01-18 07:29:24)
Entering a class tournament
Click on "Waiting lists" then "FICGS Chess Class Tournaments." Click on the tournament that fits your rating and confirm your entry.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-19 09:31:40)
+1 ;)
FICGS, Wayne... FICS is Free Internet Chess Server @ www.freechess.org
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-19 09:38:38)
Chess Ring
Hello Barry, thanks for your email & post about this new chess ring. If I remember well there are 2 'well known' other chess rings on the internet. As for FICGS, I prefer to link directly to chess sites. Soon, there will be a top of best referers on the home page too.
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-19 11:41:07)
FICGS login & registration problems
Hello to all.
It seems there are some login, password recovery & registration problems for a few players. I'm looking for an explanation...
Some can't register without getting message "please enter the correct number" while they did enter it, so it may be a format problem for numbers. (in this case please write to the email at the bottom of the page)
If you failed to obtain a new password that works with password recovery, just try once more and it will 'most probably' work.
Really strange... I'm inquiring.
An example : "Although I got a new password I was not able to use my account from my PC!-So I decided to log in from my colleague´s one and it worked - I don´t know why."
So some computers could send a format for numbers that the program does not recognize yet. (?!)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-21 13:59:06)
FICGS titles
Hello Spiros.
FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM are titles awarded by FICGS.
Requirements are not the same as in ICCF but it quite looks like : ICCF titles are EM (Email Master), IM (International Master), SM (Senior Master), GM (Gran Master).
Note : In rating list, a GM player could be a FIDE GM or ICCF GM...
See rules (11.7 - 11.8) :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-21 14:31:00)
Chess ratings
Hello to all.
I have been submitted this case :
"Rating system: Look at this situation: Current rating ot the player: 2200, 10 games, all players with TER 2200, result 9=, 1+ Case 1: Finished games: 01.01-28.02: 9= --> New rating 01.03: 2200 01.03., no other finished games in this period: --> New rating 01.05: 2228 Case 2: Finished games 01.01-28.02: 9=, 1+ --> New rating 01.03: 2200 --> New rating 01.03. 2214 In case 1 the value of the won game was 28, in case two it was 14. IMO the value of a result should not depend from the number of games you finish in a period. The value of a result only should depend on the rating of both players that they have at the start (preferable) or at the finish date of the game and the result. And the rating formula should be like NewRating = LastRating + SumOfAllValuesOfFinishedGamesInThisPeriod. That's the way (idea) IECG is computing the ratings."
This result looks quite normal to me as a player's level may increase as time passes. Rating calculations are done after periods long enough to avoid big differences... I don't know if you're right about IECG rating calculation, FICGS ratings seem to evolve quicker and I think it's best. By the way this system is used by several chess federations.
Best wishes.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-22 11:26:58)
problems with playback
Hello Michael.
Sorry, so many things to implement yet :)
What do you mean 'Whenever I play back a game' ?
I use Firefox and Explorer and I didn't see that until now ?! (if I understood well)
I'll add a download button for all games, right now you can try to click the printer icon in 'My games', there's a list of your games in PGN format.
You can see who's online at the bottom of the page 'My messages' or go to http://www.ficgs.com/informations.html
My best.
Michael Aigner (2007-01-22 17:44:52)
Stage 2 FICGS chess world championship
Does somebody know when stage 2 of the championship is starting? Is there something to do for the qualified players (winners of stage 1) to enroll for stage 2? Have a nice day Michael
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-22 20:57:04)
Stage 2
Hello Michael.
Stage 2 should begin in about 2 weeks... The last decisive game is hard to end, I can't make the pairings before it finishes.
http://www.ficgs.com/game_1755.html
Best wishes.
Dan Rotaru (2007-01-22 22:13:20)
WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP Waiting list
Hello. I registered on the waiting list for FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000002 on January 17 so I assume I am on for replacements during next month. However there are quite a few people before me on the waiting list so I am not sure what my chances to play are. Would it be possible to predict if I can play? I would like to start another tournament by I don’t want to have the surprise to have too many games at once. Or will it be wise to wait? Thank you! BTW. I really enjoy this site :-).
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-23 12:27:06)
Famous chess games
Hello to all.
I am testing a new database which will contain famous chess games / games from famous chess players... World championships, Man vs. Machine, Computer games, Correspondence chess, Curiosities etc.. Now 2200+ games in, but it will grow quickly.
Feel free to suggest any link with interesting free chess database, or you may send to me PGN games (particularly looking for non-chess celebrities chess games).
http://www.ficgs.com/informations.html
(see A-Z)
All suggestions & feedback are welcome. Thanks in advance :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-24 23:22:32)
playback
Thanks for help :)
Viewing the game with the javascript viewer (magnifying glass icon) is the best way to replay a game : You can change the perspective by clicking on the numbers - vertical scale.
"When you click on the arrows to move a piece forward or back as you replay the game, the screen drops a quarter of a page." - I did not experience this yet ?! .. I don't understand how it can happen. (theorically, this happens with a url like www.ficgs.com/page.html#anchor with <a name> HTML tag or browser's back / forward buttons)
Mladen Jankovic (2007-01-25 15:59:21)
direct link
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_chess_class_g
Ron Keyston (2007-01-29 19:04:14)
Specifics and Examples
OK, one PC is a 3.2GHz P4 w/1GB RAM running XP Pro. 256MB Hashtables with an ~800MB Maximum possible. The other PC is an Athlon X2 4600+ w/2GB RAM running Vista Ultimate (RTM.) It has 1GB Hashtables with ~1.5GB Maximum Possible. I can pretty much guarantee that it is not a hashtable issue though as the problem is with the legality of a move and only arises after saving into a database, closing the game and then re-opening it from the database. Also, if I open the same saved game from the database into Fritz 9, castling long as black is perfectly OK.
As for some examples, I will give the same five games that I sent to Chessbase. Some of these are contrived examples, whereas some are from my games here at FICGS:
1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qd6 4.Nf3 Nf6 5.Bc4 Bg4 6.O-O Nc6 7.d4
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Bg5 dxe4 5.Nxe4 Be7 6.Bxf6 gxf6 7.Nf3 b6 8.Bc4 Bb7 9.Qe2 Nd7 10.O-O-O c6 11.Rhe1 Qc7 12.g3
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 Bxc3+ 6.bxc3 c4 7.Qg4 g6 8.Nf3 Qa5 9.Bd2 Nh6 10.Qh3 Nf5 11.g4 Nxd4 12.cxd4 Qb6 13.Bg2 Nc6 14.Qh6 Nxd4 15.O-O Bd7 16.Bg5 Ba4 17.Nxd4 Qxd4 18.Qg7 Rf8 19.Be3 Qxg4 20.Bc5
1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qd6 4.d4 Nf6 5.Nf3 a6 6.Be3 Nc6 7.Qd2 Bf5 8.Bd3 Bg4 9.Be2 e6 10.O-O-O
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 Bxc3+ 6.bxc3 c4 7.Qg4 g6 8.Nf3 Qa5 9.Bd2 Nh6 10.Qh3 Nf5 11.g4 Nxd4 12.cxd4 Qb6 13.Bg2 Nc6 14.Qh6 Nxd4 15.O-O Bd7 16.Qg7
In all five examples, it is black to move from the final position. Also, in all five examples, castling long/queen-side is perfectly legal and likely one of the best moves. BEFORE the game(s) is/are saved into the database, Fritz allows black to castle long (and it is at or near the top line in infinite analysis mode.) AFTER saving the game into a database, closing the game window, and re-opening the game from the database, Fritz treats castling long as an illegal move.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-01-31 18:21:40)
1.e4 c5 2.f4 d5 3.Nf3
This is the line for the next chess thematic tournament :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000023.html
A line played several times here already by SM Wladyslav Krol, and a really interesting opening that produced the current 'best game' :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_864.html
Does anyone know a name for this opening, or may I call it "Krol attack" :)
Anyway, it should be a spectacular tournament !
Charlie Neil (2007-02-02 11:45:33)
Without Computer
Marcus if you can please read the old forum postings, "Why do you play corr-chess." I made a similar comment about computers being used as the main player. Believe me I was wrong! As much as in correspondence chess you can use notes, books and databases for reference. Here at FICGS, (A great site!) players use their computers as a reference. It does not benefit anyone to just relay their computer moves without understanding them. Those players won't prosper nor will develop a passion we chessplayers have for the game. I believe that now to be the case. Personally I don't have a Juinor8, Fritz 10 or Deep Joe 90 or whatever to use as a reference point. I do have a pile of books that serve to confuse me in my games. As I continue to seek understanding in this game. People should use computers as long as the computers don't use them! How boring can it be just to imput moves? The computer isn't compulsory. And I am saving a fortune on stamps playing here! It is fun after all. It is only a game. Even if it is a terrible one.
Charlie Neil (2007-02-08 09:32:48)
Why I play here.
Reading the forum postings as I do everytime I log on, I have noted that we are a diverse group here at Ficgs. For that reason I thought I would make my statement of intent. "Why I play here." 1. It is Free. I am Scottish and that is that! 2. I like the 7 player single pairing groups. 3. I know zero about chess and computers but I think I am learning something just by reading the Forum. 4. As I said a diverse group of people play chess here but in many ways it is similar to being at an OTB club, well at least as I remember them. All different types united by one game. 5. Chess is fun but what else can make you so happy when a scheme comes together in victory and what other game can have you rocking back and forth in your chair making you doubt every decision you have ever made. And all in the time it takes to click from one game to another. 6. I wonder how long it will be now before Thibault gets fed-up with us whinging, complaining and not appreciating his hard work! (Thibault just once tell someone complaining person to go and .....!) Maybe not.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-10 15:58:56)
King's indian
Radjabov's good score in Corus 2007 tournament (Wijk aan Zee) gave a second youth to King's indian after Kasparov dropped it about ten years ago. Chessbase now sells a dvd by ex-FIDE world champion Kasimdhzanov.
I still consider this opening as a good OTB weapon, but what do you think about it in modern correspondence chess, particularly after the nice victories by Christophe Léotard during last ICCF world championship.
I think it could be interesting to discuss this opening, why not in Wikichess... What would you play after 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 Bg7 4.e4 d6 5.Nf3 O-O 6.Be2 e5 7.O-O Nc6 8.d5 Ne7 (9.Ne1 and 9.b4) ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=4156
Marc Lacrosse (2007-02-14 19:09:12)
To Nicola
But there are already _many_ other web-chess organisations with forbidden computer use:
- our friends at itsyourturn.com
- the letsplaychess server
- http://www.playchess.de/
...
The last one has a very good interface and is also free.
Servers with computer use allowed are at the opposite very few.
So why should Thibault change a feature which is specific here for something which is already available everywhere else ?
Moreover, having played for long at playchess.de where both kinds of play exist (with or without computer help) I can tell you that there was there a surprinsingly large number of players cheating in the non-computer section instead of playing with their computers in the computer-allowed one, and this was at the origin pf permanent discussions and flame wars on their forum.
For what regards myself I do not wish that FICGS would go the same way.
Marc
Benjamin Aldag (2007-02-15 12:30:33)
YOU FLAME !
@ Marc Lacrosse
The discussion is not about to change something. It is about to build a new feature here. It would be kewl to see a little (c) in the profiles of computerusers.
Please dont flame here about 'what is allowed and whats not allowed' !!!
IT IS ALLOWED TO USE A COMPUTER-ASSISTENCE !!!! AND THIS IS OK FOR ME !!!! AND IT IS ALlOWED TO PLAY WITHOUT COMPUTER-ASSISTENCE !!!! IS THIS LOUD ENOUGH ???
I play here at FICGS and why should i play at playchess.de ??? I want to play CC-Chess HERE ! So please dont tell me, where i can play without computer-assistence. I can play without computer-assistence here TOO !
yk
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-16 00:11:12)
Stage 2 tournaments started
Hello to all.
Finally, WCH 1 stage 2 tournaments started !
I hope we'll see interesting games in the knockout semi finals :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_SEMI_FINAL_1__000001.html
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_SEMI_FINAL_2__000001.html
Dan Rotaru (2007-02-16 00:32:00)
Rating list
I think it would be nice to have a second rating list for established ratings. I have noticed that there are quite many players in the actual rating list who haven’t played yet a single game on FICGS. This list would also give an accurate picture of how many players are actually playing. Maybe this list can be implemented when the list will be updated at the beginning of March? Thanks, Dan
Don Groves (2007-02-16 00:47:37)
I Agree...
... both for Chess and Go. Such information will give a much more accurate idea of where each player fits in on FICGS.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-16 01:14:10)
Active player list
Hello Dan.
I don't think it's a good idea to have several rating lists (many reasons to this), but I can easily add in statistics the numbers of active players. Now, after which period of time a player should be considered as inactive at correspondence time controls... 3 months is not enough IMO, some players regularly connect and ie. wait for WCH tournaments to start, 1 year is still more than the age of FICGS.
Dan Rotaru (2007-02-16 01:44:17)
Established rating list
I didn't suggest to have more than two rating list but just two: 1. First list with all the players registered on FICGS which is the actual Rating List. 2. Established Rating list (after playing at least 9 games). Once a player ends up on this list he can stay there for ever.
Marc Lacrosse (2007-02-16 10:11:57)
A suggestion
a simple suggestion : add two column to the rating list :
- one with the number of finished games on FICGS
-one with the number of running games
Your opinion ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-16 15:37:47)
More columns
These informations are available already, what Dan would like to know is how many players are "active", so I think I'll add (quite easy) in the statistics page [Menu -> About] the number of players who connected to FICGS for a period of time to define.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-16 22:56:01)
Openings
As usual, Peter plays some risky & interesting openings :) .. Do you know a name for this one ??
http://www.ficgs.com/game_8065.html
Dinesh De Silva (2007-02-17 07:33:13)
Re:
A "Schliemann" variation, isn't it?! Two of the most interesting correspondence chess players I've come across on FICGS are Peter & Krol because they play very exciting lines.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-17 18:07:31)
Gameknot vs. FICGS, other challenges
It seems GameKnot leads 5-4 in the games played here... Not bad :)
Any news about the games played at GameKnot ?
It could be interesting to discuss about other team challenges... A team tournament, matches against other servers or forums (which ones ?), maybe at different time controls or playing chess variants (chess 960) or other games (could be fun to play chess & Go, poker or anything against the same players).. with or without computer assistance and so on... It should be easier to build teams now thanks to the chat bar.
It seems there was no problem of cheating with chess engines during the match against GameKnot, that's encouraging to organize other ones.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-18 19:14:30)
ICCF champions league
Hello to all.
While looking for interesting challenges that could take place here at FICGS (ie. simultaneous games at standard time control by a FIDE / ICCF IM-GM, or team challenges against other servers), Valer Eugen Demian (ICCF) suggested we build a team that could play in the next ICCF champions league... If we can build a team, why not ?
Rules of the event (taking place on ICCF server) are here :
http://tables.iccf.com/email/ChLeague/2004/season1faq.htm
What do you think ? .. Did anyone play this tournament already ?
Dinesh De Silva (2007-02-19 01:02:03)
Re:
Valer's idea is very good. There certainly should be a team from FICGS to take part in the champions league 2007-2009 season.
Charlie Neil (2007-02-19 13:52:00)
ICCF champions league
I have played on the ICCF webserver. So, it must be an easy webserver to play on if i can manage it! I think there must be a Ficgs team! More publicity and a chance to meet more chessfriends. Unfortunately I'm not of the standard required to be in a successful team but I can stand on the "touchline" with my Ficgs scarf and shout encouragement. C'mon! Also what about challenges to those sites such itsyourturn and chessworld.net and schemingming.com. you know the ones that aren't free to play on.....
Nicola Lupinacci (2007-02-21 18:51:49)
standing suggestion
the thing i try to explain is the follow:
if you are the last player that enter in a tournament, your name in the standing is the last, also if you win or for example arrive third.
Now the question is:
is possible to see the tournament standing with the leader in the first position of the standing, the player who arrived second in the second place of the standing, etc etc?
for example, if you see FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000001, the winner is in the last position of the standing.
Is possible to see this standing with this order?:
Unger 5.5/6
Muller 4.5/6
Holes 4/6
Ghisi 3/6
Baron 2/6
Guralivu 1/6
Rattay 1/6
sorry for my bad english and thanks thibault for your time :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-21 19:10:42)
Team names ?
Here are Gino's suggestions for team names :)
- FICGS comes to ICCF for blood
- FICGS will take the gold
Quite like it... Another ones ?
What do you think about these ones :
- FICGS wazzaaa ??
- FICGS, not FICS !
- FICGS as Free Int.. as FICGS !
- FICGS doesn't like teddy bears
Samy Ould Ahmed (2007-02-21 20:31:38)
Combien ça coute ?
L'inscription coute 32 euros par équipe selon l'ajec. J'ai une suggestion pour le nom : FICGS...go! lol
Thibault de Vassal (2007-02-25 13:23:18)
Big Chess
Finally, Big Chess tournaments waiting list is open !
If you like to play without chess engines and against human players only, you may try this really interesting variant of chess. (unrated games)
Have a look at these Big Chess events by clicking 'Tournaments', then 'FICGS__CHESS__SPECIAL_EVENTS' :
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__THOUSAND_MEMBERS_EVENT
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__INAUGURAL_MATCH
Have good big chess games :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-04 12:42:37)
Building a team
Okay, it seems it could be quite hard to build a team playing at ICCF CL right now... Maybe too early yet. The entry fee may be another factor, so I hope FICGS can sponsorize a team later. Any volunteers anyway ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-06 14:27:21)
RSS feeds
Hello Nicola.
Do you have a RSS reader / News aggregator installed on your computer ?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_aggregator
Each game has its own RSS feed, you can find the link by clicking on the XML icon at the bottom of a game page, ie. http://www.ficgs.com/game_1.html
I hope it helps :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-08 19:24:29)
Scheveningen Sicilian
I'll have a look at the position. 4. ...e6 is simply correct and a well known variation : Scheveningen Sicilian. 5.e5 ? is quite bad IMO :)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sicilian_Defence%2C_Scheveningen_Variation
http://www.ficgs.com/wikichess_1954.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-09 15:11:18)
Kingston Defense !
While looking at links poiting to FICGS.com, I found this Wikipedia article and realized that one of the Kingston Defense's fathers was among us :)
http://www.ficgs.com/wikichess_3670.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingston_Defence
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gavin_Wilson
"Crack the Frutch : How to play the Kingston Defense"
.. by Gavin Wilson. ISBN 0-9514103-0-X
The opening is fully commented in Wikichess by Gavin... Quite funny :)
By the way, this opening looks interesting ! .. I just launched a thematic tournament. Thanks for all your comments in Wikichess, Gavin :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-12 15:31:09)
Major update : SSL encryption forms
Hello to all.
This is the last major update before money tournaments can start...
Now you can login through SSL encryption forms, meaning the best security to prevent hacking.
You should use SSL encryption forms only to browse the whole site with HTTPS, particularly if you wish to enter money tournaments later... It is also strongly recommended to change your password regularly (at least 8 characters, numbers & letters is best).
Thus you should always see HTTPS:// before the url after you login.
Feel free to follow this link for more advices about security & phishing :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#security
FICGS now uses SSL data encryption, hash functions and a bunch of other security features...
4 login forms is a lot but thus anyone can connect, even with browsers that doesn't support HTTPS and Javascript.
Also a few minor bug fixes and improvements, komi updated in .SGF files, reinforced hash functions, last connection date displayed in profile and so on...
All feedbacks are welcome :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-15 13:59:35)
Lightning chess games
Hello to all.
A new update, you may have seen a new category in money tournaments :
Lightning (correspondence) chess games, time control 30 minutes + 1 minute / move
I think it's a quite interesting time control for chess, it should attract more advanced chess players (or simply strong computers).. Really faster than "blitz correspondence chess".
I updated the server so that it is really easier to play fastly in these games. When you send your move, a new option will appear next to (Flip) and (Next). The link (Wait) will redirect you to the viewer page that will be auto-refreshed every 10 seconds. When your opponent play his move, you'll be automatically redirected to the "move" page to play your move and a pop-up window will appear to warn you (if Javascript is activated)...
Read more about in Time rules - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#time
Money tournaments will start on April, 2
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-16 01:14:20)
Adjudication in correspondence games
I just read the current rules again, finally it could be enough already...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#adjudications
I agree, adjudications should be decided only if the game is 100% lost, no less (but can a game be 100% lost before resigning ? :))
Sandor Marton-Bardocz (2007-03-19 15:43:51)
Leader update inacurracy
In the FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_M__000005 tournament..
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-19 23:04:58)
Blokus
Blokus was invented in 2000 by a french engineer/artist. Quite recent but it's spreading very fastly in France - at least... Great game, try it ! :)
Actually, I think it's better not to multiply the games at FICGS to concentrate on chess & Go, but it would have been great to play Blokus here... (anyway, trademarked)
Don Groves (2007-03-20 22:30:21)
Blaise Pascal
I just read that Pascal said that all of man's problems arise because we cannot sit in a room alone with ourselves. Obviously, Pascal never played chess or go on FICGS :-)
Lionel Vidal (2007-03-23 18:59:07)
Not too up-to-date article...
Computers are much better in chess now than in 1998 ( :-) or :-( ... hum maybe :-( for me...). I am not sure that a player, even J. Edwards (very good player and a good chess writer too!) could be sure anymore to CC-outplay an engine running 24h/day on a modern hardware platform. He might win, yes, but might only IMHO.
Nowadays, many CC players (most?) consider that using an engine is *not* cheating, and I am so sure that *most* sites, as said in the article, do prohibit such a use. At least it could be noted that the strongest players seem to play in ICCF (or maybe iecg ... and in FICGS of course :-)) where engines are allowed. (and this is good IMO, not per se but, as it is often recalled, because their ban could not be correctly enforced)
Anyway I am looking forward to reading the next article to use more effenciently chessbase :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-07-13 22:48:01)
Shogi in ficgs?
Hello Pablo!
Here is a discussion we've had in the past on that topic, please tell me what you think:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=4538
Pablo Schmid (2011-07-13 23:01:37)
Shogi in ficgs?
Thanks for the link, but I think there is no real conclusion. Chinese chess and Japanese are really "classical" boards games that are quite related to chess, maybe it's not a bad idea to include these games, with the hope to get more asian players for example. If you are not convinced by that idea we could do a poll in this site for the inclusion of shogi, chinese chess, both or none?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-28 15:46:28)
Droppers
I feel that for at least 3 players in this tournament the problem is they had too many games at the same time ! (FICGS + IECG + ICCF ;))
What is strange is they all came back a few months later and registered for new tournaments. This is a real problem... The best answer to this in my opinion is rating that can decrease quite quickly, some will have to fight hard to enter a class M tournament again. In some cases of course there are personal reasons, it is hard to know and that's a pity to ban such players... :/
So it wasn't a good tournament, sorry about that. Still thinking about a new rule.
Marc Lacrosse (2007-03-28 19:32:07)
You change the rules or I leave :-)
A few comments in french (sorry : easyer for me)
Deux situations distinctes se produisent :
1. Quelqu'un a mal évalué et s'est engagé dans trop de parties, ou bien a un problème de santé, ou un changement de ses possibilités de loisirs. Il décide d'abandonner un tournoi, abandonne toutes ses parties, donne une petite explication à ses adversaires et bien sûr ne se réinscrit à rien dans l'immédiat. Désagréable mais bien sûr tout à fait admissible. La moindre des choses est qu'on lui interdise de s'inscrire à quoi que ce soit tant que ce qui reste de parties n'est pas terminé (ou abandonné) et que la prochaine réinscription se limite au départ à un seul tournoi qui devra être complètement terminé avant de pouvoir à nouveau cumuler plusieurs inscriptions simultanées.
2. Quelqu'un s'inscrit à de multiples tournois et s'arrête de jouer dans ceux où il est mal parti. Il ne prévient rien ni personne et laisse son temps s'écouler. Entretemps il s'inscrit à d'autres tournois et procède de même. De temps en temps il termine un tournoi si celui-ci parait mieux engagé. Ce joueur(?)-ci est simplement un parasite, un gâcheur de plaisir et un fausseur de résultats pour ceux qui le rencontrent. Mon opinion est sans appel : exclusion pure et simple de celui qui laisse s'éteindre des parties sans aucun commentaire tout en s'inscrivant à de nouveaux tournois. Je ne vois aucune justification possible à une telle attitude.
Je comprends que certains ne partagent pas cette opinion radicale
Quoiqu'il en soit, j'estime que le minimum exigible en faveur de ceux qui ont déjà été confronté à des "droppers" est de leur offrir un moyen de ne pas se trouver à nouveau confrontés aux mêmes parasites dans un autre tournoi.
Je m'explique : actuellement si je m'inscris dans un nouveau tournoi je n'ai aucune assurance quant à l'identité de ceux qui viendront s'inscrire après moi, et je risque à donc à nouveau d'être confronté à quelques-uns de ces personnages que je suis fermement décidé à ne plus rencontrer.
Je n'accepte pas cette perspective
Dès lors, tant qu'il n'y aura pas une modification de règlement qui me permettra d'éviter qu'un "dropper" connu s'inscrive dans un tournoi où je prendrai part, je ne jouerai plus sur FICGS.
Marc
PS Pour ma part, m'étant déjà engagé dans ce tournoi qui a complètement avorté et dans un tournoi master class ICCF, j'ai renoncé à ma qualification dans le championnat FICGS pour éviter de me trouver dans l'obligation éventuelle de renoncer à certaines parties. Le moins qu'on puisse dire est que l'attitude de certains ne me récompense pas vraiment de ma prudence ...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-30 23:13:42)
Rules
Hi Wolfgang.
You can find the rules at the end of this page :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
... or just browse the waiting lists pages for a particular tournament.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-03-31 16:14:34)
Grand prix attack sac. against Caro Kann
I always look with interest the games played by Wladyslav Krol :)
We discussed last month this explosive variant with 3.Nf3!? in Grand Prix attack, now Wladyslav used the same opening against Caro Kann !
1.e4 c6 2.f4 d5 3.Nf3 ...
I found 3 results on Google about this opening, 2 come from FICGS :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_6886.html
http://www.ficgs.com/game_8263.html
http://www.chesspublishing.com/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1160671893;start=all
It would be interesting to have comments from the players for this interesting opening, out of the books at move 3... Could be a new thematic tournament very soon :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-01 00:35:38)
WCH prize fund - EUR 30,000
Hello to all.
A great news ! .. This is now confirmed just before the start of money tournaments, a german bank joined FICGS to guarantee a prize fund that just increased from EUR 2,000 to EUR 30.000 for the winner of the 2nd FICGS chess world championship !
Ads for both current sponsors will be displayed permanently in a few days on the site, thanks again to them, it will give a new dimension to this chess competition for sure ! .. Still looking for a second sponsor for the FICGS world Go championship, at the moment a japanese firm offers a prize fund of $1,500
Best wishes and have good WCH games !
Don Groves (2007-04-02 03:48:17)
Abuse
Probably it should be sent to info -at- ficgs.com (replace -at- by @ without spaces)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-05 01:58:22)
Big Chess championship
Hello to all.
You may have seen in the chat bar the idea to organize a Big Chess championship at FICGS is in the air.
It could be interesting for several reasons, the first one of course is there's no engine to help players :) .. by the way, it may be really hard to program a good Big Chess engine, it should use some Go concepts combined to a powerful chess engine (with quite different parameters).
Now there are some questions :
- What rules for a Big Chess championship ?
- What about a Big Chess rating ?
In my opinion, there shouldn't be a Big Chess rating. That's a pity, but "simple" chess should remain the main rated game here. Actually, the nature of this game (and time control) makes me think it should remain a friendly game first. However there could a championship for fun...
About the rules for such a championship, it could look like the Go championship : A two-stages tournament, first stage would be a single round-robin tournament with the 7 players who won most Big Chess tournaments (will help to promote tournaments ;)), second stage would be a 6 games match against current champion (if the final score is a draw, the current champion will keep his title).
What do you think ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-05 05:17:31)
Happy birthday FICGS :-)
FICGS started on 2006, April 5... Exactly one year ago !
How much work... I'm really happy how the server evolved, there's still a lot of work (actually there's always something to improve) but the main things are done, it is now really stable (no more major bugs) and it works "almost" by itself :)
Almost 10,000 games started this year, I predict much more for the next year ;)
Thanks to you all for enjoying it !
Don Groves (2007-04-05 07:51:16)
FICGS Birthdays
I just learned that Alejandro Suarez-Moreno's wife's birthday is also today! I think we should know players birthdays so we can send them greetings on that day. Maybe put them in each player's information. Mine is Sunday ;-)
Phil Cook (2007-04-05 21:32:45)
Bithday Wish's
Firstly: Congrats to all those people who got FICGS up-to & beyond 1yr Secondly: Happy Birthday to all this month Lastly:See my post on Easter Holiday
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-06 01:02:05)
FICGS Birthdays
Thanks Wolfgang :)
Don, birthdays are already displayed in players informations ;) .. See mine ! You just have to enter it in "Preferences".
... and happy birthday to Mrs Suarez-Moreno ! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-06 04:50:07)
Rating calculation (algorithm update)
A small (but necessary) improvement in rating calculation algorithm for chess & Go : "In case of a loss or draw against a player rated more than 350 points less, the opponent's rating considered in calculation is : Current Rating - 350"
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
In example, if a player rated 2000 loses to a player - most probably a new player helped by a strong engine - rated 1400, the rating considered in calculation will be 1650. It should help to keep ratings more coherent.
All chess results since March 1st will be affected by this change. Next rating calculation will occur on May 1st.
You can see your future chess rating (calculated on the basis of your results since last rating calculation) by clicking on the magnifying glass in "Preferences", then "ELO".
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-06 05:00:13)
Automatic login
Hello to all.
Everyone probably noticed security improvements these months. To use the SSL left form when you login is recommended for maximum security.
However, you could prefer to login faster, in this case you may bookmark the link below (working only if you use the right form & save your username and password in a cookie) :
http://www.ficgs.com/index_identify.php
https://ficgs.com/index_identify.php (SSL)
No more need to click the login button this way...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-10 21:24:09)
Rating calculation (algorithm update)
:) ... the same about FICS / FICGS, obviously ;)
It was a minor change that affects a few unlikely results and actually everyone will benefit (if you meet ie. a new player with a low provisional rating) from that change. The aim is to make the ratings most coherent only.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-11 01:20:30)
Active players rating list
Hello to all.
For information only at the moment but it will replace the current list as the "main" list, here is the active players rating list (displaying players who connected to the server these last 30 days) for chess :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=rating_list&active=1
It is about 1/3 of the members, so not bad "for a start" in my opinion.. :)
To be continued.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-11 18:21:53)
Free Lightning chess ?
I suppose FICS (not FICGS :)) / ICC do it very well already. In my opinion, FICGS should stay a correspondence chess [meaning CC time controls] server first. Money blitz & lightning games will be offered to the players who look for more excitement only :) .. thus it should be a casual spectacle, and of course the way to help the server and to provide prizes for championships...
By the way, money games should start in the very next few days. (last step with french administration :))
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-29 23:48:55)
Google searches
Statistics are always instructive, often funny :)
Recently, a few new "magic" keywords appeared to attract Googlers on FICGS website... After 'Yahoo mail problems' and a bunch of other funny ones, it seems a new chess star is born on Google :) .. "Marc Lacrosse" or "Marc Lacrosse Anand ICC" appear many times a day... Another funny one "Rybka 2.3.1 free download" or "Rybka download free" : Dear friends, Rybka is not free for download here, I'm sorry ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-04-30 22:34:37)
WCH rules
Thanks Sandor & Wolfgang for sharing your views.
As you said, there's no perfect rule for everyone, particularly in a correspondence chess championship, where time is a predominant factor. As for me, I like much FICGS rules so far because of these major points :
1) The best players have the best chances.
2) A new cycle can start every 6 months.
3) There's no external influence in a knockout tournament.
I think the lowest rated player has to prove he's stronger than the highest rated player or champion, so it's coherent in round-robin and knockout tournaments. I particularly like the special rule in the knockout tournament (stage 1, 2 & 3). I'm now playing an exciting quarter final against Wolfgang, that I'm to lose because of this rule - the winner is the player with the strongest TER is all games are draw, the player with the lowest TER if not all games are draw - even if it finishes with a 4-4 score. Simply because I'll lose most probably at least one game. I think it's fair ! .. I knew the rule (of course, I made it :)), I knew I had to draw all games or to win by one point at least. Rules are the game ! .. It's not more unfair than to draw a game with one or two pawns more ;)
However I agree that WCH round-robin tournaments should be 9, 11 or 13 players groups to give more place to chess. I'll take care of this in the next cycle.
Finally, not only rules are to be taken in consideration... To attract players, there must be a real challenge ! .. To take the title to the champion will be really hard for sure :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-01 00:57:44)
Achim's answer
Achim Mueller asked to close his account, but he wanted to respond to Wolfgang & Sandor, here's his answer :
"A last clarification:
@Wolfgang Utesch: I wasn't aware of the "ELO-prefering" rule and I still don't find it here on the webpage. I opened a thread here in this forum and besides "then win all your games" or "in this case we ensure that the better player will qualify" there were no substantial arguments for this pretty unused and unknown rule (not that I agree with these two "arguments"!). Nonetheless I accepted the rule for this tournament.
My decision to give up and leave this server is based on an easy calculation how many games I have to play here to get a - what I call - competitive rating that somehow equals the advantage, players with a nominal rating of 2200 - 2500 will have in every tournament where this rule exists. Because my time is limited my decision was to leave the server, that's all. I don't complain, I don't take anything as an excuse. It's simple as it is: I gave it a try here, became aware of the rule and decided this is the wrong place for me, ok?
@Sandor Marton-Bardocz : I didn't say with any word that you are a blocking guy. This was a _general_ thesis how the player with the best rating can take an overwhelming advantage at this ruling. All good players (ask anyone in the region of 2400up at remoteschach, dbf, iecg or iccf) will confirm that it is most difficult to get 3.5 point out of 4 if at least 2 players know how to use computers and choose certain openings.
Finally ... ficgs is a nice place to play, the interface is good and I assume Thibault put a lot of work into it. So, enjoy your games here, but also accept that from time to time there might be players that will leave because of certain issues.
Ciao
Achim"
Rules (and chess WCH rules) - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Thanks Achim. Best wishes & have good games :)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2007-05-01 19:57:43)
Rules
The rules are two clicks away: First click "Help" and then "FICGS general rules".
Are the WCH rules visible on the side of the WCH waiting list, if the waiting list is open?
Dan Rotaru (2007-05-03 00:32:46)
sb tie breaks
I believe that Garvin’s idea regarding the tie break makes sense. The higher rated player in a group is not always the best player, especially in correspondence chess where it takes time to achieve one’s real rating or players can get an established equal rating from ICCF or IECG. I also believe that games will be spectacular and exciting even with new rules. I played to win in both my games against the highest rated players in my group and wouldn’t have played different no matter the rules. In the end the rules are rules and equal for everybody so we must obey. However from the number of replies it seems that the topic is hot and maybe it is worth debating for the next WCH. I don’t want to play in the ICCF & IECG world championship tournaments because I enjoy FICGS too much :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-03 02:13:44)
Go championship cycle
1st FICGS go WCH will start in a few months, but I'm still not really satisfied with current rules :
"FICGS world Go championship is first a round-robin tournament, involving 11 players including the 6 players who won or lead most Go tournaments started during the previous year and the 5 highest rated players, among players who entered the waiting list. If more than 2 players win (or lead) a tournament with equal score, no win is granted. A win in a "pro" tournament is worth 9 "kyu" wins. A win in a "dan" tournament is worth 3 "kyu" wins. In case of equality, the next places will be taken in account.
The winner of this tournament is the challenger for FICGS world champion title. In case of equality, the winner is the player with the highest tournament entry rating (TER), If this rule can't designate a unique challenger, current ratings will be considered. If current world champion defends his title, they will play a 6 games match. In case of equality (3-3), the winner is the former world champion.
All games are played in 30 days + 1 day / move. Komi is 7.5 points. Rules for Go are chinese rules, as defined by the Chinese Weiqi Association."
Not clear enough, quite complicate and strange, even if I like the idea of a 2-stages tournament (round-robin tournament then challenger vs. champion match) and to give the opportunity to the best rated Go players to enter it without playing tournaments before... Other questions, double round-robin or not, should it be open to all players.. Feel free to suggest your ideas for a nice Go WCH cycle ! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-07 14:22:09)
Help / Rules
Fortunately, a few players who know the site quite well are always around there ;)
Hello Ida, feel free to see help - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-12 15:44:08)
Money chess and Go tournaments
FICGS money chess & Go tournaments will be open today !
At last, after the next update (in a few hours) including legal informations (home page / rules) and the 'My account' page, the money chess & Go games can start.
Players interested are invited to read rules (updated) in its entirety, particularly 04. Entry fees, 05. Prize money, 06. Warranties, 07. Money transfer ...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Feel free to discuss rules for entry fees and prizes in this thread, some points may have to be clarified yet. It's a long time I think about these rules to make them most interesting at the same time for the players and the server, according to french taxes & laws.
Of course, all free tournaments will remain free. As FICGS becomes a commercial server, the more players will enter money tournaments, the more ads on the internet so the more players :)
Time controls for money chess games & tournaments are 30 minutes + 1 minute / move (lightning), 2 hours + 2 hours / 40 moves (blitz), 30 days + 1 day / move (rapid), 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves (standard). Thematic chess money games will be played at blitz time control.
Time controls for money Go games & tournaments are 30 minutes + 1 minute / move (lightning) and 30 days + 1 day / move (standard).
Nick Burrows (2007-05-12 22:10:28)
rake
For each 100 euro ticket, ficgs takes 25 euros as a rake?
The standard poker rake for a 100 euro heads up match would be 5 euro only.
This makes it very difficult to only break even.
Thanks, nick.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-12 23:16:53)
rake
Actually, ie. for a Gold blitz game (chess) the rake is 3 E-Points for White and 0 E-Points for Black !
There are 2 different rakes, a one-time rake on money entry fees (or money prizes) and another one, much lower, on E-Points entry fees : If you play only one game (a win) and ask for a money prize, the rake is the money prize one, 25 Euros (let's call it 'money prize rake') but the more games you play before asking money prizes, so applying the E-Points rake, the more the global rake will tend to the 'E-Points rake' which is much lower.
"Money prizes have to be compared to E-Points prizes that are much higher : A win in a Gold blitz game is worth 197 E-Points, meaning the more games you play before to ask for a money prize, the less charged games are. In example, if you buy 3 Gold tickets (3 x 100 Euros), you'll get 300 E-Points, then you play 30 Gold blitz chess games (15 as White and 15 as Black) : 29 draws and 2 wins with White. Finally you have 300 - (30 x 100) + (15 x 100) + (13 x 97) + (2 x 197) = 455 E-Points. At the end, if you ask for a money prize for the last game you won, you'll get a 150 Euros money prize and your E-Points account will be 455 - 197 = 258 E-Points"
Quite complicate to visualize but as FICGS is not a casino, there's a normal value added tax on money entry fees in Europe (that's why money prizes for gold tournaments can't exceed 150 euros). This way, I think the rule is quite interesting for players who play at least 10 games... Trying to write it in a clearer way.
Ilmars Cirulis (2007-05-13 12:44:12)
Finally!
Hi, Thibault!
Congratulations! ;)
I am interested in money thematic games. :)
I can play in evenings at 6 on clock (server time).
- Traxler counterattack with white (Nxf7 and Bxf7)
- Evans gambit with black
- Latvian gambit with white (I like Svedenborg very much :) )
I offer 30 EUR money stakes. If I win I get some money. If not, then money goes to my opponent.
Can I transfer 30 EUR to FICGS account in moneybookers.com?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-13 14:04:07)
Thematic tournaments
Hi Ilmars :)
Yes, you can now transfer money to FICGS account. (see "My account")
It is not possible to choose your opening in the money thematic tournaments in waiting lists, but I can create the games handly. If you don't find an opponent, I'll play it.
Best wishes.
Ilmars Cirulis (2007-05-13 18:36:17)
Thematic money games
I transfered money to FICGS account. Now I must wait only.
I can play every day at 18 o'clock. But not two days in row. :)
If I am in FICGS at that time it means that I want to play.
Does anyone want to play it?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-15 04:02:55)
Order and colors
Of course not :) .. It is not a secret, it has been discussed before in this forum and it is explained in the rules.
I think we mustn't randomize it, no chancy factor at FICGS :)
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-05-15 12:31:37)
Fighting against Tablebases ...
... is like fighting against windmills (as Don Quichote did)! Why is is so hard for some very good chess players here on FICGS, to accept their looses, to resign and to congratulate their oppenent?
Phil Cook (2007-05-21 21:44:17)
Ilmars
1- Petrov's defence (I vs You) 2- Petrov's defence (You Vs I) 3- Traxler counterattack (I vs You) 4- Evans gambit (You vs Me) See number 2,That makes 4 games? unless 3- Traxler counterattack (You Vs I) 4- Evans gambit (I Vs You) That makes 6,what time frames are we likely to be playing? As for the money,I think we donate to Ficgs, that way our games are fun,what do you think Ilmars.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-22 15:11:04)
#6869
.. but it was probably a draw and the defense was perfect :)
This is correspondence chess... King attacks are still the best way to victory. By the way our last 4 games were a great lesson of chess for me. Thanks for that !
http://www.ficgs.com/game_6869.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-29 15:28:44)
Chess news RSS / XML
Hello to all,
Feel free to use the FICGS RSS feed for chess news (and Go news) to display it on your own website, like Centurion Chess Club does :
http://www.centurionchessclub.co.za
The RSS feed for chess news - http://www.ficgs.com/news_chess.rss
The RSS feed for Go news - http://www.ficgs.com/news_go.rss
Thibault de Vassal (2007-05-30 15:16:36)
White wins
Hi Phil, didn't you receive my email after you & your opponent called referee ?
Indeed, White wins this game. Feel free to try the Go scorer :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=score&game=9752
.. you'll see the score after removing stones s11, s17, r18.
You have to resign, sorry.
Best, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-01 17:56:58)
Final match
Hello Svante Carl, thanks for sharing your views !
I agree about the round-robin tournament, it could evolve according to the rating list...
About the final match, I have good reasons for not introducing any chancy factor in tournaments (anyway I think it's better this way), I finally agreed with players about the 5-games match but it was hard for me to consider this non symmetrical schedule... Making it different is not a problem IMO, a (2xn)-games final match with equality favourable to former champion - like FICGS chess WCH - was ok for me but 6 games may be too few, giving a too big advantage to the former winner of the tournament.
Anyway, there will be no final match in this 1st championship, it will be probably discussed again & again :)
Marc Lacrosse (2007-06-02 11:17:26)
Wch older qualification
I once qualified in WCH preliminary by winning tournament FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_20__000001 .
I then could not enroll for stage 2 due to personal reasons.
May I go directly to stage 2 of a subsequent cycle or do I have to go through qualifications at new ?
Thanks.
Marc
Khaled Toutaoui (2007-06-02 18:07:31)
just a question...
i wanna know when the Stage 2 of the 2nd FICGS chess world championship will start...im a winner of the 1st stage...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-04 03:38:43)
World Team Championship
Hello Dan.
It's been discussed already... See the last messages of this thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_294-Team-Championship.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-04 03:42:03)
answer
Hello Khaled.
Every stage in FICGS chess WCH should start 6 months after the previous one started, so it should begin during the first days of July.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-04 03:44:18)
3rd Wch
The 3rd FICGS chess WCH should start during the first days of July.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-06 05:51:55)
E-Points + 25% , affiliate links
Hello to all, now trying to promote tournaments with entry fees & money prizes :)
You may have seen in rules that there are 2 'rakes' for money tournaments, a one-time 25% and a 'rake' per tournament which is very low... From now and until september 31, you'll be given 25% E-Points more when buying E-Points through Moneybookers or Paypal (see "My account" page), which nearly cancels the main rake !
Also it is now possible to win E-Points by becoming an affiliate & helping to promote FICGS... All details in "My account" page : For each new member refered by your link on the web, you'll be given E-Points (now 0,5 per member)... Of course urls and new members are verified, but anyway it is quite easy to reach the 10 E-Points silver ticket !
There could be E-Points prizes for free tournaments (class SM & class M) soon...
It is also possible to post your websites in FICGS directory :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-06 18:10:22)
Chinese rules
Yes, we're still using Chinese rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#go
By the way I can't see any reason why it could change in future, I'm just wondering why other rules (less interesting) exist !?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-12 19:11:21)
More rating lists ?
What about more rating lists at FICGS ?
- Correspondence chess active & inactive players lists
- Blitz & lightning rating list
- Big chess rating list (class tournaments !?)
- Go rating list
Also there could be casual blitz & lightning chess tournaments with entry fee & prizes, blitz & lightning games with a tiny entry fee (no prize) and more ways to win E-Points...
Feel free if you have any comment or idea...
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-12 21:21:20)
Rating list
I think FICGS needs a rating list for active players with an established rating (more than 15 or 30 rated games) like other organizations.
Don Groves (2007-06-13 09:22:01)
Rating lists for established players
I agree with this also. Either that or remove inactive players from the current lists. If a person wants to establish an FICGS rating, let them play some FICGS games!
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-14 09:13:35)
Figlio - Schuster
...that's the first final of FICGS-WCH!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-15 17:12:39)
Online chess today
A few links to discussions at TCCMB (The Correspondence Chess Message Board) on chess servers nowadays, future of ICCF, correspondence chess [once more] and so on...
http://ancients.correspondencechess.com/index.php?topic=105.0
http://ancients.correspondencechess.com/index.php?topic=109.0
In the second discussion I tried to answer on the future of correspondence chess & chess engines :
1) Like the 'tour de France', it is impossible to organize a "bicycle race" at chess without doping today IMO. Also there are so many 'products' : Various books, databases, engines, human help.. so it seems to me that it is a non-sense to try to make it like an OTB tournament. Online chess is "motorcycle races" & freestyle, nothing else.
2) The ratio of wins does not decrease much in computer games & advanced chess (blitz), and correspondence chess games will never be all drawn IMO. We just have to follow the horizon line... Engines still have difficulties when there are 32 pieces on the board... Make the position more and more complex & critical, play Benoni structures, East indians and English openings... There will probably be more and more draws but when looking at CC 2500+ games, the ratio is still quite good. The problem at CC is mainly the style of play with humans 'humanly' trying to remain in known positions where they can win and can't lose.
'The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy', 'Opportunities multiply as they are seized' (Sun Tzu)
A solution is to make rules that motivate players to avoid draws, particularly when playing against a higher rated opponent. (ie. the rule for FICGS 8-games matches)
3) We feel that engines play almost perfect chess because of our poor human's level of play (I should say ratings)... But engines & computers have to improve a lot yet - not obvious they can do it in a more or less near future -, the horizon line is not so far, each version of Rybka wins about 30 elo points... We'll see engines at level 3200, 3300 maybe much more... (4000 ?)
4) If too many players have their CC rating between 2750-2800 in future, we can make new rules : Ratings wouldn't be calculated on the basis of each game, but on the basis of ie. 8-games matches... Then strategy would be more important & we would see rating gaps again between the best players...
Finally if I'm completely wrong, play Big Chess ;D
Dirk Ghysens (2007-06-16 04:06:23)
Not "dead man's defense"
This is not a case of dead man's defense, since the game started less than 20 days ago and they are at move 86. From international postal games I remember waiting more than 20 days for my opponent's 1st move. While it is allowed, certainly nobody can be obliged to consult 6 men tablebases. I'd also like to point out that the FIDE rules (which are mentioned in the FICGS rules) forbid a player to make disturbing remarks, and that a game cannot end by requesting your opponent to resign. Also posting such comments about ongoing games, trying to discredit the opponent, is unethical. The complainer should forfeit the game.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-16 14:00:22)
Dead Man's Defense
Well, as it is 'also' allowed not to use a chess engine or tablebases at FICGS (probably more than half players here), I suppose many players would agree with Nick & Dirk. It is not possible to completely avoid the Dead Man's defense and this is not the case here anyway. The rules say "In some cases, the game continues but the result is obvious (...) if a player doesn't want to resign and obviously last the game, his opponent may report to referee". It doesn't apply here.
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-16 15:45:46)
FICGS 3.0 , novelties & advanced chess
Dear chessfriends, the new FICGS version is installed :) ... Improvements :
- New random design (see preferences) after each login, great IMO :)
- Correspondence chess established, preliminary & complete rating lists (user mode)
- Big chess rating list
- http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_big_chess
- Rated big chess tournaments (no more unrated)
- Advanced ches rating list
- http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_advanced_chess
- Rated advanced chess tournaments (money blitz & lightning games)
- New advanced chess games category : CHESS MONEY BRONZE (entry fee 0,2 E-Point)
Advanced chess games are chess games played at Lightning (30 minutes + 1 minute / move) or Blitz (2 hours + 2 hours / 40 moves) time control. Computer assistance is encouraged. See rating rules for advanced chess, everyone gets a rating (first estimated from your correspondence chess rating) after you played your first game.
Every member now has 2 free E-Points to play 10 free CHESS MONEY BRONZE (advanced chess) games. Consequently the FICGS advanced chess server is not free of charge after this free trial.
This is a major improvement, so there will be some adjustments during the next days, particularly to reorganize money tournaments.
Feel free if you have any comment or suggestion...
Have good games :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-16 22:00:18)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Hello to all.
I'm glad to announce a new match between chess servers, that should start in about 10 days to 2 weeks. The previous match was FICGS vs. GAMEKNOT (we lost :))
The opponent is the russian server - http://www.igame.ru , an opportunity to meet new chessfriends from eastern countries :)
Here is the agreement :
1. Teams should consist of 25 players maximum (an exact number should be agreed later);
2. Number of games on each board equals 2 (one for White and one for Black);
3. Time control is 30 days + 3 days/move;
4. Leaves are provided, 30 days/year;
5. The match is played on www.ficgs.com;
6. Start date of the match should be agreed by both sides after squads are completed;
7. ICCF rules of play are applied.
In this match chess engines are allowed, it goes without saying we need a strong correspondence chess team, but anyone who wish to play may email me (or use the 'message to webmaster' form in "My account"), or just respond to this post.
Best wishes.
Edward Kotlyansky (2007-06-17 04:24:24)
Edward Kotlyanskiy
I would like to play for ficgs in this team.
Mircea Hrubaru (2007-06-17 06:59:20)
I'm in too
Hi there, that would be fun for sure. Please count me in the FICGS team (of course).
Edmilson B. Lima (2007-06-17 07:16:44)
Match
I would like to play for ficgs in this team.
Alexander Nent (2007-06-17 11:00:10)
Thibault de Vassal
I would be very happy if I could play. My rating is lagging behind (ask Nick Burrows :-) ), because I'm new at FICGS.
Christophe Czekaj (2007-06-17 11:09:49)
Ficgs team
I'm in if I'm not too weak...
Dan Rotaru (2007-06-17 13:47:10)
New tournaments
Hi Thibault, What about organizing some Swiss tournaments? I think that a Swiss for Money tournaments would generate a lot of interest because the more players participate the bigger the prize fund would be. I would also enjoy playing a Correspondence chess Swiss tournament let's say: “FICGS Annual Open Tournament”. Therefore players from different rating brackets can play against each other, apart from the WCH. Right now in the class tournaments I keep playing against few players again and again.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 01:50:11)
Translators needed - all languages
Hello to all.
Thanks to players who helped me to translate the home page to spanish, italian and deutsch already ...
I still need some help to translate it to all other languages : russian, romanian, chinese, japanese, korean... and so on !
Anyone who have some time to translate these lines can do it by clicking here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_en-ficgs_home_page.html
... then following the link to your language.
Thanks in advance !
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 02:18:32)
Translations / UTF-8
The reason why the home page can only be traduced in the FICGS wiki-encyclopedia is that it is the only part of the site (and chat bar) that accepts UTF-8 format, so ie. russian, chinese, japanese letters.
Silviu Nenciulescu (2007-06-18 05:08:15)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I will play. Silviu Nenciulescu
Wayne Lowrance (2007-06-18 05:11:24)
FICGS vs, IGAME.RU
okey dokie, I am in :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 05:41:30)
New update !
"Tournaments" page and waiting lists have been completely re-organized by time control ! (more coherent and clear IMO)
Also a new rating list : Active players list.
- Active players list displays players who connected during the last 2 months... Right now almost 700 of 2100 which is quite good IMO :)
- Preliminary rating list now displays players who finished at least 1 rated game, less than 9 rated games and who connected during the last 2 years. (which is much more interesting)
At last, the rating rules for advanced chess (blitz & lightning) have been improved. Now a fair performance bonus for Black, see rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_advanced_chess
And now, I'm going to sleep... Good night everyone :)
Michael Aigner (2007-06-18 07:42:52)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I am in!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 15:19:55)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Thanks for joining us Janos, we'll need you undoubtly :)
It will be a great match, just looking like Russian vs. The World... About 30 russian players registered these last 2 days, with several FIDE / ICCF masters (GM/IM). We need more 2300+ players !! :)
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-18 17:02:08)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Hello Thibauld, You can surely count on me, in case you might need a guy rated -2300 in your team. Anyways, good luck to you in the upcoming match. I know a lot of the igame team players; it's true that they are pretty strong, but they are as much arrogant and highbrow about their chess skills. It might stand them in bad stead in the long run. Lol!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 17:04:12)
Deutsch
Hi Wolfgang, thanks for helping !
There was a deutsch version already :
http://www.ficgs.com/home_deutsch.html
So to players from germany : Is a version better than the other one ?
http://www.ficgs.com/wiki_de-ficgs-home-page.html
Thanks in advance :)
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-18 20:51:32)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
If you want me, I'm in!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-18 22:40:11)
Big chess software
Well, FICGS :)
I hope there will never be such a software, even if I would be curious to see big chess engines playing !
Miguel Pires (2007-06-18 23:14:38)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
If you need count me in
Dmitry Mendeleev (2007-06-19 12:00:37)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Hi, guys! Nice to meet you here. Hope to play some exciting games
Viktor Savinov (2007-06-19 15:01:22)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Thibault, If you plan to win this match that it is necessary to expose structure: 1 board-2580.... 25 board-2350
Viktor Savinov (2007-06-19 15:34:04)
GM_FICGS__CHESS__RAPID
GM_FICGS__CHESS__RAPID (type : rated round-robin, time : 30 days, increment : 1 day / move) entry fee : 100 , prize : 894 Let's play in such structure: Savinov, Viktor; Atalik, Suat; Balabaev, Farit; Figlio, Gino; Sumets, Andrey; de Vassal, Thibault; Vovk, Andrey; Schuster, Peter; +1
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-19 17:57:07)
GM_FICGS__CHESS__RAPID
Hello Viktor.
Well, it would be great to organize such a tournament :) .. But GM Atalik did not connect for at least 1 year.
See active players list - http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=rating_lists
Anyway, if the other players agree, why not (prize would be inf. to 800 E-Points with 8 players)... Also I'm sure that many players would be interested to play a 2, 4 or 8-games match with an entry fee / prize with you.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-19 18:24:30)
Translations
Two ways, go to the wiki-encyclopedia home page, type 'Ficgs home page' and choose your language (Latvian) :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=encyclopedia
... or by going directly to the latvian page (with 2 letters code lv) :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_lv-ficgs_home_page.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-19 18:53:49)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
The tables will be ordered by ratings, we'll show the complete list in a few days.
Viktor Savinov (2007-06-19 19:05:58)
GM_FICGS__CHESS__RAPID
Let's wait for answers of the invited players
Leszek Tymcio (2007-06-19 19:32:24)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I would like to play.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-19 19:36:08)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Hello Leszek. You mean for FICGS team ? (you're welcome)
Leszek Tymcio (2007-06-19 20:14:05)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
FICGS team
Albert Popov (2007-06-20 07:20:00)
Hello Thibault and all!
Hello to anyone in the community! I feel like playing for the FICGS team in the match versus the Russians, if you, folks, really need my participation. Cheers, Albert
Konstantin Dudulec (2007-06-20 12:32:31)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Hi Thibault! I would like to join the FICGS team provided there is a spot left and that I´m not to weak for such a competition.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-20 15:46:39)
Players for FICGS team (by rating)
Here is the complete list of players who registered for the FICGS vs IGAME.RU match. Unfortunately, a few players couldn't play :( .. I think our team is strong enough, as rating rules are quite hard at FICGS and some ratings are still provisional.
I don't know how players will be distributed on "tables", if it's freestyle I think Wolfgang should play at table 1.
I am also surprised to see players coming from IGAME.RU or russian forums who entered FICGS team !? .. Anyway, I'm sure there are no spies :)
Thibault de Vassal (2512)
Mark Noble (2496)
Wolfgang Utesch (2466)
Albert Popov (2463)
Michael Aigner (2354)
Janos Helmer (2343)
Miguel Pires (2270)
Leszek Tymcio (2270)
Alexander Shalamanov (2252)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2246)
Silviu Nenciulescu (2194)
William Taylor (2182)
Poulerik Jorgensen (2168)
Wayne Lowrance (2124)
Edward Kotlyansky (2114)
Christophe Czekaj (2098)
Konstantin Dudulec (2084)
Polina Romanova (2000)
Dan Rotaru (1937)
Nick Burrows (1884)
Garvin Gray (1863)
Vadim Khachaturov (1803)
Janusz Kepinski (1599)
Alexander Nent (1593)
Graham Cridland (1406)
Edmilson B. Lima (1400)
Sasha Lipsits (1400)
Ilmars Cirulis (1305 ~ >2100)
Than Serd (1300)
Charlie Neil (1212)
Phil Cook (1132)
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-20 16:34:00)
Hello Thibault and all!
First of all, thanx for letting me defend the colours of FICGS Team. Oh, no, no spies on the parts the Russian players in our team. We will play fair and at our strongest. And I want to warn you that the IGAME team is really pretty strong and made of tough titled Russian players: GM, IM or GM, although they didn't feel like exposing their correct data or rating. You know, they feel they can win that match, on the one hand, and want to obtain some advantage in case we underestimate their chess strength, on the other hand. After all, honesty is not their best feature, alas. So be on guard, folks! The foe is at our gateway! Lol! Anyways, I want this match to be a fair play one and run with the ICCF motto: Amici sumus! (We are friends!). Good luck to anyone and interesting and exciting games to you! Remember, this match is a good point to win new friends over the globe behind the game of correspondence chess! Play at your strongest but bear in mind your match opponents are likely your partners in chess masterpieces than bitterest enemies. Be happy and have a fine day!
Josef Riha (2007-06-20 20:28:02)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I like to play too.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-20 22:54:33)
Internet chess
Well, the discussion with Tryfon Gavriel continues at TCCMB. As I had to explain the way I make FICGS, I copy my responses here :
http://ancients.correspondencechess.com/index.php?topic=109.15
Hello again Tryfon !
That's a very interesting discussion...
Actually I have to explain FICGS in its whole to respond :) .. To be continued for sure..
While registering a new member wrote to me a few months ago "Thanks for creating this ultimate chess challenge" or so... That's exactly what I try to do, mostly with the FICGS championship knockout & round-robin rules... Players just want challenge, that's the only assumption I start with, so I try to create interesting challenges. About the intellectual part, you're right but I'm quite sure that top level correspondence chess players still consider their game as an intellectual challenge, much more than a brute force or computer skills one. That's not the case for Advanced chess with fast time controls.
Let's take a look at the bicycle races again... The "Tour de France" is dying IMO.. because everyone understood we "don't know" if the champion is ok.. If doping was allowed (it would be a scandal for health of course), I'm sure the interest would raise again ! I think it is the same for chess & for everything else... The "Tour de France" syndrom happened in Elista with the match Kramnik vs. Topalov... It will have consequences. We need champions and we want true champions, every means are ok for this ! .. So the "engines allowed" rule is the only one possible or reasonable in my opinion.
Of course, chess & correspondence chess are changing, because these "walls" are nearer & nearer... maybe chess will die, maybe not.. The main problem is that in 1997, a super computer became World Champion... this year a "simple" computer Deep Fritz became world champion, soon Rybka on a cellular phone... :) Who is really interested to be a champion in "human category" ? FIDE world chess championship will continue to progressively lose its interest IMO...
Correspondence chess is just starting to grow in popularity and is told to be dying already. Surely correspondence chess will ask more & more time at a high level to win a few points, but it is possible to create more challenge by ie. changing the rating rules (the "design" of Elo rating system will become a problem).. Then, if it is not enough, we'll look for other challenges... It's told for years that Go (Weiqi) will replace chess in western countries... why not Big chess as the "brain only" game if there can't be doping in it.. just trying, as there's no other solution :)
A word about Poker of course, as it's probably the fastest growing game in popularity : IMO this game is at a stade like chess in year 1900, but the same problem will happen, even quicker. At a high level the game will be just more and more boring (if you wish to win real money) or chancy (in a wch tournament), or you'll have to always find weak players (well, not very challenging).
About the simultaneous exhibition against Alekhine or Capablanca, I'm not sure at all they would crush everyone at our chess servers, they are undoubtly more talented than all of us, but I feel it wouldn't be enough in all cases to win against correspondence chess style of play & knowledge accumulated for 50 years... A few players rated OTB 2000-2200 could draw against them IMO...
At last, yes I'm a fan of Sun Tzu's "The art of war" :) .. I strongly believe that correspondence chess will not die in the next few years because players will follow its principles more and more, as the only way to win ! .. Big chess follows the same principles... and Go is the most challenging game because of it too !
Tryfon, I'm not sure that we're opposite in our vision of chess ! .. Our servers have obviousy different goals, nothing more.. I do enjoy playing mad blitz games without chess engines... I just believe that the future of internet chess is "serious (engines allowed, rated) correspondence chess" on one hand and "human chess for fun (no engines, unrated)" on the other hand... The other ways look like nonsense to me.
I hope it responds.
Best wishes, Thibault
Garvin Gray (2007-06-21 01:22:46)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I don't know how players will be distributed on "tables", if it's freestyle I think Wolfgang should play at table 1.
I would imagine it will be freestyle format. How can it be any different?
Garvin Gray (2007-06-21 01:24:53)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I meant to add to previous post (damn- no edit feature, so now have to make new post).
We should play in rating order, no juggling around. That way it doesn't look like we have tried to be 'smart' and grab a few 'cheap' victories.
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-21 11:43:55)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
In one week we'll have a new (the actual) rating list and there you will see the order as Thibault has proposed.
Peter Schuster (2007-06-21 12:34:25)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
If there's still a place in the team, I would like to play.
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-21 12:48:19)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Nice, Peter would be making our team much more stronger!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-21 15:21:45)
Ratings
Yes, actually I just wanted to order the first players by their future rating. Wolfgang has made a great performance these last 2 months (future rating 2544) :
http://www.ficgs.com/players/utesch_wolfgang/history.html
Salut Sacha-Alexander :) .. C'est agréable de lire du français venu d'aussi loin ! J'avais quelques notions de russe il y a longtemps mais j'ai oublié depuis :/ .. A bientôt !
Denis Stork (2007-06-21 22:11:39)
from Russia with love
Greetings to all! So here we are, fresh new Russian players, to participate in FICGS vs. IGAME match. I'd like to give a short explanation of our "disguising identities". The thing is that mostly our names really won't say anything to you. iGame is just an amateurs' site and with the upcoming match we have a good chance to find out which material we really made of. :) So show us maser-class. And let the strongest win! :) Good night and good luck ! :)
Denis Stork (2007-06-22 10:07:59)
Donald Duck :)
I get your point. But I'm Stork on iGame as well as some other sites. So if someone interested in my past games he/she can easily look through them. I don't think Donald Duck has any finished games statistics. :) BTW, as I see, FICGS team has adopted some iGame players, so it's gonna be "FICGS+iGame vs. iGame" match. It's just a joke. lol :)
Evgeny Kopasov (2007-06-22 15:42:28)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I like to play too.
Garvin Gray (2007-06-22 16:00:54)
not happy
Got to admit, I am not pleased at the prospect of missing out on a game representing ficgs because some players have suddenly signed up from igame and are going to attempt to represent ficgs.
I think the ficgs regulars should be first picked and if there are any spots left over, they are filled with the other siters
Robert Mueller (2007-06-22 17:10:19)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
I would like to play for the FICGS team if possible.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-22 17:36:50)
Russian players or not in FICGS team ?
Well, that's very hard to decide. Actually at a first sight I agree with Garvin too, the real fun and the sense of such a match is players from western countries meeting russian players IMO, but no "rule" forbid it.
Whatever the decision, there will be deceived players :/ .. My suggestion is that all russian players who just registered at FICGS should play with IGAME.RU team but it's up to Sergey (for Igame.ru team). I'd like more opinions about this issue, also from Sergey Pligin, who organizes the match for Igame.ru
Denis Stork (2007-06-22 19:34:13)
Russians in FICGS team
As far as I know, the complectation of iGame team has been completed. Everyone who wished joined it. The rest applying for FICGS team are volunteers and they didn't intent to play for iGame initially. Well, I may be wrong, let Sergey (our captain) speaks.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-22 20:30:57)
Rybka's strength at CC time controls
An interesting poll, following a discussion at TCCMB :
http://ancients.correspondencechess.com/index.php?topic=109.msg809
Let's say Rybka playing alone, running 4 days per move (quite useless IMO) on a multi-processor computer, which rating would it/she achieve at FICGS ?
In my opinion, 2200 (with some peaks to 2300) would be great already... What do you think ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-23 06:06:29)
Chess Engine Strength
Hello Glen !
I see your point, that's quite true and a consequence is what I called at TCCMB "the extensive nature of elo rating", however rating rules are more dynamic at FICGS.. So, let's say Rybka playing the FICGS championship against players of all kinds of ratings in the round-robin cycle... Anyway 2200 is only my feeling.
I understand your views about "rybka" [correspondence] chess nowadays, even if I don't agree with it completely. I saw some of your CC games played at IECG, and it looks much more like 'good old' chess with some unusual and beautiful tactical openings than typical 'correspondence computer chess' nowadays. I do believe there will be a place in the next CC years for more weird openings like bird, king's gambit, english... Also take a look at Peter Schuster and Wladyslav Krol games here !? .. Nothing boring with them, chess engine or not :)
Also advanced chess games with fast time controls could be quite interesting to watch in future as a way to see granmaster games with chess engines avoiding blunders 'only' (ok a bit more). We don't know exactly the human part in it, but draws won't be the rule for sure.
What is "boring" at correspondence chess (not new) is that achieving a top rating take a long... very long time ! .. But this is a great challenge yet IMO.
At last, thanks for you kind words :)
Best, Thibault
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-23 07:48:30)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Nicknames are o.k., but the real name behind should be known for the opponent! Otherwise there would be an advantage on nicknames because their former games couldn't investigated. And this would be the normal process in correspondence chess (and OTB) before match.
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-23 09:53:47)
time for a different thread
maybe - but it is also interesting for the match FICGS vs. IGAME.RU, which is this threat's matter.
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-23 09:58:11)
Nicknames
...and this threat is also very important for our match FICGS vs. IGAME.RU in my opinion!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-23 18:12:34)
FICGS freestyle cup
Hello to all.
You may have noticed new changes in the waiting lists & tournaments pages. Trying to create more interesting tournaments with entry fee & prize, with different time controls.
The FICGS chess freestyle cup (I did not find a better name yet :)) will be a 6 rounds swiss tournament played from time to time (every month would be great) at a very fast time control : 10 minutes + 20 seconds / move, see the rules in the tournament page in waiting lists. All rounds will be played the same day, about 1 round per hour.
Blitz tournaments have been gathered with lightning ones under the category advanced chess lightning tournaments.
Feel free if you have any idea or suggestion !
Sergey Pligin (2007-06-23 19:18:53)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Dear chessfriends! My name is Sergey Pligin and I am the co-organizer of this match, representing igame.ru. Originally this match was planned as a friendly rivalry of 2 servers which are igame and FIGCS. The 1st one is Russian, the 2nd one is western. The main idea was to make new foreign friends. This match caused a big avalanche of interest at our server. Unfortunately, not each player can play this match for the teams consist of 25 players only. Some players of igame who are not in have decided to play for your team. I don’t know their motives, but it is their right to play for any team they are willing to play for. Their honest play is the main item to be discussed. On the other hand, several permanent players of the FIGCS have lost an opportunity to participate in this match, as, for instance, was pointed out by Mr. Garvin Gray. I sincerely wish to organize this friendly match with no misunderstanding and beg you to pay attention to Russian players whom you’d like to be in your team.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-23 19:27:53)
Startdate
Hello Sergey and thanks for this presentation :)
The startdate of the match has been decided : 2007 june 27, Wednesday.
It has been also decided, for more fun and to favourize meetings between players from different parts of the world, that russian players just coming from Igame.ru and russian forums these last days couldn't play for FICGS team. I would like to thank them anyway, I'm sorry about that but that's the way this friendly match was thought first.
All the best to IGAME.RU team and good luck :)
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-23 19:31:56)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
If you want to have a fair and friendly match so discover the nicknames of your team and show their real names! I'm not interested to play against Donald Duck or other figures of virtual life!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-23 19:39:41)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Actually, I think that only a few players from russian forums registered with a nickname... They still can change their mind, it will be very appreciated, but anyway.. their choice.
If it is a problem for some players, I can organize tables so that they play surely against a player who uses his real name.
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-23 21:15:20)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
If my opponent can't tell his real name, I will always be suspicious!
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-24 07:12:04)
Hello, chess friends!
Yeah, I've read the polemics, but don't feel like doing that, coz whatever I say would be misinterpreted by Serge & Co. Lol! I've got nothing to do with IGAME now. I've left it forever and explained the reasons behind my move on the IGAME forum. Thibault, I do respect your decision that only western-based FICGS players join your team for the match. I thaink, that is quite right to do in the current situation. Cheers, Alex
Garvin Gray (2007-06-24 08:20:06)
suggestion
If I understand the current situation, igame have already decided their 25 players and so the ones who have missed out from igame are looking to play for ficgs, which Thibault has said wont be happening.
Since it looks like ficgs will be able to allocate 25 ficgs only players, perhaps a second division needs to be created?
The top 25 from both sites still play each other, but then the ones who missed out from both sites get to compete against each other in Division B.
I believe this would help to stop igame players from trying to join ficgs with the only intention of playing in the team match.
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-24 09:55:59)
Hello, Garvin!
Nope, that's only half-truth. I've no idea of the others' motivation but my signing-up on here has nothing to do with an attempt to play versus the IGAME team. The reasons were somewhat different. I didn't come here solely to play in that match, I just love the friendly atmosphere here on FICGS. Cheers, Alex
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-24 17:58:56)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Because of dubious circumstances I resign from my promise of participation the match. Nevertheless all the best for all participants! Best regards, Wolfgang
Sergey Pligin (2007-06-25 10:13:05)
to Wolfgang Utesch
Wolfgang, it is a pity such a strong player as you are resigns playing this match for the reason you are giving up this opportunity is insignificant, IMO. Several players of our team use nicknames, but not all of them. You may play vs me. I am expected to play on 3rd or 4th board. My games are available on ICCF web server. I hope you will change your mind and play FICGS team. Best regards, Sergey
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-25 13:49:30)
Why nicks then, Sergey?
I just can't get why some of your IGAME team players use nicks instead of their real names? Are there some professional players in your team who do not want to go public on FICGS and elsewhere on the net? If so, that's all right. Otherwise it looks rather weird. Cheers, Alexander
Charlie Neil (2007-06-25 14:45:39)
Ficgs vs Igame.ru
Is this the most replied to forum in Ficgs history? Regarding nicknames so what? It's a friendly match. Amici Sumus. (And psychology in chess still can win the game before the first move!) As far as I am aware you must give your real name to the administrators on the site before you can use nicknames. So there you go. Now play the board and not the man.........Look at my rating very very low but I have fun! it's only a game.
Albert H. Alberts (2007-06-25 14:48:57)
Deep Fritz vs. Deep Junior
FICGS: Junior won over Fritz Elista 2007. Very sharp but correct remark by M.Aigner: people that bought Fritz will now want to have Junior too the FIDE-approved champ by K. Ilyumzinov= ICGA=FIDE=CHESSBASE=FRITZ(=Junior?). However: he future champ will be the program with the best BOOK with sharp novelties. The future world tournament champ will be the one who knows/WROTE this book. It is like in cycling: you can have a great "bike" (chess engine) but to win the Tour the France you still have to peddle. That champ/novelty finder/writer/head player can be one and the same person. Great news for the sport I think.The new "Fischer" will come. Albert H.Alberts, www.howtofoolfritz.com
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-25 15:25:58)
Ficgs vs Igame.ru
Undoubtly the most replied in this forum :)
I think that's not so important matter. A few IGAME.RU players registered with other names and were honest by admitting it. Of course a few players here used nicknames before that, that's not a big deal and that's internet chess. The only way to be sure (actually that's wrong, I saw some cases a long time ago in team championships) of your opponent's identity is to play over the board.
Finally, if some players in IGAME.RU team use nicknames, let's say that's a small advantage we give to them :) .. On the other hand, we play at home !
Not a big deal... really.
Amici sumus !
Robert Mueller (2007-06-25 16:57:08)
Ficgs vs Igame.ru
With all the discussion about nicknames we seem to be a bit off topic: when does the match start and who is playing?
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-25 17:48:40)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Let me explain – I don’t want to have any exception rules for me! It’s a principle thing: about 35 years ago I played some few correspondence chess tournaments by postcard (naturally with my real name). After a long period of abstinence (since 1999) I played correspondence chess by Email (IECG/Playchess-Server and ICCF/ICCF-Webserver) – new transport medium but with old real name. So everybody can see my chess history: I’m standing (with my real name) to all my many bad or neutral games as same as to my some very good chess performances. I’ve always used tools (first just books and later also engines), but I’ve always played my games alone (without help by any other person). I think there are many other players with FICGS (i.e. Peter Schuster, Hannes Rada, Harry Ingersol or others more) who have done it similar like me. In contrast, if DONALD DUCK wins and has played a very good game, he likes it to say his real name, if he loses or has played poorly, he is just staying DONALD DUCK. He wouldn’t have to fear to disgrace himself, but there is a real chance for him to gleam! Sorry, but this is not my idea from a friendly match between two serious teams.
Garvin Gray (2007-06-25 18:53:46)
next rating list
Robert Mueller (2007-06-25 16:57:08) Ficgs vs Igame.ru With all the discussion about nicknames we seem to be a bit off topic: when does the match start and who is playing?
I believe that the ficgs team will be confirmed once the new rating list is released on July 1st.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-26 04:25:48)
Recently Completed Games
If you did not uncheck the email notification box in Preferences, public comments written by your opponents are sent to you by email, so you can't miss it.
Anyway, here is a way to see your games :
http://www.ficgs.com/players/tamayo_thomas/games.html
Wolfgang Utesch (2007-06-26 16:06:08)
Ratings
The discussion of ratings is very problematic. Ratings on different sites are depending on different premises. What entry level was accepted? How long did you playing there – how often? How much thinking time did you spent per move? Is the basic rating you earned over years to be caused by old tournaments with postcards (maybe without any help of engines – and your opponents did it the same way)? How much care did you spent ratings (i.e. Norm tournaments?!)? Are you a member of the exclusive cycle of an organisation, getting invitations to closed high-level rating tournaments? Engines (also Rybka) are playing own styles and it depends on whether you can play better or worse against their special styles (knowing their potencies and weaknesses). Old fashioned players (independent from their ratings) will have much more problems to win or to hold draw against engines than players which have positioning themselves at actual situation. In my opinion today Rybka alone with one week thinking time per every move without any other help will reach a rating of about 2.400 at FICGS SM-tournament with an average rating of 2.450. In an ICCF anniversary tournament (average rating of about 2.600) same Rybka under same conditions will reach a rating about 2.550. I for myself wouldn’t play longer correspondence chess, if I would have the feeling that any engine is playing better without my command. How long will it still take? My engine handling is not in this way, that I am waiting for longer times which move is offer by the engine. I have own ideas and I’m trying their possibilities, investigating positions in depth over many moves in all directions. But sometimes engines have the better ideas and I have to accept this!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-26 16:48:10)
Real names (the end ?)
Even if I'm a bit more moderated, I quite agree with Alexander & Wolfgang. Anyway, everyone can feel it his way, so no need to continue this discussion IMO... Rules at FICGS just try to gather people and make a friendly place.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-27 04:02:55)
DMD / DMA : Dead Man's Attack :)
You know the DMD - Dead Man's Defense... but do you know the Dead Man's Attack ? :))
Dinesh opponents may know this "funny" situation, but this time I prefered to wait the next rating calculation... Sorry Dinesh, I hope you did not sacrifice your sleep this last month (sure not) ;) .. Quite strange anyway, I'm curious to understand.
http://www.ficgs.com/game_2931.html
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-06-27 14:52:24)
Ficgs vs Igame.ru
I am looking forward for this match, of course as a humble spectator. Maybe we should have cheer leaders ...
Garvin Gray (2007-06-27 17:29:49)
top 25
I would just like to know who are the top 25 players that will be representing ficgs.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-27 21:18:36)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU, the games
Hello to all.
The friendly match between FICGS & IGAME.RU teams just started :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_IGAME_RU_MATCH.html
I'd like to thank Sergey Pligin for organizing this match and all players who registered to play. I apologize to the players who couldn't play :/ .. 25 boards was not enough this time. To build FICGS team I selected players with the highest ratings but one cause his rating should be clearly >2000 already. Also IM Mark Noble plays at table 6 because his opponent is another FIDE IM.
I wish good games to everyone, this is a great opportunity for us to meet russian chessfriends.
Amici Sumus !
... quote of the day : "Top boards make the show, last ones win matches." :-)
Here are the complete teams :
FICGS :
1. Thibault de Vassal # 1
2. Michael Aigner # 139
3. Peter Schuster SM # 323
4. Janos Helmer # 47
5. Miguel Pires # 83
6. Mark Noble IM # 1991
7. Leszek Tymcio # 2151
8. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff # 142
9. Silviu Nenciulescu # 1319
10. William Taylor # 1232
11. Poulerik Jorgensen # 940
12. Wayne Lowrance # 135
13. Edward Kotlyansky # 1140
14. Christophe Czekaj # 1193
15. Konstantin Dudulec # 1329
16. Robert Mueller # 1233
17. Josef Riha # 157
18. Dan Rotaru # 1394
19. Garvin Gray # 1363
20. Nick Burrows # 1643
21. Vadim Khachaturov # 1078
22. Daniel Khayman # 1032
23. Gaetano Laghetti # 138
24. Alexander Nent # 1411
25. Ilmars Cirulis # 533
IGAME.RU :
1. Sumets Andrey, Member # 2137, GM
2. Pljusnin Ivan, Member # 2147
3. Pligin Sergey, Member # 2189
4. Doinikov Owl, Member # 2191
5. Romitsin Nikolay Sergeevich, Member # 2159
6. Vovk Andrey, Member # 2144, IM
7. Yunusov Adkham, Member # 2124
8. Pavlikov Andrey Nikolayevich, Member # 2157
9. Leskiv Miroslav, Member # 2133
10. Domanov Dmitry, Member # 2130
11. Kragujevcanin Stole, Member # 2148 12. Silkin Aleksey, Member # 2198
13. Orlov Sergei, Member # 2207
14. Kim Vladimir, Member # 2139
15. Gerasimov Vladimir, Member # 2190
16. Larin Igor, Member # 2193
17. Zarullin Ivan, Member # 2203
18. Filimonov Evgeny, Member # 2176
19. Pezikov Evgeny, Member # 2174
20. Stork Denis, Member # 2180
21. Mancubov Boris, Member # 2156
22. Ilyuschenko Yury, Member # 2168
23. Prokopenko Alex, Member # 2182
24. Basiliev Iouri, Member # 2205
25. Shpakovsky Alexander, Member # 2185
Edit : There was a mistake while building the games, I had to make a replacement at board 23.
Dan Rotaru (2007-06-28 03:30:01)
IGAME team
Apart from Member # can the ratings be revealed for each player: IGAME rating, FIDE / ICCF ratings if available? It would be fair at least to know the strength of our oponents. The rating registered on FICGS for some players is provisional and it doesn't tell anything. IGAME players have free access to this information so it has to be reciprocal.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-28 04:07:04)
IGAME team
I don't think IGAME team has to provide more information... The match started, once more that's internet chess, we have to accept this part of uncertainty. You may search ratings for players mentioned above (using their real name), but anyway IMO at least 1 player (not me :)) in FICGS team does not use his real name too, moreover a few players in our team still have a provisional or under-estimated rating... Any player can start with a 1600 rating here if he does not mention his FIDE rating, so the same for IGAME players. This is part of the challenge, so let's just play :)
Alexander Shalamanov (2007-06-28 08:35:41)
FICGS Chess World Championship
Hello dear chessfriends, I regret to inform all of you that, due to lack of time because of my involvement in the Russian Team Cup Final and a lot of time needed to analyse my remaining games there, I find it utterly impossible to play in the global championship on this server. I have to make this move reluctantly, but the circumstances are above me. I might return back later when I have more free time. Hopefully, you will understand why I took this decision. Amici sumus! Alexander
Vadim Khachaturov (2007-06-28 22:44:14)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Dan, Your opponent uses nickname filler on IGAME.RU. His rating is 2241. One of the lowest in their team.Here is his stats : win 18 draw 8 lost 1.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-28 23:24:29)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
You can find our opponents nicknames at IGAME.RU on this page :
http://www.caravan.ru/~stork/zoo/matches/ficgs.htm
Dan Rotaru (2007-06-29 00:20:31)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Thanks Vadim, My opponent already provided me this information which is very nice of him. So let's forget about all the fuss in this thread and let's play some good games.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-06-29 20:29:49)
van Oosterom
The rumour is quite logical... Hard to avoid it, anyway we'll probably never know about it. By the way, if "teams" are not allowed at ICCF, any kind of help is allowed at FICGS. That's "blindfold" correspondence chess.
Charlie Neil (2007-06-30 09:26:19)
Cheering on Ficgs!
Hi, go to Tournaments, then Special Tournaments, then Ficgs Special Events and there is the Ficgs vs IGame match. There is one King's Gambit already! This is brave play in a strong match or not? Who needs sites covering matches and tournaments elsewhere when we can stay here and cheer on our own players against this strong team. "C'mon Ficgs! Check every move twice and again before sending. Take your time. Good luck!" Unfortunately we cannot pass comment of any kind on any of the games in progress. Rules forbid it...There must be somehow home advantage can count.
Amir Bagheri (2007-06-30 14:02:02)
Newsletter and Blog Recruitment
I am trying to set up a Newsletter. This would be an excellent way to spread news amongst ourselves. This newsletter targets primarily The Chess corner Members however I would like to create a column dedicated to the FICGS Members a bit like a gossip page or anything that you would like to share. This Newsletter will be distributed to all my members and to FICGS Member that wishes to receive it To do so I require help from you all we are actively looking for 1) writters 2) editors 3) researchers 4) Designers To express your interest, please go to www.chesscorner.com and fill up the application form. For those of you wiling to help us please bare in mind that I will create a forum where you could share ideas and opinion it is therefore essential that you register on The Chess Corner. All authors will be acknowleged and credit will be given. If you want to help but reckon that a Newsletter maybe a bit out of your league, we are looking for some enthusiasts to look after the Blog. The Blog Regards Amir Bagheri (GM) PS I welcome all comments http://www.thechesscorner.com http://thechesscorner.blogspot.com/
Amir Bagheri (2007-06-30 14:29:54)
hi
Yes I have been rather buzy... i hope that FICGS members will relish the possibility to have a column in my Newsletter
Victor Dolganiuc (2007-07-08 08:17:18)
FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP
When starting?
Sergey Pligin (2007-07-08 19:16:04)
Link
Dear chess friends!
You may view all games of the match (scrolling is available) at:
http://igame-ficgs.styleindustry.ru/
All the games are renewed every 5 minutes.
Charlie Neil (2007-07-08 21:50:52)
Link
Thanks and very nice the link is too! There are aa few games which I am watching, (and cheering on the Ficgs team) and of course I can't pass comment on any of them as it is against the rules and would be bad manners.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2007-07-09 17:40:17)
FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP
Thibault will be back home tomorrow, so the wch will start in the (tuesday) evening !
Garvin Gray (2007-07-09 17:46:17)
Norms and titles
How do players achieve norms and titles at ficgs? What tournaments do players have to compete in to get norms and titles at ficgs?
Thomas Tamayo (2007-07-10 00:05:19)
I play Real Life games
I mostly play IRL at clubs and tournaments. I need to drive about an hour for a quarterly tournament in Boston. I used to play on KGS, Dragon (PBM), and Little Golem (PBM)... they're all blocked at work now (no lunch playing) and I don't have a lot of free time at home. So I also play a lot at FICGS.
Andrew Stephenson (2007-07-10 11:11:52)
FICGS Data base of Games
Is there a searchable database of games on FICGS? How can I search for games by a particular player? Compliments to Thibault on an excellent site.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-07-11 14:29:13)
Norms and titles
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
.. true, the formula should be fully explained too.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-07-13 13:53:11)
A certain email chess website
Hi Dinesh... May I not know this chess website ?!
Maybe a chance to remind to everyone all chess servers & sites which organize a "correspondence chess world championship" ? .. That could help, without naming it :)
ICCF, FICGS, IECG, ... ?
Dinesh De Silva (2007-07-13 14:31:34)
Re:
In my opinion, the best chess websites include FICGS, IECG & ICCF, all 3 which I enjoy playing in & where I've never had problems regarding tournaments. Lets hear from other players which good chess websites they enjoy playing in & can recommend.
Ilmars Cirulis (2007-07-24 02:21:03)
Second possibility...
... is to get to next stages of FICGS championship and meet him. I will try.
Thank you for adding more merriment in my life, Jason. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-07-26 12:20:45)
FICGS chess WCH waiting list
Hello Andrey.
This is a WCH cycle tournament. You were registered, see the FICGS chess WCH waiting list.
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-07-31 00:02:27)
WCH tournament GROUP M 01
Hello Andrey.
Sorry, rated tournaments rules are quite hard (no withdrawals) but it applies to every player. It would be hard to keep this server free otherwise.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#withdrawals
Best wishes, Thibault
Polina Stefanova (2007-08-02 16:13:21)
Threatened to kill the person
...in Moskow.
Unfortunately I inform, that --- [moderator : name deleted] from Ukraine promised to employ killers and to kill in Moscow the strongest chess player Igame - Sex God (2 place in rating Igame).
Sex God should play for command Igame against ficgs on the third board.
Sex God was against participation --- [moderator : name deleted] in match Igame – ficgs, because he supports addicts and played for a command which captain is the sick person and addict R2.
In Russia against a narcotism, including this illness a harm, however the command headed by addict R2, exists on Igame till now :(
As a result captain Igame, being afraid for a life and health Sex God has been compelled to exclude Sex God from a command.
Best wishes, Polina Stefanova (the leader of rating Igame)
Ivan Pljusnin (2007-08-03 14:06:28)
My offer
I offer to play some interesting chess matches between strong igame player Sex_God and his enemies.
1. Sex_God - --- [moderator : name deleted], his would-be killer.
2. Sex_God - Sergey Pligin, who did not let him play in the igame team because of the conflict with --- [moderator : name deleted].
3. It is also interesting to see the match Sex_God - some strong player from ficgs. If Sex_God had stayed in the igame team, this match would have already started.
Best wishes, Mobutu (on igame) aka Ivan Pljusnin (here)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-06 13:39:42)
Search by opening
Hello Andrew.
Did you try to enter a line ie. 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 .. or.. e4 c5 Nf3 d6 ?
By name or ECO, feel free to try this link :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_openings.html
Garvin Gray (2007-08-07 18:32:38)
Challenge game
I would like to make some arrangements to play a game of FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000002 if someone is interested. Please just reply to this post to start arranging a time.
Ivan Pljusnin (2007-08-10 01:06:34)
2 Dinesh De Silva
As an IGAME player I express my opinion. Everything is not so simple!
1. Some strong chessplayers like Morozevich on ICC would not like to show their real names. Should they all be driven away from all chess cites? I am not sure. :-)
2. Your rating-leader is Viktor Savinov, he have not played a single game here. Our rating-leader is Polina. Are you sure that they should be the captains of our teams?
3,4. Legendary chessplayers like Viktor Kortchnoj or Bobby Fischer are sometimes abusive. But I am not sure that they should be driven away.
5. There is no any titles on IGAME. We are anonymous Russian amateours.
In general, I think that chess cites of all kinds are necessary and useful. And a chessplayer must have a choice: FICGS, IGAME, ICCF, GAMEKNOT, PLAYCHESS.DE, CHESSHERE and so on. Each cite has its own customs and traditions.
By the way, it makes matches between them more interesting. I believe in IGAME anonymous fighters. :-)
Best wishes, Mobutu (my IGAME nickname)
Charlie Neil (2007-08-10 19:06:19)
Real Names
"Play the board not the man!" Is that not an old proverb? I play on another site, (or two) under a nickname. Chess should be fun and then a serious sport/game/art/science, Morozevitch and those like him play on those sites for 'fun'. And they relish the anonymity. Every large tournament will see a corner occupied with players having 'fun' blitz games between rounds. Legends such as M Tal, Karpov even Fischer had their 'fun' games. (Sorry for calling Tolya a Legend, but he is a living legend.) We all come here for our own reasons but mostly to play chess, (and Go) We know when we sign up here it must be on our real names. What's the problem? Some Websites charge a Fee, ICC for example. Ficgs doesn't.
Artur Saigakov (2007-08-10 08:25:15)
re
The players of FICGS correctly react on a situation and not added on provocation. Prosecutions toward --- [moderator : name deleted] look funny and child.
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-08-10 13:50:37)
re
In the future there will be three kind of nations: territorial nations like the ones we have now, corporative nations, like big firms , microsoft for example, and cyber nations with FICGS and IGAME being two of them. So, FICGS could offer refugee status to Sexy God and try to extradite --- [moderator : name deleted]...
Ivan Pljusnin (2007-08-10 14:29:54)
IGAME and FICGS are cyber-nations?
It sounds very promising. I guess, the most respectable citizens are Fritz, Shredder, Rybka and some other engines who have dual citizenship. :-)
If FICGS intends to extradite --- [moderator : name deleted] please do it after he finishes his match games. :-)
--- (2007-08-10 22:34:03)
to Thibault de Vassal
Hello, Thibault. 1) Thibault, I am a professional chess-player. I do not have a necessity to put to death anybody! :-) You can talk with a captain is Sergey Pligin – he will confirm. You can talk with the administrator of site http://igame.ru/ – Dmitriy Matrosov – he will confirm. You can talk with the representatives of Chess Federation of Ukraine – they will confirm also! I only want to play a chess - on Your beautiful site! Do not I know, who such Sergei Ivanov!??? Do not I know, who such Polina Stefanova (or Romanova)!??? It is obvious impostors which have the fictitious names. I only want to notarize these people, that I am a chess-player, in place of killer! --- [moderator : name deleted] gets victories in chess games, and does not kill people! :-) 2) Do not I understand also, what these people want от the site of http://www.ficgs.com/? Did they create this theme, to slander me? It seemed to me the page of humour at the beginning. But I see that it tired me already. I ask you to take measures! thanks a lot
Ivan Pljusnin (2007-08-12 01:41:19)
2 Andrew Stephenson
In fact there is a database of IGAME games in pgn format, about 400000 games. Formally speaking, it is not free: you have to register and buy membership and then you can download it. But somewhere it can be downloaded for free, I remember. If you wish I can give you a link, but I have to find it.
Our administrator does not send our games to MEGA Corre or any other chess databases, I am sure. From this point of view FICGS is much better.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-12 16:17:18)
Contest : Your best quotes !
Once more it would be funny to add new quotes from FICGS players to the site... Feel free to create your own quotes and submit it in this thread ! .. The best ones (best play on words, most funny and so on...) will be displayed [with names] with the famous ones !
Have good quotes :)
Marc Lacrosse (2007-08-13 11:53:27)
(Unfair) partial withdrawal
A few weeks ago IM Andrey Vovk had a discussion in the forum with Thibault regarding the fact that he did not wish to play in the new WCH although he had formerly enrolled on the waiting list.
As Thibault confirmed that he had to play in tournament FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_M_01__000003, IM Vovk announced that he would forfeit all his games in this tournament.
That's what he seemed to do for more or less 30 days as he let his clock run and so lost five games on time.
Then he seemed to change his mind and began to play in his three remaining games where his flag had not yet fallen.
Although I admit that anybody may decide to play or to resign whenever he wishes, this seems a bit problematic in a qualification tournament : five players got a full point whereas three have to fight one more opponent (and presumably a very strong one)...
For what regards myself I am very happy to play a game against IM Volk but I feel that three of us have not the same chances anymore as the five other ones for qualification ...
I think this situation calls for establishing new rules for qualification tournaments : if a player clearly forfeits a given number of games, then all his games in this tournament should be withdrawn.
Your opinion ?
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-13 16:46:22)
:)))
Is "pig" offensive in your opinion ? :)
Reminder : "The site reserves the right to terminate any account or decline or limit your participation in any site activity for any reason, including, but not limited to, harassment of other participants, posting of offensive material, making libelous statements, or any breach of the terms of the agreement between you and the site."
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#membership
Wayne Lowrance (2007-08-13 18:37:13)
General comments
Hi all. I really enjoy playing here at FICGS. It is really one of the best places for CC. Recently there has been a lot of junk discussions, accusations and unfriendly talk. Only in the last couple of months I guess. Some preety bizzare talk. I hope it gets cleaned up and I feel confident that Thibault has taken notice and does not approve. On the recent post of "unfair withdrawals". My opinion is that players games should be forfeited across the board in a situation like this. Just my thoughts. I really like this team concept. I am enjoying playing very much. I expect to get our team 1 1/2 points. Those of you who might be interested please check out game number 11987. It is/was really loaded with threats and tactical chess right out of the get go. I cannot and should not comment about it now, but will at its conclusion, I think some of you will get a kickout of it. :) bfn Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-13 18:46:54)
General comments
Thanks for sharing your opinion about these issues, Wayne :)
About the partial withdrawals in WCH tournaments, a problem is to define what is really "unfair" or not, how to avoid possible cheating and how to avoid human decisions as far as possible. A big deal for sure...
Main thread - http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=3461
Garvin Gray (2007-08-13 20:51:16)
further information
Let me think about it and I will get back to you. I do think that I am on the right track though.
My train of thought had been that in most round robin competitions, if a person withdraws from the tournament before they have played 50% of their games, all their results are wiped for the tournament and the tournament is decided with one less participant.
Secondly, if a player does not appear at the board within one hour of the starting time, they lose (fide otb rule), so I had just extended that to a ficgs equivalent, which is timing out.
As has been said by Marc, Vovk did not play in any of the five games that he timed out in, so he did not 'appear at the board' so to speak.
Thirdly, ficgs does not rate games which last less than ten moves.
What I had done was combined these three areas into a quantifable rule that is 'easy' to enforce.
I was specific about saying 50% or more, instead of over 50%, because all the tournaments here have odd numbers, so each person potentially players an even number of games in each tournament.
This all being said, I think it really only applies to the World Champ sections and maybe to norm tournaments.
Don Groves (2007-08-14 02:16:17)
General comments
Is it possible to write a rule that has no loopholes? There will always be those few misguided souls who will find a way to violate the spirit of a rule while staying within the letter of the rule. They inhabit all segments of society. We can only do our best and hope that FICGS is not cursed with too many of them. IMHO, trying to write bulletproof rules will lead to much complexity, confusion, and even more dissatisfaction.
Ivan Pljusnin (2007-08-14 23:32:50)
:-)
By the way, Andrey Chikatilo was the first name of Sex_God on FICGS. Then he had to change it because it was too famous. On another forum he used a photo of our "chessplayer" Pichushkin as his avatar. So this topic will please him, I think ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-15 23:48:05)
Transferring e points
That's not possible, sorry :/ .. FICGS cannot be a bank, or make bank transfers...
PS : But it is now possible to make a bank transfer to buy E-Points.
Garvin Gray (2007-08-16 03:08:50)
not a bank
What, ficgs isnt a bank. I cant believe it. I thought this was a bank site and chess was offered an additional extra lol.
I have a 20, can you change it for 4 5's thanks :P
Ulrich Imbeck (2007-08-18 02:04:15)
Individual games possible?
Are here on ficgs.com individual games without a tournament possible?
Charlie Neil (2007-08-19 16:56:18)
Draws and wins
Hello Everyone. I have just checked my chess rating and win/loss/draw ratio. I haven't 'won' that many games. The vast majority are 'time-outs' as my opponents silently withdraw. Well, that's how it is at the bottom of the table. Are there a lot of 'time-outs' elsewhere on Ficgs?. You can expect that in a free site and players do go for whatever reasons. But my number of draws, 6, I think. Very low. I don't engage in chats with my opponents very much, just because I can barely concentrate on the game. anyway the question(s) is(are) why so few draws? Are Ficgs players so good?
Graham Wyborn (2007-08-26 09:44:13)
New Icon?
I notice that the "FICGS" icon has changed from a black crown to a red letter "T" underscored with a broad blue line. What does this new icon stand stand for and mean?
Ulrich Imbeck (2007-08-27 01:48:36)
Go-Endgame at ficgs-GUI
At an Go-Endgame someone begins to pass. How can i pass here at the ficgs-GUI?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-27 02:27:07)
Go-Endgame at ficgs-GUI
Hello Ulrich.
This is the current message displayed before to enter a Go tournament :
"Rules for Go are chinese rules, as defined by the Chinese Weiqi Association. Both players must play until one resign, both players pass (then resign or call referee) or game is adjudicated. It's up to the players to discuss the score at the end of the game, so calling referee should be exceptional. Scoring method is area scoring with chinese counting. Positional superko rule apply, it's impossible to repeat a previous board position ('incorrect move' message would be displayed). Please note that you can pass, just entering 'pass' [then push 'move' button and 'confirm' your move] but one player has to resign or call referee to end the game."
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-29 14:15:49)
Correspondence Chess without computers ?
Hi Christophe !
I still don't believe anymore in this human-only correspondence chess, maybe that's why we play Big Chess ;)
But we could create a new unrated category in Chess Special Tournaments : FICGS__CHESS__NO_ENGINES_TOURNAMENT__000001
I'm not sure... Anyone interested ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-30 16:05:11)
Without chess engines
It has been discussed here in the past, including this thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=2094
Letsplaychess.com, Itsyourturn.com, Gameknot.com and other chess servers & organizations offer correspondence chess games without chess engines, simply by 'forbidding' it...
We'll see, I will create a new unrated category (probably next week).
Best wishes, Thibault
Ulrich Imbeck (2007-08-31 00:47:59)
Go-Endgame at ficgs
Are you the referee, Thibault?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-08-31 09:24:51)
Go-Endgame at ficgs
Yes... Until now, I am the only referee at FICGS. (fortunately, this is not much work :))
Marc Lacrosse (2007-08-31 22:19:17)
Wayne Lowrance won one for FICGS !
He did it !
First full point for FICGS !
Go FICGS, go !
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-01 00:38:30)
My favourite quote...
... from FICGS chat :)
devassal thibault : Ilmars discovered sleep :) .. Good night !
cirulis ilmars : I was in very interesting chat with girlfriend...
devassal thibault : Oops.. I was wrong... :>
devassal thibault : lol !!
Garvin Gray (2007-09-01 07:14:59)
Site unable to load, timing out
Just 'finished' a blitz silver game with Ilmars Cirulis.
Had four minutes remaining on my clock and five moves to make to the time control, when ficgs would not load on my browser and kept timing out.
I am not happy about this situation because this has resulted in costing me e-points (money) through no fault of my own.
It is not my fault that the site kept timing out.
I am not sure what remedy there is for this situation, but I really dont feel like I should be out of pocket financially through a site fault and not my own fault.
Christophe Czekaj (2007-09-01 12:43:09)
Free of chess engine
Thanks Thibault for reconducing me to this past forum. Very interesting. The part about "real" elo and correspondance elo is edifying. I know correspondence players could have a huge better elo than their real life one (if they have any) : more time to think, no stress, no pressure (or less) but I believe players who play without engines have a coorespondence rating approximately equal to their over the board one. Personnaly, I play coorespondence chess to try new opening, to train generally since I cannot play over the board so often since 2 years. I often play from the office, wtih sometimes a couple of minutes on a move, or sometimes I go home with the moves to think about my response in over the board conditions (30 minutes maximum on one move). My correspondence elo is around 2000 (with a good start with a peak to 2098, but declining since ;-D) and my over the board rating is now 1990 (with a peak to 2040 last year, and a rapid elo around 2100). So I sometimes feel a bit fed up with playing against chess engines, notably, but perhaps I'm wrong I have remarked that since I got an advantage, often opponents defend very very well, like computers in fact. Ok it's part of the game, and I know t could be a good training, fight hard to win a game, display a good technique, etc. but it could be disappointing to have the impression of play with a human opponent and have to finish with an another, i.e. the computer. Perhaps could we compare over the board elo, with correspondence elo to know if there is computer help or not ? Anyway, a special category of tournament will be great, and I'm eager to play with other ficgs "OTB-correspondence" players.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-02 14:21:35)
China, chess and Go champion ?
The match between chinese and russian chess teams just ended in Nizhniy Novgorod. Both russian men and women teams lost to chinese by, respectively, a 24.5-25.5 and 23-27 score. Finally, China beat Russia by 52.5-47.5 points.
More details - http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=4084
Chess seems to be much less played than Xiangqi in China, the chinese are probably able to take the crown in every board game, soon a chinese world champion for chess ? Practice, practice and practice... Their only secret ? :)
... or was the russian team simply not strong enough ?
Still waiting for more chinese friends here at FICGS, but internet seems to have its own limits too :/
Garvin Gray (2007-09-02 16:07:37)
FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000002
Is there anyone who would like to make some arrangements for a FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000002 game?
Viktor Savinov (2007-09-03 12:27:34)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001
Two months tournament FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001 is not formed. Perhaps, to lower a rating of the admission up to 2490-2470? To admit in tournament of GM FIDE & GM ICCF, having put them a conditional rating 2500? Perhaps, to dispatch players personal invitations?
Christophe Czekaj (2007-09-03 12:53:52)
no chess engines
Hello Thibault, I play here without chess engine. Anyway, recently I tried to play "hippopotamus defence", (with no good result yet, I have to admit) so a computer is no use, it doesn't understand anything, but perhaps it's hippopotamus which is wrong, not the computer ;-D. Anyway a difficult defence in correspondence play). I began on this site with 2000, and so my elo was too high to play against human only ? I don't see how it's possible a sofware detect computer use ? Ok we see strange, computer-like moves sometimes, but... Perhaps two players, at the beginning of the game can agree to not use computer. Again about chess engine, I use a computer to record the moves (chessbase),to gain time, and replay fast the moves to get to the actual position, but my chess engines (an old fritz (5) and chess tiger (14) all that on a old PC) would certainly suffer a lot use against more recent chess engines ;-D Like Philip, I like to play on ficgs and it would be nice to plmay against more human opponent. I play one tournament on itsyourturn since last year, and I saw a lot more human mistakes than on ficgs. So, how explain it, I sometimes feel more comfortable on itsyourturn, but still I do like the spirit of ficgs, match against RU, the tournaments, forum, nice people to meet on the board, and so on
Philip Roe (2007-09-03 18:59:27)
CC without engines
Thibault, Christophe, All I did was to pass on that ICC CLAIMS to be able detect computer use. They dont say how they do it. Maybe they are just bluffing, or maybe they have an algorithm that kind of works and they dont want people to work around it by knowing how it works. The reason I dont use engines is because I want to take full credit for any wins I get. I can imagine using an engine and telling myself that I will just use it to prevent oversights. But I cant control what the engine will tell me. It might recommend a move that tells me that I am planning to attack the wrong target. If I then switch plans and win, what is left for me to feel proud of? But I can understand that others may feel differently, and there is much to be said for a site where everything is allowed because it gets around the issue of making a rule that is certainly very hard to enforce. But just because that rule does not exist on FICGS, it seems to me that if somebody on FICGS says that they are not using an engine, then you can probably believe them. The problem with other sites is that if a player with an umimpressive rating fires back a series of accurate moves very quickly in a difficult situation then you suspect that he is using an engine (although he promised not to) and there is not much you can do about it. If the same thing happens on FICGS you are pretty sure that he is using an engine, but you have already agreed that he can, so it doesnt irritate you. For that reason, I think that a computers-barred tournament might actually make sense on FICGS because those who want to use engines can legitimately do so. But for me, it would need to be chess that means something, with at least rating points at stake. Interestingly, Christophe and I are drawn in the same tournament, so we can declare at least that one game computer-free!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-03 23:41:38)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001
Actually this waiting list was initially open to 2600+ players. As there was too few players of this level, the range was changed to 2500+ a few months ago.
Now, as Viktor is the only player rated 2600+ who entered the waiting list, I suppose we could change the range one more time...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-05 12:42:02)
Adjudication
Hello again Andrew, thanks for discussing this interesting point that is a part of the discussion about the Dead Man's Defence. See this thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=2828
There is no way to avoid a player to last a game IMO... New rules first mean new ways to get round it and too many rules should be avoided. I still think there are some 'tricky' moves in tablebases, at least beautiful moves so it should be up to the winner to call the referee or not and it should be up to the referee to adjudicate it or not.
Maybe time will make me change my mind, but not today I think :)
Best, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-06 12:29:10)
Glen D. Shields
Hello Glen !
We had this discussion before, indeed chess engines killed imagination and a part of the fun. The game has changed a lot, more since Rybka appeared. Correspondence chess is now how to beat Rybka, that's a fact... and a new challenge.
Did you try another game, like Big Chess or Go (I really enjoy playing these games), where engines are completely useless and now both rated at FICGS ? My two cents ;)
Hannes Rada (2007-09-06 21:28:07)
FICGS Hardware + Software
In my opininon it would be interesting to know on which hardware + software (Opening system, database) our server is running ? So Thibault, hope that's not a big secret :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-06 22:48:47)
Norms
Actually, title norms (ie. FICGS rated chess tournaments) depend on the number of points achieved in a tournament by a player and generally the elo average of the players in the tournament (that define the number of points required in the tournament for a title norm).
I have to update the rules to explain how it is calculated exactly.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-06 23:13:15)
FICGS Hardware + Software
Well, not very original : Linux / PHP / SQL :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-07 02:08:01)
Hardware and software
Oops, sorry I forgot to answer about the hardware but anyway the site should move soon on a new server.
Linux, Sql, Php, FICGS, that's all software, only "those parts of the system that you can hit with a hammer (not advised) is called hardware"...
Jason Repa (2007-09-08 12:26:56)
"No engines" Tournaments
I suspect you'll get a whole new breed of forum posts where accusations will be disguised as compliments such as: "Johnny So and So really played an excellent game! He was accurate like a machine against me", etc.
You'll also hear allot of twisted soapbox rants about how "morally superior" the allegedly non engine consulting players are.
This is what the forums on second rate sits such as RedHotPawn, ChessHere, etc are filled with, in addition to absurd claims of so-called "engine detection technology", which is obviously impossible. On RHP in particular, the site admin are software developers with extremely modest uscf ratings in the C-class range, yet somehow they deem themselves qualified to make such difficult judgment calls, which are at best a probability guess, even for a strong chess player.
I thought it was precisely this kind of nonsense you were trying to avoid when you decided to make it an up front policy of "freestyle" chess at will at FICGS.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-08 12:56:34)
No engines tournaments
Jason, of course you may be right ! .. We'll see, but I think the experience may be interesting anyway. As Philip said, FICGS main tournaments are designed for centaurs, and basically these "no engines" unrated tournaments are really just for fun... Unlike some of the other sites you mentioned, where to be ranked 1st may incite to use chess engines, I feel that these tournaments (with no rating ranges) will not attract many centaurs, simply because there's no interest at all for them...
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-09-09 14:42:29)
re
The word centaurs may be insulting for some people. I propose to use "cyborg" instead, it is more accurate.
Also instead of
FICGS__CHESS__NO_ENGINES_TOURNAMENT__000001
We could use:
FICGS__CHESS__HUMANS_TOURNAMENT__000001
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-09 15:28:33)
FICGS update & wish list
Hello to all.
You probably noticed a new extension to the chat bar, it delivers some random messages and news (forum, problems, public comments, entries, login). It also automatically warns a player if he started an advanced tournament [bullet, lightning or blitz games], which is more convenient... As it refreshes every minute, you shouldn't log out automatically anymore until you close the chat bar.
Other changes :
- Serbia & Montenegro (SCG) has become Serbia (SRB) and Montenegro (MNE).
- New players will start with a 1800 chess rating.
- Lightning tournaments become Advanced tournaments (blitz, lightning, bullet)
- New quotes added from the forum :)
- Some Google optimizations...
- Waiting list for unrated no-engines tournaments is open !
- Minor bugs corrected.
I did not implement the private messages facility yet... I feel it could create some problems (not technically), I still have to think about it.
This is probably a good moment to open a wish list and discuss all changes you'd like to see on the site...
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-09 16:17:20)
Waiting list is open
The rules are : "FICGS chess no engines tournaments are unrated single round-robin tournaments, involving 7 players. The special rule for these tournaments is that chess engines, databases and opening books are strictly forbidden. All games are played in 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves. Norms are not possible."
Garvin Gray (2007-09-09 16:47:20)
money where your mouth is.
Hello oh so friendly Jason,
Since you think I am a little 1800 troll, care to back up your opinion with two FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000004 for cold hard cash.
I will even let you be white in the first game.
Jason Repa (2007-09-09 22:48:45)
To: Garvin Gray
I don't "think" you're a troll my mentally challenged little friend. I KNOW you're a troll. This thread was about FICGS Hardware + Software. Your post here had nothing whatsoever to do with that. You posted only to harass and annoy. That is what a troll does.
Gray, I'd play you for $100 a game anytime, but playing against your program is not playing chess with you. You would never dream of playing with me wtihout having your program make the moves for you. You know it, and I know it. I'd beat you even easier than I beat llmars Cirulis, when he decided to try some HUMAN ONLY chess with me.
Jason Repa (2007-09-10 00:32:28)
Mladen
YOU cool down buddy! You need to learn to keep your mouth shut and mind your own business. There was no reason for you to get involved in this. Just stick to asking questions about the FICGS server.
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-09-11 07:25:33)
Tolerance
Also the only moderator we have is Thibault. Unfortunately he is human, so he sleeps and has other activities ... FICGS sans frontieres
Ulrich Imbeck (2007-09-10 15:35:17)
"FICGS Hardware + Software" a little bit
In the interesting Thread "FICGS Hardware + Software" you could delete now some provocation posts to make "FICGS Hardware + Software" a little bit shorter.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-10 15:41:00)
"FICGS Hardware + Software"
I'll delete insulting and provocative posts if concerned players ask for and "at the moderator's discretion". Otherwise, this thread will remain as the explanation of this rule.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-11 01:12:36)
Applying the rule...
I was asked to moderate some provocative posts so I deleted what I considered provocative in these posts (only), in this thread and "FICGS Hardware + Software" one...
Viktor Savinov (2007-09-11 14:20:14)
Games
Please! Broadcast games in http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-11 14:23:06)
Games
You mean ? .. Is there a problem to find the games ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-11 14:25:39)
Resolution
That's right.. FICGS dimensions do not take account of the screen resolution (yet ?!), I'll have to think about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-11 17:24:22)
"Why to use a program"
Some elements of answer :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_857-Why-do-you-play-corrchess.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-11 17:28:37)
Games
Ok, so you'd like a PGN file with only this tournament's games. Indeed, this option does not exist (yet). However it is possible to see all games boards on a single page :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001&boards=1
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-12 15:17:28)
Reminder
Netiquette rule change :
http://www.ficgs.com/forum_read_3765-Netiquette-rules-update.html
"Responding to a provocative message is strictly forbidden and will lead to get a limited access to the server during one month a first time, two months the second one and so on. In this case, please just warn the moderator or webmaster in private."
This is a quite good example of a useless discussion... Some posts in this thread (the first ones have been written before the rule change) are at least provocative, so you may eventually ask for some things to be moderated before to respond to the moderated version of these posts.
Philip Roe (2007-09-13 00:37:23)
Andrew Stephenson
You post makes a lot of sense, and I can absolutely agree that being a centaur can be fun and educational (Centaurs in Greek mythology, by the way, were a highly respected race, and usually described as happy) However, I am puzzled by something which maybe you or someone else can explain.
You and others assert that playing the engines first choice every time will drop points against an intelligent centaur. Does it not follow that a centaur should have a higher rating than its engine? But in fact the ratings quoted for the top engines are substantially higher than the ratings of anyone on FICGS, which seems a paradox.
Does the explanation lie in unsynchronized rating systems, or am I just missing something? This question has nothing to do with value judgements, merely with satisfying a curiosity.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-13 19:21:36)
FICGS reloaded
It will be done within minutes. Also I updated the forum, I hope it will work better against reloads :)
Edwin Dabbaghyan (2007-09-15 03:09:57)
how can I enter (or qualify for) ?
Hello :) I am new here and I am going to start my first games.... I wonder how I can enter the world championship cycle? where should I start from? and...how can I enter the freestyle money tournament? do I have to qualify or just paying is enough? how much should I pay? I appreciate any help :) by the way, I live in sweden, stockholm... I have played all of playchess freestyle tournaments but the first one and am playing in the current one too...( 2,5 of 5 so far ) ...anyone from sweden, stockholm here in Ficgs? we can drink a beer together in Medborgarplatsen och snacka lite om schack :) I appreciate any help :) regards Edwin
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-15 12:59:08)
IECG WC 2006 final
As the IECG WC 2006 final just started, this is a good time to end the game. Quite surprising but finally, after 2 or 3 discussions about it, noone solved it and found me (some really looked for though) ;)
Clues were : Playing this year in a world championship final, birthdate (1973-04-13), first FICGS rating (2407, IECG rating), movies (a few players at IECG and FICGS knew about it, the trailer of 'A Clockwork Orange' where the other name is mentioned...
Here is the message I sent to my opponents :
"Dear chessfriends,
That's a real pleasure and honor to play my first IECG WC final with you all. Dinesh, Carlos, Farit, Massimiliano and John, nice to play again :)
I'm 34, single, living in the center of France... I play correspondence chess since 2002, IECG is the place I started with.
I made a few strange movies and videos a few years ago (soon available on the internet) :)
http://www.ficgs.com/psi/download/psi_divx411_vost_720x360.avi
http://www.ficgs.com/psi/download/A_clockwork_orange_2005__teaser.avi
http://www.ficgs.com/psi/download/Aphex_Twin_-_Inkeys_video_clip.avi
I wanted to play correspondence chess under my director's name but I'm now more known in our small CC world as Thibault de Vassal... I'm the webmaster of FICGS - http://www.ficgs.com , another Correspondence Chess Server, where I knew some of you :) .. Sorry about the confusion. I don't know how IECG rules will apply, I hope I can play this tournament anyway.
Best of luck to all !
David Gordh."
TS: Gordon Evans
+---------------------------------+---+----+----+---+---+----+----+------+-----+
|IECG WC-2006-F-00001 1 1 1 1 1 1 | | | |WC 2006 Tournament # 00001 | 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 | Tot | Plc |
+---------------------------------+---+----+----+---+---+----+----+------|-----|
| 18149 Robson, Nigel ENG 2646 | # | 0,0 | |
| 16702 Sirota, Anatoli AUS 2553 | # | 0,0 | |
| 19142 Pappier, Carlos ARG 2518 | # | 0,0 | |
| 18096 Chovanec, Milan SVK 2508 | # | 0,0 | |
| 15446 Makovsky, Petr CZE 2500 | # | 0,0 | |
| 11273 Blanco, Cesar GUA 2451 | # | 0,0 | |
| 13336 Gordh, David FRA 2443 | # | 0,0 | |
| 17738 De Silva, Dines SRI 2425 | # | 0,0 | |
| 10969 Rocca, Horacio ARG 2422 | # | 0,0 | |
| 17342 Perez, Brigilia PHI 2410 | # | 0,0 | |
| 16273 Fiala, Jaroslav CZE 2406 | # | 0,0 | |
| 13552 Claridge, John WLS 2403 | # | 0,0 | |
| 21524 Balabaev, Farit KAZ 2398 | # | 0,0 | |
| 15174 Massimini Gerbi ITA 2363 | # | 0,0 | |
| 18311 Bendig, Frank GER 2341 | # | 0,0 | |
+---------------------------------+-------------------------------+------+-----+
Rating Average = 2452 Category = 9 Start date: 12.09.2007
I didn't know that I would create FICGS when I registered at IECG and I prefered to use my director's name. I hope you don't mind. Sorry to Igor Khokhlov, Harry Ingersol and Farit Balabaev (I played them under both names).
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-15 13:30:09)
Gino Figlio
... takes the lead after two nice wins :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=13151
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=13153
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-15 14:12:19)
FICGS chess & Go WCH cycles
Hello Edwin,
FICGS chess & Go WCH cycles start every january 1st and july 1st each year... Waiting lists will be open about 2 months before this date.
To enter the FICGS chess freestyle tournament (I still have to promote it after finishing the new interface, new date is october 14 :/) & money tournaments, you have to add E-Points to your account, see 'My account' to know how to buy it. Hope it helps :)
Best wishes, Thibault
Garvin Gray (2007-09-15 16:40:21)
freestyle tourney
Thibault- To enter the FICGS chess freestyle tournament (I still have to promote it after finishing the new interface, new date is october 14 :/)
Is that 2007 or 2008 :P :) lol
Viktor Savinov (2007-09-16 12:34:36)
Games
Please! Broadcast games in http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-17 05:35:42)
To tie or not to tie
Hi Gino !
"I'm in advantage from the start given the tournament rules" : Untrue IMO, according to the current situation (not all games are draw), if the match ends at tie, you'll lose it - at least qualification - in all cases ;)
In 8-games matches, like every WC round-robin tournament, fighting for the score and (&&) for ratings looks quite normal, there's no dishonor to tie, winning or losing the right to move to the next round. Definitely rules have something to do with honor, at least with victory. Is there no honor to win a chess game with White pieces and its small advantage ?
What about ICCF WC tournaments and Sonnenborn-Berger ? .. Somewhat more complex, but ratings decide according to the situation also. What about FIDE World Championship ? .. Did Kramnik win his title / tie his match against Leko without honor ? .. FICGS rules are not more unfair than FIDE WCH ones, I'm playing an 8-games match against Farit Balabaev, his strategy is clearly to draw the 8 games and it may work, there's no dishonor in it, only good strategy IMHO.
But, of course, that's more a question of human feeling than mathematics, so only my point of view :)
Than Serd (2007-09-17 17:14:05)
9-2
another lose for ficgs
Gino Figlio (2007-09-18 06:53:43)
Tie breaks
Rodrigo, I agree there must be better ways of doing this.
As far as the current match, the rules cannot be changed and I guess I will not have to withdraw since I will lose with the tie. I can see the challenge for the tournament organizer but we have to also realize that FICGS is relatively new and its ratings do not necessarily reflect player strength.
How can we decide a match based on something less than representative even if we don't have anything better?. I believe for the future ties must be broken playing chess even if it's "blitz" cc.
I also would like to stop making comments on this unfinished match, I don't want to get distracted nor distract Peter from our competition.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-18 14:38:19)
Knockout matches
FICGS champion will be crowned by a knockout match, the best rated player has few more chances to reach the final, this is fair and his result in each match do not depend on results he's not involved in (like round-robin tournaments), which is the most interesting point IMO.
Another interesting discussion about this issue :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=2584
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-18 23:59:27)
Drag and drop
Hi Hannes... This behaviour is correct so your javascript is enabled. That's true, I did not find a way to combine a javascript drag and drop with the FICGS interface :/ .. The event onMouseUp did not work when on another element (image). Waiting for another way... ;)
Wayne Lowrance (2007-09-19 00:56:11)
Missing game(s)
I seem to think at least one of my games does not appear in "My games" tab. I see no result for game A_000012 5866. I dunno if this is the game or not. But anyhow I am used to seeing one gamer in the 5k series listed when I click "My games" tab. Hope there are not others as I have many games going. In my Ficgs database of games I do not anotate a win or loss. Help please Thibault......thank you Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-19 13:45:30)
October 21
This should be the final date for the 1st FICGS freestyle tournament. As I had to finish the new interface, I'll only start to promote it today in forums and other websites...
About the time control, I agree that ie. 1h+20s would be less "Rybka mode" and more centaur, but it requires a lot of energy and time for a 6 rounds tournament. So let's give a try to 10m+20s, thus the tournament should last about 6 or 7 hours...
Until october 31, you'll be given 20% E-Points more when buying tickets :)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2007-09-19 18:02:57)
New options in Preferences
Hello Thibault!
Nice update, but ...
Is it possible to set in the preferences how to start a FICGS session? I would like to have "display all games" and "slow moves" as default ...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-20 12:21:28)
One more thing...
Hi Don, I'll add an explanation about this below the form... As said Josef, you just have to click once more on the board to reload the page.
About the clock in My games, should I understand that you never used this page before, after one year playing at FICGS ? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-20 12:33:12)
Japanese, Polish, Ukrainian, Romanian...
Thanks Pio, I'll correct it soon :)
... and thanks to any player who may help to translate the home page by going to :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=encyclopedia
... then entering "FICGS home page" as keyword and choosing your language. Original english version is here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_en-ficgs_home_page.html
Thanks in advance !
Andrew Stephenson (2007-09-20 13:58:05)
chessfriends
I remember that chessfriends.com used to have the opposite rule ie the player with the lower elo advanced in the knockout. I guess their reasoning was if your better rated you should be able to prove it. As Thibault mentioned he may be a victim of the FICGS rule in his match against Farit Balabaev. He has the higher TER and his opponent as taken 4 draws as white by repeating the same 15 move sequence in his 4 white games (1 e4 c5 2 Nf3 d6 3 d4 cxd 4 Nxd Nf6 5 Nc3 a6 6 Bg5 e6 7 f4 Qb6 8 Qd2 Qxb2 9 Rb1 Qa3 10 f5 Nc6 11 fxe6 fxe6 12 Nxc6 bxc6 13 Be2 Be7 14 0-0 0-0 15 Rb3 Qc5+ 1/2 1/2) Not the greatest advert for cc games! It requires cooperation for this to happen although its dangerous for black to deviate after 9 Rb1. Still there are perfectly viable alternatives IMO in the Najdorf against 6 Bg5 other than this line. I suggest going to a 2 game mini match play off series at 5 days reserve and 1 day per move increment until there is a win. This would provide incentive to go for a result for the higher rated player in the main match. I would retain the lower rated player wins rule for decisive games (but overall draw) for the main match but leave it equal for the playoffs.
Andrew Stephenson (2007-09-20 19:32:38)
chessfriend
I dont think its plausible that the rule inspired anyone to lose Thibault -it was for a memorial tournament and although there were (supposedly) cash prizes (which never trasnpired)I think it just inspired the people with the higher rating to try to win. As for your explanation as to why you just bailed out on 4 games its difficult to respond other than to say it doesn't show you supporting your own concept of an 8 game match or the importance of the FICGS "world championship" stage that you had reached. I guess you will take the IECG "world championship" more seriously. I think having 2 game play offs at a fast time rate to a decision is a better way to go.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-20 20:39:56)
chessfriend
As far as I can remember, this way to break the tie was used in most Chessfriend round-robin money tournaments. I have no doubt that some players would have sacrificed their ratings for more chances to win cash prizes... Highest rated players were attracted anyway because they were invited.
About my match, I was simply glad to get these 4 draws easily with the black pieces, it gave me more time to try to win with White (I was in time trouble at this moment). GM Farit Balabaev is a strong correspondence chess player, even if I lose the match, I have no regret about it. Surely I won't play my FICGS WCH games less seriously than my IECG WCH ones :) .. By the way I still hope to play the first candidates final against Gino or Peter :p
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-20 21:54:21)
WCH knockout vs. round-robin
I don't know about finished money tournaments at Chessfriend, this was just the available rules I read.
About FICGS & IECG WCH, the point is one don't play the same way a knockout or a round-robin tournament, this is not a question to play seriously or not. In every FIDE WCH (knockout) final match, Kramnik and maybe even Kasparov would accept an easy draw with Black, simply because they have to save energy, as chances of win are generally defended with White (actually Kasparov even offered a short draw with White against Kramnik's Berlin defence). In IECG or ICCF WCH round-robin tournaments, draws are to be avoided at any price but many strong players think the same way: White must win, Black must draw. That's very different in matches, so the strategy. I did not play drawish openings in IECG WCH, and I'll accept short draws if I can't expect more, but it doesn't mean I take it more seriously. According to the situation, these 4 draws were quite a good choice for both Farit & me... in a way :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-20 22:41:17)
Chessfriend
Thanks for info Hannes.
Anyway this story made a lot of noise... and I remember hot discussions at TCCMB when FICGS appeared just after Chessfriend's death :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-21 00:09:15)
Knockout
Surely knockout format (FICGS rules or not) is not perfect, like round-robin. In this case ratings are important and a new cycle starts every 6 months. Let's agree to differ :)
Don Groves (2007-09-21 04:31:25)
One more thing...
Thibault escrit: "About the clock in My games, should I understand that you never used this page before, after one year playing at FICGS ? :)" I've always used the "My messages" page instead ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-21 14:52:53)
60 minutes + 15 seconds
Ok Garvin, you convinced me :) .. Finally it will be play on 2 consecutive days (october 20 & 21 - 14 pm, 17 pm, 20 pm)
This format is longer but definitely more interesting.
I'll start (at last) to promote it today, feel free to announce it in forums & websites :) .. Now FICGS account at Paypal is available to send & receive money.
I'll start a new topic about Freestyle cup... Too many out-of-date informations in this one.
Thanks for your help !
Andrew Stephenson (2007-09-21 20:34:37)
Tie Breaks
Thansk for the reply Thibault. on the delay front I think it would be less than 6 months maybe 1 or 2 months. First the effect of this delay would impact on only very few top players in completing the final stages. Overall the quantity of chess games and opportunities would be unaffected as new championships start every 6 months so the amount of playing is the same. Second "If tournament entry ratings are equal, ratings when the next stage begins will be taken in account." Ok this will be rare but you cannot really be saying that a match would be decided perhaps 1 or 2 months after completion when the next rating is done? Third "The special rule, at least, force one player to avoid it." yes but it didn't did it? You took the 4 draws in 15 moves because you had too many games and your opponent was a strong player! My point is not about the unfairness of the rule Thibault its the effect of it - in this case 4 identical 15 move draws is not a good advert for the site, the World Championship FICGS or the players.
Dan Rotaru (2007-09-22 01:16:27)
Games download
Excellent update and new interface, thank you very much Thibault. I really like the new feature which allows to download all games in a particular tournament. On this note it really would be nice to be able to download all one's games in progress. If playing few tournaments in the same time it is not practical to download all of them. Also what about being able to download all the games finished on FICGS from the beginning to date?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-22 01:40:25)
Games download
Hello Dan, thanks :)
Did you try this ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games
Also you may try to click the "print" icon at the top of My games page...
Don Groves (2007-09-23 00:37:32)
100 best moves on FICGS?
Even though it is my own move, I nominate White's ninth move in game 1972. It proves the adage that the only absolute pin is against the King!
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2007-09-23 17:24:17)
50 moves rule
Hello Wolfgang,
look at the Playing rules (http://ficgs.com/membership.html#playing, 11.3.a.)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-24 02:13:51)
1st FICGS freestyle cup
Dear chessfriends,
The 1st FICGS freestyle cup waiting list is open ! .. This advanced chess or more commonly said "freestyle" (computers, teams, everything allowed) swiss tournament will happen on 2007 October 20 & 21 (14 pm, 17 pm, 20 pm server time), time control : 1 hour + 15 seconds / move. Entry fee is 10 E-Points (10 Euros), prize is 100% of E-Points (see rules/membership).
Thanks to players who broadcasted the news on the web already !
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-24 13:41:00)
SM, FEM, FIM
Hi Denis, see :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
EM = Email Master, IM = International Master, SM = Senior International Master, GM = Grand Master
... so
FEM = FICGS Email Master, FIM = FICGS International Master, FSM = FICGS Senior International Master, FGM = FICGS Grand Master
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-25 21:03:09)
Title norms
Hi Garvin, sorry for the delay :)
A title norm (FEM, FIM, FSM, FGM) can be achieved in a correspondence chess tournament with at least 7 players and 6 games played per player.
More explanations and % table :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2007-09-28 00:36:03)
Comment
This remark was made by past freestyle winner Equidistance in the rybka forum: "This FICGS site is very unclear, impossible to find anything. No clear summary about what these e-points are all about, very long terms and conditions, really I doubt anybody will spend so much time to even find the page about Freestyle Cup, which is hidden under one of many menus." Maybe navigation could be made easier for new players interested in the tournament.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-28 02:56:48)
E-Points
A summary about E-Points has been added to the terms and conditions :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#epoints
"E-Points : To summarize previous Entry fees and Prize money sections, you can buy E-Points (1 E-Point is worth 1 Euro, see My account after you connect to the server) then play money tournaments with entry fees and prizes (bronze, silver, gold) with low rakes in E-Points, finally ask for money prizes instead of E-Points for the tournaments you choose : According to the prize won, you'll be paid 0,75 Euro per E-Point remaining in your account. Consequently the more tournaments you play before to ask for a money prize, the lower is the cost per game (prizes in E-Points reach up to 99 % of the entry fees, 100 % for the chess freestyle cup)."
Feel free to tell me if it is not clear enough... I've also updated the Help section about how to enter the freestyle cup & E-Points.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-09-28 03:01:14)
Invitation to FIDE, FICGS, ICCF GM & IM
Just added to the FICGS chess freestyle cup rules :
"FIDE GM & IM, FICGS / ICCF GM, SM & IM are invited to enter the waiting list for free until one week before the start of the tournament ! .. Please just send a message to webmaster through My account page to register. You may be asked to send a copy of your passport or ID card."
Strong titled players may be interested in winning the title & prize, other players may be interested in playing them...
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2007-09-28 08:09:33)
Question about e-points
A quote from the rules: "When you buy tickets, a virtual account in E-Points is created (or modified) with a limited lifetime of 2 years, meaning the account will be emptied at the end of this period. Member's account lifetime will be reconducted each time tickets are bought by the member. The number of E-Points added to the account is the amount in Euros paid to FICGS. Tickets are not paid back." This means i lost the E-Points after 2 years? So what i do with E-Points if: "Tickets for tournaments (E-Points) can't be sold to other members, exchanged with cash money or paid back" In the summary that you wrote you said: "... then play money tournaments with entry fees and prizes (bronze, silver, gold) with low rakes in E-Points, finally ask for money prizes instead of E-Points for the tournaments you choose" This is not clear. For example, I join a gold tournament i must choose before hand if i want E-Points or a money prize. Also why i want to play more tournaments before redeeming a money prize if i could do nothing with my remaing E-Points (see above) Any help in my queries will be appreciated.
Hannes Rada (2007-10-01 19:10:42)
Kasparov for president ?
I would rather prefer to see Garry in a different race. Those for the correspondence chess championship (ICCF or FICGS :-) instead of becoming a stupid politician. :-(
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-01 19:43:30)
Kasparov CC
I wonder what would look like a Kasparov correspondence chess game !? .. I think he would feel frustrated quite quickly :)
By the way, I remember that Peter Leko played some correspondence chess games at ICCF... Well, a first Google search "Peter Leko correspondence chess games" gives a thread at FICGS without the information.. those spammers are annoying :) .. Also this page with a CC game (unfinished) of Bobby Fischer :
http://www.uschess.org/cc/dunne/alexjul01.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-04 16:17:18)
3,5-2,5
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=13157
A win from Peter... In the round-robin cycle final tournament, Gaetano Laghetti won his game with Black against Michael Aigner !
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-10-07 13:23:08)
Thibault de Vassal
Hi Thibault, do you belong to the nobility? Do you have a castle and huge estates, so you would not need a fool time job and dedicate time to FICGS ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-10 22:13:10)
More stressful ? :)
... more seriously, I suppose this time control was directly inspired from the over the board chess classical time control : 2 hours + 2 hours / 40 moves (correspondence "blitz" time control @ FICGS) .. so, no advantage IMO, a historical issue only.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-12 22:11:47)
Reminder : Invitation to GM, SM, IM
"FIDE GM & IM, FICGS / ICCF GM, SM & IM are invited to enter the Freestyle Cup waiting list for free until one week before the start of the tournament ! .. Please just send a message to webmaster through My account page to register. You may be asked to send a copy of your passport or ID card."
One more day for titled players to register for free !
Thibault de Vassal (2019-06-28 00:27:36)
Android App not working
Thank you all for your help, now I just updated all FICGS apps at Google Play Store. It could solve the problem for everyone (at least it worked for one user already)...
Any feedback is welcome! As you can see, it really helps :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-21 01:07:45)
Go freestyle tournament
What do you think about a Go freestyle tournament, just like FICGS chess freestyle cup ?
A problem is to define the best time control and number of rounds... With about 100 to 120 moves per game & per player, time control 30+10 means 2 hours per round. As there's no draw at Go, 5 or 6 rounds played in a single day could be ok to find a winner. Any opinion ?
Another question is : Are there players interested to play it ? .. Entry fee would be 10 E-Points / 10 Euros, prize 100% entry fees in E-Points (or 75% for a money prize). It may attract some strong players for interesting games :)
Dinesh De Silva (2007-10-21 15:40:41)
Re:
Don, I think Kasparov didn't have much of a humour a few months back. But I guess he might have recently looked at the jokes we crack here regularly at FICGS & decided to join in the (humour) act at talk shows, joke shows, this show, that show etc. Hehe!
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-21 22:35:06)
Eros Riccio wins 1st FICGS freestyle !
SIM Eros Riccio completely stunned the tournament, very well prepared with White & Black on this interesting sicilian line : 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 a6 6.Bg5 e6 7.f4 Qb6 8.Qd2 Qxb2 9.Rb1 Qa3 10.e5
Final score for Eros : 5 / 6 .. Congratulations :)
See results and games :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000001.html
Don Groves (2007-10-22 07:14:48)
Re: Kasparov and humour
Hi, Dinesh -- Kasparov seemed so relaxed and spontaneous with his humour on the show, it seemed like he had been that way all his life. Maybe he has been lurking on FICGS for quite a while ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-22 15:07:45)
Update : Interface
The interface for fast moves has been updated, now it shows the move number. The (Flip) (Skip) duet disppeared, replaced by symbols and a shortcut to public comments.. I hope everyone see it correctly.
Also a few minor bugs corrected & improvements...
The titles page has been updated - http://www.ficgs.com/titles.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-23 23:36:17)
Go freestyle tournament rules
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#go_freestyle
Players ranked 3 dan or higher are invited to enter the waiting list for free...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-24 18:43:25)
FICGS server change
FICGS should be unavailable on 2007 october 28, maybe 29 also because of a server change.
Of course, all running clocks will be corrected !
1 or 2 days of vacation for everyone :)
Edwin Dabbaghyan (2007-10-25 00:57:27)
freestyle on FICGS
Hello all :) I am a bit confused in here...I see two freestyle tours, one "cup" and one "go" freestyle... what are the differences? and I would like to write my view about the freestyle time control, as it was an issue on the forum I guess... I think we can have two forms of freestyle tours here: one 30+15 with more rounds every time, and one with absolutely longer time controls, like 90+30 with fewer rounds... . A knockout freestyle tournament is also very exciting with 30+15 time controls, in each round best of 3 games goes to next round, and in the third round the player with white pieces has less time, say 10 minutes less. I hope freestyle tours will be more popular and successful on this server, I like here :) regards Edwin
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-25 01:17:16)
Go freestyle cup
Hi Edwin, this topic is about the Go (another game) freestyle cup. See both chess & Go freestyle cups in Waiting lists. Anyway, I'm already thinking about faster chess freestyle tournaments :)
Knockout format could be lots of fun too, but players will probably prefer to play all the games to try to catch the best ones.
Let's discuss about the chess freestyle tournaments in the other thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=3987
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-29 23:22:49)
FICGS new server is running !
Welcome on the new server !!
Finally, 22 hours (only) were necessary to install FICGS on the new server... Running clocks have been corrected (22 hours) with a 22 hours bonus.
Thanks for your patience :)
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2007-10-30 04:16:49)
Go tournaments : New categories
I'm to add new categories for Go tournaments and to change rating ranges for PRO, DAN & KYU tournaments, it should help players to get a more accurate rating.
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_PRO : 2600+
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_DAN : 2100+
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_III : 1600-2600
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_II : 1100-2100
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_I : 0600-1600
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU : 0000-1100
Feel free if you have any suggestion...
Michael Mueller-Toepler (2007-11-06 16:28:01)
FICGS freestyle cup
For more players: The winner is qualified for: FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000004 Regards Michael - muetoe
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-06 16:59:11)
FICGS freestyle cup
That's an idea... and it could work but I'm not sure it is good to melt freestyle chess & correspondence chess results. Anyway, your suggestions are welcome :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-07 21:36:55)
Go game 9307 score
Could someone confirm that according to FICGS rules (chinese counting, Komi 7.5), the score in game 9307 after removing groups m17, h3 is W+0.5
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=score&game=9307
Actually my opponent should have won the game, his first pass (probably because of a bad count) just gave me the point I needed :/ .. Now an interesting question, as there's no possible draw (that's a pity), would you resign in such a case ?
Thanks for your answers.
Mikhail Ruzin (2007-11-08 10:54:22)
Go game 9307 score
Yes, according to FICGS rules (chinese counting, Komi 7.5), the score in game 9307 after removing groups m17, h3 is W+0.5 Black pass is fatal mistake. The second question is too hard 8)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-08 15:51:12)
The Bilbao rule
Two interesting articles published by Chessbase about the Bilbao rule effects in chess and football (Win : 3 points, Draw : 1 point, Loss : 0 point)
This issue will probably be discussed again and again, as FIDE world chess championship rules... or FICGS chess wch tie break rule :)
http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=4232
http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=4237
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-09 01:05:28)
Chess sponsorship
An interesting discussion about chess sponsorship started on ChessDiscussions.com (Susan Polgar forums)
http://www.chessdiscussion.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=504
Several issues : "How to bring chess to the masses ?", "How to make chess a show ?", "What kind of sponsorship is possible ?"
Susan obviously thinks that OTB chess still has a great potential and that organizations could do much better to promote it... Here's my last response in the thread (reminds some old threads here) :
<<<
In other words, you say that chess has a show-potential like any other sport that could be used and that isn't...
For sure traditional marketing methods could help to promote OTB chess, and chess organizations could do much better... but is chess "bankable", just like an actor ? .. I just saw one more comparison between chess & poker in the thread "How to bring chess to the masses", but there's a major problem in chess that doesn't exist in poker or soccer : "everything can't happen", at least at a first sight, actually the way people can see it...
FIDE tried to change some things, ie. time controls, wch cycle but that's not enough, obviously. Anyone can win a lost hand at texas hold'em against any professional player, like any 2nd division soccer team can beat the Real Madrid once... Of course long-time statistics will be always favourable to the best players, but it takes a much longer time... Everything can happen in any event in these games (poker wch, soccer world cup). The probability for a real surprise that makes buzz is much lower at chess, the same best players invariably play the best tournaments, won statistically (ie.) 20% by Anand, 19% by Topalov, 18% by Kramnik and so on... quite boring.
The only interesting chess events follow the same scheme : David vs. Goliath, the buzz-genius 12 boy vs. Kramnik, mystery-Deep Blue vs. Kasparov, Anna Kournikova vs. Fischer & so on... nowadays the man vs. machine match is no more interesting since any home computer is stronger than HAL 9000 or Kramnik and there's no clear world champion (too many FIDE wch, different cycles..)
Chess needs real events and I'm curious to see the ones "that could bring chess to the masses" in the future... Maybe I'm a bit pessimistic, at least for OTB chess, but I'm very interested to see how good marketing methods will be able to transform our chess world... Just wait, hope & see :)
Best regards, Thibault
>>>
I'm now working again on SEO (Search Engines Optimization) for FICGS, more and more players find us via Google... Of course one next step is to sponsor the FICGS WCH & freestyle tournaments but it is a hard task for sure... All comment and suggestions on this issue are welcome :)
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2007-11-11 16:04:50)
Number of games limitation
Hi Thibault,
I prefer: no limitations.
But if you think FICGS need it: 60 games.
Best wishes Heinz-Georg
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-11 17:53:24)
2nd FICGS chess freestyle
The 2nd FICGS chess freestyle cup waiting list is open. This 6 rounds swiss tournament will start on november 24, 15:00 server time. Time control is 1 hour + 15 seconds / move. Entry fee is 10 E-Points (10 Euro). Prize is 100% of the entry fees in E-Points.
FIDE GM & IM, FICGS / ICCF GM, SM & IM are invited to enter the waiting list for free, please just send a message to webmaster through My account page to register (you may be asked to send a copy of your passport or ID card).
Definitely we need strong players to rivalize with SIM Eros Riccio :)
Dan Rotaru (2007-11-12 01:14:40)
Number of games limitation
I think that limiting the number of games is a good idea, and I have a feeling reading the posts that the issue is not if to do it but the number of games. 40 seems to be a reasonable number. FICGS is still free for corr chess and people are tempted to play too many games at once which not only dilute the quality of the games but leads to too many forfeits. I was horrified some time ago when one of my opponent confessed that he had about 230 games in progress on various sites including FICGS. I believe that even for very strong players too many games will reduce the quality of some games and I am not talking about chess knowledge but about the possibility to do a mistake as the good move in the wrong game.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-14 02:35:38)
Best Go games played at FICGS
As there's no best game section for Go (Weiqi, Baduk.. as you like) only yet, it could be interesting to share & gather the most interesting games played at FICGS in this thread.
Feel free to post a link to your favourite game and a comment about what makes the game interesting.
In example :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_9314.html
In this one won by Claude Brisson, several ko & superko rule made the position really hard to understand...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-19 02:07:51)
server based games
No, of course :) .. there are interfaces for each game played here, see tournaments & games. When a tournament starts, your moves can be notified to you by email but you have to connect to the server to play your moves.
See also Help - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-24 16:13:26)
:P
Ilmars tries to prove that Traxler counter-attack is dead for Black... Anyway the only to play White only is thematic silver games :)
Graham, did you have a look at Ilmars analysis in Wikichess ? See http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=611
You can analyze some lines with other players...
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-24 16:33:54)
SC. von Erichsen is FICGS Go champion !
Svante Carl von Erichsen 4d is the first FICGS Go world champion, congratulations :)
According to the rules : "In case of equality, the player with the strongest tournament entry rating (TER) is qualified for the next stage."
As Svante Carl now leads the tournament by 7/7, even if he loses his last game and another player also finishes with 7/8, the TER decides. And as there's no previous winner to defend his title...
After the second championship (the level should increase), we may have the first 5 games match between two very strong players :)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-24 16:48:09)
1st FICGS Go championship
Tournament :
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000001.html
Crosstable :
http://www.ficgs.com/crosstable_FICGS__GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000001.html
Wayne Lowrance (2007-11-24 22:21:21)
Ficgs vs Igame
Draw on my second game. That's 1 1/2 points for us @ table 12. Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2007-11-25 01:22:13)
FICGS vs IGAME.RU
Nice games Silkin. I thought I was in deep trouble after the opening. Best Wishes Wayne
Lincoln Tomlin (2007-11-25 14:04:07)
1st FICGS Go championship
Congratulation Svante on becoming the first FICGS Go World Champion.
Graham McGrew (2007-11-26 22:33:50)
Wilkes-Barre Furor
Thanks for this wealth of responses, all. Thanks too for the tip on Ilmars' analysis. I will check it out. Thibault, what is the next thematic tournament for which you need five more players? Ilmars, I would love to play a game with you as white, me as black. Being new to FICGS, I'm not exactly sure how to start a game with you . . . ?
Thibault de Vassal (2007-11-29 05:32:28)
Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, Portuguese..
Thanks to any player who may help by translating the first lines of the home page in these languages by going to :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_zh-ficgs_home_page.html - (Chinese) http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_ja-ficgs_home_page.html - (Japanese) http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_tr-ficgs_home_page.html - (Turkish) http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_pt-ficgs_home_page.html - (Portuguese)
Original english version is here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_wiki_en-ficgs_home_page.html
Thanks in advance :)
Ulrich Imbeck (2007-12-01 12:57:09)
time counting
Why is there such a big difference between me and my opponent in http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move&game=15704
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-01 17:26:49)
Quote fest, revenge :)
What about a new quote contest ? ;)
Pio opened the festivities : "I always say that, next to a battle lost, the greatest misery is a battle gained. (The Duke of Wellington, War and Peace)
Any taker ? (quotes by yourself are welcome for the FICGS quotes files ;))
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2007-12-04 13:03:37)
More...
This is something I read in a SF short story from the writer Ursula K. Le Guin:
Our difference is our beauty ... together we could build a splendid harmony.
It could be interpreted as something against prejudice or the fact that in FICGS race, religion or politics do not matter, only chess.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-14 15:40:44)
Tablebases on R+B vs. N+N
Good to know this endgame (Rook + Bishop wins against 2 Knights in 150 to 220 moves in the longest cases - tablebases 6 pieces), as there's no draw granted after 50 moves without any capture according to FICGS rules.
Karjakin, Sergey (2694) - Shirov, Alexei (2739)
World Cup Khanty-Mansiysk RUS (6.3), 11.12.2007
http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=4322
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-15 17:51:51)
50 moves rule
Absolutely.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#playing
Robert Mueller (2007-12-16 13:57:56)
Conditional Moves
I am sure this must have been discussed in the past, but if I could vote for one improvement on the FICGS server software, it would be conditional moves. After all, it is soon Christmas and the time for big wishes ;)
Dan Rotaru (2007-12-17 17:41:55)
FICGS World Cup
Hi Thibault, What is the difference between FICGS__CHESS__WCH_TOURNAMENTS and FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP ? Is the latest supposed to be a Knock-out tournament? There are no games displayed under this on the Tournaments page. Anyway a knock-out tournament would be interesting. Something like the FIDE World Cup.
Marc Lacrosse (2007-12-18 18:33:50)
High level performance
Marius Zubac just won tournament FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_M_01__000003 with an impressive 2631 performance (6.5/8 and no loss in a 2378 tournament)
On his way to victory he cruelly refuted a knight-for-three-pawns sac that I tried in our encounter. Nice job!
Congratulations for this fine performance.
... we need more high level tournaments ...
Marc
Dinesh De Silva (2007-12-19 03:37:40)
Re:
"Methinks King Thibault should dub Marius Zubac a knight of the square board.....I mean table, henceforth addressing him as 'Sir Marius, and bestow on him a suitable land from the kingdom of FICGS & marry him off to a worthy, fair maiden, lest he slice our heads with his mighty sword in his wrath."
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-19 18:08:38)
High level performance
Right, many congratulations to Marius, at least for beating Marc (who made a good tournament too) with the Black pieces !
And congrats to Dinesh for "submitting" new great quotes with an interesting Nietszche-like written style to FICGS files :)) (if you agree, of course)
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-20 00:26:09)
FICGS World Ch.
Hi Dan, It's only a way to separate the final matches (candidates final or current champion vs. challenger) from the first stages tournaments, but I'll probably reorganize some things in a while as it is not so easy yet to find a particular WCH tournament...
Dan Rotaru (2007-12-20 03:46:23)
FICGS World Ch.
OK, now it makes sense. Maybe you should have few links: WCH_001 followed by sub links: preliminaries, then Stage 2, candidates final and so on. What about a knock out tourney? Do you think it would be a good idea? I would personally like to play such a tourney. Cheers, Dan
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-20 17:56:51)
FICGS championship
Yes, I'll separate the stages that way soon. About the WCH cycle, it is already a knockout tournament, even if there's a round-robin cycle inside.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#chess_wch
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-20 21:42:02)
Conditional moves
I don't think so, it worked perfectly ie. at Chessfriend server. The program stores the conditional moves, there can't be any error but a human one. There was no case yet of a disowned move at FICGS, so I suppose it would be (have been) the same with conditional moves.
Josef Riha (2007-12-24 10:41:20)
Merry Christmas...
...to all members, especially my opponents, of FICGS.com.
Thibault de Vassal (2007-12-26 02:04:13)
Chess 960 FEN
Hi Garvin and Mladen.
You mean the FICGS PGN files for chess 960 are incomplete ? If this is the case, I'll correct it soon.. Thanks !
Mladen Jankovic (2008-01-05 14:31:42)
no
They don't mean that, as we are on FICGS, rather than FICS. ;)
Yes, it's funny. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-05 15:16:17)
Titles definitions
Hello Hornung, everything about FICGS titles is here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
Hannes Rada (2008-01-05 19:06:19)
FICGS i .o. FICS :-)
Yes of ocurse. The 'G' on my keyboard is hanging .... :-)
Dinesh De Silva (2008-01-06 11:04:48)
Re: FICGS i .o. FICS :-)
First it was "hanging chads" that became popular. Now it's a "hanging G", I guess. The "G" seems to be in the spotlight these days. Hence a G spot.
Wolfgang Utesch (2008-01-07 06:34:46)
First FICGS GM tournament
There will be a forfeit by Viktor Savinov (Rating 2668 !!!) - good for ratings of the other players in this tournament! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-07 14:58:27)
Search games
Feel free to try "Search by opening" text field at :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games
ie. "1.e4 c5 2.c3" or "e4 c5 c3" should work the same way...
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-08 19:04:50)
Today...
... most probably ;)
By the way, more accurately the "WC-2 knockout final"..
In the WC-1, it seems Gaetano is now in good place to win the round-robin final and to play Gino, who won the knockout final, let's see how the last game Pichelin-Laghetti will finish, then the first final match will start :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_13145.html
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-09 05:42:09)
4th FICGS chess championship
The 4th FICGS chess championship just started, it is now much easier to find tournaments (quarter finals, stage 2...) in the Tournaments page.
Quarter finals this time are :
1 - Harry Ingersol vs. Mark Noble
2 - Hannes Rada vs. Farit Balabaev
3 - Eros Riccio vs. Marius Zubac
4 - Peter Schuster vs. Thibault de Vassal
As a reminder, in case of equality the highest TER in each match qualifies if all games are drawn, the lowest TER qualifies if not all games are drawn.
The next stages of the previous championships will start as soon as possible...
Have good games !
Dinesh De Silva (2008-01-09 11:42:24)
Re:
"Viva!!! It's great to see top players with such integrity here in the First FICGS GM tournament."
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-10 19:22:25)
Started
Good luck to Harry and Wolfgang in the second WCH knockout final :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000002.html
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-11 05:00:33)
FICGS improvements : Your opinion
Hello to all...
Kind of poll, it would be useful to know which part of the site looks quite or really unclear to you. FICGS website continues to grow, I tried to use some symbols repeatedly to make it coherent but it's quite obvious that it's not easy to understand how the site works at a first sight.
Feel free to point unclear functions or to make suggestions...
Thanks in advance :)
Peter Unger (2008-01-15 14:56:25)
FICGS_WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000002
Who won the tournament "FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000002" Peter Unger?
Andrew Stephenson (2008-01-15 18:59:44)
winner
The winner of tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04 was Robert Mueller because he had the highest TER of those on 4/6. Thats the rule!
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-16 04:36:01)
FICGS unavailable -> time added
FICGS server was offline / unreachable (provider problem) during 7 hours. I added 7 hours to all clocks in running games.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-16 18:10:48)
FICGS emails unavailable jan. 14 to 16
FICGS email provider had a problem from january 14 to 16, 2008.
Emails sent not through the server to FICGS domain most probably did not reach me :(
In this case, please resend it to me. Thanks in advance.
Peter Unger (2008-01-16 18:55:43)
Strange rules
Hi Thibault, my chessbase says this: FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__0000 2007 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 Unger,Peter 2086 +181 * 1 ½ 1 ½ 0 1 4.0/6 11.00 2 Mueller,Robert 2194 +55 0 * 1 ½ ½ 1 1 4.0/6 9.75 3 Benitez,Ryan 2106 +158 ½ 0 * ½ 1 1 1 4.0/6 9.25 4 Johansson,Mats 2309 -140 0 ½ ½ * ½ 1 1 3.5/6 5 Repa,Jason 2232 -109 ½ ½ 0 ½ * ½ 1 3.0/6 6 Moreira,Jose 2327 -278 1 0 0 0 ½ * 1 2.5/6 7 Toutaoui,Khaled 1715 -306 0 0 0 0 0 0 * 0.0/6 Where can I be informed about the rules? And what meaans "TER" (see the post from A. Stephenson)? I have won against Mueller!! I think I must be qualified for Stage 3!!! Best regards Peter Unger
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-16 19:32:31)
FICGS rules
Hello Peter, I understand your point of view. Correspondence chess is not OTB (over the board) chess and rules may not go the same way.
FICGS WCH rules can be found here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_chess_wch
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#chess_wch
... so you should have seen it before to enter the waiting list.
The idea in this correspondence chess championship is to find the best player, of course. In correspondence chess, rating is much more important than in OTB chess to know the "current" level of a player, and should be taken in account, just like performance. This rule is quite hard but this way we can organize a new cycle every 6 months, so more chances to reach the final stages. Anyway this issue will be discussed again and again.. and rules are just rules.
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-21 04:29:10)
Bobby Fischer in the news
Quite impressive to hear so much about Fischer's death in the medias taking his past into consideration... Fischer was a living legend whatever his thoughts & life after the century match in Reykjavik 1972 against Boris Spassky (actually the whole world already).
FICGS statistics from search engines and particularly Google exploded these last days.. "Robert James Fischer", "Fischer Spasski", "Fischer champion du monde", "La partita del secolo", "Fischer random chess", "Fischer Palma de Majorque" ... and so on... sometimes stranger (even quite frightening) keywords associated to him.
Anyway, Bobby continues to promote the chess game all over the world !
Wayne Lowrance (2008-01-21 05:06:18)
Making a database of my Ficgs games
can this be done in the fritz format ? if not may I make this a suggestion for next up date Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-21 05:18:05)
One way
Hi Wayne, one possible way already (at least for finished games) : you may download the full ficgs chess database, then filter games played by you... anyway you're right, it could be a next update ;)
Wayne Lowrance (2008-01-21 18:18:35)
database
Good thinking Garvin, I wish I had done this from the beginning. Too late for my entire ficgs games. I try what Thibault said, sounds very time consuming tho Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2008-01-22 17:12:13)
Database
Yes Mladen, I guess that will work for current games.....I have all current games in a Ficgs database I created. My problem is I do not have the entire database of my games. I tried Thibault's suggestion and it worked fine. Thank you Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-22 18:30:35)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
My pleasure, Gaetano :)
This match was really interesting, and the result quite surprising even if our "team" is quite young yet, some forfeits, and some of our strongest players did not play. The russian team played good chess and logically won the match. Moreover, I'm to lose my second game against GM Sumets who did it very well since the opening... Gaetano's result, once more, is not just luck ;)
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2008-01-23 11:51:33)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU
Viva il signor Gaetano Laghetti, abbasso i russi
Christophe Czekaj (2008-01-25 13:10:00)
Chinese Chess
Hello Thibault, Did you ever think about includind chinese chess on Ficgs ? Any volunteers ? And is it technically possible ?
Mladen Jankovic (2008-01-25 13:54:07)
Ok, I'm in
Looking for players in:
FICGS__CHESS_960__TOURNAMENT__000025
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-25 16:20:55)
10 moves rule
Hi Wolfgang, of course the 10 moves rule applies to the winner (the withdrawing player will lose points in all cases) !
"Games are not rated for the winner if less than 10 moves have been played by his opponent (most probably forfeit, silent withdrawal or obvious cheating) or in global forfeit cases against the same opponent, ie. 8-games matches, but games where an advantage is obvious."
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#withdrawals
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-25 16:29:52)
Chinese Chess, Shogi ...
Hi Christophe... Of course it has been discussed here already. Well, it is technically possible, but it is not technically possible before a few months :)
The real question is : Do you want FICGS to be a multi-games site or mainly a chess place ? .. I've included Go (weiqi) because this game is really different and interesting, I'm not sure yet about the others and "A few is better than too many" IMO (what a quote) :)
Ivan Pljusnin (2008-01-27 03:52:54)
23-th board
Looks like Gaetano Laghetti is one of the best players on ficgs. He tears to tatters our fighter (2-0) and beats the players from his own team.
http://ficgs.com/game_13133.html - 1-st board
http://ficgs.com/game_13138.html - 2-nd board
http://ficgs.com/game_8043.html - 4-th board
I wonder why he was given only 23-th board. Looks like a very tricky decision of FICGS captain. :-)
Mobutu Sese Seco
Ivan Pljusnin (2008-01-27 16:43:11)
Team complectation
FICGS team could be much stronger, I think. Some of your players have lost their games by time. Imagine, you replace them with winners of FICGS World Championship and other strong tournaments of FICGS. FICGS result would be much better...
In fact I do not believe neither in official correspondence chess titles nor in ratings. They do not show real strength very often. On IGAME the best part of our team is anonymous players, I think. Their achievements in this match are just fantastic. 9 members of IGAME team who play under imaginary names have now 14.5 of 17! Owl (here he is "Dojnikov") is going to win his last game. Probably he is our best fighter.
P.S. If I was allowed to play as Mobutu, I'd play stronger!:-)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-29 02:36:57)
1st WCH candidates final started !
Finally, the 1st WCH round-robin final tournament finished with the 3 most dangerous fighters at tie, Xavier Pichelin, Gaetano Laghetti and Alberto Gueci (4/6). Congratulations to them !
According to FICGS chess WCH rules, the player with the highest TER qualifies for the first candidates final against the winner of the knockout cycle.
The first FICGS WCH candidates final just started !
Gino Figlio (2568) - Xavier Pichelin (2355)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_ficgs__chess__wch_candidates_final__000001.html
Good luck to both players and be careful, we're watching your games ! :)
Hannes Rada (2008-01-29 18:30:38)
It's not there
Why dont' we find it under Candidates final ? http://www.ficgs.com/category__ficgs__chess__candidates.html "There's no tournament to display" ?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-01-30 19:20:03)
Provisional rating
Hello Hao Nhien, your provisional rating is now 1800 : Ratings not from FIDE / ICCF / IECG give at most a 1800 provisional rating...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2008-02-03 04:16:53)
Equations ...
I think this is what happens:
FicgsRate = ChesshereRate - 34
FicgsRate = (cc_rate / 2) + 250
Thibault, am I right?
Wolfgang Utesch (2008-02-03 14:00:21)
First FICGS GM tournament
again - There will be a forfeit by Viktor Savinov (Rating 2668 !!!) - good for ratings of the other players in this tournament! :)
Don Groves (2008-02-04 00:18:53)
Logged out!
I do have an active imagination ;-) It must be an obscure interaction with Firefox on OS X. It is very sensitive to extra keystrokes on FICGS. If I accidentally hit a second key while waiting for FICGS, Firefox hangs (only on the FICGS tab) and must be restarted to fix the problem.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-02-04 14:28:15)
mystery
Ok, I'm done... Don's right, actually each week I add some new rotating bugs so that players don't use FICGS excessively :o)
(next one: disconnection just before to post a long message in the forum - called the "Don's bug" :))
Thibault de Vassal (2008-02-11 02:07:18)
Next thematic tournaments
Any suggestion for the next chess thematic tournament(s) ? The full list of all thematics played at FICGS is available here :
http://www.ficgs.com/wiki_en-thematic-tournaments.html
Thanks for your ideas :)
Andrew Stephenson (2008-02-12 20:56:41)
3 fold repetition
Hi thibault I was just wondering is there a draw rule on FICGS by 3 fold move repetition?
Iouri Basiliev (2008-02-13 16:40:48)
FICGS vs. IGAME.RU, the games
I don't pretend to make the conclusion, but looking for the games quality i must admit the very high average level of play. Nearly all the tables! Fantastic! I personally think it's a historical (sorry for the overpathetic) event in the life of both sites.
Andrew Stephenson (2008-02-14 17:10:57)
Rule
Hi Thibault just to clarify your answer there IS a draw by 3 fold repetition rule at FICGS? What happens if the server does not notice? As an insurance should the player making the claim notify the referee that he intends to play a move that will lead to the the same position appearing on the board (with the same player to move) for the 3rd time?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-02-15 00:56:58)
draw claims
Thanks for pointing out this rule, Garvin. The server detects threefold repetition, and the game IS automatically adjudicated as a draw when it happens. I think it is reasonable for internet chess, but it is not specified in the FICGS rules yet, so I may have to change this.
Amir Elnemr (2008-02-15 11:31:11)
How to edit GO games on FICGS
Hello all, I am just starting my first Go tournament, I still struggle to understand the so much alien game to myself, anyway, I like to edit and review my chess games externally with winboard, but I don't seem to be able to do the same with GO games, It seems as if the notation used is different than of that used by my software, I use PANDA-gIGo, so if anyone can help me by suggesting another program that can read the game format on FICGS or give me directions on how to edit it with PANDA-gIGo I will be very grateful. Thank you and have a good day.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-02-15 22:47:18)
FICGS other forums
Hello to all.
You may have noticed new banners on the right of the chat bar before to login, so this other part of FICGS website. Well, looks like a small portal now, these new forums (seo forums, buzz blog, web directory, country & city forums and chat..) should help the games server, even if there's a lot of work to make it coherent and to improve it yet. Feel free to use it anyway :)
Lots of improvements to come on the chess server next month. Have a nice week !
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-09 22:48:57)
Norms
Hi Wayne, category S is the first category that allow to make a title norm. You just made me notice it is written category -1 in the rules (I'll correct it) :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
So, you may obtain a FEM norm if you score 4.5 in this tournament.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-15 12:43:07)
Unfought draws & rating calculation
An interesting article at Chessbase.com on unfought draws (mathematical, logical and practical considerations), also called "grandmaster draw" in the article, and ways to avoid it, by mathematician and logician Kung-Ming Tiong, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
http://www.chessbase.com/newsdetail.asp?newsid=4513
I notice that the main solution proposed just looks like FICGS rules for advanced chess (Performance +/- delta according to the color) :-D .. Anyway I still have to take some time to make this part of the server more attractive.
This thread may be a good place to ask for a feedback about FICGS current rating rules (for both chess & Go), what do you think ? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-18 19:43:35)
Quote festival, part 4
Now everyone (but newcomers) know the principle :)
Feel free to let your madness go and share your own quotes about chess, life and whatever.. The best ones will enter the FICGS quotes files :)
... just like in this previous thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=3448
- Hello Thibault, if I have had a plan (and I had one, I hope), I have forgotten it during the last week... - Hello Heinz-Georg. What do you mean a plan ? :)
(Anonymous players during a Big Chess game)
Don Burden (2008-03-19 19:59:11)
Quote festival, part 4
Playing chess on FICGS without computer help is like being a one-legged man in a butt kicking contest!
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-24 19:11:34)
FICGS 2nd Freestyle Cup
The tournament will be played on April 6, 2008.
All questions and feedback are welcome here.
Don Groves (2008-03-26 06:00:24)
Teaching games?
Go teaching games would be way for FICGS to improve the caliber and possibly the number of Go playing members. How about it, Thibault, and other top players?
Lincoln Tomlin (2008-03-27 19:31:52)
RAPID_A__000041 points error
Hi Thibault, Myself and two other players finished the first 3 games against each other in FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_A__000041, all games being drawn. We have all been awarded 1/2 point in total instead of 1 point each so far? Regards
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-27 23:03:53)
Future rating & statistics
Hello Vjacheslav, everything's ok : Your rating first depends on your opponents ratings, obviously it will increase during next months :
http://www.ficgs.com/display_history.php?member=2290
ELO : 1867
Future rating : 1922
Games calculated : 9
Result : 77 %
Elo opponents : 1809
Performance : 2020
Rating history (from first to last) :
1600 1696 1740 1823 1867
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-29 19:36:02)
performance calculation
Hello Yugi. All explained here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
Thibault de Vassal (2008-03-30 07:25:30)
Freestyle cup : Rules & start
There was a small conflict in the rules, now corrected : The first game will start at 13:00 server time, not 15:00
Current rules :
FICGS advanced chess "freestyle" cup is a 6 rounds swiss tournament with entry fee and prize, played in a single day. Entry fees are E-Points that you can buy in 'My account'. Read carefully terms and conditions, particularly Entry fees & Prize money sections before to play tournaments with entry fees.
All games are played in 30 minutes + 15 seconds / move. Norms are not possible.
The first round will start at the date and hour (13:00 server time) indicated as "deadline". Next rounds will start at 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, 21:00 and 23:00 server time. Please register carefully as it is not possible to retire from the waiting list. It is strongly recommended to display the chat bar to communicate with the tournament director.
If several players obtain the best score and the best Sonnenborn-Berger, they will share the prize. It is possible to forfeit all next games (that will be unrated for the advanced chess rating list) during the tournament.
FIDE GM & IM, FICGS / ICCF GM, SM & IM are invited to enter the waiting list for free.. Please just send a message to webmaster through My account page to register. You may be asked to send a copy of your passport or ID card. The tournament might be cancelled if less than 7 players registered before the deadline, in this case entry fees will be given back to the players.
An extra fee, usually 30% of the entry fee, will be added to the entry fee 2 days before the start of the tournament.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-04-05 02:43:40)
FICGS 2nd Freestyle Cup
Obviously the tournament won't probably be really interesting before I can sponsorize it and find additionnal sponsors... Ok, I'll make some important changes during the next weeks, this 2nd freestyle won't start this time again, we need more time anyway. Sorry and many thanks to the players who entered the waiting list !
Ulrich Imbeck (2008-04-14 19:05:39)
i tried to resign
In http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move&game=15697 i tried to resign. what does i have to do in the move formular?
Arnab Sengupta (2008-04-15 08:23:25)
RATING
please tell me is the ICCF or FICGS rating recognised by FIDE?
Garvin Gray (2008-04-26 06:16:33)
set blitz free
Thibault, can you please change the FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000007 to be free also, just like the bullet and lightning's?
Andrew Stephenson (2008-05-01 13:43:46)
free
Whats FICS?? - this is FICGS and its free
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2008-05-01 14:53:52)
Free
Confusing FICS with FICGS is like cinfusing Austria with Australia, after living 11 years in Vienna...
Thibault de Vassal (2008-05-01 19:06:17)
passwords & time controls
Hello Dale, if you experienced any problem with the left login form, feel free to try the other one (on the right) at https://www.ficgs.com/login.html
Thibault de Vassal (2008-05-01 19:08:08)
FICS
FICS - http://www.freechess.org
FICGS - http://www.ficgs.com
Jason Repa (2008-05-06 21:54:09)
Bird Brain loses in 33 Moves!
"Obviously playing the From or the approach adopted by black in these games is not an accurate response!"
That's not obvious at all. What's obvious is that I beat you quite easily when you and I played cc so you're far from being any kind of authority whatsoever!
"1f4 does not lose or lead to a worse gane for white - it just allows black to get equality very quickly and easily"
I just finished trying to explain to you, in the way a young child should be able to understand, that there is more to think about in chess than trying to play what current theory considers to be the best try for an opening advantage. Yet here you are rambling on about the same nonsense you were in your previous posts. Was Fischer's 2.d3 against the French the objectively strongest move? Even against (and perhaps especially against) computers, it can sometimes be better to play sidelines or moves which may serve to confuse an opponent. Is the King's Indian Attack the best try for an opening advantage for White? Probably not. But it was used by Kasparov to defeat Deep Blue. If you still can't understand the concept I've been trying to teach you, after several posts, I don't know what more I can do for you. Just keep mindlessly playing what established theory tells you are the strongest lines,(without having even the incipience of an understanding as to why) and keep mindlessly trusting the evaluations your program gives you, and you'll keep getting CRUSHED by guys like me.
"1 f4 doesnt develop any piece (except the king!) and is a bit committal and slightly weakening of the king side."
After this statement, if I didn't know better, I would have thought you were someone who just learned how to set up the pieces. It might be one of the dumbest things I've ever heard anyone say. Does 1.e4 develop a piece? How about 1.d4? I suppose those moves are "a waste in cc" as well. We should all be playing 1.Nf3 and 1.Nc3 according to you, lol.
1.f4 grabs space. It stakes out influence both in the center and on the kingside. It effectively prevents 1...e5 (lest White goes into a dubious gambit system) as an alternative to other moves which achieve this. There are also other intangibles that are part of the picture, such as the psychological effect the move may have, the lack of preparation an opponent may have against it, etc. If you ever began to understand chess at a level beyond just plugging moves into a program, you might start to appreciate that allowing concessions (such as the slight weakening of the White kingside resulting from 1.f4) is all part of the game. Fischer's famous quote: "you gotta give squares to get squares" is a famous example. If allowing static liabilities were something to be avoided at all cost, you'd never see a Sicilian Scheveningen. It allows all sorts of weaknesses.
As for your so called "analysis". It's a complete joke! For starters, you're "analyzing" a game resulting from the Leningrad Variation of the Bird's Opening. I line I've never played in my life, let alone here on FICGS. Is this how you try to win an argument/debate? By misrepresenting the facts? An intelligent person who genuinely felt that their argument had a leg to stand on, would simply take one of the 4 games I provided to you and do some analysis from there. Showing where Black could have improved. Then finally, after trying to "score points" with examples of the Leningrad Variation of the Bird's Opening, which I have never played, you post a game where White played poorly and lost to a lower rated player. As if that's never happened before in chess, lol. You don't even know enough to post the date of the game. I couldn't find this game on any of my databases(totally over 4,000,000 games), so if you didn't just make it up out of thin air, perhaps you got more wrong, such as the actual moves that were played, in addition to incorrectly stating:
"Look what happened to Evgeny Alexseev as black - a very strong 2600+ GM at the time - he continued 6 ..b6 7 h3 c5 8 Qe1 Bb7 9 g4 and lost to IM Sengupta."
Is it Black that lost here or White?
I took a brief look at the game, and it's hardly representative of proper play by White. 7.h3 was dubious at best. I prefer 7.Ne5. White then misses another opportunity to play the knight to e5 after 7...c5. Then 9.g4? is a gross thematic mistake. The only thing this game proves is that you're completely incapable of discussing chess in an intelligent way. Real chess players look for games that illustrate the critical lines for both sides, and try to arrive at some actual insights.
There is a reason I crushed you when we played cc last year.
Jason Repa (2008-05-07 06:46:43)
Bird Brain loses in 33 moves!
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at the behavior of this lowlife. After all, I beat him in chess and beat him in debate. I also caught him RED-HANDED telling lies and exposed him for what he is. What else is a sniveling coward to do but dig up old flame wars on the internet from four years ago, that have not an iota of relevance to any of the topics being discussed here. I bet his parents are real proud of him, LOL!
"Black's ...f5 stakes a serious claim to the e4 square and looks towards an attack on White's kingside in the middlegame. However, it weakens Black's own kingside somewhat, and does nothing to contribute to Black's development" My point exactly about 1 f4"
Another typical tactic from a chronic liar....to change the very premise of what was being argued. I'll refresh your memory since you don't have the mental capability of remembering your own words. The statement you made was: "1 f4 at cc seems a waste of white". That is what I contested. I never disputed that there is some weakening of the kingside involved here. But some weakening of the kingside doesn't mean it's a poor opening choice. You're trying to win an argument with lies and misrepresentation. Try being honest and sticking to the facts for once in your life.
My otb tournament rating is currently 2010, but my active rating is not anywhere near what you're suggesting. I'm actually much stronger in both 30 minute active and blitz chess. I won more blitz tournaments in 2007 AND 2008 than anyone else in my region, ahead of 2 FM's. And my performance in active events is in the mid 2100's based on all the otb active events I've played in over the last 5 years.
In the region I play in we don't have many active events. So I've only played in 2 that were rated, and that was over a decade ago. The provisional ratings used were far below what everyone was worth (not just me). We had a strong FM who was competing at 1800 and change, while both his FIDE and national rating were in the neighborhood of 2300. Stranger things have happened in small clubs.
Did anyone notice how the coward won't discuss what HIS national otb rating is? We don't hear a word from him about that. Very telling indeed!
Then the little weasel reposts a game that he already posted in this thread earlier. Could it be that the poor loser whom I CRUSHED in chess, has run out of ammunition with which to compensate for the fact that he lost to me? I've lost 6 games, drew 59 and won 117 on FICGS, including the beating I gave to you. I beat you EASILY and I'm HIGHER RATED than you. Keep crying about that. Its entertaining.
Again, crybaby, if 1.f4 is a waste at cc, why did I gain rating points here playing 1.f4. And why did I beat you so easily at chess? I think I proved on the chess board, that you don't know what you're talking about. All you have is lies, slander, and random usenet group flame wars from 4 years ago. I have FACTS:
I BEAT YOU IN CHESS AND I'M HIGHER RATED THAN YOU ARE.
""Look what happened to Evgeny Alexseev as black - a very strong 2600+ GM at the time - he continued 6 ..b6 7 h3 c5 8 Qe1 Bb7 9 g4 and lost to IM Sengupta." Alexseev lost and the criticisms of IM Sengupta's moves by Mr Repa are quite funny "
You're copying and pasting the same nonsense you posted earlier. Did you even read the words you typed? You're saying "look what happened to Evgeny Alexseev as Black", as if he's the one who lost. Then You switch it around and suggest that Evgeny Alexseev was White and say that he played 9.g4. Are you pretending to be this stupid or is this really how you are? As I said earlier, you're probably making the whole game up, or at least changing moves around, etc, because it doesn't appear anywhere that I could find, and you're still not bright enough to figure out how to post the whole game as you were asked to do earlier. It's a pretty sad state of affairs of that's the ONLY game you can think of to try to smear a legitimate and recognized opening such as Bird's Opening. Whoever played White played very poorly. I spelled out for you the moves that White played that were very poor. Did I use any words too complex for you to understand?
" 1 f4 has been championed by GM Jakubiec who is the only GM who has played it regularly"
This is also pure nonsense. There are MANY strong GM's (and super GM's)who haved played 1.f4 in serious games. GM Henrik Danielsen used it as a MAIN MOVE for many years also.
Keep posting lies, slander, and irrelevant 4 year old flame wars from the internet little man. I defeated you in chess and in debate. I proved that what you said is pure nonsense. All you have is hot air!
Jason Repa (2008-05-07 06:57:07)
Bird Brain loses in 33 moves!
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at the behavior of this lowlife. After all, I beat him in chess and beat him in debate. I also caught him RED-HANDED telling lies and exposed him for what he is. What else is a sniveling coward to do but dig up old flame wars on the internet from four years ago, that have not an iota of relevance to any of the topics being discussed here. I bet his parents are real proud of him, LOL!
"Black's ...f5 stakes a serious claim to the e4 square and looks towards an attack on White's kingside in the middlegame. However, it weakens Black's own kingside somewhat, and does nothing to contribute to Black's development" My point exactly about 1 f4"
Another typical tactic from a chronic liar....to change the very premise of what was being argued. I'll refresh your memory since you don't have the mental capability of remembering your own words. The statement you made was: "1 f4 at cc seems a waste of white". That is what I contested. I never disputed that there is some weakening of the kingside involved here. But some weakening of the kingside doesn't mean it's a poor opening choice. You're trying to win an argument with lies and misrepresentation. Try being honest and sticking to the facts for once in your life.
My otb tournament rating is currently 2010, but my active rating is not anywhere near what you're suggesting. I'm actually much stronger in both 30 minute active and blitz chess. I won more blitz tournaments in 2007 AND 2008 than anyone else in my region, ahead of 2 FM's. And my performance in active events is in the mid 2100's based on all the otb active events I've played in over the last 5 years.
In the region I play in we don't have many active events. So I've only played in 2 that were rated, and that was over a decade ago. The provisional ratings used were far below what everyone was worth (not just me). We had a strong FM who was competing at 1800 and change, while both his FIDE and national rating were in the neighborhood of 2300. Stranger things have happened in small clubs.
Did anyone notice how the coward won't discuss what HIS national otb rating is? We don't hear a word from him about that. Very telling indeed!
Then the little weasel reposts a game that he already posted in this thread earlier. Could it be that the poor loser whom I CRUSHED in chess, has run out of ammunition with which to compensate for the fact that he lost to me? I've lost 6 games, drew 59 and won 117 on FICGS, including the beating I gave to you. I beat you EASILY and I'm HIGHER RATED than you. Keep crying about that. Its entertaining.
Again, crybaby, if 1.f4 is a waste at cc, why did I gain rating points here playing 1.f4. And why did I beat you so easily at chess? I think I proved on the chess board, that you don't know what you're talking about. All you have is lies, slander, and random usenet group flame wars from 4 years ago. I have FACTS:
I BEAT YOU IN CHESS AND I'M HIGHER RATED THAN YOU ARE.
""Look what happened to Evgeny Alexseev as black - a very strong 2600+ GM at the time - he continued 6 ..b6 7 h3 c5 8 Qe1 Bb7 9 g4 and lost to IM Sengupta." Alexseev lost and the criticisms of IM Sengupta's moves by Mr Repa are quite funny "
You're copying and pasting the same nonsense you posted earlier. Did you even read the words you typed? You're saying "look what happened to Evgeny Alexseev as Black", as if he's the one who lost. Then You switch it around and suggest that Evgeny Alexseev was White and say that he played 9.g4. Are you pretending to be this stupid or is this really how you are? As I said earlier, you're probably making the whole game up, or at least changing moves around, etc, because it doesn't appear anywhere that I could find, and you're still not bright enough to figure out how to post the whole game as you were asked to do earlier. It's a pretty sad state of affairs of that's the ONLY game you can think of to try to smear a legitimate and recognized opening such as Bird's Opening. Whoever played White played very poorly. I spelled out for you the moves that White played that were very poor. Did I use any words too complex for you to understand?
" 1 f4 has been championed by GM Jakubiec who is the only GM who has played it regularly"
This is also pure nonsense. There are MANY strong GM's (and super GM's)who haved played 1.f4 in serious games. GM Henrik Danielsen used it as a MAIN MOVE for many years also.
Keep posting lies, slander, and irrelevant 4 year old flame wars from the internet little man. I defeated you in chess and in debate. I proved that what you said is pure nonsense. All you have is hot air!
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2008-05-12 20:02:28)
Rating changes
Hello to all,
I think a player should be removed from the waiting list if his rating is out of the restriction of the tournament.
In my opinion TER means the rating at the start of the tournament not at the entry into the waiting list. If the tournament starts the current rating is used as TER.
For example in FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000015 the games with Jason (!) and Sandor were rated with 2174 and 2147 and not with >= 2200 (their ratings when they entered the waiting list).
No words in the rules about this theme?
Best, Heinz-Georg
Jason Repa (2008-05-13 12:32:23)
Repa vs Stephenson 1-0
What's clear, Stephenson, is that you're a very sad and pathetic individual. You obviously have no life whatsoever. You've been harassing me and trying to provoke me nonstop. First you start this troll behavior in the other thread....now you're doing it here as well. Is this what you do to everyone who outsmarts you and beats you in chess, as I have done?
It's one thing to follow me around from thread to thread and harass me, but the brown-nosing and whining to the admin you've been doing has made me lose all respect for you entirely. Not that I had much to begin with.
You even go so far as to obsessively comb through all of my games, just to try to find one that you think will someone embarrass or offend me. You even start a thread featuring one of my games. Obviously none of your own games are worthy of mentioning, so you focus on me and my chess games, lol. Well I have news for you Stephenson, I'm not embarrassed at all about my correspondence chess game losses (or any losses in chess for that matter). I've learned a lot more from my losses than my wins. My 6 losses on FICGS have taught me more than my 118 wins here, including the easy win against you and your chess program.
Perhaps others can benefit from my 6 losses as well. Do the FICGS community a favor and post my other five losses, not just the French Defense I played against Bucsa Ioan, that you felt warranted starting a thread to discuss.
Unlike you, I'm a real chess player. I enjoy learning and wish to take my OTB game to the next level and I believe that correspondence chess is helping me to do just that.
What is YOUR OTB chess rating? Interestingly you didn't respond to that question when it was asked of you more than once previously, lol. Big surprise!
Hannes Rada (2008-05-13 23:53:25)
childish and offtopic
After posting No. 4 this thread becomes a childish and offtopic guerilla battle .... < It doesn't seem fair that a 2100 < player should be playing in a < tournament intended for 2200-2600 < players Are you afraid of losing so important FICGS - Elos when you have to play against lower rated opponents ?? If you want to play correspondence chess at top level than you have to sign up at ICCF.
Jason Repa (2008-05-14 00:35:54)
Re: Hannes query
I'm not "afraid" of playing anyone, and the FICGS rating points are only a means with which to play the stronger players. As I stated earlier, and in other threads, my primary interest in correspondence chess is to do research for my otb chess. Having said that I'm interested in playing the strongest players possible.
It's simple common sense that if a rating category says 2200-2600, then it should have players who are rated 2200-2600. Lower rated players are free to sign up for the category that they qualify for.
Do you play otb chess Hannes? You don't seem to have any otb rating as far as I can tell.
Hannes Rada (2008-05-14 20:10:41)
Jason's query
Jason, I gave up OTB chess some 20 years ago. So I have no OTB rating (anymore) Playing in my chessclub was not and ist not compatible with my working hours. CC is perfect for me. Analyzing and making move later in the evening when I am returning from work, or whenever I can find time. It's wise to play the strongest possible opponents. But cc rating does not implicitly say anything about chess strength. Too many variables may influence the players chess abilities. (Too many games at the same time, lack of motivation, ....) On the other side an ambitious 1800 Elo newcomer can sometimes more dangerous than an "old" CC-GM. FICGS is quite a nice community. Here you have the chance to raise your rating and play against the higher rated players pretty soon compared with ICCF. But your "strong opponent experience" will end here around 2500 - 2550. Raising your rating in ICCF takes much more time (because tournaments are slower) but when you've established yourselve at a certain level than you have the chance to play the > 2700 guys like van Osteroom & Co :-) But at this level correspondence chess is no fun anymore. I've talked to GM Peter Hertel from Germany several years ago and he told me that he had to analyze and work on his cc - chess positions around 10 hours per day to compete at this level .... if you are retired or jobless and a billionaire (van Osteroom) than you have the best chances of winning an ICCF championship final .... :-) Do you think the playing cc helps to improve your otb abilities ? I've talked to several players regarding this issue and I received different answers. From: Yes I benefit from my cc-opening experience To: No, these are absolutely different stories. OTB requires the abilites to calculate deeplines correctly and to maintain concentration for a couple of hours. All things which are absolutely not necessary for cc. My experience for the short time frame when I played both otb + cc is that for the purpose of improving the otb abilities it would have been better to study chess books and solving tactical exercises than playing cc.
Hannes Rada (2008-05-15 23:06:25)
Openings
Hi Andrew, " It certainly seems a lot easier to get a draw against e4 at cc." I've the same feeling. But the top player vanOsteroom prefers definitely 1.e4 ! Does anybody know if 1.e4 or 1.d4 is played more often here at FICGS ? "He played it 3 times including the critical line 1 d4 Nf6 2 c4 e6 3 Nc3 c5 4 d5 exd5 5 cxd5 d6 6 e4 g6 7 f4 etc and got 3 draws against opposition of 2150, 2300 and 2400." Can this be considered as a success ? 50 % against lower rated opponents ? Normally Benoni is played when you want or have to win with black ... However Hector Walsh seems to have some fighting spirit. Andrew do you know the IECG server ? From time to time I get invitations from the IECG guys for their tournamengs, but never played there.
Marc Lacrosse (2008-05-15 23:29:59)
no taboos !
Hi Hannes
Although I am not a top level cc player, I still feel I do not too badly here (I will be over 2400 at next rating)...
... and I _never_ play main stream openings!
In fact I played quite a few disreputed lines here like these:
- 1.Nc3
- 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d3?! Nf6 4. Be2 ?! or 4.Bd3 !?
- 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 e6 3. d4 cd 4.Nxd4 Bc5 !?
- 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bg5 Nbd7 4.Qd3 !?
My one and only loss in 43 games at FICGS was in a very doubtful but interesting gambit against one of the strongest players here.
So I cannot see why such evidently interesting openings like non-Najdorf-non-Sveshnikov sicilians should not be played at cc chess any more...
at least at my modest ~2400 Elo level ...
Marc
Andrew Stephenson (2008-05-15 23:36:07)
IECG
Hi Hannes Your right Hectors Benoni didn't draw blood but I guess its playable. Actually I dont like to play against it as it provokes a crisis very early on and the hard work starts quickly! On FICGS I think queen side openings are preferred by the top players eg WCH knockout matches - the exception is Peter Schuster who seems to play e4 a lot and is successful with it. Thanks for telling me about Van Osteroom's e4 preference I am keen to see what he plays against c6! - I mean the classical variation. Sorry I dont know too much about the IECG server.
Lincoln Tomlin (2008-05-17 19:07:03)
Don, Thibault, Jason...
Thanks. I usually do make a habit of copying to the clipboard before hitting any butons but, well, you know that ONE time you forget etc. :) Not to worry. I just wanted to add what a powerful study tool FICGS can be in analysing structures, plans and ideas in openings for your OTB repertoire. I really think that this form of chess is undervalued in really trying to get an understanding of target middle and endgame positions for use in club and tournament play. I use a lowly 1.7Ghz Celeron based laptop and Chessbase along with an older version of a 'weaker' (not telling which) engine for checking line and ideas but mainly try for lines that I want to head for in games against humans. Unless they prove to be truly disastrous of course. 8|
Thibault de Vassal (2008-05-19 06:49:44)
Free tournaments with prizes
Hello to all.
You may have noticed that some free tournaments now have prizes :
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS__SM : 15 Epoints
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS__M : 5 Epoints
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS__A : 1 Epoints
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID__SM : 7 Epoints
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID__M : 2 Epoints
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID__A : 1 Epoints
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__M : 15 Epoints
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_PRO : 45 Epoints
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_DAN : 15 Epoints
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_III : 5 Epoints
FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_II : 1 Epoints
Membership and Help sections have been updated, see :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#prize
"When a player wins a free tournament with a prize in E-Points, the current prize displayed for that tournament when the winners list is updated is added to his FICGS account. Prizes may change (most probably increase) during free events at the tournament director's discretion."
Previous chess class SM winners and a few others have received these prizes already.
It is also possible to win free Epoints by posting your affiliate link (see My account) on the web. For each new player referred by this link, 1 Epoint will be added to your account.
Thanks to all, I hope prizes can grow in the near future, also for the WCH cycles :)
Best wishes, Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2008-05-19 17:00:20)
Chess player in France
Hello from France, Richard. Welcome to FICGS !
Feel free to post your link in the FICGS directory.
Arnab Sengupta (2008-05-22 17:50:45)
ruling?
Chill guys!!!!!!!!!!! i'm not playing this game in FICGS or any server.....i'm playing it with my brother and we wanted to find some good defense for Balck, thats why i asked for your help!!!! Now if you people have so much problem with it, then i'll take that blame from you.....Whats the use in discussing chess position then???
Thibault de Vassal (2008-05-24 16:36:19)
Tournament winner in WCH
This is true in WCH round-robin tournaments only !
I explained why I've chosen this rule in previous threads, ie. :
>>
As you noticed, rating is quite important in FICGS world championship cycle (particularly established ratings, obtained from IECG / ICCF or after 9 games finished in FICGS) !
I think these rules are really the best choice in order to designate a world champion. It's more logical IMO to favour players who obtained previously the best results at FICGS and recognized organizations, and consequently a high rating. It takes time, of course. Even very strong players starting with a 1700 rating won't achieve a 2300 established rating before months !
Criterias in FICGS wch are (from most important to least) :
1) Winner of the previous cycle (qualify for the final match)
2) The eight best established ratings (play the KO tournament)
3) Points obtained in the wch tournaments
4) The tournament entry rating (TER)
<<
Thibault de Vassal (2008-06-02 21:44:21)
Poll : Texas hold'em Poker at FICGS ?
Hi all,
Still thinking about adding other games at FICGS. Of course, Xiangqi and Shogi are good candidates, a popular one (I quite like) would be poker texas hold'em. What do you think about such a [chancy] game played for fun at a correspondence time control at FICGS ?!
All opinions or advices are welcome.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-06-03 02:59:46)
Internet poker
Hi Jason, that's an interesting view and I agree with that, particularly on internet poker. That's why I'm thinking about a typical "FICGS" way to play it, ie. tables with 2 players only, with a ELO rating system (without money, does this exist elsewhere ?), a championship, eventually E-Points (without entry fees) and so on... What do you think ?
Jason Repa (2008-06-03 03:14:01)
Poker at FICGS
I've never heard of poker having an elo rating system. There is too much of a luck factor in order for that to be meaningful IMO. Obviously there is some skill in poker, but the fruits of this only manifest in the "long-run". Even top professionals have had losing periods in excess of a year in duration.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-06-03 03:56:28)
Poker at FICGS
True. A year ? Huh, really long periods. I've read somewhere (maybe on this forum) that about 150,000 hands were necessary to 'forget' the chancy factor, and the rating differences would probably be much smaller than in chess. Hmmm
Don Groves (2008-06-03 06:43:39)
Poker at FICGS
Skill in poker is in how you manage your money and knowing when to bluff and when not to. If the stakes are not large enough to make bluffing meaningful, then it becomes simply who gets the better cards -- a game of chance. Just my $0.02 worth ;-)
Ulrich Imbeck (2008-06-05 00:32:30)
Here I would enjoy it.
Poker is very popular. Only 1 luck game would be o.k. for ficgs. Here I would enjoy Poker.
Don Groves (2008-06-05 00:49:18)
FICGS Poker
Thibault -- How many players per "table?" As for length of games, you could set a start time and end time, with a duration of one or two hours. When time is up, the game is over. That way everyone knows in advance the time commitment and can schedule accordingly.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-06-05 01:35:52)
FICGS poker
It would be 2 players only per table. Thanks to all, I'll have to think about it. To be continued.
Jason Repa (2008-06-09 08:12:28)
Brackets - both Chess and Go
" -- allow the winner of a tournament to qualify for the next higher classification regardless of his/her rating."
This idea seems interesting, on the surface, but on closer inspection it's not feasible. The FICGS tournament categories are dependent on certain rating averages that determine the level of points required in order to achieve norms for various FICGS titles, starting at class "M" and higher. Throwing in lower rated players would dilute the rating average of the entire tournament. It's also unfair to the rest of the players in that tournament who are legitimately qualified to be there. They are forced to play a lower rated opponent artificially and now THEY are at a big disadvantage in their attempt to gain the points required to get to the next level.
Additionally, I don't think groves thought about this long enough to realize that there is no guarantee that each "A" level tournament will end precisely as each "M" level tournament does. What if two "A" level events are completed in the time it takes for one "M" level event to finish, which isn't an unreasonable possibility as the "M" level players generally take the game more seriously and tend to use their time more? Should we then throw in TWO players into an "M" level event that don't deserve to be there? At any rate, it's a poor idea. If someone is winning tournaments, they're definitely gaining rating points and will qualify legitimately for the next rating level soon enough.
Jason Repa (2008-06-10 01:03:04)
Free entry into unqualified tournaments
As for the discussion of allowing lower rated players to play in events with higher rated players after winning a tournament.....such a thing already exists. They're called FICGS Championships!
Don Groves (2008-06-10 08:05:43)
Brackets
Sometimes truth hurts, repa, but your opinions most certainly are not truth. Your rants about me are simply the opinions of one person who seems to believe that belittling others makes himself seem more important by comparison. There's a word for someone who mistakes his own opinions for facts: delusional. From what I've seen of most of your posts on FICGS, it fits you perfectly. Ta ta.
Marc Lacrosse (2008-06-11 23:54:23)
Strange rating ...
Having a look at the rating list I see that Ryszard Kasperek has a 2544 rating and the FICGS FEM title.
I just wonder how he got the FEM title as he did never play a single game on FICGS ?
He has been rated 14 times with the same original 2544 elo without a single game played here
Strange ...
IMHO people who register here with a high foreign rating and do not play a single game in more than one year should be banned.
I cannot even imagine how they could be granted a FICGS title
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2008-06-12 00:37:27)
Titles
Hi Marc,
The rules specify that a title obtained at IECG give the right to ask for the same title at FICGS (with F letter before, ie. FEM)
Ratings are no more established ones after (if I remember well) 2 years of inactivity. I think that old ratings should remain in a list anyway, that's a part of correspondence chess history :)
The active players list should be considered first, then you won't see these ratings anymore.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-02 23:22:15)
games in PGN
Hi Wayne,
Well, many ways but no way in a single click yet... I'll make an update.
In example :
http://www.ficgs.com/databases/chess.pgn (then filter by name)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_games_print.php (make a PGN file)
Garvin Gray (2008-07-03 16:30:20)
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_M__000010
One more player needed. Please join up so the six can start :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-04 22:54:33)
norms in Class M
It all depends on the rating average.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
Normajean Yates (2008-07-09 03:01:53)
re: make your chess variant
continuation of closed topic: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=4362
minichess: 5x5 board with starting pos
rnbqk/PPPPP/5/ppppp/RNBQK w Qq - 0 1
superchess:10x10 board with starting pos.
rnbqskqbnr/pppppppppp/10/10/10/10/10/10/PPPPPPPPPP/RNBQSKQBNR w KSks - 0 1
S is superqueen, moves like Q or N. Just as Q moves like R or B. So S moves like R or B or N.
Oksana Krylova (2008-07-11 08:45:14)
Why is not fixed mate?
Game 18928 Krylova - Denchev Why is not fixed mate? http://www.ficgs.com/game_18928.html
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-11 23:13:29)
FICGS Go championship final match
The first FICGS Go championship 5 games final match (in WCH Go 000002) just started !
Svante Carl von Erichsen (2478, 4 dan) vs. Ke Lu (2591, 5 dan)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000002.html
Nice & instructive games to follow :)
Best of luck to both.
Normajean Yates (2008-07-13 23:01:01)
help - chat column missing
I can see a white-background black-text chat column / frame on the right in some of my computer, but they are absent in others. Can someone please help? Windows XP, firefox 2, adblock plus [popups enables for ficgs]
Normajean Yates (2008-07-14 05:27:33)
firefox: adblockPlus 'disabling'
to 'disable' adblockPlus for ficgs, [ie to 'whitelist' ficgs for ABP) just add this filter:
@@http://www.ficgs.com
(of course this works for any http:// or https://.)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-15 01:15:34)
Not luck
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=17894
Anyway a chess tournament is just like a poker championship, everything can happen, probabilities and any knowledge factor sometimes look like chance, but at the end when you watch all your games, everything takes sense... and vice versa.
Normajean Yates (2008-07-15 03:25:32)
is mirroring moves legal on ficgs?
suppose I am playing a tournament. I need only 1 point [1/2=draw,1=win]. in one game I am white. In another game I am black.
In the game where I am black, I wait for opp to move, say move w1. Then in the game where I am white, I make the move w1, then I wait for opp's reply, say b1. Now in the game where I am black I move b1. And so on..
So i am guranteed exactly 1 point (1/2+1/2 = 1 + 0 = 0+1 = 1).
Is this legal? If not, by which rule?
Thibault?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-16 21:33:08)
Surprise, Surprise
Very nice game by Gino & Xavier :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=18447
To be continued...
"Pre decision" : looks like a french word :) (almost a known result)
Normajean Yates (2008-07-17 23:48:15)
and this takes the cake!
rule 11.2 - last paragraph: <<The rules assume that FICGS referees have the necessary competence, sound judgement and absolute objectivity. Too detailed a rule might deprive the arbiter of his freedom of judgement and thus prevent him from finding the solution to a problem dictated by fairness, logic and special factors. FICGS appeals to all its members to accept this view.>>
You see,even if you find 'loopholes' in La Code Tibault, you come against the above! :)
Normajean Yates (2008-07-18 00:41:49)
how did member's name change?
in the FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_B__000049 tourney, Paulo Cerini after resigning against me (he put a Q en prise - no credit to me), became Frank Gavin in all his games. [now there is no member called Paulo Cerini] How?
by rule 11.2 last paragraph? Kafka, Calvino, Bunuel, or 1984/testify[RATM] (who controls the present controls the past)? :)
Andrew Stephenson (2008-07-18 04:55:03)
Mirror mirror on the wall
To put Thibaults explanation another way: the person doing the mirroring aleays plays his moves after the other other person. So after a while you can see who is the real player and who is the reflection. Thibault has a system of rules that are very open and liberal but there are limits. For example at FICGS it is allowed to discuss a game that is not yet finished!
Andrew Stephenson (2008-07-18 04:57:18)
Good question
Good question on the name change - at the same time I thought at FICGS you are supposed to use your real name?? Normajean??
Wayne Lowrance (2008-07-20 02:38:48)
Rybka Opening Book
In fact I will share an opinion that I have become to trust. That is, even the best books offered have a very short life expectancy. Certainly less than six months with active chess players such that play on "play chess" and even here. Book lines soon become refuted by these centaurs and a new private book of theirs emerges. I will admit that such is the case with me here on Ficgs. I have/use recognized good books that are available, but have my own small book that I consult. Just an opinion and hope this shared info is taken in the helpful way I intended. So this would indicate that R3.ctg probobly is a great book, but against active centaurs will soon reduce its effectivity. Thanks Wayne
Normajean Yates (2008-07-21 15:16:14)
why so few women on ficgs?
compare chess.com.
Simone de Beauvoir write in Le Deuxième Sexe, 1949 that women in l'Etats-Unis d'America are more advanced...
Still true? [with modification: women members of USA-based sites :)]
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-21 15:37:01)
Caire - Utesch
It just started :)
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_CANDIDATES_FINAL__000002
Also congrats to Alberto Gueci who finished the 2nd round robin final (just like the 1st one) with 4 out of 6. Next time is the one !
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-21 15:41:31)
why so few women on ficgs?
Interesting question... Now waiting for nice theories :)
Andrew Stephenson (2008-07-21 16:00:32)
cc sites
Sites like ICCF and IECG seem to be like FICGS - very few women members. Chess.com is not just an exclusive cc site and has a lot more varied chess content - not just cc. Perhaps thats part of the reason. However some sites like chessbase are cringeingly sexist - never missing an opportunity to show pics of the "pretty girls" together with 1950's style comments.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-21 18:29:18)
Xavier Pichelin is 1st FICGS champion !
Still one running game but Xavier already scored 4.5 points, congratulations :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=18451
Another nice game BTW.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-22 23:20:29)
Sexist quotes festival part 1 ? :)
My girlfriend particularly likes : "A woman without a man is like a fish without a bicycle." ;)
Maybe I can use it for the FICGS quotes file :o)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-25 17:26:45)
FICGS in Wikipedia
Just seen it in the logs, obviously one of our italian chessfriends just created the first article about FICGS (well, looks like the home page) in Wikipedia :)
http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/FICGS
BTW, I hope this great encyclopedia will survive now that Google tries to concurrence it with its commercial wiki called Knol (just started).
http://knol.google.com
Wolfgang Utesch (2008-07-25 20:36:16)
But it seems, that ....
.... he has fogotten to announce his leave at FICGS!
Normajean Yates (2008-07-26 00:55:34)
the english wikipedia ...
has a link to ficgs in the 'Correspondence chess server' article; but no article.
I had a fight with jimbo wales and co so I will never post there; [i was one of the first posters and always anonymous...] - but someone should maybe go ahead and do so.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-26 23:43:11)
Strange Go games
Please share the strangiest Go games :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=22785
Mark Hailes (2008-07-27 02:47:12)
NJ is wrong
This game:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=20553
Would seems to suggest the reverse of Normajean's hypothesis.
Don Groves (2008-07-27 05:28:05)
Strange Go games
Perhaps black thinks he has a better chance on two boards instead of one:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=4084
Don Groves (2008-07-27 05:33:34)
.. and another
Black new about ponnukis but nothing else. White had fun eating ponnukis but got full and called the arbitrator.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=9939
Marc Lacrosse (2008-07-27 19:36:41)
The specifics of match play ...
Tanks to FICGS championships interesting formula I just entered Wch 005 in a quarter final 8-games match (against GM Balabaev).
This is the first time I have to play several simultaneous games against the same opponent in correspondence play.
There are interesting questions related to this unusual kind of tournament.
First of all, what kind of opening(s) should you play, and more precisely is it better to vary or to go for the same opening in several games?
Having had a look at my opponents former games I had prepared quite a few options.
As Black I decided to rely on my favorite Bc5 sicilian defence
Four identical games developped and very soon it appeared that these games should be decisive for the whole match
For long I was afraid that my opponent could come with some decisive prepared analysis leading to a 4-0 lead ...
But the opposite happened and all four games ended (draw by position repetition) before I had left my opening prep, after less than one month of play.
Thus I am left with four games where I am white
A considerable advantage IMHO ...
On this precise topic I wonder what is the opinion of top players here : is it better to be the one who vary early or should you go along your favorite analysis as long as your opponent won't diverge himself in case of match play
I have never read anything on this topic anywhere ...
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-28 00:27:32)
The specifics of match play ...
Hi Marc.
There was discussions about the 8 games match format already... and you may have seen that I used this strategy without success before with Farit as my opponent :)
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_3__000003.html
Anyway, the choice of openings and to vary the lines is a very complex (and interesting) question IMO, that depends on too many factors, so I probably may change my view in certain cases, whatever the results.
Normajean Yates (2008-07-29 05:32:27)
why so few retrograde analysis fans here
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=problem_read&id=262
Nicola, Kieran, and me [ i hadn't discovered this site when the problem was posted]
This problem is not trivial, but definitely not difficult!
Andrew Stephenson (2008-07-30 11:03:31)
Databases
Thibault I believe FICGS games do not get into any of the databases (mega corr etc) Is there any way to get these games in? I have seen some tremendous novelties in FICGS that I have not found anywhere else. It seems this knowledge is hidden ....
Benjamin Block (2008-07-30 12:34:34)
Ficgs games.
It works in chessbase light. You can download it free on. www.chessbase.com
Thibault de Vassal (2008-07-30 13:01:18)
Databases
Benjamin, I think Andrew meant to share FICGS games in known correspondence chess databases (not programs).
That's a good idea but it's probably a question of time only, or I may ask the owners... why not.
Andrew Stephenson (2008-08-07 16:00:12)
Longest game
I just wondered whats the longest game game ever played on FICGS - in terms of moves? Potentially it could be very long as the 50 move draw rule does not apply automaticaaly on this site.
Wolfgang Utesch (2008-08-07 16:36:39)
Is there any longer than
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000002"]???
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-08 19:44:16)
Longest game : 129 moves
Now you can find some additional statistics for the longest games in the page http://www.ficgs.com/about.html (at the bottom, below opening stats)
Go - http://www.ficgs.com/game_9942.html
Chess - http://www.ficgs.com/game_10806.html
Chess 960 - http://www.ficgs.com/game_8791.html
Big Chess - http://www.ficgs.com/game_15403.html
Normajean Yates (2008-08-11 09:30:24)
why not?
it could be done in an annotation-request forum. Someone could volunteer to annotate.
This topic began in the international-chat column, where someone said that fics (freechess.org - not ficgs) has annotation facility. Well I've been active there for 2 years [until early 2008] - it is voluntary there and in practice hardly any game gets annotated.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-11 17:44:44)
annotated games
If we can find a smart way to annotate games played at FICGS (and others, why not), all games will be available, including Go and Big Chess... let's see how the other thread goes :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-14 14:00:53)
Contest : FICGS, acronym for...
FICGS, acronym for Free.. French, Fries what ? .. What is it, what should it be, what could it be....... Any ideas ? :)
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2008-08-14 14:11:36)
FICGS, acronym for.
Feminist Inter Continental Gastro Sympathetic
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-14 17:08:15)
FICGS
What's the original name ? Your choice...
a) Free Internet Chess and Go Server
b) Free Internet Correspondence Games Server
c) Free Internet Correspondence Go Server
d) Free Internet Chess Games Server
Andrew Stephenson (2008-08-14 20:31:38)
FICGS
The best is a) as it describes the games played on the server. Bigchess can be seen as a chess variant and if "games" is supposed to cover just this and go it seems an exaggeration. However if Poker is to be included then b) would win my vote.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-16 12:29:32)
Questions to Xavier Pichelin
Xavier Pichelin is 1st FICGS chess champion after beating IM Gino Figlio in the first candidates final, he accepted to talk about his match, the tournament, his views around correspondence chess, chess engines and so on... The most important part may be he'll defend his title against the winner of the 2nd candidates final :)
Unfortunately, the complete interview is in french only as he doesn't speak english, but if someone finds a good translator (if possible better than Babelfish), he may post it in this thread. Thanks !
- Bonjour Xavier et tout d'abord félicitations pour ta victoire dans le match qui t'opposait au MI (ICCF) Gino Figlio [Pérou] dans la finale des candidats. Tu devais éviter à tout prix la nulle dans toutes les parties, finalement les noirs t'ont porté chance, comment expliques-tu ce résultat ?
Xavier : Bonjour, merci pour les félicitations. C'est vrai qu'en cas de nulles pour toutes les parties, le règlement indique Figlio Vainqueur en cas d'égalité avec victoire(s) et défaite(s) je remporte le match. Donc il fallait que je prenne des risques en attaquant et c'est avec les noirs que je l'ai fait car je pensais que Gino, dans ces parties, attendrait sans prendre de risques pour assurer les nulles.
- Peux-tu nous décrire la manière dont tu as abordé ce match contre Gino et son déroulement au fur et à mesure des différentes phases du jeu ?
X : C'est assez simple, dans ce match je n'étais pas du tout favori car avec plus de 200 points ELO FICGS en ma défaveur, et Gino titré Maître International avec plus de 2480 point ELO ICCF, je pensais que je n'allais pas résister sur 8 parties simultanées car sur une partie tout est possible mais sur 8 parties... c'était pour moi un grand défi ! Pour le déroulement du jeu j'ai joué la diversité sur mes débuts avec les blancs 4 parties 4 coups différents : 1.e4 1.d4 1.c4 1.Cf3. Gino a fait de même : 1.e4 1.d4 1.Cf3 1.Cc3. Ce qui m'a fait douter aussi car 1.Cc3 m'a surpris, je pensais qu'il avait prévu un début tonitruand et c'est là que je me suis dit qu'il fallait que je prenne des risques avec les noirs. Au fur et à mesure des différentes phases du jeu j'ai assuré les nulles des positions équilibrées pour me concacrer a deux parties avantageuses dont une avec les blancs et une avec les noirs pour au moins faire la différence dans une partie pour assurer la victoire. Et en fin de compte c'est 3 victoires qui me reviennent, ce qui me paraissait impossible étant donnée la qualité du jeu de Gino joué sur ce site pour arriver à la finale des candidats du championnat.
- Tu as réalisé pendant le championnat un parcours sans faute, aucune défaite à signaler, tu affiches également des statistiques stratosphériques à 78% contre une moyenne elo à près de 2200, quel est ton secret ?
X : Mon secret? Je n'ai pas de secret. Si j'avais un secret je ne le dévoilerais pas sinon je ne gagnerais plus ! Je pense que j'ai eu un petit peu de chance car il s'en est fallu de peu que je ne sois pas qualifié au stage 3 (robin-round final) car il y avait 3 joueurs à égalité et j'ai eu l'avantage du classement du départ de ce tournoi comme l'indique le règlement. Quant à mes statistiques, c'est aussi grâce aux erreurs de mes adversaires qui m'ont permis de gagner des parties équilibrées.
- Que penses-tu du système mi-ko, mi-toutes-rondes du championnat FICGS et de ses départages inédits lors des matchs en 8 parties ? Quelles modifications y apporterais-tu ?
X : Très bonne question ! Le système mi-ko pour moi est un peu trop rapide car un coup par jour c'est des heures d'analyses pour exploiter une position compliquée, ce qui est difficile quand on à plusieurs parties en cours. Surtout quand on travaille. C'est peut-être aussi grâce à cette cadence que mes adversaires, faute de temps, ont fait des imprécisions sur certaines postions ou exploité mes erreurs. Mais cette cadence a un avantage par rapport aux cadences ICCF qui est de 5 jours par coup, c'est que les parties durent 5 fois moins longtemps ! Le départage inédit des matchs en 8 parties est excellent, obliger le favori à assurer tous les matchs nulles pour gagner ce duel et sinon d'obtenir une victoire supplémentaire contre le challenger est un mode très bien pensé. La modification que je pourrais y apporter est peut-être la gestion du temps qui est rapide pour un système de jeu par serveur. Peut-être augmenter l'horloge de départ de 15 jours, soit de commencer avec 45 jours contre 30 en ce moment. Et aussi la possibilité des prendre des vacances uniquement sur le tournoi en cours afin de gérer les autres parties du site. Par exemple prendre 7 jours de vacances sur un tournoi d'échecs du championnat et pouvoir jouer un tournoi de Big Chess, de Go ou un autre tournoi d'échecs pendant ces vacances. Pouvoir choisir une date de début de vacances à l'avance serait également appréciable.
- Pourquoi t'être investi dans les échecs par correspondance ? T'apportent-ils d'autres satisfactions par rapport aux échecs classiques et au blitz ?
X : Je préfère les échecs par correspondance par rapport au temps. Car les échecs classiques se jouent souvent le week-end, à une heure précise et souvent en déplacement pour effectuer un tournoi. L'avantage, pour moi, des échecs par correspondance est que je puisse me connecter à n'importe quelle heure pour jouer mes coups, ce qui me permet, par exemple, de faire des repas de famille le week-end et le soir tard de jouer un coup, ce qui n'est pas possible aux échecs classiques.
- Tu as su ne pas céder à la tentation et te limiter à jouer un nombre très raisonnable de parties sur le site tout le long du championnat, penses-tu néanmoins que les échecs par correspondance soient addictifs et à quel point ? Ont-ils des répercussions sur ta vie de tous les jours ?
X : Oui ! Limiter mon nombre de parties en cours est pour moi essentiel pour essayer d'avoir des parties de qualité plutôt que de quantité. Avoir beaucoup de parties en simultanée est quand même une chose très difficile à gérer ! C'est peut-être la clé de ma victoire contre Figlio, j'ai regardé ses parties en cours, il en avait pas loin de 90 sur le site de l'ICCF, cela a pu se ressentir sur son temps d'analyse consacré à nos 8 parties sur FICGS. Sur la vie de tous les jours les répercussions sont familiales car il est vrai que je passe plus de temps à analyser les parties et moins temps avec ma famille, ce qui est assez difficile pour moi. Mais quand les résultats sont là je ne regrette pas !
- Que penses-tu de la place actuelle des moteurs d'analyse (Rybka, Shredder, Fritz et autres) dans les échecs par correspondance ? Quelles sont pour toi les qualités complémentaires essentielles du joueur par correspondance, devenu centaure avec la machine pour jambes ?
X : Les moteurs d'analyses dans les échecs par correspondances sont utilisés par 95% des joueurs... Maintenant il faut s'adapter et savoir utiliser ces machines à calculer. Car jouer simplement le meilleur coup de Rybka 3, de Fritz 12 ou Hiarcs 12 sans réfléchir mentalement mène à la nulle si l'adversaire fait de même ou possiblement à perdre si l'adversaire se donne la peine de réfléchir en les utilisant également. En sachant que lorsqu'on est dans le milieu de partie ces logiciels vous donnent souvent 4 à 5 coups evalués de manière semblable, et c'est là qu'il faut choisir le bon coup alors que celui-ci n'est même pas forcément cité par le moteur d'analyse...
- Tu joues désormais au Big Chess sur le site, curiosité ou intérêt ? Que penses-tu de cette version étrange des échecs ?
X : Par curiosité et par amusement et je pense que Rybka 3 ne joue pas encore au Big Chess ! Cette version est quasiment inédite je ne connaissais pas cette forme de jeu d'échecs auparavant donc celui qui a inventé ce jeu a très bien fait ! A propos c'est moi qui vous pose une question sur le Big chess... Y a t-il possiblité de roquer avec ce jeu si oui comment? (NDLR : Non, il est impossible de roquer au Big Chess)
- Et enfin la question que tout le monde se pose, particulièrement François et Wolfgang qui disputent la deuxième finale des candidats, penses-tu pouvoir défendre ton titre l'an prochain ? :)
X : Bien sûr ! Je défendrai le titre ! J'aimerais si possible savoir la date et la cadence du match. Et je souhaite à François et Wolfgang une belle finale ! Je dois faire honneur à cette compétition qui est bien organisée !
- Le match devrait pouvoir débuter durant la première semaine de janvier 2009, la cadence sera à nouveau de 30 jours et 1 jour supplémentaire par coup. Merci pour tes réponses, et encore bravo pour cette belle performance !
X : Merci ! Et à bientôt ! Bonne continuation à tous et bonnes parties !
Benjamin Block (2008-08-18 08:52:18)
Try to translate!
I think it is something like that?
Hello Xavier and first congratulations on your victory in the match which t'opposait the MI (ICCF) Gino Figlio [Peru] in the final candidates. You should avoid at all costs void in all parties, finally brought blacks t'ont chance, how do you explain this result? X
avier: Hello, thank you for the congratulations. It is true that in case of zero for all parties, the regulation states Figlio winner in the event of a tie with victory (s) and defeat (s) I won the match. So I had to take risks in attacking and it is with blacks that I did it because I thought Gino, in these parts, expected without taking risks to ensure the void.
-- Can you tell us about how you approached this match against Gino and his conduct as different phases of the game?
X: It's pretty simple, in this match I was not at all favorite because with more than 200 ELO points FICGS to my disadvantage, and Gino titled Master International, with more than 2480 ELO ICCF point, I thought I n ' not resist going on 8 simultaneous games as a part everything is possible but on 8 parts ... it was for me a great challenge! In the course of the game I played diversity in my beginnings with white 4 parts 4 different strokes: 1.e4 1.d4 1.c4 1.Cf3. Gino did the same: 1.e4 1.d4 1.Cf3 1.Cc3. What made me doubt also because 1.Cc3 surprised me, I thought he had planned an early tonitruand and this is where I said that I should take risks with blacks. As the different phases of the game I assured the zero positions balanced for me concacrer deal has two parts, one with blanks and one with the black for at least make a difference in part to ensure victory. And ultimately it 3 victories me back, which seemed impossible given the quality of the game Gino played on this site to reach the final of the championship candidates.
-- You have made during a championship course without fault, no losses to report, you also posters statistics stratospheric to 78% against an average elo to about 2200, what's your secret?
X: My secret? I have no secret. If I had a secret I do not dévoilerais if I do win more! I think I got a little lucky because he is required by little I am not qualified to stage 3 (round-robin final) because there were 3 players equally and I had l 'advantage classifying the departure of this tournament as indicated by the regulation. As for my statistics, it is also thanks to the errors of my opponents who allowed me to win parts in balance.
-- What do you think the system mid-ko, semi-all-round championship FICGS and its new départages in matches in 8 parties? What changes would it be?
X: Very good question! The system mid-ko for me is a little too fast since a coup by day is overtime analyses to operate a complicated position, which is difficult when several parties in progress. Especially when you work. It is perhaps also through this pace that my opponents lack of time, made some uncertainty regarding postions or exploited my mistakes. But the pace has an advantage over the cadences ICCF which is 5 days a coup is that the parties had to 5 times less time! The départage new games to 8 parts is excellent, forcing the favorite to ensure all matches to nil win this duel and otherwise obtain an additional victory against the challenger is a very well thought out. The amendment that I could make is perhaps time management which is fast for a game system per server. Perhaps increase the clock starting 15 days, starting with 45 against 30 days at this time. And also the possibility of taking a vacation only on the tournament underway to manage other parts of the site. For example, take 7 days vacation on a chess tournament championship and be able to play a tournament Big Chess, Go or another chess tournament during the holidays. Being able to choose a start date of holidays in advance would also be appreciated.
-- Why t'être invested in correspondence chess? T'apportent there are other rewards compared to traditional chess and blitz?
X: I prefer chess match over time. For the classical chess is often play the weekend at a specific time and often on the move to make a tournament. The advantage for me, correspondence chess is that I can connect at any time to play my shots, which allows me, for example, making family meals on weekends and late at night to play a coup, which is not possible chess classics.
-- You knew not to succumb to the temptation and you only play a very reasonable number of parties on the site throughout the championship, do you think nevertheless that the correspondence chess are addictive and at what point? Did they affect your everyday life?
X: Yes! Limiting my number of games in progress is essential for me to try to have parts of quality rather than quantity. Have a lot of parts simultaneously is still something very difficult to manage! This is perhaps the key to my victory against Figlio, I watched its games in progress, it had nearly 90 on the site of the ICCF, it has been felt on his time devoted to analysis our parties on FICGS 8. On the everyday life impacts are family because it is true that I spend more time to analyze the parts and less time with my family, which is quite difficult for me. But when the results are there I do not regret!
-- What do you think about the current position of engines for analysis (Rybka, Shredder, Fritz and others) in correspondence chess? What are the qualities you complementary core player by correspondence, now centaur with the machine for legs?
X: The engines of analyses in chess matches are used by 95% of players ... Now we must adapt and learn to use these machines to calculate. Car simply play the best shot of Rybka 3, Fritz 12 or Hiarcs 12 mentally without thinking leads to zero if the opponent does the same or possibly lose if the opponent gives himself the trouble to consider using them as well. Knowing that when you're in the middle part of these programs give you often 4 to 5 strokes assessed similarly, and that is that we must choose the right time when it is not even necessarily cited by the analysis engine ...
-- You get the Big Chess now on the site, curiosity or interest? What do you think of this strange version of chess?
X: For curiosity and fun and I think Rybka 3 is not yet the Big Chess! This version is almost unprecedented I did not know this form of chess before therefore the one who invented this game was very well done! About I'm the one who asks you a question on the Big chess ... Is there possibility of castle with this game if so, how? (Editor's note: No, it is impossible to castle the Big Chess)
-- And finally the question that everyone arises, especially Francis and Wolfgang disputing that the second final candidates, think you can defend your title next year? :)
X: of course! I will defend the title! I would like if possible to know the timing and pace of the match. And I wish Francis and Wolfgang a beautiful final! I must honor in this competition which is well organized!
-- The match should be able to start during the first week of January 2009, the pace will again 30 days and 1 additional day by coup. Thank you for your answers, and even congratulations for this excellent performance!
X: Thank you! And see you! Bonne continuation to all and good parties!
Andrew Stephenson (2008-08-18 16:06:16)
translation
I will have a go off the top of my head at giving a sense of the interview in english (I dont know the phrase tonitruand but I am guessing it means dynamic!)?: Hi Xavier and first of all congratulations on your success in the candidates final match against IM (ICCF) Gino Figlio [Peru] You had to avoid drawing all the games and finally you succeded with the black pieces. How did that happen? Xavier: Hi thank you. Its true that if all the games had been drawn then under the rules Figlio would have won whereas if the match was drawn but with a win and loss I would win. Because of this I had to take risks and attack. It was with Black that I did this because I thought that Gino would play safely to be sure of a draw. - Tell us how you approched the match and how the different phases of the game went x: Its quite simple, I was not the favorite I have 200 ELO less on FICGS and Gino is an IM on ICCF with a 2480 rating. I did not think I could survive 8 games at once - in a single game anything is possible but 8 games .... it was a big challenge for me! In the openings I chose 4 different moves 1 e4 1 d4 1 c4 1 Nf3 Gino chose 1 e4 1 d4 1 c4 1 Nc3 I was surpised by 1 Nc3 because I was expecting dynamic openings and it was then that I decided I must take some risks with black. I kept most of the games balanced with a draw in hand and concentrated on 2 games 1 white and 1 black to get a result. In the end I got 3 wins which seemed an impossibility given the quality of the games Gino had played on this site to reach the final. - you have not lost any games in the championship and you have fantastic statistics 78% against an average elo of about 2200. What is your secret? x: My secret? I havent any secret and if I did I would not say because I would not win anymore! I think I have been a bit lucky because in the the Round Robin final there were 3 of us on the same score and I went through under the rules because of my rating. As for my statistics I was helped by mistakes by opponents who allowed me to win some drawn games. - What do you think of the system for the FICGS championship (round robin and knock out matches)and what changes would you make? x: Very good question. The matches are a bit too fast for me - 1 day per move when there are hours of analysis needed to exploit a complicated position its difficult when you have several games running Particularly if you are working. Perhaps that is why my opponents have made errors or failed to exploit my mistakes. But this time limit has an advantage over ICCF where it is 5 days per move the games here are 5 times quicker! Having 8 game matches is an excellent idea and obliging the favorite to draw all the games and the challenger to get a at least 1 victory is very well thought out. The change that I would suggest is to have 15 days extra starting time that is 45 days at the start instead of 30 and also the possibilty to take holidays for tournaments for example take 7 days for championship games and to be able to play big chess go or another chess tournament during the holiday. To be able to choose the start of a holiday in advance would also be good. - Why do you like cc and how does it compare to blitz and normal chess? x: I prefer cc because of the time factor. Classical chess is often played at the week end at a fixed time and you have to travel to the tournament. The advantage for me at cc is that I can connect at any time to play a move which allows me for example to have meals with the family at the weekend. Late night moves for example are not possible at classical chess. - You limited the number of your games on the site to a reasonable amount throughout the championship. Do you think nonetheless that cc is addictive? Does it affect your daily life? x: Yes! Limiting the number of my games is essential to try to have games of quality not quantity. Having a lot of games going at the same time is something very difficult to handle. It is perhaps the key to my victory against Figlio - I looked at his games - he had not less than 80 games going on at ICCF this must have affected the amount of time he could spend analysing his 8 games at FICGS. The effects on daily life are felt by the family because the reality is if I spend more time analysing the games I spend less time with the family. Thats difficult for me. But when the results come I dont regret it! - What do you think of the role of chess engines (Rybka Fritz etc)in cc. What are for you the important skills of a cc player - to supplement the machine? x: Chess engines are used in cc by 95% of players. You have to adapt yourself and know how to use the engines. To play just the best move of Rybka 3 Fritz 12 or Hiracs 12 without thinking leads to a draw if your opponent does the same or to a loss if your opponent is thinking. You have to choose bewteen 4 or 5 moves with a similer evaluation from the engine during a game and sometimes the best move is not among these. - You play Big chess. Interest or curiosity? What do you think of this strange version of chess? X : Curiosity and amusement and I think Rrybka 3 cannot yet play Big Chess! This version is new and I did not know it and the inventor has done a good job! By the way I would like to ask is it possible to castle at Big Chess? [No its not possible] - Finally the question that everyone is asking particularly Francois and Wolfgang who are contesting the 2nd candidates final. Do think you will be able to defend your title next year? :) x: Definitely I will defend the title I would like to know if possible the date and time limits for the match. I wish Francois and Wolfgang a great match! I would also like to express my appreciation for this tournament which has been well organised! - the match should start in the first week in January next year the time limit will be 30 days plus 1 day per move. Thank you for your answers and once again congratulations on a great performance. x: Thank you. Cheers. Best wishes to everyone and good games!
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-18 23:44:13)
Game 18078
The direct link to the game :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=18078
Ilmars Cirulis (2008-08-20 17:08:55)
Re
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move_express&game=23081
Normajean Yates (2008-08-21 21:31:44)
Rodolfo I second that proposal!
I second Rodolfo's proposal of a latvian thematic here at ficgs.
Marius Zubac (2008-08-21 22:32:59)
Attention Thibault! Bug related to WCH2
Hi Thibault There is a bug related to entering my 11th move 11Bd2 in both games 22676 and 22678 from our match played in FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_2__000005. In slow move selection after I enter the move I get the message "Incorrect move : 7.0-0 , from player white". If I try to send the move I get the message that the move is not sent. Can you please look into this matter? Thanks Marius
Thibault de Vassal (2008-08-22 17:51:06)
Latvian teams
That's a very good idea ! .. So it would be created handly as a special tournament, let's try to build teams in this new thread - http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=5566
Alexis Bromo (2008-09-01 17:01:13)
igame.ru
It was my favorite chess site... but i like ficgs. another beautyful and convenient site for me :)
Peter Unger (2008-09-08 00:54:05)
a game ended with mate
my Game vs. Sharma ended with Mate. Why isn't it finished? And tournament-table isn't adapted?! Here is the game: [Event "FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_04__000005"] [Site "FICGS"] [Date "2008.07.08"] [Round "1"] [White "Sharma,Kirti"] [Black "Unger,Peter"] [Result "*"] [WhiteElo "1365"] [BlackElo "2187"] 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. c3 Nf6 4. Qc2 Qc7 5. Be2 e5 6. O-O Be7 7. Na3 O-O 8. Nc4 Be6 9. Ng5 Bd7 10. Ne3 h6 11. Nf3 Be6 12. c4 b6 13. Nd5 Qb7 14. Qd3 a5 15. a4 Nc6 16. Qc2 Nb4 17. Nxb4 axb4 18. d3 Nd7 19. b3 Nb8 20. h3 Nc6 21. Qd1 f5 22. Nd2 fxe4 23. dxe4 Nd4 24. Bg4 Bxg4 25. Qxg4 Bg5 26. Rb1 Rf6 27. h4 Rf4 28. Qd1 Rxh4 29. g3 Bxd2 30. Bxd2 Qxe4 31. gxh4 Ne2+ 32. Kh2 Qxh4+ 33. Kg2 Qg4+ 34. Kh2 Rf8 35. f3 Qg3+ 36. Kh1 Qh3+ 37.* regards retep1
Don Groves (2008-09-08 04:45:56)
Game ended with mate
Hello Peter, On FICGS, the losing player must resign. There is no automatic ending to a game here. If the other player doesn't resign soon, ask Thibault to adjudicate the game and it will be finished.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-09 18:35:22)
Evans Gambit in Wikichess
I'll connect Wikichess to games played at FICGS soon.. so we'll have more informations due to thematic tourneys ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-10 19:32:43)
Use of engines
FICGS rules authorize the use of chess engines (like any other kind of help) but in "NO ENGINES" tournaments.. So engines are ok in this tournament also. Do you want to take part anyway ?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-12 14:39:49)
Rybka 3.0 about 2300 at FICGS ?
According to Larry Kaufman from Rybka team in the discussion linked above :
"If we assume that both sides have the same opening book, then I think two things are fairly safe to say: 1. A good human chessplayer (or even a bad one with good centaur skills) + same Rybka will win a long match from unassisted Rybka. 2. In any individual game, the chance of a draw is fairly high. (...) I mean more than half the games, but not way more. The actual draw percentage depends very heavily on the opening book used."
I agree with that, so I assume that Rybka 3.0 thinking at least 24 hours per move would have a correspondence chess rating of about 2300 at FICGS.
Any opinion ?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-12 15:02:52)
Latvian gambit tournament just started !
You can find the tournament in "SPECIAL TOURNAMENTS"
http://www.ficgs.com/category__ficgs__chess__special_event.html
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__LATVIAN_GAMBIT_EVENT.html
Good luck to Michael, Rodolfo and Denis :)
Benjamin Block (2008-09-12 15:55:58)
Godd to know!
Thanks! Ficgs rating is around the same as iccf?
Wayne Lowrance (2008-09-13 00:47:03)
Rybka 2300 @ FICGS
That is interesting Tribault. Do you mean the program running unassisted, no player help, Rybka choose own book moves ? If that is your basis then I say no Way Rybka on FICGS get this rating. There are very many sharp Centaurs playing here. With excellent tuned books. That is the main thing. CC games are won/lost on opening book. I am of the opinion that centaur + program is too strong for Program itself. Results on ICC have demonstrated that. Wayne
Dinesh De Silva (2008-09-15 19:02:43)
Re: acronym for FICGS
FICGS = "Fricking Interesting Chess & Games Server". lol!
Iouri Basiliev (2008-09-15 20:49:44)
IGAME.RU
Hi Ilmars, I've the honor to play in igame vs FICGS match :) nucler on igame.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-15 20:54:47)
Wikichess : Update !
Now you can see strong improvements in Wikichess articles :
- Opening ECO code
- Name of the opening
- Moves played at FICGS
- Find games played at FICGS
- Statistics (White wins, Black wins, Draws)...
Thanks to report any bug.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-15 22:22:26)
Chess quizz beta
Another update, a chess 'quizz' : Guess moves in games played at FICGS.
This is a test version in "My messages" only (on the right).
To be continued, but all feedbacks and comments are welcome already.
Ilmars Cirulis (2008-09-16 10:57:07)
bug?
http://ficgs.com/wikichess_685.html
Nc3 : 2 games, White ELO av : 1526, Black ELO av : 1816
1-0 : 0% , 1/2-1/2 : 0% , 0-1 : 50%
William Taylor (2008-09-18 13:25:56)
Big Chess Championship
I know there was a discussion some time ago about a big chess championship here on FICGS. Now the first 'M' class big chess tournament has started and I think big chess has enough regular players to try a championship. What do you think?
Alexis Bromo (2008-09-25 21:52:34)
igame
igame is really dead. so ficgs is the best!:)
Denis Ivanchenkov (2008-09-25 23:13:44)
Alexis
What you are actually doing - is just trying to convert Ficgs.com into Igame.ru :)) I'd recommend you to register on chess-online.ru - they have vibrant russian forum. The palpable difference between westerners and russians - is in absence of desire to communicate a lot (and most time to chatter about nothing :)). Just look at Ficgs forum - visitors are pretty rare and usually they pretty brief and discuss only chess/site related issues.
Denis Ivanchenkov (2008-09-25 23:18:51)
I just realized ...
that there is no FRENCH(!!!) version of Ficgs.com. Or maybe I'm wrong?
Don Groves (2008-09-25 23:51:47)
FICGS languages
I think Thibault recently posted how many players of each nationality were registered on FICGS.
Alexis Bromo (2008-09-26 07:31:12)
language
i posted this topic about ukraine as a country. and second official language for country. but it's a good idea to show national statistics on ficgs :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-26 20:31:40)
Statistics by country
Hi Alexis, Denis & all.. Here are current statistics by country :
USA 1066 FRA 363 GBR 261 CAN 189 DEU 160 RUS 130 ITA 126 IND 120 ROU 93 TUR 89 BRA 79 BEL 75 AUS 70 ESP 63 PHL 55 POL 53 SWE 51 NLD 50 ARG 45 MEX 43 ZAF 43 GRC 39 BGR 38 UKR 37 HUN 36 CZE 33 CHE 32 ISR 31 FIN 30 IDN 30 IRL 29 PRT 29 VNM 25 AUT 24 VEN 24 CHL 23 DZA 23 EGY 21 SGP 21 CHN 20 DNK 20 COL 19 LTU 18 NOR 18 MAR 17 NZL 17 SVN 17 HRV 16 IRN 16 MYS 16 PER 16 SRB 16 PRI 14 SVK 13 THA 13 HKG 12 JPN 12 EST 11 GEO 9 PAK 9 KOR 8 LVA 8 ARM 7 BIH 7 ISL 7 TUN 7 TWN 7 BLR 6 CYP 6 LKA 6 MLT 6 ALB 5 CUB 5 KAZ 5 URY 5 ARE 4 ASM 4 BOL 4 CRI 4 ECU 4 GHA 4 LBN 4 LUX 4 MKD 4 NGA 4 BGD 3 DOM 3 FRO 3 GTM 3 JOR 3 MDA 3 MMR 3 MNG 3 PRY 3 SAU 3 ZWE 3 ATG 2 BHS 2 CMR 2 ERI 2 HTI 2 IRQ 2 KEN 2 KGZ 2 KHM 2 MDG 2 MNE 2 MUS 2 NIC 2 NPL 2 PNG 2 TTO 2 UGA 2 UZB 2 AIA 1 ALA 1 ANY 1 AZE 1 BHR 1 BRB 1 GLP 1 GMB 1 GRD 1 GUM 1 HND 1 JAM 1 LBY 1 LSO 1 MOZ 1 MRT 1 NCL 1 PRK 1 QAT 1 SHN 1 SYR 1 TKM 1 UMI 1 VUT 1
All players in each country :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_countries.html
There's a french version of FICGS - see home page - you may change the language in Preferences (English, French, Deutsch, Spanish).
By the way, I'll open chess & Go forums in every languages very soon, if anyone wants to be a moderator in his own language, please look at the next threads in this forum for more information.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-28 21:51:45)
Big Chess Championship
18 months is so long :/ .. In my opinion, the scheme could be the same than the Go championship :
"FICGS world Go championship is a 2 stages tournament. First stage is a single round-robin tournament, involving the 9 highest rated players who entered the waiting list. The winner of this tournament is the challenger for FICGS world champion title. In case of equality, the player with the strongest tournament entry rating (TER) is qualified for the next stage. If tournament entry ratings are equal, ratings when the next stage begins will be taken in account. If current world champion defends his title, he will play a 5 games match against his challenger."
Benjamin Block (2008-09-29 15:06:47)
Copy game to fritz?
If you mean in fritz openingsbook you can do this.
You do this in frtitz 11 i just have that and fritz 6
Start the program fritz 11
Press "Edit"
Press "openingsbook" and "Improtgames..."
Now you choose the databas you want to use in this question you want the game from ficgs. I don´t rember the file name. But i think you can found it.
Wayne Lowrance (2008-09-29 17:06:19)
How to make a *.cbh from ficgs
That is the problem, I cannot find a path file name for the ficgs games. Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2008-09-29 17:26:36)
How to make a *.cbh from ficgs
In the worst case, it should be possible to open a PGN file, copy the games and paste it in an opened CBH database, then save it, or to make a CBH database from the PGN file then merge the two CBH databases... Sorry, I don't have the GUI here :/
Josef Riha (2008-09-29 19:32:36)
Hallo Wayne,
it's a little difficult, I believe.
Start Fritz and then change to the Database(the very right icon in the iconbar). Then click New Database. In the dialogue enter the name, e.g.: FICGS.cbh and open it. Remember the directory displayed at top.
Now go to your ficgs site and download your games in that directory.
After this load one game after the other and save them as New Game. That's all.
Wayne Lowrance (2008-09-30 00:14:59)
ownloading ficgs games
thank you Josef. My problem is I see no way to download ficgs games, that is my problem, the rest of the stuff i know. wayne
Josef Riha (2008-09-30 09:01:07)
copy games
No problem :-)
Very dubious! I've done this several times and it works.
After loading the .pgn file into the GUI you must change to your database and in that window click on the 'add game' icon(I don't know how it is written in the English version). A dialogue appears where you can edit some datas. With OK it is saved.
I hope you don't misunderstand my extensive description:-)
An easier way is to create a new game and parallel to FICGS you enter the moves done by you and your opponent.
Greetings, Josef.
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2008-09-30 19:29:45)
Maybe use Chessbase 8-9-10 or light
The problem is Fritz is not designed as database you have more flexibility using Chessbase. After downloading the game ( it is saved as pgn ) You need to open that game and choose File-Save As- Here you are given the choice to save the game to a database of your choice, for example, lets create My FICGS games, open Chessbase, File-New Database-and create your database in any place you want, generally My documents-Chessbase-etc. So after you have created your database open the downloaded game , again I suggest open it with Chessbase, and choose File-Save As- and put it in the database we created My FICGS games, voila. In Fritz creating a database takes 2 more clicks. First go to File-Open database or F12 then in that window choose File-New database or Ctrl+X , and the the same procedure as above. Choose your path , name it, then open your downloaded game(s)and Save As, choose the database of your preferences. Even in chessbase light this is possible, but the number of games in each database is restricted to 50,000 I believe. Hope this helps
Benjamin Block (2008-09-30 19:32:15)
Download all ficgs.com games!
Press on "Search games" (in left)
Now you can see in the top your name under there you can see Chess and "ALL games (PGN)" /Benjamin
Wayne Lowrance (2008-09-30 22:15:05)
Download ficgs games
Thanks to all for the help, very nice and helpfull. Now let me see if I can do it Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-01 20:28:43)
Download "My" ficgs.com games
I still have to add a button to download only "My" games... this is in the 'wish list'.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-02 11:50:49)
Game 16370, towards a new rule ?
What do you think about this case :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_16370.html
Last move : Qe4+ 2008 September 30 19:57:40
White clock - 94 days 18:34:55 (58 days 08:20:25)
Black clock - 0 day 01:19:54
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_A__000032"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2007.11.30"]
[Round "1"]
[White "Koch,Christian"]
[Black "Stephenson,Andrew"]
[Result "*"]
[WhiteElo "2140"]
[BlackElo "2104"]
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 a6 6.Be3 e5 7.Nb3 Be6 8.h3 Be7 9.Qf3 O-O 10.O-O-O b5 11.g4 b4 12.Nd5 Nxd5 13.exd5 Bc8 14.Kb1 Nd7 15.Qe2 Bb7 16.f4 Qc7 17.fxe5 Nxe5 18.Qf2 Bd8 19.Bg2 a5 20.Nd4 a4 21.Rhe1 a3 22.b3 Ra5 23.Nf5 g6 24.Nh6+ Kg7 25.Qf4 Bxd5 26.Bxd5 Rxd5 27.Qxb4 Qc6 28.Rxd5 Qxd5 29.Qf4 f6 30.Bc1 Qc5 31.Rd1 Ba5 32.Qe4 Rc8 33.c4 Bb4 34.h4 Qc6 35.Rd5 Re8 36.Qf4 Bc5 37.Bd2 Qb7 38.Bc3 Bb4 39.g5 f5 40.Qd2 Bxc3 41.Qxc3 Kf8 42.Kc1 Qb6 43.c5 Qc6 44.Rxd6 Qh1+ 45.Kc2 Qe4+ 46.Kc1 Qh1+ 47.Kc2 Qe4+ 48.*
So here player Black has good chances to lose the game on time, even if the best thing player White can do is to draw the game. In my opinion, "in general" player Black should play his next move, unless an analysis prove that the game is a forced draw - according to the rules, http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#adjudications - and eventually the result will be corrected after the game, but I'd like to know what other players think about this situation in general...
Thanks for helping to build strong rules.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-02 20:15:08)
Game 22676, towards a new rule ?
Once again, an unusual case that may lead to an enforcement of FICGS rules. In our match, Marius lost 3 games on time and continues to play the other ones : FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_2__000005
Games 22676, 22678 and 22679 have been lost in an equal position.
Currently, the rules specify : 11.6 "Games are not rated for the winner if less than 10 moves have been played by his opponent (most probably forfeit, silent withdrawal or obvious cheating) or in global forfeit cases against the same opponent, ie. 8-games matches, but games where an advantage is obvious."
Of course, it is up to the referee to estimate an 'advantage' which is quite hard to define accurately, but the real problem is there's no real silent withdrawal in this case, as Marius had about 1 day only to play his last move. It is fair to cancel my wins in these games IMO but the question is how to make the rules fair enough in all cases.
My suggestion : "...or in global forfeit cases, including losses on time whatever the context, in at least 2 games in a 2 players tournament, ie. chess championship's 8-games matches, but games where an advantage is obvious."
What do you think ? Also does anyone see another unusual case that this rule wouldn't envisage ?
Thanks in advance.
Andrew Stephenson (2008-10-03 09:06:04)
Rules
I think you are right Thibault ie amend the rule as you suggest. However maybe change the wording put EXCEPT instead of BUT ("except games where an advantage is obvious")otherwise the english is difficult to understand (but so much better than my french!!)In this case though perhaps Marius is not going to play anymore moves at all in which case it could be classified as silent withdrawal?? At the level he is at it he surely does not need the time to get the positions the fact is that Marius (probably because he has got lot of games/commitments elsewhere) is not playing much at all in FICGS - looks like he will forfeit in the Round Robin final for example.... The existing rules make a distinction between matches and other tournaments. if you follow the other posters then it seems that they are saying that you should not have the rule for silent withdrawals or even losses under 10 moves?? So I vote for the extension proposed by Thibault it seems logical to me for matches - they are not primarily about rating. The idea is that it is too distorting to have a rating that shows a 6-0 win over a similer high level opponent when they just stopped playing and it has nothing much to do with relative playing strength. On the other hand Thibault it will give you a cool rating!! :) Both view points are valid - its true time is a part of the game - but rules involve compromise and the proposed amendment just extends the principle already there........
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-04 15:18:08)
Performance
Hello Lars, Performance (next to Future rating) is calculated according to FICGS rules and based only on your results in the current rating period - ie. from september 1st to november 1st.
Have a good day :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-23 22:35:49)
Server changes (october 23, 2008)
Hello everyone,
FICGS will have a new (much faster) server tomorrow !
It won't be possible to connect to the old server during a few hours, then it will depend to your access provider to update more or less quickly the domain names server, it generally takes from a few hours to one week.
As a consequence, I'll add 7 days to all clocks tomorrow (friday, at most saturday).
See you soon on the new FICGS server ! ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-24 00:53:32)
www.ficgs.com
The website address won't change : www.ficgs.com , no need to change anything to your favorites, but I'm not completely sure of what can happen if someone connects through the ip address so it won't be possible to connect this way, sorry :/
Please just check the login page (that will display a message tomorrow) regularly, when it's normal again, it means that you reach the new server.
Normajean Yates (2008-10-24 05:17:31)
oh - ok thanks!
thibault, even now http://91.121.31.196 gives "serveur OVH" - while of course I am connecting successfully through http://www.ficgs.com -
These technologies change so fast :-/
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-25 20:13:00)
FICGS is back !
FICGS is back, on a really better & faster server, thanks all for your patience and sorry for the inconvenience.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-26 22:10:03)
Search wikichess & games in one click
New features in chess games !
It is now possible to search wikichess & games in one click from your running games in the fast moves mode (page move_express), see the S & W options below the chessboard. One more tool to get quick statistics from FICGS database before to play.
Please report any bug. Thanks in advance :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-10-30 12:32:47)
:)
Hi Garvin, yes this is a small "display" bug that will disappear by itself, not a clock problem.
To Don, Normajean and Rodolfo: don't worry I already thought about that (well, about FICGS at least) :-)
Normajean Yates (2008-10-30 15:08:01)
ok now: prob was ABP or popup-block
Thanks thibault!
The problem was simple: recently firefox had crashed so I had to reinstall it, and also I reinstalled plugins including adblock plus. But I forgot to : make exception in adblock plus for ficgs; also I forgot to allow popups for ficgs.
I just did that, and it is fine now!
Normajean Yates (2008-10-30 20:15:55)
5x5 chess again - thibault please read!
Thibault, I know you dont want to start another variant - but since we [meaning ficgs] pushed the theory [and the demise :( ] of the latvian gambit further... and we will have another round of that, so
in 5x5 chess (5x5 board, starting position rnbqk/ppppp/8/PPPPP/RNBQK) [o-o-o etc allowed - all 8x8-chess-type moves allowed] - as far as I know this hasnt been solved yet - far from it; so:
Please consider introducing this some time in the future... ask around to see if there is enough demand... you can consider payment-only tournaments for 5x5 chess....
Plus it will make ficgs academically famous!
[I don't know who suggested this version first: I first read about it more than 25 years ago in a Martin Gardner article - at least then, no theory was known about it.]
Normajean Yates (2008-10-31 22:52:08)
I love [16x16] bigchess! :)
But disclosure of bias: I am winning my first bigchess (16x16) tournament 6-0 I think ;)
[4-0 I have already, One opp is timing out, and the only remaining opp: well see game 23201... ]
Let me be clear, 16x16 is very nice, need 'far' sight in two senses of the word :), and I would still love it - even if I was losing!
If some genie gave me the option that 'okay, from tomorrow at ficgs there will be no bigchess but there will be 5x5 and 10x10 and Philip Roe's generalisation to 7x7 with a nice initial position worked out -
I'd say no! I want bigchess!
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-01 21:55:48)
Chessgames.com
I just noticed that a few games played at FICGS were in chessgames.com, ie. this game Peter Schuster vs. Thibault de Vassal (WCH4 QF4, 1-0)
http://www.chessgames.com/perl/chessgame?gid=1507687
Does anyone know how games are selected in chessgames.com ?
Maybe we'll find games played here in correspondence chess databases in a while :)
Normajean Yates (2008-11-04 03:43:33)
Rodolfo, this is not n queens prob!
1. 5 queens prob [none attacking any other] on 5x5 board has ZERO solutions, as is easy to see.
2. n queens problem - fast solution, all solutions, all solutions excluding symmetry etc. is routine exercise after teaching back tracking in a programming course. Also, writing recursive program in lisp, tail recursive program, program with function being called with itself as a parameter [in untyped languages - otherwise you get 'infinite type' error], lazy-eval-function-program [typically for Haskell] - are routine exercises for leaerning a new fundamentally different language for experienced programmers.
BUT I DO NOT SEE THE RELEVANCE OF THE N QUEENS PROBLEM HERE! WE ARE DISCUSSION 5X5 COMPETITIVE CHESS WITH START-POS rnbqk/ppppp/8/PPPPP/RNBQK w Qq !
nxn queens is 2 minutes programming exercise! Writing a good engine for above is a big project!
Continuing the topic of engines for above (nowadays called Gardner minichess) - we also need some endgame tablebases. That should not be difficult: modifying source code of nalimov tablebase generators. [download tbgen.c - or is it cc (c++)? I have the source - it is GPL anyway...
We are not talking about future ficgs things - we are discussing a point of some academic interest, that is all.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-07 10:30:11)
Downloading games
Did you try 'Search games' on the menu ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games
Here you can download all games or search by player (and rating) or opening...
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-09 15:19:50)
All games...
Doing the same as Rodolfo is clearly the best method, the FICGS search by opening is limited to 500 games.
Normajean Yates (2008-11-10 00:10:05)
to Ben Milton -
You can download *all* chess games ever played at ficgs [well that pgn file is not fully up-to-date, but ...].
And then filter with scid.
That is what Rodolfo, Thibault, and I meant..
Do you want *more* spoonfeeding? ;)
Denis Ivanchenkov (2008-11-12 06:16:44)
God or not God...
> By the way, is/are it/he/she/they necessary to anywhat ? necessary to pray to during financial crisis.
> Maybe we should open a new topic :) good idea! and then ficgs.com will look even more like igame.ru - there also were endless flames of one notorious user - I think his nick is translated as AllPeopleAreTheOne. Hope he doesn't speak English
Rodolfo d Ettorre > In IGAME.RU there was a player whose nick was "Sexy God", and he definitively existed :))
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-16 19:40:46)
Big chess : no castling
Hello Rick, the answer is no.
See rules for more details - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-19 00:51:01)
Poker Holdem at FICGS !!!
Finally, one of the biggest update this year !
Poker Holdem (or Poker Texas Hold'em) is available at FICGS !
This should be a start for long discussions... It was quite complicated to implement so I hope there will be no bug (please report if necessary). Please do not forget to read the complete rules here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#poker_holdem
If you estimate you're an experienced player, please just let me know (through the form in My account) and I'll update your "poker holdem ELO" to 1800.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-19 10:13:34)
First poker holdem game
You may now see the very first poker holdem game played at FICGS :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26171
http://www.ficgs.com/game_26171.html
Of course, many players will prefer the bullet time control (10 minutes + 20 seconds / move).
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-19 16:49:54)
Poker emails
Hello Michel, you mean you don't want to receive poker emails, right ? Well, maybe poker emails aren't as "important" as chess emails, as their volume should increase quickly players. So FICGS may filter all poker emails, what do you think ?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-19 16:51:37)
1st FICGS poker standard tournament
The very first Poker Holdem round-robin tournament just started, you may observe the games here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__TOURNAMENT_D__000001
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-20 01:23:06)
Chips
Hi Don, here are the current FICGS rules :
"d. Rules for Poker Holdem (or Poker Texas Hold'em) are official rules. Both players must play until one resign, or game is adjudicated (when one player wins 3 rounds). A poker holdem game is played in 3 winning rounds of 100 chips by player, played in "no limit" mode. The minimal bet is always 1 chip and does not depend on the blind's value. The small blind's value is doubled after the 50th hand, then after the 70th, 80th, 90th and 100th hand (the big blind then is 64 chips)."
No epoints in these tournaments, we play for the rating only.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-22 13:22:52)
Poker Holdem Championship
Hello all !
The next chess & Go championships waitings lists are now open, this is a good time to share our views for an interesting Poker Holdem world championship scheme (before to open the waiting list)...
It may look like the FICGS Go championship (one round robin tournament involving the 9 highest rated players, then a match between the winner & title holder), or it may be a multi-stages round-robin tournament (with or without a final match).. and so on. What do you think ?
The idea of a cycle looking like the Go championship is that the standard tournaments are in a way also preliminary tournaments of the championship.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-22 22:55:35)
Bug : Poker games 26171 to 26300
A small bug happened in a few Poker games from game 26171 to 26300.
FICGS uses a virtual board to save processor time and avoid to re-calculate all moves to display the current hand, but there was an 'invisible' bug until now : The virtual board may be different from the re-calculated current board in rare cases. Consequently, when you'll look at previous moves in some games, your hand may not be the one you actually played. This bug has no consequences on the result of the game, it shouldn't happen again.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-24 18:48:29)
Go championship : Lu vs. von Erichsen
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000002&boards=1
About 40 moves played in all games.. at a first sight, the games are still open, any predictions ?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-26 11:19:40)
High Stakes Poker
Nice :) .. Four of a kind vs. Full house
Reminds me a bad adventure on this server already ;)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26407&move=728
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26407&move=729
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-26 17:27:45)
The very best Poker hands at FICGS
Here we go :)
November 26, 2008 - Almost 200 running poker games and already a nice best of poker texas holdem hands seen at showdown (one per game only) :
1. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26173&move=36
2. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26208&move=169
3. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26407&move=729
4. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26182&move=94
5. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26234&move=190
6. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26233&move=41
7. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26183&move=41
8. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26311&move=20
9. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26196&move=10
Well, I touched my first four of a kind (aces) yesterday but it seems logical as I'm probably the most addicted player :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-26 19:54:21)
Best played hand or best hand played :)
Right :) .. So let's say "the best hands played" at FICGS. It is always interesting to see how someone plays a straight flush !
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-27 19:31:51)
Straight Flush !
We just had the very first straight flush...
1. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26329&move=109
Michel van der Kemp (2008-11-28 19:29:17)
Link
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26217&move=23 Humm 1 out of 649740? Unless you're playing with an extra deck up your sleeves ;)
Xavier Pichelin (2008-11-29 15:56:18)
4 For king! VS Full!
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26307&move=23 Very luckly! Best regards, Xavier.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-11-30 11:47:43)
Viewer
You can navigate into your game here - http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26316 , by clicking any move or the arrows, you should be able to find the problem again (if there's one :))
Marc Lacrosse (2008-12-01 08:45:01)
To Andrew
"(...)why Caire plays exactly the same variation of the Marshall in all 4 white games????? - against a higher rated opponent it makes no match sense at all. I suppose your not going to lose games on time playing the same variation:)"
Hi Andrew in my FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_3__000005 playing the exact same variation in my four black games was the key to win the match: all four were drawn whereas I managed to win 3.5/4 in my four white games (with four variations of one of these silly sideline sicilians you seem not to praise too much).
... what is the optimal strategy for these matches remains to be determined. The "all-draws-favors-higher-rating" rule is very interesting. I like it very much.
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-01 13:26:56)
Not exactly a bug
Hi Don, well actually the game ended after the last hand, that's why you can't see it anymore in "My games". You probably received the result by email, but the only way to see your last opponent's hand is to view the game :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26306
Three of a kind wins against two pair :)
Andrew Stephenson (2008-12-01 15:34:03)
cant argue...
..with your results Marc. However the current champion won FICGS with exactly the strategy I favour and exactly the opposite to your strategy. So thats powerful evidence in favour of the varying openings approach. Well done on winning your match - lets see how far you get with your strategy. As for these side line sicilians I never called them silly Marc your being over sensitive. I thought that it was easy to equalise against them and get a draw at cc. I still believe that and proved it in our game. However I do think your opponent (as black) was playing ambitiously to win! Now thats a different story .....
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-01 15:34:42)
Straight Flush 5432A
Another straight flush... Indeed, it happens quite 'often' with 7 cards.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26287&move=31
Andrew Stephenson (2008-12-01 15:37:40)
cant argue...
..with your results Marc. However the current champion won FICGS with exactly the strategy I favour and exactly the opposite to your strategy. So thats powerful evidence in favour of the varying openings approach. Well done on winning your match - lets see how far you get with your strategy. As for these side line sicilians I never called them silly Marc your being over sensitive. I thought that it was easy to equalise against them and get a draw at cc. I still believe that and proved it in our game. However I do think your opponent (as black) was playing ambitiously to win! Now thats a different story .....
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-02 20:07:17)
Update : challenges & move send
Hello all,
It is now possible to challenge a player for a chess, Go or Poker holdem game ! You can choose the game by clicking the pictures near "Challenge a player" in My games, you can also change the 'challenges' option in Preferences. This is an important improvement as advanced poker & Go games are a faster way to improve ratings ie. in order to qualify for the FICGS poker holdem & Go championships. (advanced chess has its own rating, different from the correpondence chess rating)
Also a new improvement in the 'move send' process, it should be much faster now, please report any bug if you notice one.
Ilmars Cirulis (2008-12-04 16:59:57)
More...
http://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=2910
Qd6 : 7 games, White ELO av : 1680, Black ELO av : 1752
1-0 : 28.6% , 1/2-1/2 : 0% , 0-1 : 0%
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-05 00:08:09)
Guinea pigs you are ! :)
:o) ...... FICGS, chess experiments on experienced players.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-05 09:32:13)
Game 26311
You mean that hand ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26311&move=379
I can't see any reason why it didn't appear yet, please let me know if it happens again (please do not play the next moves before I can analyze it) thanks :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-05 14:28:28)
Invite your friends - tool
A new tool that may help to find many new players :)
You may now add your contacts as friends and invite them to join us at FICGS in a single click. See at the bottom of "My messages" page, above the connected players list.
Many features will be added soon to this tool !
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-06 14:04:50)
Hotmail / Gmail / Yahoo... inviter
Hi Hannes, I just added the tool but of course in a few hours / days it will be possible to add anyone by entering his email address.
The point of this hotmail / gmail / yahoo / aol / indiantimes (and so on..) inviter is only to gain time by identifying all your friends in one click -and to spread the message easily- .. (all emails are stored in FICGS database only) this kind of tool is used by major social networks like MySpace, Hi5 and others...
Also it will be possible to gain Epoints by using it.
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-10 18:39:52)
FICGS for mobile phone !
FICGS is now available with a slight interface for mobile phone (that can connect to internet, ie. Iphone, Google Phone, Blackberry, Samsung player...)
You may try it there :
http://www.ficgs.com/mobile.html
Feel free to make any suggestion to improve it.
Thanks to Hervé for his help :)
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-12 11:04:23)
Quote festival, part 5
Time for a new quotes festival ?
Don't hesitate to share your own quotes, the FICGS quotes file like it :)
BTW, I just read this one on a car this morning : "You think that education is too expensive ? Try ignorance."
Stanislas Gounant (2008-12-13 01:52:18)
an article about FICGS on wikipedia IT
http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/FICGS I'm very surprise. I have not imagine that FICGS was a encyclopedic Thing. lol On the discussion page the author write: FICGS is one of the most important organisation of correspondance chess. Is it true ?
Normajean Yates (2008-12-13 14:50:13)
it is true. :)
" 'FICGS is one of the most important organisation of correspondance chess.' Is it true ?"
It is true! Or at least, we hope it becomes true!
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-13 23:42:25)
FICGS poker holdem championship
The waiting list for the 1st FICGS poker holdem championship is open, as all ratings are not established, the rating limit has been changed to 1600.
Only the 9 highest rated players at the beginning of the tournament (february 1, 2009) will play it, consequently the best way to improve your rating before the deadline is probably to play POKER HOLDEM BULLET BRONZE games (you may use the challenge function in My games).
The current rules :
"FICGS world poker holdem championship is a 2 stages tournament. First stage is a single round-robin tournament, involving the 9 highest rated players who entered the waiting list. The winner of this tournament is the challenger for FICGS world champion title. In case of equality, the player with the strongest tournament entry rating (TER) is qualified for the next stage. If tournament entry ratings are equal, ratings when the next stage begins will be taken in account. If current world champion defends his title, he will play a 5 games match (3 games with White, 2 games with Black) against his challenger.
All games are played in 30 days + 1 day / move. Rules for poker holdem are official rules. You may find more information about the FICGS betting structure in FICGS rules. Both players must play until one resign or game is adjudicated. One game is played in 3 winning rounds of 100 chips by player played in no limit mode. The minimal bet is always 1 chip and does not depend on the blind's value. The small blind's value is doubled after the 50th hand, then after the 70th, 80th, 90th and 100th hand (the big blind then is 64 chips) of each round."
Normajean Yates (2008-12-17 04:15:15)
Game 26099 - fit case for adjudication?
Game 26099 Salinas - Yates 13...Qe1# {mate} - more than 50 hours ago. On my checkmating move I had sent request to resign.
Salinas posted this in international chat: [I am pasting:]
"salinas marcelo : congratulation ..nice victory Norma. (2008-12-16 00:31:15)"
So he has sent 'final friendly message' also. But in international chat, *not* with resignation! He has *still* not resigned.
If you click 'more messages' and scroll down international chat, you'll see that I had - immediatety after his message, politely explained that he had to resign.
Salinas has blocked private messages.
I feel that all this is annoying and unfriendly, so the game should be adjudicated. (since the purpose of NOT having automatic checkmate-recognition is NOT being served, but the feature is being abused by opponent.)
What do you people think? What is the precedent/convention for such a case on ficgs?
Thibault, adjudicate?
Normajean Yates (2008-12-17 18:05:42)
anyway, about the 16-queens mate-in-4:
Svante Carl von Erichsen showed it was possible to solve without computer help:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=problem_read&id=311
As for proof game, The foll is from my rec.games.chess.analysis post [it *was* .analysis I think - feeling too tired to search usenet]
" This one is mine:
1. 4k3/qqqqqqqq/8/8/8/8/QQQQQQQQ/4K3 w - - 0 109: [pos. 1]
White to play and mate in 4.
There are no duals - only one moves mates in 4. [there is no mate in 3 or less.]
Move given at end of post, with sample continuation.
These two were posed by me and solved by likesforests [see fics (www.freechess.org) or chess.com] in 20 minutes total!
2. Give a proof game for pos. 1, ie Show that the position in prob. 1 is legally reachable by giving a game that leads to the position.
3. Okay, so you can reach a position where you have 16 queens on board. Can you construct a game which reaches a position with 18 queens? If so, do so! [the last part carries 99% of the credit - it is to pre-empt the answers "yes" and "no".
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(note: these can be more conveniently viewed at chess.com in the thread "advantage of moving first - mate in 4 in symmetrical position" in the forum-category "more puzzles")
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Solution to 2: by likesforests
[Event ]
[Site ]
[Date ..]
[White likesforests]
[Black likesforests]
[Result 1-0]
1. a4 b5 2. a5 b4 3. a6 Bb7 4. axb7 Nc6 5. Na3 bxa3 6. b8=Q a2 7. Rb1 a1=Q 8. Qb3 Qa6 9. Qa2 Qb7 10. b4 a5 11. b5 a4 12. b6 Qa6 13. b7 a3 14. Qb3 a2 15. b8=Q a1=Q 16. Qh3 Q1a5 17. Qbb3 Ne5 18. Qbg3 c5 19. Rb3 c4 20. c3 cxb3 21. c4 b2 22. c5 b1=Q 23. c6 Qba2 24. c7 Qb8 25. Bb2 f6 26. Bc3 Kf7 27. c8=Q d5 28. Qc4 Nc6 29. Qch4 d4 30. d3 dxc3 31. d4 c2+ 32. Qd2 Ra7 33. f3 Q5a4 34. Kf2 c1=Q 35. d5 Qca3 36. d6 e5 37. e4 Nge7 38. d7 Kg8 39. d8=Q Qa8 40. Qb6 Nb4 41. Qbe3 Nbd5 42. exd5 e4 43. Ne2 f5 44. Qeh6 f4 45. Kg1 e3 46. Nd4 e2 47. d6 e1=Q 48. d7 Qea1 49. d8=Q Nd5 50. Nc2 Nc3 51. Ne3 fxe3 52. Qdg5 e2 53. Qdf4 e1=Q 54. Qfg4 Qeb1 55. f4 g6 56. Qc5 g5 57. f5 Bg7 58. Qgc4+ Rf7 59. f6 Bf8 60. Q5b4 g4 61. Qe5 g3 62. Qe1 Ne4 63. Qcb3 Nd2 64. Qhc4 Nf3+ 65. gxf3 g2 66. Be2 Bg7 67. Kf2 Bf8 68. Ke3 g1=Q+ 69. Kf4 Qgb6 70. Qcc3 Be7 71. Kg4 Qe6+ 72. Kg3 Rf8 73. fxe7 Rf7 74. e8=Q+ Rf8 75. Qeb5 Qf7 76. f4 Re8 77. f5 Re6 78. fxe6 Qff8 79. e7+ Qf7 80. Rf1 Qaf8 81. e8=Q Qa8 82. Qbb2 Q4a7 83. Qed2 Q3a6 84. Rf3 Q8b7 85. Qcc2 Qac4 86. Q4b3 Qad6+ 87. Kg2 Qdc7 88. Q3a2 Qce6 89. Qhe3 Qed7 90. Q8e4 Q8e7 91. Qb2b3 Qag7+ 92. Qg3 Qbb2 93. Bc4 Qbf6 94. Kf1 h5 95. Rf5 Qfxf5+ 96. Ke1 Rh6 97. Qxh6 Qfh7 98. Qhxh5 Qfxc4 99. Qee2 Qcf7 100. Qbb2 Kf8 101. Qgf2 Ke8 102. h4 Kf8 103. Qhg4 Qhxh4 104. Qgg2 Qhh7 105. Qbh5 Ke8 106. Qhh2 Qfe6 107. Qff3 Q6f6 108. Qff2 Qff7 1-0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
solution to 3: by likesforests
Event "?"]
[Site "?"]
[Date "????.??.??"]
[White "likesforests"]
[Black "likesforests"]
[Result "1-0"]
1. a4 b5 2. a5 b4 3. a6 Bb7 4. axb7 Nc6 5. Na3 bxa3 6. b8=Q a2 7. Rb1 a1=Q 8. Qb3 Qa6 9. Qa2 Qb7 10. b4 a5 11. b5 a4 12. b6 Qa6 13. b7 a3 14. Qb3 a2 15. b8=Q a1=Q 16. Qh3 Q1a5 17. Qbb3 Ne5 18. Qbg3 c5 19. Rb3 c4 20. c3 cxb3 21. c4 b2 22. c5 b1=Q 23. c6 Qba2 24. c7 Qb8 25. Bb2 f6 26. Bc3 Kf7 27. c8=Q d5 28. Qc4 Nc6 29. Qch4 d4 30. d3 dxc3 31. d4 c2+ 32. Qd2 Ra7 33. f3 Q5a4 34. Kf2 c1=Q 35. d5 Qca3 36. d6 e5 37. e4 Nge7 38. d7 Kg8 39. d8=Q Qa8 40. Qb6 Nb4 41. Qbe3 Nbd5 42. exd5 e4 43. Ne2 f5 44. Qeh6 f4 45. Kg1 e3 46. Nd4 e2 47. d6 e1=Q 48. d7 Qea1 49. d8=Q Nd5 50. Nc2 Nc3 51. Ne3 fxe3 52. Qdg5 e2 53. Qdf4 e1=Q 54. Qfg4 Qeb1 55. f4 g6 56. Qc5 g5 57. f5 Bg7 58. Qgc4+ Rf7 59. f6 Bf8 60. Q5b4 g4 61. Qe5 g3 62. Qe1 Ne4 63. Qcb3 Nd2 64. Qhc4 Nf3+ 65. gxf3 g2 66. Be2 Bg7 67. Kf2 Bf8 68. Ke3 g1=Q+ 69. Kf4 Qgb6 70. Qcc3 Be7 71. Kg4 Qe6+ 72. Kg3 Rf8 73. fxe7 Rf7 74. e8=Q+ Rf8 75. Qeb5 Qf7 76. f4 Re8 77. f5 Re6 78. fxe6 Qff8 79. e7+ Qf7 80. Rf1 Qaf8 81. e8=Q Qa8 82. Qhc1 ( 82. Qbb2 Q4a7 83. Qed2 Q3a6 84. Rf3 Q8b7 85. Qcc2 Qac4 86. Q4b3 Qad6+ 87. Kg2 Qdc7 88. Q3a2 Qce6 89. Qhe3 Qed7 90. Q8e4 Q8e7 91. Qb2b3 Qag7+ 92. Qg3 Qbb2 93. Bc4 Qbf6 94. Kf1 h5 95. Rf5 Qfxf5+ 96. Ke1 Rh6 97. Qxh6 Qfh7 98. Qhxh5 Qfxc4 99. Qee2 Qcf7 100. Qbb2 Kf8 101. Qgf2 Ke8 102. h4 Kf8 103. Qhg4 Qhxh4 104. Qgg2 Qhh7 105. Qbh5 Ke8 106. Qhh2 Qfe6 107. Qff3 Q6f6 108. Qff2 Qff7 ) h5 83. Qhc8 h4+ 84. Kg4 h3 85. Bf3 Rh5 86. Bg2 hxg2 87. h3 Rh4+ 88. Kxh4 g1=Q 89. Rf6 Qga7 90. Qec6 Q8b8 91. Q8a6 Q8e7 92. Kg4 Kf8 93. h4 Qbe8 94. Rd6 Qg8+ 95. Kf3 Qbg6 96. h5 Q6g7 97. h6 Qad7 98. h7 Qa5 99. h8=Q Qdxd6 1-0
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
solution to 1: 1. Qaxf7+!
Sample continuations:
1... Kd8 2. Qexe7+ Kc8 3. Qdxd7+ Kb8 4. Qdd8#
1... Qxf7 2. Qh8+ Qxh8 3. Qxh8+ Qf8 4. Qfxf8#
"
Don Groves (2008-12-18 01:51:19)
Big update?
A Christmas present for FICGSers?
Ilmars Cirulis (2008-12-21 16:02:54)
Emm....
Is it possible to invite friends from FICGS?
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-23 16:24:15)
Inviter mode
I understand that but be sure I wouldn't take any risk on this, no passwords nor usernames are stored, and there is no way to catch it, particularly if you use the SSL (https://) mode. I can't even know your password at FICGS -which may be the same- that is encrypted with a complex function. Security has always been an important issue for me, I know that many sites using this kind of inviter (often related to MSN) then use passwords to send spam & virus.. that's not the case here.
Only the emails are stored to locate your friends, definitely it makes no sense to give Epoints in the 'email mode'.. anyone may enter bob.. , bob2.. , bob3.. and so on. Sorry about that.
Wolfgang Utesch (2008-12-24 05:28:14)
Pichelin - Utesch
First FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP Final!
Xavier Pichelin (2008-12-24 10:58:55)
Pichelin - Utesch
Congratulations!! Wolfgang! I wish you good Games in the First Championship FICGS. I wish you a merry Christmas !!! Best Regards, Xavier.
Hannes Rada (2008-12-24 19:55:24)
Congratulations
Wolfgang for reaching the first final ! However also congratulations for Francois who seems to be a little bit unlucky, because he managed to draw the competition but could not reach the final. @ Thibault "Two very different styles" Can you be a little bit more specific ? What do you think is the difference in those styles ? When does the final start ? Merry Christmas to all FICGS members !
Gultekin Gumusyazici (2008-12-28 17:25:10)
Chess rating system and Suat Atalik
Primitive Chess Game rules still applied through world competitions does not represent capacity and skills of human brain but a useless rating system that only orders whose photographic memory is higher to cheat others detail improvisions. I just want to present a past time memory about this hypo. Suat Atalik Number 1 rated Master Skill here in FICGS was opponent to me at a simulation of 25 person at Middle East university when he gets fame. I have started a very defensive game to make him bored crazy. But those boring behaviours caused him to lose his Queen and game next 3 moves. What is most interesting that, His Photografic memory aworns him after he made his moves and passes 3 more players after me. Then, While i congragulate myself with some fucking hand moves, he stood there where he froze and came back to my desk disobeying order. There he stood against me and made his pose as he just remembered something. While I was pretending My man there is no hope for just fuck off he hehhehehe, He asked Ahh sorry i made some misplacement, let go 3 move back and evaluate this situation again. Man, I am just human I am not machine or Computer Memory. I can not fight against bots. it is insane. So I let him score back knowing I am Winner not loser. Loser he is loser the system he tries to success on. Chess System applied to rate people with such communities only applies a fake counts depends on bots photoprahic memories. And It tries to neglect Humans sensitive intentions on variations. There exist no bot yet to evaluate humans preferences at a game with advanced chess rules. Do not you ask me what is those advanced chess rules. Just Imagine them as not bots can do. And Cheating is applied on determined systems. Cheating belongs to bots and botminds. Sincerely, Best Chess player nEverknown
Thibault de Vassal (2008-12-30 20:19:18)
Chess engines & databases
Hello Bradley, it's all in the rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Everything's allowed (but in the NO ENGINES category). Using chess engines is recommended if you want to make deep analysis & reach the highest ratings. The only way to cheat (that is strictly forbidden) is to mirror 2 games, as explained in the rules.
Best wishes for the new year,
Thibault
Normajean Yates (2009-01-01 22:37:28)
'has' is the convention..
'everybody has' is correct.
'everybody have' would suggest [better with comma - like 'everybody, have'] - that *usually* ficgs doesn't give vacation time, but you are giving a one-time gift of vacation time, only for this year. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-06 20:36:36)
FICGS turns into a social network !
An enormous update just occured, FICGS now has a complete social network connected to various forums.
A few links will explain better than words :)
http://www.ficgs.com/whole_display_people.php?id=9
http://www.ficgs.com/network.html
http://www.ficgs.com/discussions.html
Feel free to create your profile to discover the features : A powerful search engine that helps to find people you may know or people around you, a complete blog with 6 levels of privacy, tons of forums, a friends inviter & so on......
Feel free to let me know what you think about it, all suggestions are welcome.
I hope we'll find more and more players with these new tools :)
Marc Lacrosse (2009-01-06 21:30:45)
Wayne ...
... We all had to wait according to these rules that are present since the very beginning of FICGS
I do not see why your impatience deserves changing what has been running for years.
If I see well you have one FEM norm recorded and wish to see the second one recorded as soon as possible
So far you played against a mean 2000 rated opponents
Most top accounts have mean opponent rating higher than 2200
This is probably the reason why you do not achieve more master norms at a faster pace
Do play in higher rated tournaments and you will soon earn as many norms as you wish if your playing strength is OK against stronger opponents
The best way to enter high-rated tournaments here is to go as often as possible in Ficgs-Wch qualifications tournaments
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-08 19:17:53)
Chess improvements
Hi Hannes,
What do you mean better tables ? About the other improvements, this may be a choice in some cases. As you may have seen, there are forums with more options (ie. bbcode) inside FICGS, but I'm not sure this forum should follow the same way. The FICGS chess server is somewhere between IECG & the numerous over-featured servers, maybe it should keep its 'sober/serious' side, what do you think ?
I'm still not a fan of conditional moves, but I'm open to other improvements.
Finally, about the "dark side of FICGS", any improvement may bring new players :)
Hannes Rada (2009-01-08 20:06:47)
New strong player !
Banikas, Hristos GM 2582 Bravo. That's what FICGS needs. More Players, More strong players. Is he an OTB GM, or Corr GM ?
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-08 21:17:38)
Paragraphs
See at the top of the page : "please use <br > html tag to begin a new line"
About the tournament tables, did you try to click the magnifying glass near the name of the tournament ? ie :
http://www.ficgs.com/crosstable_FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000001.html
About the tournament page & diagrams, that's a nice suggestion, I may change this quickly.
Don Groves (2009-01-10 01:02:36)
Time span of ratings
Someone else brought up this subject recently and I feel it deserves discussion:
Suppose one player starts at FICGS at ELO 1200 and gradually improves. Another player starts at 1800 and also gradually improves. Even if they are equally good players, the first player will always be at a ratings disadvantage to the second because the first player's opponents' average ELO will always contain those lower rated games.
Would it make sense to compute ratings based on, for example, only the previous one or two years of play at FICGS, or possibly the previous 100 or 200 games, rather than a player's entire history at FICGS?
I'm wondering if this may yield a truer current rating for everyone.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-10 18:06:40)
Time span of ratings
Actually ratings (correspondence chess ones) are calculated based upon the previous ratings and games played the last 2 months only. In your example it may take 8 or 16 months "only" for the lowest rated to catch the other player in a tournament. Moreover, ratings at FICGS move faster than in other organizations in order to find the good category quickly. So I think that's not a real problem here.
As an example, it took not so long (one year) for Wayne to reach 2113 from 1400 ! That's quite short in correspondence chess.
More details about rating calculation :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
Normajean Yates (2009-01-12 03:59:43)
Welcome, GM Banikas!
Welcome to ficgs, GM Banikas!
Scott Nichols (2009-01-13 03:58:19)
Different sites:
Dear Tom, There is a site called Playchess.com that only allows engine play in the engine room. All other areas are closly monitored and players who try to use engine assistance are seriously repremanded, (loss of ratings and on up). It is an excellent site. This site allows engine use in correspondence chess. Alot of players love the system. And it seems also, that even when players have basically the same equipment, the better player usually wins anyway. As Thibault so eloquently put it, they look beyond the "horizon" of computers to make their decisions. I play on both sites and follow both sites rules. Playchess=serious chess. FICGS=fun and theoretical chess and more.
Normajean Yates (2009-01-13 19:28:13)
ficgs is serious chess!
Sctott Nichols ends his post with "Playchess=serious chess. FICGS=fun and theoretical chess and more."
1. false
2.Doesn't follow from the rest of his post.
3. putting 'theoretical chess' in opposition' to 'serious chess' is so unorthodox a use of the word 'serious' that it borders on the incorrect.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-15 13:40:41)
Poker question : All in at the river
Hi all,
I'm just not sure about this : When a player calls by all-in at the river, is he supposed to show his cards (just like in a pre-flop all-in) even if -in that case- he pays to see or is it a particular case ?!
In example :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26199&move=232
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26199&move=233
In other words, is there a bug in the example above ?
Thanks in advance.
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2009-01-17 11:58:25)
Conspiracy ......
Maybve a secret society wants to destroy Ficgs. Look at this link:
http://www.atlanteanconspiracy.com/2008/06/secret-society-network-part-1.html
Glenn Giffen (2009-01-17 13:05:37)
This is not a valid tournament.
I looked up the tournie I was playing in: FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_B__000113 It says "This is not a valid tournament." What is going on?
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-18 15:29:29)
Garvin
Strange bug... what browser do you use ?! there may be a special setting for sessions management.
About the example above, you may also follow these links :
http://www.ficgs.com/index.php?page=viewer&game=26199&move=232
http://www.ficgs.com/index.php?page=viewer&game=26199&move=233
Normajean Yates (2009-01-20 07:19:07)
nicola [nicola lupinacci ansered it]
nicola lupinacci posted in the international chat in june last year that:
In bigchess, P=1, N=3, B=5, R=8, Q=11.
One of the points is, bigchess is a bigger board, so compared to chess, long-range pieces (B, N, Q)are much more powerful than short-range ones - specially, B is significantly more powerful than N.
I followed nicola's implicit advice, and as you can check, I've won all 6 of my games in one of the two only bigchess tournaments I am playing: FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__000025.
And I have won all 4 of my completed games in the other one. [ FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__000030: all games are in early stages by bigchess standards ]
my two incomplete bigchess games are keenly contested.
In one of them, opp has exchanged two Bs for my two Ns and 2-Pawns: so, that game puts Nicola's idea to test.
Waiting for the top bigchess players to comment on Sophie's and my posts...
Nicola was so good at chess and bigchess, but she stopped playing.
I have pasted her reason (her profile) below: (so why did she stop playing bigchess is what I do not understand. I mean no one has bigchess engine!)
Lupinacci, Nicola (ITA) [member # 1307]
Nicola Lupinacci
I am a chess amateur, playing only for fun! I do not have any chess engine. Good game to everyone!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-20 19:59:32)
Myanmar
Hi Htay, nice to meet you...
Well we now have 4 players from Myanmar :)
http://www.ficgs.com/countries_myanmar.html
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-20 22:37:00)
FICGS group at Facebook !
To all Facebook users, the "FICGS games server" has just been created :
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=44287869522
Welcome to everyone ;)
Nick Burrows (2014-09-03 19:56:41)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Not disapointedis an understatement. I feel cheated and let down by you.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-27 16:40:31)
We need more Big Chess players !
Come on, let Rybka & other chess engines work in your 8x8 games & play Big Chess with us, that's the real life, amazing chess & the only way to see such incredible moves :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=24656&move=85
Waiting lists > Big Chess standard tournaments !
Waiting for strong players in Big Chess standard M tourney.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2009-01-28 00:15:09)
And a great move ...
And what is white's next move in this game:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=24653&move=97
Francisco Gramajo (2009-01-29 03:42:30)
Poker insults Chess...
My friends: Years ago I was addicted to poker, losing a lot of money on line, also in real casinos. I was a chess player since 13, but dont like the openings, I was tired to play same thing... e1-aggg! same faces... and a lot of fake players on line. I discover this place by mistake, I was so happy because keep my fix with chess in peace. Playing with decent players. Not only doing regular openings... Then you install poker... how come poker? again... I am playing in my local casinos again, and afraid to tell about his site, because I don't want a lot of people playing here making this place full of poker players. The finest, the few, the chess... te best. I suggest you Thib, separate ficgs from poker, and create a really server to play poker in a table with many players a time. Play poker heads-up one to one, is bored, the winner is not always the best. The future of ficgs is compromised with poker, but not for bad... go ahead and crate... fipgs... Best Regards!!!!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-29 12:33:51)
FICGS
Hi Francisco, these important points need to be discussed for sure.
1) As it has been said here on another point, I shouldn't try to protect players from themselves, but I've to protect players from other players (speaking of the quality of the games, general forfeits & so on - or the posts of Garvin & Josef in this thread). You can play poker all over the internet, it's up to you only. I'm not sure I should feel responsible of players addictions, the whole world (commercial issues) is about addictions that exist anyway. In my experience, I was not really addicted to poker as a gambling game, I never played it in casinos but I like competition and that's the way I introduced poker here, quite different from the casino games (by the way a few "pro" poker players here do not even understand it).
2) "Play poker heads-up one to one, is bored, the winner is not always the best", so chess, so Go... of course. I may be wrong on the poker games format (3 winning rounds / 100 chips), we'll see it in a few months as the rating list will evolve.
3) "Poker insults chess", I don't agree with this but I understand & respect this opinion (that could probably be "Poker insults" in some cases). Only 1 player cancelled his membership because of this at the moment. I'm sorry about this, I can't satisfy everyone when making updates but be sure I'm working for FICGS firstly as a chess place and thanks to poker (even with no money), we welcome more players & the prizes (for chess tournaments) will increase a lot in the next months. That's quite good for the site in my opinion. Anyway if I realize I'm wrong, no doubt I'll change it.
Anyway, that's an interesting & important discussion and I'll listen to all your points.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-01-30 16:43:43)
Svante Carl von Erichsen leads 2-0
Svante Carl now leads by 2-0, one game (22802) has been lost on time, the 3 running games are on the rope...
Any opinion on the games ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=22802 http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=22803
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2009-01-30 19:03:40)
No winner in this tournament ?
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_11__000005 No winner. Why there was no winner?
Normajean Yates (2009-02-01 09:55:59)
poker is NOT interfering with chess..
Players that are *choosing* poker over chess (as posted by some as reason for delay on moving, delay in tournaments starting...) are either not *that* interested in chess anyway, OR it is a transient phenomenon - they are trying out poker as a novelty.
We are humans, not dedicated chess-playing machines.
If someone takes longer to move because of poker or anything else (whether the 'anything else' is related to this site or not, whether it is related to the internet or not); it gives me either more time to analyse, or effectively more vacation time, so I see no reason to complain.
If poker generates revenue for ficgs, it will help ficgs survive and so it will help ficgs chess (and go) survive.
The point is, whatever choices we make have to be made taking into account that we are embedded in a capitalist economy. We are not living in some anarchist utopia.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-02 21:54:00)
Poker championship : New rules, deadline
Finally, a 2 stages single round-robin tournament (no ratings limit, everyone can play) seems a better choice for the poker holdem championship !
The deadline is now february 8, 2009... Join the fun !
Here are the new rules :
"FICGS world poker holdem championship is a 2 stages single round-robin tournament. All games are played in 30 days + 1 day / move.
Round-robin tournaments are groups of at least 7 players. The winner of each group is qualified for the next stage. In case of equality, the player with the strongest tournament entry rating (TER) is qualified for the next stage. If tournament entry ratings are equal, ratings when the next stage begins will be taken in account. Groups are built grading all players by rating and distributing them to obtain similar elo averages. Players may be invited to complete a group or to replace a forfeiting player.
Rules for poker holdem are official rules. You may find more information about the FICGS betting structure here. Both players must play until one resign or game is adjudicated. One game is played in 3 winning rounds of 100 chips by player played in no limit mode. The minimal bet is always 1 chip and does not depend on the blind's value. The small blind's value is doubled after the 50th hand, then after the 70th, 80th, 90th and 100th hand (the big blind then is 64 chips) of each round."
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-03 13:37:42)
Chess WCH 4 round-robin final
The chess wch #4 round-robin final should start as soon as the situation is a bit clearer in game 22698 (Helmer vs. Broniek)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=22898
I can't analyze it right now, any predictions ? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-03 14:29:07)
Chess WCH 5 stage 2
The chess wch #5 round-robin stage 2 should start as soon as the situation is a bit clearer in game 22401 (Bernal Varela vs. Tommasi)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=22401
Francisco Gramajo (2009-02-05 05:43:45)
Chess players playing poker...
Is interesting, like Henry Mitchel playing baketball.
See me... playing poker against Pichelin... My dream came true, playing against the champion!!!
Thank you, Mr. Thibault, honestly I am having a really good time here.
God Bless ficgs.com!!!
Only one question?
Is ficgs.com ready to receive a lot of poker players? How many playes is your server capacity?
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-10 12:16:22)
Good ones :)
Added to FICGS files...
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-25 14:52:12)
Risky opening
The games played with Black by Tomas Civin are worth a glance, nice to see this opening at this level (quite hard to play for sure)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=29043
Maybe a thematic tournament to follow :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-02-28 03:35:14)
Svante Carl wins FICGS Go WCH (again)
Congratulations to Svante Carl von Erichsen who keeps the FICGS Go champion title by beating Ke Lu 5d on an impressive 5-0 score, also reaching a rating of 2653 !
A rematch just started between our two top Go players, as Ke Lu convincingly won the 3rd FICGS Go WCH preliminary tournament by 7/7
You can follow the games here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000003
Svante Carl kindly accepted to answer a few questions on his match :
FICGS - Hello Svante Carl, first of all congratulations for your win in the FICGS correspondence Go championship final. Your opponent was Ke Lu 5 dan, you won 4 games out of 5 already (the last game is not finished yet), how do you explain such a result?
Svante Carl - Hello! Thank you very much! It is certainly astonishing for me that I was able to hold my own in these games. I believe that the main factor that helped me in getting on even terms with such a strong player was that I could spend much more time analyzing each move than in a face-to-face or online direct playing situation.
FICGS - Did you have a particular preparation or plan before to start the games?
Svante Carl - The only things I planned beforehand was to really give my best, and to make the games as distinct as possible.
FICGS - The site will now try to attract more correspondence Go players from Asia (with a few chinese, japanese or korean words on the home page already), what do you think about the games format played at FICGS (30 days + 1 day / move, chinese rules komi 7.5 points) and the championship rules?
Svante Carl - I like the format. I am also interested in the rules of Go as well as the rules that surround Go, like tournament rules and time settings. My current conviction is that the "real, pure" Go rules are area rules with superko, and territory rules should be seen as a shortcut which should give the same result. I have come to think that the "Taiwan rule", i.e. White gets a point of compensation if Black got the last play (before the first pass), is a sensible part of the rules. FICGS has taken a very easy route by declaring the rule set and leaving negotiation of the result to the players. While in the end, it is only important who won, I think that showing a result as e.g. "White+3", "Black+Resign" adds a lot of flavour. As a time system, I think that bonus time (a.k.a. Fischer time), like on FICGS, is a very general and sensible approach to timing a game like Go. I think that many "real-world" tournaments and internet servers will switch to that in the future, for all, blitz, speed, normal, slow, and correspondence games. The championship format is quite nice. I like the title holder/challenger way of tournament series. The only thing I would like to see is some sort of nigiri to determine the colours in the odd game. Attracting players from Asia is really a worthwhile goal. I look forward to playing players from all over the world.
FICGS - Does correspondence Go bring you something more than real time Go? What is more addictive according to you?
Svante Carl - Since I think that analyzing is a forte of mine, I might be a bit stronger at correspondence Go than at "real time" Go. I don't think that one is more addictive than the other.
FICGS - Do you often play real time Go online? What servers do you prefer?
Svante Carl - I usually play on KGS, but not too much, perhaps one or two games per week on average, often in "bursts". KGS is quite nice, but not perfect. Sometimes I play at CyberOro, but there is much less communication; I like to watch pro games there.
FICGS - Do you use softwares that assist you in your games (FICGS rules allow this)? What do you think about computer Go in general nowadays?
Svante Carl - I only use a board or a simple SGF file viewer for analyzing. There are no playing programs that could help me. The programs have advanced quite much recently, but I think that it will still be a long time before they can beat me in an even game. Currently, most tests of these programs are against professional players with high handicaps, and I think that this is a good situation for the bots, since they get exponentially weaker the further the game is from the end -- high handicap practically eliminates the opening, their weakest spot. I would like to see more tests against amateur players at the bots' own level.
FICGS - Do you play other games (board games, video games...), what is your favourite one?
Svante Carl - Go is certainly my absolute favourite. I also know chess, although I am really weak at that. I also like "german board games", there are some really nice pearls there. In video games, well, there are also some pearls, but they get drowned by a mass of ... not so good games..., I don't waste time looking at that scene any more. I also played some online poker, but it wasn't able to keep me interested.
FICGS - Will you defend your title again against Ke Lu who also won the 3rd wch tournament?
Svante Carl - Of course, I am looking forward to that!
FICGS - Could you give us your impressions on the games, how it went from the beginning to the end, do you think that time pressure were a non-negligible factor in the result (the clocks of Ke Lu were quickly near 1 or 2 days left)?
Svante Carl - I was a bit surprised that he let his time drop to such a low level right at the beginning, perhaps he was not familiar yet with the vacancy feature at FICGS. I can't see his reasons for this, or how much time he actually could spend on his games. I was ahead in each game when it timed out, though.
I think that game 2 was quite even from the start. The skirmish in the lower left resulted in me capturing a little group, but he got a nice framework on the lower side. My prospects of reducing this were a bit hampered by the fact that my right side group was not completely settled. I found a way to sacrifice some stones to settle my group while fixing the framework's extent and keeping sente to secure my top side, at which time, the game was still almost even, but I think that I was a few points ahead then. Later, I could seal the top side with some extra points through some rather blunt forcing moves.
In game 3, my opponent made an approach with White 24 that is usually regarded as bad in this situation, because the pincer Black 25 works out very well in conjunction with the stone on the left side. He tried to settle with White 26, but I refused to make things so easy, even though the result from the usual joseki would not have been bad. He resisted Black 27, but I think that White 28 is an overplay. The resulting fight left me with nice profit in that corner and sente, while he made some centre thickness. I then tried to carefully neutralize this thickness, but I may have played some slack moves in the course. Later, I was able to keep a little moyo in the lower right centre, and then I poked into his right-side territory where he had left a serious weakness earlier.
Game 1 started out with an interesting fight in the upper right. After White 42, both the three captured black and the two almost captured white stones retain some serious aji, which I came back to fix on my side a few moves later. When I could set up a splitting attack with Black 77, he was able to connect his two weak groups, but in bad shape. I continued to keep this dragon separated from the top, planning to invade the top side afterwards. However, with White 110, instead of connecting by playing B6, he saved some centre stones, and I proceeded to separate and kill the dragon. He may have overlooked that my upper left side group was still able to live after 110 and 111.
In game 4, after White 22, Black's stones on the left side have a strange relation. The three stones in the corner are a bit far from C10, but putting another move here is way too slow. He tried to remedy this situation with the following moves. After Black 27, there are weaknesses left in both sides' shape. When I entered with White 32, I thought that his weakness at F13 would let me settle easily, but he attacked very hard. After White 60, there are some weaknesses in my shape, but he also has a weakish group in the centre. Playing at K10 with White 76 before taking the two stones with H2 felt very important to me. At move 94, I couldn't find a good move to complete my moyo at the top, but I thought that I had found a good point to invade. This was much harder than I thought, since after Black 95, the 3-3 point fails to live. With 96 and 98, I thought that I would get a ko, but he played a line that I had excluded earlier on account of too many cuts in Black's outside shape. However, with Black 107, he made things very difficult for me, since cutting at P16 doesn't work out too well -- my inside group doesn't have enough liberties. I cut at Q14 instead with the hope to at least get some outside forcing opportunities that might have been able to keep me in the game. I think that Black 115 should have been at R12, because after White 116, R12 and N16 have become miai. Black 117 just doesn't work at all. I really got lucky in the end here. These impressions are naturally one-sided, and I would be really interested what stronger players might say about these games.
FICGS - Thank you very much and have good games !
Svante Carl - Thank you!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-03-03 21:27:46)
15 members
We now have 15 members in the FICGS Facebook group... Join us :)
By the way I also created a "FICGS games server" group at the FICGS social network ;)
http://www.ficgs.com/whole_display_people.php?id=9&group=2
Much work to do yet but much work has been done already ! There will be features that Facebook does not have in a few weeks...
Don Groves (2009-03-08 05:19:16)
Only on the "My games" page...
... or does the (!) also appear if I am on another FICGS page?
Don Groves (2009-03-11 04:16:19)
On all FICGS pages please
The (!) would be even more useful (imho) if it appeared on all FICGS pages, not only My Games. When I'm on My Games, I'm looking for new moves but if I'm browsing the Forum, for example, having the (!) appear in the page title would alert me to switch to My Games.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-03-17 20:50:44)
Epoints with a SMS or phone call
Now it is possible to buy Epoints (thus also supporting FICGS & sponsorize tournaments - the prizes have just increased in most categories) by entering a code after sending a SMS or with a phone call.
More informations in "My account" page, see the window on the right of the chat bar.
Here is a free code for 3 Epoints : X358F876 , let's see who will be the first one to try Allopass :)
Scott Nichols (2009-03-18 10:28:13)
Ratings floor.
Hi Thibault. One thing I would like to see implemented is a ratings floor here. By this I mean a player can never drop below one class below his/her ratings peak. e.g., a player with a 1951 rating can never drop below 1600, a 2001 player can never drop below 1800. In the U.S. (and maybe worldwide, not sure) we have this system to keep strong players from sandbagging and artificially let their rating drop so they can play in the lower sections of big money tournaments. On FICGS I don't think that is a big problem. The problem here is that Corr. chess takes long term dedication and some players tend to drop out for whatever reason and resign all their games or just quit and let their time run out. This also drops their ratings artificially low levels. Then, as it seems to always happen, Caissa's power sweeps over them and they get back in. Or, they just bought a new super computer and want to show it off. Anyway, when they do get back in....you have an expert player coming in with a very low rating. This to me is unfair to the other players who try very hard on their ratings. e.g., In the current world Ch. cycle I am playing a very strong player who is over 800 points below my rating. I would appreciate any other opinions on this subject. Thank you.
Garvin Gray (2009-03-20 18:14:43)
haha :P
well of www.ficgs.com is the best forum hahahahahahahahahaha
Denis Ivanchenkov (2009-03-22 23:28:11)
captured pieces
Thibault, maybe it is just my personal drawbacks but when I set up board I usually look at captured pieces (on letsplaychess.com or chess-online.ru) and see how many of pieces are out - and just count with those on the board to be 16 in total - and become confident that I didn't miss anything. here on Ficgs it usually takes more time to get confident that all pieces on their places. and from the other side it will be easily seeing which player is getting upper hand - just looking at captured pieces (especially when difference is small - like pawn or two or pawn for a piece) and yes notation White: 2B, 2N, 3P Black: Q,4R would solve the problem
Thibault de Vassal (2009-03-28 19:30:21)
New category : Unrated tournaments
Finally, a new chess tournaments category : "Unrated tournaments" in FICGS__CHESS__SPECIAL__TOURNAMENTS
A place to test new ideas & openings... Thanks to Michael Aigner for the good idea :)
Ulrich Imbeck (2009-03-30 21:42:52)
Online Casinos
Is it here at ficgs.com first of all with less money and more aspects of honour and friendship?
Don Groves (2009-03-31 22:39:35)
Poker ratings
The last time I checked the poker ratings list, I noticed a large number of players rated at 1800.
I thought the starting rating was 1600 except for players with a lot of previous experience. Have all these new players at 1800 asked for this higher rating?
This practice throws off the ratings for all of us who began at 1600 and have moved up by actually winning games on FICGS.
Don Groves (2009-03-31 22:48:41)
Ratings lists
It would also make the ratings lists more meaningful to only list players who have actually entered tournaments. There are many in the rating lists who have not logged on since their first time here and who may never participate in an FICGS event. Why should they be shown in the ratings lists?
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2009-04-05 13:21:55)
Will the games be viewable?
Hello Philip,
you can try
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__UNRATED_TOURNAMENT__000001
or
https://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__UNRATED_TOURNAMENT__000001
Don Groves (2009-04-06 06:37:12)
Ratings
Both Go and Poker ratings are changed after each game and doing the same for Chess would make all FICGS games consistent in this regard.
Also, I think Scott has a good point about having to wait to enter a tournament for which one is qualified based on "future rating" but must wait, perhaps weeks, until the next ratings update.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-11 17:08:18)
3rd FICGS chess wch candidates final
For the second time (out of 3), the winner of the round-robin tournament won the candidates final, congratulations to Edward Kotlyanskiy and Peter Schuster for a nice match !
Here is the spectacular game which decided the result :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=28292
Xavier Pichelin (2009-04-11 18:04:03)
Congratulations !!! Edward
Very best Performance!! Edward, Peter is a very good player! Good Lucck for the 2nd Final FICGS!!
Edward Kotlyanskiy (2009-04-12 01:23:53)
3rd FICGS chess wch candidates final
Thanks Thibault and Xavier. I really appreciate it. I will try my best to continue playing well ;)
William Taylor (2009-04-12 14:41:59)
FICGS Oympiad
Not sure if this has been suggested before, but how about a big tournament on FICGS with teams from different countries, like the Olympiad? The number of boards per team would have to be thought about carefully to get the right balance between number of teams able to participate and number of players from each country able to participate. The Austrian team would probably be favourites (headed by Aigner, Rada, Kund), but there are other potentially strong teams too.
Vadim Khachaturov (2009-04-12 18:31:48)
FICGS Olympiad
Nice idea! I hope, there will be not only pure national teams, otherwise some players will be unable to participate.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-12 18:49:01)
Olympiads in a previous discussion
Hi William, this has been discussed already but it's always a good idea to try to bring new arguments. In my opinion FICGS still has to grow before to envisage it anyway, but first of all you may read the previous discussion and particularly Marc Lacrosse's point :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=294
William Taylor (2009-04-12 20:04:06)
I still like the idea
I still like the idea of country teams and an Olympiad-like format. I've read Marc's post and can't imagine nationalism would be a problem on a friendly site like FICGS. However, it would be a shame for countries which only have one or two players at FICGS not to be able to play. How about a team championship along the lines of other chess team championships such as the Russian one which has just finished? i.e. teams are made up of invited players from all over the world. Anyone could be a team captain and enter a team if they could get one together. There could be an entry fee and captains might even then pay a fee to top FICGS players to be on their team in an effort to win the FICGS team trophy and prize money. ;) I'm not saying an entry fee would be a good idea - just mentioning it as a possibility. Anyway, I think a team championship of some kind, Olympiad-format or not, or both, would be interesting, exciting, and good for building the sense of community on FICGS.
Nick Burrows (2009-04-12 22:30:28)
Teams
The team tournaments on Playchess don't work well at all. It all feels much more random to me playing for Star Trek United etc.
I personally prefer a Ficgs Olympiad as William called it..
William Taylor (2009-04-12 23:33:05)
Teams vs Olympiad
Nick: I haven't played teams tournaments on Playchess but I'd guess they're similar to those on ICC. I agree that they feel rather pointless, but I think that's just because they're over quickly and you won't play in the same team with the same people again. Getting a (perhaps starting annualy) team tournament or league going on FICGS would be quite different I think, with longer time controls, hopefully well-established teams and perhaps prize money. Maybe there's room for a team tournament and an Olympiad - if not either would be nice.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-14 15:37:00)
Draw offer and rules
Very good point. I quite agree with this but it is now a bit complicated for players (more or less beginners) to know what to do in such a case. We can also imagine the case of a player saying "I resign" without checking the resign box.
FICGS rules are official (FIDE) chess rules when proper FICGS rules don't exist. It may apply there, but I feel we should clarify and why not change the rules to make it clearer & simpler.
Let's see what is your favourite proposal :
1) A draw offer sent in the message (draw box unchecked) should be considered as a real draw offer if the opponent called the referee to accept it and did not reply to the move.
2) A draw offer sent in the message (draw box unchecked) should be considered as a real draw offer if the opponent called the referee to accept it, even if he replied to the move.
3) A draw offer sent in the message (draw box unchecked) shouldn't be considered as a real draw offer because there shouldn't be such human decision in server chess and it could be ambiguous.
The proposition 2) may bring problems IMO, I think 3) is generally better in server chess (maybe even in OTB chess when the sheet in not signed, I suppose the case happened already) as there should be as few human decision as possible, 1) is more fair in a certain way though.
Don Groves (2009-04-15 02:01:35)
Time controls
In all FICGS games, I think there should be an intermediate time control to prevent silent withdrawal, or what you call the "dead man defense."
If a player cannot make at least one move per week when not on vacation, the game should end.
If fewer than ten moves have been played, the game would not count in the ratings.
Normajean Yates (2009-04-18 00:53:38)
Don, why is the tick box there, then?
Don (Groves), I don't see that someone who can clearly say 'I offer draw' can find ticking the 'draw offer' box *in addition* so difficult.
Some people are *not* courteous, (remember, we both had this common chess-opponent who just would not resign days after being checkmated; Thibault adjudicated both our games?) that's why I prefer unambiguous rules. I dont mean I prefer legalese everywhere; far from it; I just think that, say in the case under discussion, ticking the 'draw offer box' (in addition to courteous remarks on the position etc if any) is unambiguous and simple, so why make it complicated?
If only people were all showed a certain minimum level of niceness; if only people didn't retract verbal draw offers (without draw box ticked) on ficgs; if only people didn't kill; if only people didn't run concentration / extermination camps, if only people didn't drop nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and so on - it would be a much more beautiful world. But sadly, things are not so...
Ulrich Imbeck (2009-04-18 23:01:13)
pending games
From my beginning here at ficgs I was only in the pending games-mode. There was the problem. I just made a move in KYU_I__000012 during the all games-mode.
Ulrich Imbeck (2009-04-18 23:09:55)
3 my games-modes
I just saw that there are 3 my games-modes! From my beginning here at ficgs I was only in the running games-mode. I just made a move in KYU_I__000012 during the pending games-mode. My problem seems to be the running games-mode!
Normajean Yates (2009-04-18 23:17:19)
Don+Rodolfo, what about verbal *moves* ?
By the same logic, what is wrong with my saying 'my next move will be Ne4' and helpfully putting a link in the message to a diagram of the resulting position?
after all, you get clock time for free, because you are thinking on my time!
Would you consider *that* binding? If so, would it be 'binding' for you to do the right thing i.e. request Thib to add time to my clock and subtract it from yours? [if Thib. doesnt, at least you tried..)] ;)
Extending the logic - start a game here but make moves informally by email, AFTER the game is over then for ficgs's record we repeat those moves on the ficgs board [which is still at starting pos.] --- how much of that is 'binding'?
Normajean Yates (2009-04-18 23:22:12)
actually, there is a rule to cover this!
Quoting Last para of rule 11.2 - "The rules assume that FICGS referees have the necessary competence, sound judgement and absolute objectivity. Too detailed a rule might deprive the arbiter of his freedom of judgement and thus prevent him from finding the solution to a problem dictated by fairness, logic and special factors. FICGS appeals to all its members to accept this view."
Translation: Thibault's decision is final. ;)
Ulrich Imbeck (2009-04-18 23:30:39)
Only in Kyu I 00012
My problem with the running games-mode is not in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU_I__000011 and not in FICGS__GO__TOURNAMENT_KYU__000072
Don Groves (2009-04-19 08:08:48)
Verbal moves are impossible
Sorry, Normajean, but in order to send anything, including a message, you must press the "Send" button. If there is no move in the "Move" box, the send will be rejected. Good try though ;-)
Conditional moves are already forbidden by FICGS, so that doesn't work either.
Wayne Lowrance (2009-04-20 07:09:55)
FICGS Oympiad
Wow, I like it, I would like to throw my towel in for consideration :) Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2009-04-21 18:47:25)
FICGS Olympiad
Number of players decided upon needs careful consideration. 4 players per team would mean many countries would be left off because not four players signing up/available. I like the idea of as many countries as possible with teams. Of course on the other side of the coin only two players per country would mean many players not getting a chance to play and represent their country. Delicate balance in my view. Having said this, I prefer in favor of many countries therefore 2 players per country. What ya think ? Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2009-04-22 00:41:19)
FICGS Olympiad
I do not care for the idea of forming teams regardless of rating nationality . We already have this in a sense, It is called "the rating lists". The original proposal was a unique novelty idea, that I liked. I seem to be in minority on 2 person nationalistic teams. So How about a compromise of 4 person nationalistic teams. I Would my self like to play in it representing USA. How many players per teams is part "B" of the idea. Part "A" is making the Olympiad nationalistic. Speaking for my self if we drop this attribute to the idea then I lose interest. My ideas on it Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2009-04-23 00:52:43)
FICGS Olympiad
Okey Dokey fair enough. As I said I liked the original proposal, I thought it was a unique idea and an "Olympiad" similiar to Olympics Chess, country against country. I was always very active in sports in my youth. Maybe that is why I perked up when I read Mr Taylor's post. I am usually involved in a lot of tournament chess and outside activities and would make an entry for an "Olympiad event" despite my heavy work loads. Wayne
Don Groves (2009-04-23 06:52:56)
Please send a move with a draw offer!
I think this is standard in correspondence chess and it is necessary on FICGS because there is no way to respond to a draw offer without also sending a move in return and this is hard to do when it's not your turn!
Scott Nichols (2009-04-23 22:26:53)
If everyone played...
As far as I can tell if everyone played in a FICGS olympiad, AUT (is this Australia, Austria??) would by far be the strongest team with four! players in the top 20 active players.
Normajean Yates (2009-04-24 00:33:24)
me too: I just ignore the draw offer..
It has happened three times here in *one* game: an ongoing chess game of mine here on ficgs. :)
[The first time *I* offered the draw. Opponent moved, thereby automatically declining and cancelling the draw offer. The other two times *opponent* offered the draw and I moved.]
(btw I declined the offers not out of spite but because I have a win: all lines I tried give me a win. It is a most interesting game: since the annotations will not appear on the record; I'll just say that opponent returned my early exchange-sacrifice setting a trap: I could have reached Q and 3 pawns v Q, but opponent would then draw by perpetual! The [probable] winning line has Q and 2 pawns v Q and P, but my centralised Q and promotion threats win!)
It does look to me like a mountain is being made out of less than a molehill.. (not by me - I didn't start this.)
This post was to illustrate how there is *no* problem at all[1]; and neither me nor my opponent (both were playing their first games when the game began) saw any problem at all.
this is my last post on this topic.
[1] If there is at all a problem here, it is of the same level as the 'problem' that the following rule is not mentioned in ficgs-rules:
. 'gn is not allowed in chess unless n is an integer between 1 and 8 inclusive, where 1 and 8 are to interpreted as the standard numerals standing for integers in the ordered real-closed field R, with the *canonical* ordering. (As opposed to, say, an integer in the domain Z[2+i*sqrt(5)] or an integer in some exotic Grothendieck topos).
;)
Don Groves (2009-04-24 07:18:10)
Like over the board?
It isn't quite the same as OTB. In OTB, my opponent will know that I have denied his offer and will make his next move. On FICGS, the system says it is *my* move, not his! So, how does he make his next move when it is not his turn (although it should be)?
The "My moves" page is wrong and there seems no way to correct it.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-25 03:01:58)
(talking about quotes)
... are your posts copyrighted, Normajean ? or can I use some parts in the FICGS quotes file ? ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-28 09:55:31)
Actually, Don did *not* say it...
From the chat archives :
devassal thibault : :o) .... Hi Francisco & all ! (2008-12-05 00:05:41)
gramajo francisco : hey Yates... are you smoking something? (2008-12-04 23:45:49)
yates normajean : may be call it the P.O.U.M opening? (2008-12-04 23:17:54)
http://www.ficgs.com/display_chat_country.php
Now the topic can be closed, I think :)
Scott Nichols (2009-04-29 04:06:05)
Lesson learned by all.
Nick always has a good answer. I liked his answer in the team chess debates and here also. But hats off to King Thibault. Are you a counselor in the real world Thib? You could charge big bucks for your sage advice. Unless of course FICGS has made you independently wealthy. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-29 11:31:46)
K factor
Thanks for sharing your opinion Wayne, in comparison, the "K factor"-like here at FICGS is really high, I still wonder sometimes if it should be changed or not even if it allow players to find their place in the rating list quite quickly...
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-29 14:17:53)
1st team tournament !
Hello all,
As you may have read in the forum previously, the idea of a team chess tournament came up (originally Olympiad, maybe later).
The 1st FICGS CHESS TEAM TOURNAMENT will start on May 15th, 2009. Each team must be made of 4 players, whatever their ratings.
The tournament will be a single round-robin tournament, games will be unrated (just for fun !), time control : 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves.
You may contact other players through the form in My Messages (bottom) or just make a call here in this thread or in the chat bar to find partners, the definitive teams should be announced with their name in this thread to be in !
We might also vote for the funniest team name after the tournament started, be aware ;)
Have fun :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-29 21:12:36)
Player games search
You may use the right-click "open in a new window" for each game... or download the FICGS database (in Search games - by the way you may use Search games by specifying the name of your opponent) then view the games in Chessbase or.. or.. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-04-30 12:16:34)
Xavier Pichelin wins the 2nd FICGS WCH
First of all, congratulations Xavier !
That's a real performance to beat Wolfgang in a match (whatever the score..).
These games will have to be analyzed, Xavier has good positions but the FICGS withdrawals rule 11.6 may apply in a few games (otherwise basically Xavier's future rating is 2682 !!).
Any opinion on each game is welcome.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-01 20:57:25)
Applying FICGS rules
I just had a deeper look at the 12 games and I applied FICGS rules only (just like in the match Lacrosse-Ghysens).
According to me, Xavier has an advantage in game 28302, it is not so clear in game 28305 but IMO this game should be rated also. As a result, 4 games will be rated in this match, Xavier's future rating is now 2577.
Normajean Yates (2009-05-02 00:56:55)
I am patient !
- will remind once very 6 months :)
Another suggestion: let's some of us become free members of some online chess-games database site; so that we can post there to suggest including ficgs games - then transposition problem will be solved at least for completed games... just search that database site..
I use chesslab.com among others - I suggest some of us lobby chesslab.com for including ficgs games. After all, these are much higher-than-average quality as these are engine+human (=centaur) games...
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-03 14:09:17)
First team : "The Dark Knights" :)
Name : The Dark Knights
#1 William Taylor-2140
#2 Scott Nichols-2089
#3 Don Groves-1991
#4 Josef Riha-1989
.. brr, frightening :) kind of Monthy Python tribute ?
About team tournament ethics, I don't think that the best player would play all moves for his team in any case, FICGS rules should still apply, I don't think it will be a problem, particularly in an unrated "for fun" tournament :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-06 12:15:23)
Loss / Resignation
You mean here at FICGS or FIDE ? Here, resignation or loss is the same, all rating rules are here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-06 12:53:08)
What a team...
The privilege to be the FICGS webmaster ? Dunno... just tried ;)
Normajean Yates (2009-05-12 00:47:43)
more bigchess thoughts..
compared to 8x8 chess, bigchess has twice the number of men but four-times the number of squares. Hence, initial and average board-population density is half that of 8x8chess. So, games are more commonly 'open' - games as closed as an 8x8-chess closed game will be comparatively rare.
Hence, also, (because of low population-density) long-range pieces Rook, Bishop and Queen are *in general* -- Thib., agreed: only 'in general' :) --- much more powerful than their 8x8-chess counterparts.
However, the queen can still get trapped early - see my game number 31191 - opp resigned on my [black's] 7th move because of trapped Queen..
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=31191&flip=1
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-12 22:34:06)
Team tourney : Players without a team
Players who would like to play in the team tournament but who don't have a team yet may announce themselves in this thread, I'll build the last teams myself if necessary by gathering as much as possible players with the same ratings...
Teams will be announced in this thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=7059
Join the fun :)
Volker Koslowski (2009-05-13 12:32:49)
New Team
Hi to all!
I would like to announce a new team called FSF En Passant for the first FICGS team tournament. We are:
1. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2270)
2. Volker Koslowski (2264)
3. Sebastian Boehme (2175)
4. Roland Markus (2096)
and we are looking forward for some nice games at this tournament. So let's have fun :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-16 19:41:58)
When the knight overplays the bishop
Yes, it is possible at Big Chess too !
An interesting game to watch : Pichelin vs. Legrand 0-1
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=31148
What do you think ?
Vjacheslav Perevozchikov (2009-05-20 16:31:57)
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUPS
Sorry for a bit stupid question...
I wonder how many players come out from a group to the next round of the tournament?
William Taylor (2009-05-20 19:58:59)
Only 1
Just the winner goes forward. You can see the rules here (scroll down a bit): http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
Normajean Yates (2009-05-21 02:36:57)
to summarise: interesting!
I read the ficgs chess WCH rules: interesting!
In short,
stages 1a-3a: the top-8 rated players play a (3-stage obviously!) *knockout* (each match consisting of 8 games; so that is 56 top-rated games!)
stages 1b-3b. In parallel, the rest of the contenders play a 3-stage round-robin (groups of 5, 7, 9, 11 or 13 players.) - as William Taylor posted, only the *winner* of each round-robin stage goes to the next stage - (or if rated above 2300, directly from stage 1 to stage 3 - see rules for detatils)
stage 4: the knockout winner plays the round-robin in an 8-match candidate-finals; to decide who the challenger will be.
stage 5: the challenger v the current WCh -12 game match.
for pairing and tie-break rules (and all the above), just follow the link above [William Taylor's post]; search the page for "FICGS CHESS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP :": it will probably be faster than scrolling down ;)
Normajean Yates (2009-05-22 05:19:29)
Curioser and curiouser! How..?
I don't see how the following happened, given my reading of the rules: William Taylor, you are probably the best person to explain where I am getting the rules wrong!
William Taylor in:
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_02__000005:
points: 6/8. *not* the leader: Domenico Riccio was the sole leader with 7.5/8, second was Norman Wilson (6.5/8) -
William Taylor, you were third in your stage-1 group so how did you get to reach stage 2?
(FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000004 William Taylor and four others tied for 2nd place out of 7)
Well I suppose the stage-1 group-2 top two players withdrew, right? (I *could* check it myself, but the tedium/learning ratio would be too high ;)
William Taylor (2009-05-22 07:28:56)
Different world championships
I qualified for FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000004 from tournament FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_07__000004, not tournament FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_02__000005. However, I didn't win that tournament either - I came second.
My initial guess as to how I qualified from that one is that more than 1 player needed to qualify to make up numbers for the next round - it was quite a large group and I seem to remember reading something about that in the rules. Second guess - Vadim Khachaturov withdrew. Third guess - the large sum of money that I sent Thibault with an e-mail saying 'please let me into the second round' had the desired effect.
That answer is based on about 30 seconds' thought - I'll have a closer look when I get back from what I suspect will be a highly unpleasant physics exam.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-23 00:31:31)
1st team tournament : games & results !
A new thread to comment the games & results in the 1st FICGS team tournament that just started ! The teams are :
>> The knights who say "Ni"
Michael Aigner - 2602
Xavier Pichelin - 2577
Hannes Rada - 2559
Thibault de Vassal - 2473
>> FSF En Passant
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2270)
Volker Koslowski (2264)
Sebastian Boehme (2175)
Roland Markus (2096)
>> The Dark Knights
William Taylor - 2140
Scott Nichols - 2089
Don Groves - 1991
Josef Riha - 1989
>> Happy Pawn
Stephane Legrand 2209
Garvin Gray 2125
Daniel Parmet 1961
Ilmar Cirulis 1805
>> Yellow-Blue Warriors
Iouri Basiliev
Dmytro Romaniuk
Ostap Hladky
Yura Lemehov
>> The Ghost Knights
Vadim Khachaturov
Yugi Inving
Sophie Leclerc
Jorge Orden
>> The Knights with no name (yet)
Alexander Blinchevsky
Stanimir Denchev
Benjamin Block
Ranganathan Raman
You can follow the games here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__TEAM_EVENT_TABLE_1__000001
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__TEAM_EVENT_TABLE_2__000001
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__TEAM_EVENT_TABLE_3__000001
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__TEAM_EVENT_TABLE_4__000001
Note : The first player displayed in each tournament table is not always the player of the first team because when the 1st & 3rd players of a team play White against another team, the 2nd & 4th play Black against the same team, this is not obvious to read (sorry).
I'm really sorry to the 2 players that were not included in a team, but we had to start the tournament now... The last team may still announce their name (provisional : "The knights with no name")
Have nice games :)
Normajean Yates (2009-05-26 12:31:32)
Thib. - best wishes for site in these ..
.. recession times.Improvements, to-do lists etc. can wait if necessary.
I fell in love with the site at first sight - such a classy approach - not like some of the garish american sites.
So I hope that in these times of recession, there is no serious cash flow problems you are facing... I am sure all of us want this site to live long!
Again I say; improvements, to-do lists etc. can wait if necessary: please concentrate on cash flow [if there is a serious problem there] -- that is the practical thing to do. This site is excellent as it is now!
Again, best wishes to Thibault the person, and may ficgs live long!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-26 17:30:46)
Thanks :)
There's no problem with to-do lists.. actually it is just absolutely necessary.. I can't think about everything. I still have many things to improve, this year I developped much more the "other side" of the site and this was very exciting, I learnt a lot while doing this.. that will be useful for future improvements and it brings more and more visitors [the current statistics are about +10% every week for a few months (that's good :))] on the server (I try to redirect as many as potential players as possible here).
Speaking of the server, I'm not afraid of crisis or whatever, the statistics are just better and better now, that helps the site to distribute Epoints (potential money) prizes. Almost nobody claims for real money prizes but that's the finality (to distribute money prizes in free tournaments).. There are plenty of "successful" sites on the internet that offer money prizes (or costly services) for free but all of them are built on unrealistic views IMO, so they implode or cheat in a way as soon as they encounter success. Most of us know about the Facebook case that still lose money. FICGS grew very slowly during 2 or 3 years but IMO it was based on realistic views so don't worry, the site will survive after both of us, I'll take care of that :)
Normajean Yates (2009-05-27 05:02:24)
Thank you Thib: and I am so relieved!
First, about the 'thank you' to Thib.: that is for responding :) Now, to business:
>Thib said: Speaking of the server, I'm not afraid of crisis or whatever, the statistics are just better and better now..
I am so relieved! Seriously.
>Thib. said: FICGS grew very slowly during 2 or 3 years but IMO it was based on realistic views..
Exactly! That was one of the first things I noticed when I discovered this site (early June last year, I think) - I phoned my partner [she and I were in different countries on that day; coincidentally, this month also..] - told her this site *will* survive, and chess.com will *not* survive [too much money wasted by Eric of chess.com even then] - [It was only in in May last year that I had noticed chess.com in its present incarnation (earlier it did *not* offer chess-*playing*, it was a chess-reference-material site only)
(My partner doesn't play chess but of course one doesn't have to be a chess-player to be interested in issues like this!)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(beginning of digression about chess.com (as a contrasting example):)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
well chess.com has *technically speaking* survived; but there is a graded level of paying members [silver-gold-diamond-platinum-what not] - each year paying membership has to be renewed [I am a free member there; I don't play games there now except on special request :) ] -- and..
Guess what, chess.com in a few months intoduced a system that gave a *playing advantage* to paying members: the more expensive grade you are in, the greater the paying advantage. So, as far as correspondence chess is concerned, can chess.com be now considered a chess site?
(In fact I posted a thread there last year suggesting that they should introduce auction: at any time any of the opponents in a game can bid to win a game. [even if they have lone K against K+Q+Q+R :}] - then if opponent doesn't make a bigger bid then the bidder wins the game. Minimum bid € 20,00 :) (chess.com is a US site ;) )There was some heated discussion over it.. Eric (the site owner - he is a decent chap, all said and done) prudently stayed away from that discussion :)
I posted in various threads there also directly saying that chess.com is probably the only *chess* site where the more you pay, the greater advantage you have in a *game*. Is that chess?
None of the above is defamatory: it is obviously true for anyone to check - and clearly Erik silently agrees - well good luck to him...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(end of digression about chess.com)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>Thib. said: so don't worry, the site will survive after both of us, I'll take care of that :)
:)
I am sure now that you will :) (but not because both of us will suddenly die tomorrow, I hope ;))
Thibault de Vassal (2009-05-27 23:17:28)
FICGS & chess.com
The example of chess.com is very interesting, I looked at this site (from time to time) growing very fastly, most probably because of investments for good SEO (search engines optimisation) - to start with the domain name - but it still looks like a MFA (Made For Adsense) website even if I'm sure that Eric made good work to offer plenty of services related to chess. Well, I did not check it for a while...
Speaking of auction at chess.com, that's a funny idea and I just wonder why I did not think about a system where you can bet some epoints at any time in any game... maybe I'll think about that, but that's not really important (the very large majority of players do not play for money but for the love of games only).
Normajean Yates (2009-06-05 03:07:37)
oh then minor technical change...
instead of the game having been drawn automatically, referee *adjudicates* it as a draw.
This ensures that fide rules are not violated, because a game result *can* be changed by adjudication: for example:
Suppose OTB, immediately after a game is over, the winning player is found to have a hidden transciever with a *log* showing that moves *were* transmitted and move-suggestions *were* recieved. And the player breaks down in tears and admits to cheating: pleading for leniency - not in re that particular game, but for a shorter ban-from-tournaments than s/he expects to get. In this case, at the very least the game would be readjudicated as a loss for said player, no?
Also, on ficgs the 50-move rule is not implemented; so a game won here which would otherwise be drawn under the 50-move rule - wouldn't *that* violate fide rules? For corr chess, it is more iecc/iccf than fide - fide will come around :)
Normajean Yates (2009-06-05 03:12:28)
Hannes, those are *general* rules..
There are exceptions! For example, (Q + a-P + b-P) v (Q + P) is a dead draw, right? So how come I have an easy win in:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=21702
?
If you are not convinced, put in the relevant 6-piece tablebases and see :D
Thibault de Vassal (2009-06-08 21:19:20)
New feature : Silent mode !
Due to several problems caused by a few players recently (mainly insults in private messages), I just created a "silent mode".
Every player who will not respect the FICGS general rules & netiquette may be placed in this mode for a certain time or permanently, that way the player can play games and enter new tournaments but it is no more possible to send messages to other players (or receive messages with moves) by any way, this is the only way to avoid troubles in tournaments.
I'm very sorry to anyone who received such messages and I'll take care to avoid and prevent this in the future.
My best wishes,
Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2009-06-13 14:02:12)
Another way to reach it
http://www.ficgs.com/players/yates_normajean/history.html
Normajean Yates (2009-06-13 18:23:08)
Thanks Thib.! both way are useful..
Thib's way - it has the advantage that I have bookmarked http://www.ficgs.com/players/yates_normajean/history.html
so that it can be reached in one click. And then i can just edit player name in the url window to reach history page of any player!
Normajean Yates (2009-06-14 12:22:10)
serious researching the Kings Gambit!
at ficgs. Three consecutive thematics: #81, 82, 83 are King's Gambit!
That is very welcome!
Don Groves (2009-06-17 05:37:51)
First?
Just how do you propose that the FICGS software should know that any particular notification is the first in a sequence, that you have already read and responded to the previous notice?
Marc Lacrosse (2009-06-19 23:24:59)
FICGS commented on rybkachess
Quite a few comments regarding FICGS and correspondence chess opening preparation in this recent thread on rybkachess forum :
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?pid=165142;msg=ReplyPost
Your opinion ?
Marc
Thibault de Vassal (2009-06-21 23:02:23)
Cochrane gambit
It is now planned to be the 86th thematic tourney !
By the way it has been played before, see :
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000031
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000030
Thibault de Vassal (2009-06-22 16:41:00)
Discussion at Rybkachess
That's an interesting discussion... Once more, the confusion reigns between Freestyle chess (commonly played at classical & blitz time controls) and Correspondence Chess, particularly for centaur players who did not experience correspondence chess at a 2500+ level.
IMO (in brief) on several points :
1) All these made-for-engines books have no other interest than to "manipulate" chess engines & other made-for-engines books, actually this has almost nothing to do with correspondence chess (where they are completely useless at a high level, let's say 2300+) or even chess.
2) Many players do not realize the multitude of factors that appear to be more important that the basic strength of centaurs once the correspondence chess 2400 mark is reached and that still increases at 2500 and 2600... The higher the level, the more "opening books" depend on the recent games played by the opponent (and his level), the number of current games played, the score to reach in 8 games matches, the importance of rating, the goal in life, even the month/season for a few players and many other things according to the persons... Actually these "openings books" just live the time to use it one time, so a better term is preparation, actually opening books do not exist anymore in correspondence chess at a very high level, at most it may be useful against weaker players.
3) The previous point is enough to explain the rating changes of most 2400+ players ! In example...
- GM Farit Balabaev is a very experienced player who constantly has(had) more than 100 running correspondence chess games at several places for years, he's also a fast player, it is quite logical to me that he looks for quiet games and fast draws (or lose sometimes to very strong players who want to win more)
- Wolfgang Utesch, FICGS WCH finalist, like many players at one time in their life, decided that other things were more important and that correspondence chess was too time consuming, particularly once the 2500 mark has been reached...
- Eros Riccio obviously decided to win every correspondence chess competition at FICGS while playing a high number of games at several places AFTER having topped the FICGS rating list with the highest rating so far (which he did), so it is natural to look for a few quick draws in matches if 8 draws mean a victory for him (and a few rating points lost, that is quite inhuman anyway :))
- Michael Aigner tops most FICGS rating lists by playing only games at 40 days + 40 days / 10 moves time control, which is an enormous performance as obviously the longer the time control, the higher the rate of draws. I do not know how many current games he's playing at ICCF or IECG and other organisations but I suspect he plays a quite reasonable number of games.
- Xavier Pichelin may top the FICGS rating list this year as he's an incredibly dangerous player with White and Black and with a reasonable number of running games.
Many strong players also choose to play some tournaments for "fun" or to experiment openings and may lose some points while their real strength is over 2500 or more... so it is quite hard to make the difference between the real strength and correspondence chess ratings. So many parameters... It is likely that we'll see one day a 12 games match between Eros and Xavier (Michael do not play fast correspondence chess time control, yet I hope), we all wonder what rating could achieve Vasik Rajlich (Rybka's creator) and other very strong freestyle players but it is very hard to predict only by knowing their results in freestyle tournaments. Correspondence chess is a mirror of real life.
Daniel Parmet (2009-06-24 02:50:06)
Learning Go
Greetings!
I really really want to learn to play Go (and play some of it on ficgs of course!). Does anyone have recommendation for the easiest way of learning the basics? Good websites for rules, follow masters etc. I appreciate any and all help!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-06-24 19:06:32)
Future thematic tournaments
Thanks everyone for your nice suggestions, so we'll have :
Anti-Moscow gambit, 1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Nf3 e6 5.Bg5 h6 6.Bh4 dxc4 7.e4 g5 8.Bg3 b5 :
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000088
Sicilian Dragon, 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 g6 :
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000087
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2009-06-25 20:42:58)
About thematic Volga
We had recently one: FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000059
Hannes Rada (2009-07-03 13:52:10)
Match vs. Scheming Mind
Maybe we should try a FICGS vs. Scheming Mind match :-)
Normajean Yates (2009-07-03 14:03:22)
ficgs v 'the scheming mind' ..
well 'the scheming mind' seems to be a no-engines no-tablebases site. But, for ficgs v 'the scheming mind' engine-use a matter of negotiation..
Daniel Parmet (2009-07-08 05:02:57)
mine!
My blog: http://chaoschess.blogspot.com/
I actually run a blog where i've plugged ficgs several times:) However, I doubt the material is going to be of much interest to corr players but check it out anyways!
Don Groves (2009-07-08 08:50:04)
High rated FICGSers
GM Nigel Davies played here for a while a year or so ago.
Klearchos Loukopoulos (2009-07-14 21:47:18)
withdraw, me too!
Would it be possible to be removed from
FICGS__CHESS__THEMATIC_TOURNAMENT__000086
thematic chess, first moves : e4 e5 Nf3 Nf6 Nxe5 d6 Nxf7.
Just this one, not the other one that is currently on nor the other, for which I'm still in the waiting list.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-07-24 20:01:57)
New : Go games in the forum
Now you can post complete Go games in all FICGS forums with the nice interface Eidogo (Flash), see the Help section to know how to do it with the SGF /SGF tags.
In example :
(
;
FF[1]
GM[1]
SZ[19]
AP[Ficgs]
RU[Chinese]
GN[Lu,Ke-von Erichsen,Svante Carl]
HA[0]
KM[7.5]
WR[2483]
PW[Lu,Ke]
BR[2653]
PB[von Erichsen,Svante Carl]
DT[February 28 3:6:11 CET 2009]
;
B[pd]
;
W[dp]
;
B[pq]
;
W[dd]
;
B[fc]
;
W[cf]
;
B[jd]
;
W[po]
;
B[pl]
;
W[mp]
;
B[no]
;
W[mo]
;
B[oo]
;
W[hq]
;
B[nq]
;
W[mq]
;
B[cn]
;
W[cp]
;
B[ck]
;
W[qf]
;
B[qh]
;
W[nc]
;
B[qc]
;
W[oe]
;
B[pe]
;
W[pf]
;
B[of]
;
W[ph]
;
B[od]
;
W[ne]
;
B[nd]
;
W[me]
;
B[md]
;
W[le]
;
B[ld]
;
W[qi]
;
B[fe]
;
W[he]
;
B[ke]
;
W[lg]
;
B[kf]
;
W[hg]
;
B[jh]
;
W[hc]
;
B[fg]
;
W[hi]
;
B[cc]
;
W[dc]
;
B[cd]
;
W[de]
;
B[db]
;
W[eb]
;
B[cb]
;
W[fb]
;
B[be]
;
W[dj]
;
B[cj]
;
W[di]
;
B[el]
;
W[dm]
;
B[bm]
;
W[dn]
;
B[dk]
;
W[gm]
;
B[gh]
;
W[hh]
;
B[gj]
;
W[ef]
;
B[ff]
;
W[fj]
;
B[gi]
;
W[fk]
;
B[gd]
;
W[hd]
;
B[ec]
;
W[ci]
;
B[bi]
;
W[gc]
;
B[hk]
;
W[bh]
;
B[jk]
;
W[jb]
;
B[kb]
;
W[kc]
;
B[lb]
;
W[hb]
;
B[hj]
;
W[ga]
;
B[aj]
;
W[gl]
;
B[bo]
;
W[bp]
;
B[jn]
;
W[il]
;
B[hl]
;
W[hm]
;
B[ln]
;
W[mn]
;
B[ll]
;
W[jp]
;
B[ng]
;
W[og]
;
B[nr]
)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-07-24 20:03:52)
.. about the game
This is a running game in the current FICGS Go championship final between Ke Lu & Svante Carl von Erichsen :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-07-28 19:35:16)
Tournament Entry Rating (TER) history
Hello all,
A new feature, now you can see graphics for your correspondence chess, advanced chess, big chess, Go (weiqi) and Poker Holdem TER history.
To see your TER history, several ways :
1) Direct link with username :
http://www.ficgs.com/players/devassal_thibault/history.html
2) Direct link with member id :
http://www.ficgs.com/display_history.php?member=1
3) Preferences : Click the magnifying glass then click History
Why a TER history ? Because TER are more significant (and less numerous) than every rating changes for most games.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-04 17:29:51)
Quote festival, part 6
Maybe this is time to start a new quote fest, what do you think ? :)
As a reminder, you're encouraged to post your own quotes about anything, but do not forget that you may enter the FICGS quotes file then ;)
"Always remember: He will blunder for sure, but he may play like a genius as well."
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-11 12:03:37)
A. Dinerchtein is European Go Champion
Alexander Dinerchtein 3p (silent player at FICGS) is new European Go Champion after beating Javier Aleksi Savolainen in the final round of the European Go Championship while Taranu Catalin lost his final game to Kim Joon Sang and did not succeed in defending his title.
Congrats ! :)
I hope I can post some games here soon...
Daniel Parmet (2009-08-11 20:08:24)
Quotes!
The following 11 quotes are all by me:
1- "Experiences are the keys to life."
2- "Happy endings are just stories that haven't finished yet."
3- "If you expect nothing then the following will happen: either 1) you will receive nothing and thus can be happy your expectations were met or 2) You will receive something and thus be happy you have received something. And.... Happiness ensues..."
4- "Step up and face your fear or you will never be what you should be."
5- "A mistake is only a mistake if you let it happen twice. Otherwise it is a learning experience. your experience."
6- "Life is painting a picture over many years with different paints and tools."
7- ""Horney concluded that love was at least a temporary escape from all her anxiety and insecurity" - Karen Horney
Does anyone else think that someoe named 'Horney' shouldn't be talking about love?"
8- "Take each event in a singularity and say if time passes will any of this matter?"
9- "Plans are ideas that never come to fruition."
10- "You should only get upset about the little things cause you have no control over the big things."
11- "Causing another problem without fixing the initial problem just makes the initial problem worse as time continues"
The following are classic quotes:
11- "If you lose the game you should win the analysis!"
12- "Every passing minute is a chance to turn it all around." - Vanilla Sky
13- "Life is pain my dear and anyone who says otherwise is selling something." - Princess Bride
14- "The 7ps: Prior Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance" - U.S. Military
15- "Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink!" - Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner
16- "You can get in way more trouble with a good idea than a bad idea cause you forget the good idea has limits" - Warren Buffet
17- "Teach a child to be polite and courteous and, when he grows up, he'll never be able to merge his car onto the freeway."
18- "Experience is the thing you have left when everything else is gone."
19- "There is no tomorrow without the pains and pleasures of today" - Gabriel
20- "If life weren't this complicated, it would be nowhere near as fun. Why? WHY NOT!" - Catch-22
21- "When you've done things right people won't know you've done anything at all." - Futurama
22- "The right perception of any matter and a misunderstanding of the same matter do not wholly exclude each other." - Kafka's the trial
23- "the Trausi follow the normal practices of Thracians in general, except in one particular- their behaviour, namely, on the occasion of a birth or a death. When a baby is born the family sits round and mourns at the thought of the sufferings the infant must endure now that it has entered the world, and goes through the whole catalogue of human sorrows; but when somebody dies, they bury him with merriment and rejoicing, and point out how happy he now is and how many miseries he has at last escaped." -Herodotus Viv
24- "When a Persian herald demanded the surrender of arms, the king shouted back 'come here to get them'; and when he had seen that he was surrounded, he commanded his men to have a good breakfast since their dinner would be served in hell." - Herodotus
25- "I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy every minute of it"
26- "Why, we don't even know what living means now, what it is, and what it is called? Leave us alone without books and we shall be lost and in confusion at once. We shall not know what to join on to, what to cling to, what to love and what to hate, what to respect and what to despise." - Fyodor Dostoyevsky Notes from the Underground
27- "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." - Scott Adams
28- "Nobody is always a winner and anyone who says otherwise either is a liar or doesn't play poker."
29- “The darkness immutable tranquility holds sway.” - Jun’ichiro Tanizaki
30- “People who are constantly asking 'why' are like tourists who stand in front of a building reading Baedeker and are so busy reading the history of its construction, etc., that they are prevented from seeing the building.” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
31- “Either move or be moved.” - Ezra Pound
32- "The real meditation is the meditation of one's identity..... You try finding out why you're you and not somebody else. And who in the blazes are you anyhow??" - Ezra Pound.
33- “The image is more than an idea. It is a vortex or cluster of fused ideas and is endowed with energy.” - Ezra Pound
34- “The thought working its way towards the light.” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
35- “There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.” - Ansel Adams
36- “When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.” - Ansel Adams
37- "Wanting to think is one thing; having a talent for thinking is another." - Ludwig Wittgenstein
38- “Philosophers use a language that is already deformed as though by shoes that are too tight” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
39- “Nothing is more important for teaching us to understand the concepts we have than constructing fictitious ones” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
40- “don’t for heaven’s sake, be afraid of talking nonsense! But you must pay attention to your nonsense” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
41- “In a conversation: One person throws a ball; the other does not know: whether he is supposed to throw it back, or throw it to a third person, or leave it on the ground, or pick it up and put it in his pocket, etc” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
42- “I really do think with my pen, because my head often knows nothing about what my hand is writing” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
43- “What I am writing here may be feeble stuff; well, then I am just not capable of bringing the big, important thing to light. But hidden in these feeble remarks are great prospects.” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
44- “I ask countless irrelevant questions. If only I can succeed in hacking my way through this forest!” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
45- “Even to have expressed a false thought boldly and clearly is already to have gained a great deal” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
46- “Don’t concern yourself with what, presumably no one but you grasps!” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
47- “when you are philosophizing you have to descend into primeval chaos and feel at home there” - Ludwig Wittgenstein
48- "You cannot step into the same river twice." - Heraclitus
49- "Eternity is a child playing, playing checkers; the kingdom belongs to a child." - Heraclitus
50- "Nothing endures but change." - Heraclitus
51- "For a guest remembers all his days the hospitable man who showed him kindness." - Odyssey Book 15 Line 75
52- "Watching [GM Nigel] Short peruse the photos of young women, I had a fanciful notion that the development of specialized skills and character traits in early childhood is like a country fair in which you are alotted a fixed number of tickets to spend on the various concessions. This particular fixed number of tickets to spend on the various concessions. This particular fair is of short duration and happens only once in a lifetime. Nigel took the chess roller-coaster a dozen times, and rode the honesty ride twice, and so he had insufficient tickets left to take the Train Beyond Adolescence more than a stop or two. I myself missed the athletic concession, and I should have ridden -damn it- the chess coaster three or four times." - King's Gambit: A Son, A Father, and the World's Most Dangerous Game by Paul Hoffman page335
53- “I don’t know, but I do know with great precision why nobody else knows either.” - John H. Cochrane
54- "One must have chaos within oneself, to give birth to a dancing star." - Friedrich Nietsche
55- "I created chaos on the chess board and my strength lay in finding hidden harmonies. I always cultivated being at peace in chaos. manifest your unique character on the chess board." - Josh Waitzkin
56- "Leave numbers behind and ride the wave of the game." - Josh Waitzkin
57- "The weakness of an artist is dogma." - Josh Waitzkin
58- "Everything i've learned, i've eventually unlearned. I spend more time unlearning than learning. You must challenge your own micro thought constructs." - Josh Waitzkin
59- "It is like a tunnel, the deeper you get into the more you see there is to learn." - Josh Waitzkin
60- "Your emotions are there for a reason. Observe their ripple." - Josh Waitzkin
61- "The same mold, teachers have learned a certain way. great teachers should listen first." - Josh Waitzkin
62- "Change from psychology and technical errors, transition from opening prep to first middlegame decision or tactical to strategical." - Josh Waitzkin
63- "There is some part about any discipline that should appeal to any person." - Josh Waitzkin
64- "Identify thematic connections by breaking down the walls between different disciplines." - Josh Waitzkin
65- "You know your country is dying when you have to make a distinction between what is moral and ethical, and what is legal." - John de Armond
66- "In times of universal deceit, telling the truth will be a revolutionary act." - George Orwell
67- "When you stop learning you start dying." - Scott Adams
68- "If you could buy some people for what they are worth, and sell them for what they "think" they are worth, there would always be a profit margin."
69- "Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about."
70- "Life is too short to waste time hating anyone."
71- "When in doubt, just take the next small step."
72- "When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer."
73- "Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?" - Ellis
74- "If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back."
75- "Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need."
76- "There are three sides to every story: your side, their side and the truth." - Bablyon 5
77- "Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher." - Japanese Proverb
My apologies if some of the classics are in the ficgs quote file already as I just keep my own (and pull quotes from everywhere). I tried to cull out the duplicates.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-12 12:43:35)
Alexander Dinerchtein
He registered under his real name (see the complete Go players list), but he didn't play yet at FICGS. He posted once in the forum though to speak about his [always interesting] Goama newsletter.
Normajean Yates (2009-08-12 15:53:19)
seems... a more powerful secret-society
.. wants to save ficgs ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-14 23:18:16)
Hall of Fame
Hi Samy, you mean like this one ?
http://www.ficgs.com/titles.html
Ok, the link is in the menu only if you are not logged in, not so obvious.
Charlie Neil (2009-08-22 11:23:40)
Vacation Time on Ficgs
I am confused about what is the point of booking vacation time, as the "game clock" will keep running. Can someone explain to me please.
Michel van der Kemp (2009-08-25 19:47:10)
Mistake in ELO calculation?
I got this email from an advanced match.
Game 27857
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__BULLET_BRONZE__000132"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2009.8.23"]
[Round "1"]
[White "van der Kemp,Michel"]
[Black "Goršek,Gregor"]
[Result "1-0"]
[WhiteElo "1966"]
[BlackElo "1623"]
1.e4 g6 2.d4 Bg7 3.Nc3 d6 4.Nf3 Nf6 5.Be2 O-O 6.O-O c6 7.a4 a5 8.h3 Na6 9.Be3 Nb4 10.Qd2 Qc7 11.Rac1 Rd8 12.Rfe1 d5 13.exd5 Nbxd5 14.Nxd5 Nxd5 15.Bh6 Be6 16.Bxg7 Kxg7 17.c4 Nb4 18.Bd3 Nxd3 19.Qxd3 Qd6 20.Re3 Rd7 21.Qe2 Re8 22.Rd1 R7d8 23.Re1 Rd7 24.b3 b6 25.Ng5 Bf5 26.g4 1-0
Move sent : 2009.8.23 - 17:54:11
Move replied : 2009.8.23 - 19:10:44
Player resigned.
WhiteELO : 1966 ... 1961
BlackELO : 1623 ... 1627
This email was generated automatically by http://www.ficgs.com/
My rating went down after winning a game :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-28 01:06:17)
S.C. von Erichsen is FICGS Go champion !
Svante Carl von Erichsen is FICGS Go champion, for the 3rd time... after winning 2 more games in the 5 games final match which looked like in some ways to the previous one with Ke Lu.
Congrats again Svante Carl ! Definitely we need more strong players to try to rivalize :)
Here is the 4th game that just finished :
(
;
FF[1]
GM[1]
SZ[19]
AP[Ficgs]
RU[Chinese]
GN[von Erichsen,Svante Carl-Lu,Ke]
HA[0]
KM[7.5]
WR[2653]
PW[von Erichsen,Svante Carl]
BR[2483]
PB[Lu,Ke]
DT[February 28 3:6:11 CET 2009]
RE[W+T]
;
B[pd]
;
W[dc]
;
B[pp]
;
W[eq]
;
B[pj]
;
W[nq]
;
B[lq]
;
W[no]
;
B[pn]
;
W[kp]
;
B[lp]
;
W[lo]
;
B[kq]
;
W[jp]
;
B[jq]
;
W[ip]
;
B[hq]
;
W[hp]
;
B[gq]
;
W[gp]
;
B[fq]
;
W[fp]
;
B[er]
;
W[dr]
;
B[dq]
;
W[ep]
;
B[fr]
;
W[cq]
;
B[cj]
;
W[ch]
;
B[co]
;
W[cn]
;
B[bn]
;
W[dn]
;
B[cm]
;
W[nc]
;
B[kd]
;
W[ne]
;
B[pf]
;
W[ng]
;
B[gc]
;
W[ic]
;
B[id]
;
W[jd]
;
B[jc]
;
W[je]
;
B[ib]
;
W[kc]
;
B[hc]
;
W[de]
;
B[lc]
;
W[ph]
;
B[oh]
;
W[qe]
;
B[pe]
;
W[pg]
;
B[og]
;
W[of]
;
B[pi]
;
W[qf]
;
B[rh]
;
W[qd]
;
B[pc]
;
W[qc]
;
B[qg]
;
W[pb]
;
B[ob]
;
W[qb]
;
B[nb]
;
W[nh]
;
B[qh]
;
W[pl]
;
B[om]
;
W[qo]
;
B[po]
;
W[qp]
;
B[qn]
;
W[pq]
;
B[oq]
;
W[pr]
;
B[or]
;
W[rq]
;
B[mj]
;
W[mc]
;
B[kb]
;
W[lf]
;
B[lh]
;
W[jg]
;
B[ji]
;
W[mb]
;
B[oc]
;
W[ie]
;
B[he]
;
W[hf]
;
B[gf]
;
W[hg]
;
B[mf]
;
W[me]
;
B[mg]
;
W[ke]
;
B[ld]
;
W[le]
;
B[nf]
;
W[eh]
;
B[hi]
;
W[kh]
;
B[ki]
;
W[rn]
;
B[rm]
;
W[ro]
;
B[ql]
;
W[bk]
;
B[bj]
;
W[cl]
;
B[dm]
;
W[bm]
;
B[bo]
;
W[dl]
;
B[dp]
;
W[br]
;
B[em]
;
W[en]
)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-08-31 14:05:20)
No bug?
Hi Don, I don't see the point here... Your opponent (Player 1) pays by checking so you show your cards, he does not have to show his cards in this case if he hasn't a better hand (no player is all in).
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=34598&move=40
Garvin Gray (2009-09-01 17:27:45)
second stage??
Hope I have my question asked correctly, or that it can be deciphered correctly :)
When does the second round of the 'recently' started ficgs championship begin?
I think it would be second stage of this.... FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_01__000006
Daniel Parmet (2009-09-02 03:36:36)
Can't Join tournament?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_chess_standard_a
The standard Class has the rating band 2000-2400?! Expert to MASTER when its supposed to be class A? On top of that... several 1900s are in the waitinglist .... yet I as a class A player also in the 1900s can't join this because I don't have an X rating for an A tournament? I'm confused...
Thibault de Vassal (2009-09-07 19:11:36)
Games vs. Tournaments
Hello Maurice, FICGS is mainly a correspondence games server so it is much easier to play tournaments (you can register in Waiting lists) than live games (advanced games and challenges), be patient and you may use the chat bar to try to find an opponent !
Wayne Lowrance (2009-09-07 23:52:52)
A Big Mouth on Rybka Forum
Howdy Thibault & all.
There is a poster on the Rybka forum who has sort of a big mouth. He claims that Rybka IA feature is not best for CC games, claims it is too time consuming and at any rate he blubbers and brags that those who use IA are not able to defeat him. I am using my own language here in a jist of the conversation of his. He further says that he never spends more that a matter of hours cogitating his move using a 3 tear "long game" approach to working his moves. Timers such at 60' 40 moves @ 1st tier etc (don't remember his 2nd tier timer. In any case he claims he can get to depth 40 in mid game situations using a "long game" three tier mode. and finds moves that are superior to IA running a day or more (he doesn't seem to understand that most CC players use IA in a special Centaur way and the Program is a tool. He gives little respect for 2500 CC rated Centaur players using the feature IA. He beats such players all of the time, he say's with his Rybka usage with his very modest hardware against 2500 players using IA. I am skeptical. I asked where he plays CC (out of courosity) and he will not tell where. a Poster in response to his post believe he plays CC where computers are not allowed, I have no idea in this regard. I told him that I play at FICGS where computers are welcome and a 2500 rating on this server is very high. There are many well known players held in high regard playing at FICGS that would "clean his clock" with him playing as he say's he does. So what is my point. I am wondering if I can invite this guy to join FICGS and that his lofty rating can be accepted. I shall invite him to Join our SM #11 tourney. Wayne
Don Groves (2009-09-21 04:11:45)
rating bands
I agree with that: Under certain conditions, such as being less than 100 ELO points below the next higher rating and winning a lower rated tournament, a player gets a one time opportunity to play in the next higher group. If the player's rating is above the limit after the tournament, he/she remains in the higher class; otherwise they must play again in the lower class.
This would help fill higher rated tournaments faster and also allow players to advance more rapidly if they are good enough. This should apply to all FICGS games, Go and Poker included.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-09-22 17:37:12)
Important issue : Moves taken back
Hello all,
A player (no need to specify the game, at least not yet) asked me as the FICGS admin to take back his opponent's move which is an obvious mistake. In this case both players agree to take back the move to not waste the game, after that the player who made the mistake kindly asked to the other player if it was possible take back the move. At this point, all depended of the other player's fair play, but of course only the FICGS admin can take back a move in any game.
However I just wonder if it is fair in all cases to do this, particularly when a player shows a great fair play in all his games.
I've just read the rules again and nothing is mentioned on this and what should do the FICGS admin (or tournament director). Note, I've already taken back a few moves when both players agreed to do this in the past.
Question, not really a poll but your opinion would be appreciated : Do you think that the FICGS admin should...
1) take back all moves in this case.
2) take back some moves in this case (at his discretion).
3) never take back any move even in this case.
IMO, choice 2) is the best one as more or less complex cases may happen, what do you think ?
Thanks for sharing your views !
Thibault de Vassal (2009-09-24 16:24:02)
Translator for FICGS home page in Hindi?
Hi,
A new FICGS home page will be added in Hebrew in a few minutes, could anyone help to translate it in Hindi ? (also Chinese, Japanese & Korean if possible :))
As about 20% of visitors now come from India, I thought it would be useful :)
Thanks for your help !
Xavier Pichelin (2010-02-06 14:25:55)
E. Kotlyanskiy new FICGS chess champion
Congratulation Edward!!
It's a very good player!!
He play very well the chess.
Edward deserves to gain win the champion FICGS because he better played than me.
Good Continuation Edward!!
Edward Kotlyanskiy (2010-02-08 02:18:27)
E. Kotlyanskiy new FICGS chess champion
Thanks Hannes and Xavier. I most certainly enjoyed our games. Xavier played very well and I want to thank him for the exciting chess. At this point however there are still two games going so the action isn't over yet ;)
William Taylor (2010-06-11 15:08:41)
FICGS chess database
Hi Thib,
Would it be possible to make 2 options - a database with only correspondence games, and one including bullet/blitz/lightning/freestyle cup? (Or a database just of those games.) I think it's a good idea to have a database without them, but I for one would like the option of downloading them.
Will
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-05 19:20:02)
Shaking hands with Kasparov
Obviously, there's at least one member of this small lucky club here :)
http://www.ficgs.com/player_767.html
Lucky Pablo ! (see bottom of page)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-06 20:17:49)
2nd FICGS chess freestyle cup
Hi all,
Finally, I'll have some time to organize the 2nd FICGS chess freestyle cup during the next weeks !
The entry will be free for players rated over 2000, the prize will be 200 Epoints.
Three possibilities (swiss pairing) :
a) 6 rounds (1 hour + 15 sec/move), 2 rounds played each day - monday, tuesday, wednesday
b) 6 rounds (1 hour + 15 sec/move), 2 rounds played each day - friday, saturday, sunday
c) 6 rounds (30 minutes + 15 sec), 6 rounds played in a single day
Case a) could be organized next week or the week after, case b) couldn't be organized before about 1 month, case c) could be organized quite easily.
In cases a) & b), the best time for the daily 2 games remains to be found... IMO 8pm & 11pm server time or 1pm & 4pm server time are good choices, what do you think ?
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-06 20:48:12)
Freestyle Cup
FICGS advanced chess "freestyle" cup is a 6 rounds swiss tournament... See the freestyle cup page in waiting lists for more details (some will probably change soon)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-17 16:26:23)
Cheers !
Thank you :) Well, there are so many improvements to do yet (an AJAX interface & so on), I still feel that FICGS is in its starting phase, but I'm optimistic, I only hope that more players will mean an even more friendly place !
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-20 22:49:37)
Quotes added
Finally, the quotes have been added to the FICGS quotes file !
Thank you !
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-22 20:41:56)
Huayong Yang is the new Go WCH finalist
Congrats to Huayong Yang who made it in the Go WCH 4 preliminary tournament with an outstanding 8/8 !
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000004
He will play Svante Carl von Erichsen in the next Go WCH final match...
Huayong started with the minimal authorized rank (10 kyu) without an official rating but obviously he's much much stronger ... His current rating is 2334 (3 dan) already, so the question is : do his opponents have an idea on his real strength ? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-26 02:13:10)
Crazyhouse
I used to play bughouse at blitz time control, I'm not sure about crazyhouse but would it be funny as well at correspondence time controls!? I'm not sure, what do you think?
Anyway, the question is always the same, should FICGS introduce more games just for fun or focus on competition for a few games only...
Don Groves (2009-10-27 06:16:48)
Shogi
I would learn a classical game like Shogi if it were offered on FICGS
Thibault de Vassal (2009-10-29 23:01:27)
Most active players, amazing statistics!
These statistics (updated every 2 days) are available at :
http://www.ficgs.com/about.html
And the overall winner is........ :)
Players most active : General (moves played)
1. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff : 124234
2. Rolf Staggat : 81806
3. Anderson Barradas : 55829
4. Stephane Legrand : 47936
5. Scott Nichols : 46711
6. Mark Noble : 37387
7. Findlay Murray : 35874
8. Volker Koslowski : 33241
9. Don Groves : 29539
10. Thibault de Vassal : 26104
11. Francisco Gramajo : 25281
12. Sergey Uzdin : 25256
13. Michael Sharland : 24890
14. Josef Riha : 24193
15. Jason Repa : 22765
16. Laurine Ségur : 22577
17. Alexis Bromo : 20198
18. Benjamin Collette : 20112
19. Fernando Vasquez : 19928
20. Laszlo Kis-Kos : 19174
21. Christian Koch : 18450
22. Evgeny Yarkov : 17168
23. Xavier Pichelin : 16559
24. Garvin Gray : 16388
25. Ranganathan Raman : 15750
26. Sebastian Boehme : 15190
27. Zdravko Stoyanov : 15186
28. Nick Ioffe : 15151
29. Phil Cook : 15007
30. Sean McNabb : 14572
31. Daniel Parmet : 13814
32. Ilmars Cirulis : 13118
33. Joaquim Malpalma : 13057
34. Dmitriy Panov : 12733
35. Nelson Bernal Varela : 12119
36. Marco Roncagliolo : 11741
37. Dmytro Romaniuk : 11648
38. Miroslav Rakovic : 11435
39. Nick Burrows : 11242
40. Janeen Walden : 10967
41. Claude Brisson : 10812
42. Sandor Porkolab : 10714
43. Christophe Czekaj : 10678
44. Janusz Kepinski : 10675
45. Peter Willoughby : 10634
46. Benjamin Block : 10633
47. Kate Lubeck : 10155
48. Charlie Neil : 10076
49. Darko Pipac : 10072
50. William Taylor : 10036
Players most active : Go
1. Don Groves : 17026
2. Claude Brisson : 10812
3. Nick Ioffe : 10795
4. Alejandro Suarez-Moreno : 10018
5. Mickaël Simon : 8986
6. Thibault de Vassal : 8870
7. Sean McNabb : 8666
8. Sergey Tarassov : 8236
9. Phil Cook : 8186
10. Tetsuya Kobayashi : 7816
Players most active : Chess
1. Josef Riha : 24119
2. Fernando Vasquez : 19820
3. Zdravko Stoyanov : 14523
4. Anderson Barradas : 12587
5. Ilmars Cirulis : 12200
6. Laszlo Kis-Kos : 12068
7. Janusz Kepinski : 10675
8. Garvin Gray : 10638
9. Scott Nichols : 10211
10. Charlie Neil : 10076
Players most active : Chess 960
1. Christophe Czekaj : 1224
2. Joaquim Malpalma : 916
3. Frederick Estieu : 672
4. Ilmars Cirulis : 605
5. Pavel Háse : 600
6. Sefa Sarihan : 524
7. Sandor Porkolab : 512
8. Jay Melquiades : 495
9. Christian Koch : 470
10. Rick Spangler : 447
Players most active : Big Chess
1. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff : 5583
2. Peter Willoughby : 4368
3. José Carrizo : 3319
4. Thibault de Vassal : 3199
5. Mark Noble : 2949
6. Sandor Porkolab : 2467
7. Volker Koslowski : 1887
8. Paul König : 1790
9. William Taylor : 1706
10. Ranganathan Raman : 1620
Players most active : Poker Holdem
1. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff : 111119
2. Rolf Staggat : 75570
3. Stephane Legrand : 41639
4. Anderson Barradas : 38671
5. Scott Nichols : 36500
6. Findlay Murray : 33008
7. Mark Noble : 31172
8. Volker Koslowski : 25829
9. Michael Sharland : 20721
10. Francisco Gramajo : 20431
Congrats Heinz-Georg, definitely you're the most addicted player ;)
Iouri Basiliev (2009-11-03 15:51:48)
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUPS
when the second stage expected to start? Any ideas?
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-03 19:10:11)
FICGS WCH 6 stage 2
I finally built 5 groups of 7 players (=35 players) for the 2nd stage of the 6th chess championship.
As you probably noticed, we had much less players in the 6th championship than in the 7th, also as there was 9 players by group, there was much less groups in the 6th championship.
Finally the choice was to build groups of 5 players playing a double round-robin tournament (wch rules have been updated for this case) with a few players invited, or to invite 10 more players from stage 1 in order to build 5 groups of 7 players. This last choice was best & more natural IMO to limit the number of games by player and to follow the idea to have more chances to see the very best players in the final stages.
Consequently the 3rd stage of WCH 6 (round-robin final) will be most probably a double round-robin tournament including the winners of these 5 tournaments (as there will be no need to invite any player to complete this group)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-03 19:44:40)
FICGS WCH 6 stage 2
To "clarify" the way groups are built, when looking at previous cycles there was 4 groups in most round-robin stage 2 and 7 players in every round-robin final, so there was 4 players qualified +1 from M group in stage 1 +2 players invited due to their result in the tournament (~1st place shared).
So I could have chosen to build 4 groups for this stage 2 as well, but there isn't a M group in this cycle and 3 players should be invited for the round-robin final which is a lot compared to the initial number, or it could be a double round-robin of 4 or 5 (with 1 invited) players, that I try to avoid as I think it is less efficient than single round-robin tournaments with more players... well I try to explain this complex way to decide how the groups are built to make it transparent at least, if not clear. As it is not possible to make a perfect algorithm, finding the best player should be the priority while building these groups, that's why IMHO it seems correct to see 2 (3 in rare cases) players qualified in these stage 1 tournaments.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-04 16:58:01)
Advanced games (blitz) : improvements
Hi all,
You probably noticed that there was many forfeits in advanced games as :
1) Many new players try it but do not read the instructions.
2) The system is not efficient enough to warn the players when a game starts.
The facts :
a) When you enter a waiting list for an advanced (blitz, lightning, bullet) game, you HAVE to withdraw before leaving, or the game may start without you - the way to do it may not be clear enough.
b) When you challenge a player, you may leave the computer, the system will not start the game without you (or in rare cases).
The idea of FICGS is to provide a web interface without any software to download, consequently everything is not possible... Now it only opens a pop up (if possible) & sends an email when a game starts, and it updates the page if you are in My Games.
Possible improvements :
1) To add a sound or voice message when a game starts.
2) To close advanced games waiting lists :/
3) ...
Well, it looks like I need some ideas. Anybody help ? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-05 11:19:28)
Is Poker holdem a game of chance ?
I'm always surprised when a poker player tells me that (in brief) Poker holdem is a game of chance...
You probably know that quotes (in FICGS file) saying that "Statistics are often overestimated", "98% of statistics are made up", "There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics. (Mark Twain)", it is often used as an argument.
So the question : Do you think that Poker holdem is a game of chance (in what measure & why) ?
William Taylor (2009-11-05 18:36:33)
Is it worth improving?
FICGS is mainly a correspondence games server, and I wonder whether it's worth spending lots of time trying to improve its live games. Personally, when I want to play a live game, I go to one of the many servers which are dedicated to that. Perhaps the main disadvantage for me of playing a live game on FICGS is that the page keeps refreshing - it's annoying and you don't see the opponent's move instantly.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-07 16:16:28)
"blitz cc"
Well, FICGS cannot & will not become a fast games server to play eg. "2 0" or even "5 0" (by the way even on the fastest servers, there are lag - and other - problems) but I hope there will be more and more players interested in classical time controls (called blitz here) & 'freestyle chess'... William, I can't remember the last time when you played a fast game here, the page now only refreshes when a move is played, and faster now... With an AJAX interface, it will be almost completely transparent.
Lazaro, actually the fast games with less than 2 moves will be replaced when a new challenge is accepted, to delete the forfeited games.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-16 21:09:57)
First move
Hello Ahsan, feel free to read the Help section - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
You may play your moves by going to "My games" or "My messages". Feel free to ask if you have any question.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-17 18:44:19)
Marc Lacrosse vs. Eros Riccio
His match with Eros Riccio is canceled of course. We will remember him here by his fantastic & original games, with an outstanding rating of 2557... He lost only one beautiful game to Marius Zubac at FICGS in 2007 :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_12869.html
More games by Marc :
http://www.chessgames.com/player/marc_lacrosse.html
We'll miss him.
William Taylor (2009-11-17 20:44:08)
Terrible news
I remember him beating Anand in a simul on the ICC (he was the only one who won). The game can be seen here (in a posted comment, which also confirms his death): http://www.chessgames.com/player/marc_lacrosse.html
I didn't know him personally, but it's a great loss for the whole of FICGS.
Wayne Lowrance (2009-11-18 04:21:26)
Mark Lacrosse
Very saddened by this news, so young and a very fine gentleman. FICGS will miss him
Wayne
John Smith (2009-11-19 12:28:12)
Chessbase & FICGS
Hi all,
Is it possible to connect to FICGS directly through chessbase 10?
Thanks!
Thibault de Vassal (2009-11-19 13:23:38)
Chessbase & FICGS
I don't think so, but you may download your games (or the complete FICGS chess database) and open it in Chessbase.
Vjacheslav Perevozchikov (2009-11-20 06:24:14)
Chessbase & FICGS
You probably mixed up ICCF and FICGS. From ChessBase 10 you can connect to ICCF.
Wayne Lowrance (2009-11-21 01:36:52)
e-mails
Howdy Thibault, they are forum posted messages. Actually Thibault I dont really want e-mailes from FICGS. I do want notification when a tourney is announced, etc.
Thank you Wayne
Nick Burrows (2009-11-29 03:19:18)
What would Kasparov's Ficgs rating be?
Just out of curiosity, are there any educated guesses as to what Gary Kasparov's Ficgs rating would be if he played seriously but without any computer analysis?
I noticed GM Nigel Davies played here and his rating was in the 2300's and i suspect without computer assistance, though i'm not at all sure about that.
Kasparov = 2500??
William Taylor (2009-11-30 20:05:49)
Already discussed
Hi Pavel. The question of big chess piece values has already been discussed in this thread: http://www.ficgs.com/thoughts-on-Big-Chess-and-tips-q7154.html
As for castling and en passant - castling is not allowed, and I'm unsure about en passant.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-01 15:02:11)
Fixed poker bug (rare case)
There may have been a bug in a few poker games, provoking the loss of the game without any "obvious" reason.
As a reminder for myself it happened here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=32014&move=1338
This is where PHP is magic, sometimes '1' == '1-0' , sometimes not (the operator === is useful then), according to the way the variables are calculated. I fell into the trap... Now it should be ok. I verified several thousand games without this problem but do not hesitate to warn me if you noticed something strange in one of your games.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-02 17:50:27)
Major update : Go openings (joseki)
A major update just occured, finished FICGS Go games (chess & poker as well) are now analyzed by the server that gives the name of each known joseki [the first 2 moves at the moment] played in each corner, sometimes it also gives the way it should be played...
See an example at the bottom of this page :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_2481.html
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=2481
Finished games are not analyzed in real time, but this update opens new perspectives to see one day a function to search games by joseki.
Please do not hesitate to comment this update or to report any bug you may see.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-02 18:28:19)
Major update : Chess openings & endgames
A major update just occured, finished FICGS chess games (Go & poker as well) are now analyzed by the server that gives the name of each known opening & classifies the games by endgames, castlings & promotions !
Best, now you can find games by material on the board (like Chessbase) for endgames with less than 10 pieces. Just click "Search games" in the menu, eg. enter KRPP vs. KRP (whatever the order of the letters & colors), and you'll find among others this game (see the description of the game at the bottom of the page) :
http://www.ficgs.com/game_3724.html
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=3724
Note : Finished games are not analyzed in real time, but this update clearly opens new perspectives :)
Please do not hesitate to comment this update or to report any bug you may see.
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-06 16:06:06)
Basman Sale defence
Great, I may host it here at FICGS, why not...
Wayne Lowrance (2009-12-12 20:07:17)
Rent Rybka
Can you imagine renting Rybka for CC ?, I sure cannot. And even if it is on fast hardware, it will be slowed down by all the activity I would guess. For blitz chess it makes no sense either because of the internet delays. Bah, Vas has flipped his lid.
I would get along just fine here on FICGS without Rybka anyhow. More inportant here is the opening and the skill of the Centaur.
Hannes Rada (2009-12-15 22:33:19)
XFCC
Maybe its counterproductive to implement this feature.
Because than there is no need to visit www.ficgs.com anymore. You could do everything with XECTool (However this tool written by Andres Valverde will not be developed further).
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-15 22:37:30)
How to join a game?
Hello Anthony,
You may challenge players in My games (best way), or you may enter a bullet, lightning or blitz waiting list in an advanced tournaments category in Waiting lists - in this case do not forget to retire from the waiting list if you don't find an opponent.
Most players here prefer to play tournaments at a long time control.
Feel free to read the help section - http://www.ficgs.com/help.html
Gino Figlio (2009-12-16 02:34:16)
benefit for FICGS
Hi Thibault,
The main benefit for FICGS would be that if you ever have team matches against other organizations that use XFCC, your players may be able to make their moves from your server even if the event is hosted elsewhere.
Best wishes and happy holidays,
Gino Figlio
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-21 20:03:52)
ID
Hello Luc-Olivier,
Well, I cannot force it... who can ? Not FICGS, nor Facebook or other sites who ask for the real names as well, obviously.
Anyway, as far as I can remember it is legal to ask for & store real names in a database if you have an 'obvious' reason to do it. However if you can prove that something is illegal at FICGS, I'll be grateful for that and be sure that I'll make the necessary changes !
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-21 20:54:51)
IP
On IP (internet addresses), noone but the webmaster can know the IP of visitors. Every server stores IP. FICGS also uses IP to verify if someone uses several accounts to try to cheat.
[edit: sorry Patrick :)]
Hannes Rada (2009-12-23 20:35:19)
Merry Christmas !
Merry Christmas !
Feliz Navidad !
Frohe Weihnachten !
to all FICGS members !
Please add season's greetings in a few more languages ..(Italian, French,....)
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-23 21:08:35)
Curious opening
What do you think about this opening (by Luc Olivier Leclerc in Wikichess) ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=wikichess&article=8732
1.f4 d5 2.Nf3 c5 3.c4 d4 4.b4
Complex.. may be a future thematic ;)
Wayne Lowrance (2009-12-24 00:33:00)
Merry christmas
A very merry Christmas and happy New Year to all on FICGS. Thank you Thibault for your nice chess server and the prompt service you provide us.
wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-24 14:28:18)
USCF / FIDE & other ratings
Hi all,
As you know FIDE / ICCF / IECG ratings can be accepted as provisional or established (in the case of ICCF & IECG) ratings at FICGS. I cannot even remember why USCF ratings weren't accepted so far, it should be the case soon. As far as I can remember, the only point is that USCF_rating ~ FIDE_rating + 100 or the other way.
Do you know other official rating lists (that are not included in FIDE & USCF) available on the internet that should be considered ?
Same question for Go, it seems to me that only AGA & EGF ratings are available on the internet. Do you know if chinese, japanese & korean ratings are available as well ?
Pablo Schmid (2009-12-26 22:21:54)
Rating calculation
Hello Thibault, j'aurais préféré parler en français mais puisque je suis sur le forum...
Could you explain how exactly chess rating's calculation works in ficgs?
And I think games with 10 moves or less should be counted, maybe not every games but sometimes 8 or 9 moves can be sufficient to punish someone (nice miniatures or quick mates are possibles) and it enables the loser to resign (or be mated) without losing points. An example of an abusive situation: imagine I play the Traxler and I resign before 10 moves if I see a good choosed line by my opponent which I don't like to play as Black because I know I might suffer or even lose...
J'espère que je t'aurai convaincu et que mon exemple ne donnera pas de mauvaises idées! Sur ce, bonnes fêtes, Pablo
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-27 01:50:07)
Chess rating calculation
Hello Pablo! Bonnes fêtes également :)
All rating rules are explained here (there's a french version), feel free to ask if you have any question.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
About the 10 moves rule, why 10 more than 9 or 8... well there must be a clear rule & easy to remember. I don't think that miniatures are a big problem, there may be an "unfair" situation in some rare cases, but it shouldn't happen at 2100+ elo ratings. The rule may be not perfect but I did not find a better one yet (any idea? :)).
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-27 20:20:33)
Bergmann - Schuster
One of these matches we like to watch :) .. many interesting games and many wins, but I'm afraid it is a good advertisement for the sicilian defense once more, Hannes please help ;)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WCH_QUARTER_FINAL_3__000007
Wayne Lowrance (2009-12-29 00:56:03)
Rybka demise
Howdy all. I feel like voicing my opinion of Vas and Rybka. I honestly feel his hold on the chess community has weakened to the point of breaking. He has his problems. His source code apparently has been compromized. This has led him to not releasing a Rybka3+ as promised. The release of Rybka4 is very cloudy. Then there is this cloud Rybka internet rentel thing that is supported by no one it seems, me for sure.
Anyways this is just back drop for recent developments in free software engines that are very strong and are pushing R3 in ratings. I am thinking about the following engines, that I have downloaded and find very interesting AND strong :
Stockfish 1.6
Brite 0.4A
Spark 0.3
I have minimal experience with these engines. I just want all my friend here on FICGS to be aware of them and if interested they can download them and be on equal footing. My wish is for better chess and I have no ambition to have secret progams.
The important thing I feel is that the loss of Rybka engine does not put much of dent in play quality. It was gonna happen sooner or later, and now it seems sooner.
My honest evaluation today is that Rybka3 still provides the best insite to best mid game play.
I want to put in a word for Zappa. I fairly often use Zappa as my CC engine partner because of better end game analysis. Rybka has no peer in mid game analysis. Well I share these thought with you all for what it may be worth. Best 2010 Cheers. Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2009-12-29 19:50:45)
RobboLito vs. Rybka 3
What are RobboLito, Ippolit and Igorrit ? It looks like these names are invading computer chess forums... As you may have read in the discussion mentioned below, the Rybka 3's source code may have been compromised and these engines "may" be clones of Rybka 3 (everyone does not agree on this). Good or really bad news, anyway this open source chess engine may have many consequences on the computer chess world, and correspondence chess as well...
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8031
From the wikispace mentioned below :
IPPOLIT : Intellectual Persons Promotion Of Leninist International Tradesunions (!??)
Q. What is RobboLito?
A. RobboLito is the version of IPPOLIT that now contains endgame tablebases, the RobboBases.
A few links on RobboLito 0.085f1a, Ippolit & Igorrit (says it all IMO) :
http://ippolit.wikispaces.com/
http://ippolit.wikispaces.com/RobboLito
http://ippolit.wikispaces.com/Igorrit
http://ippolit.wikispaces.com/FAQ
see also : ippolit.wikispaces.com/Clone+(Question)
http://ippolit.wikispaces.com/News
-> IPPOLIT banned from chessprogramming wiki!
PlayChess banned IPPOLIT from use online also.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2r_V_QkmHjo
http://www.chesslogik.com/robbolito.htm
http://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/free-chessengine-robbolito-is-1-at-swisstest-rybka-2?lc=1
http://www.cyclonechess.com/rybka3.htm
"RobboLito is an open-source UCI chess engine by: Yakov Petrovich Golyadkin, Igor Igorovich Igoronov, and Roberto Pescatore."
RobboLito does not yet support: multiPV, own book, egbbs, tablebases, multiple CPUs/cores, chess variants
Estimated rating: ~ 3300 ELO
Available versions:
RobboLito 0.085g3 w32 (optimized windows 32-bit executable and source code)
RobboLito_0.085g3_w32_no_SSE2 (optimized windows 32-bit executable - for older CPUs that don't support Intel SSE2 instruction set)
RobboLito 0.085g3_x64 (fast windows 64-bit PGO executable compiled by peterpan)
RobboLito 0.085g3l_x86 (optimized linux 64-bit executable and source code ported to linux by unisky)
http://www.cyclonechess.com/robbolito.htm
http://www.cyclonechess.com/rybka3.htm
http://www.chesspub.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1261597025/4
http://www.chesspub.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1258991841
http://queenchess.blogspot.com/2009/11/fritz-12-vs-robbolito-e2-latest-version.html
http://lefounumerique.xooit.com/next?t=663 (french)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-05 07:40:22)
Poker Software?
There was several discussions on poker engines, one is there :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=7510
I can't find the thread where someone talked about a match between a poker engine & a world champion but as far as I can remember, the poker engine won! Anyway I'm quite sure that a program may play quite good poker now. The question is how it could "understand" a complete situation like here with 3 winning rounds and so on...
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-05 14:28:50)
Marc Lacrosse on Basman Sale defence
Thanks a lot Rodolfo! I've uploaded it at FICGS here :
http://www.ficgs.com/directory_databases.html
Kamesh Nookala (2010-01-24 19:34:39)
Resign before 10th move
Hello HOST,
I didnt know about this forum earlier and posted in the International Chat. I am sorry for that stupid mistake of mine. But the problem which i faced now is this. There is a guy whom i defeated in all 4 meetings where i played vs. him. This poor guy found me yet again and having known by now that he cant beat me, he simply resigned. I have no grievance against him. But in my very first Rapid B tour here at ficgs, i got an advantage of +-1.00 (approx.) vs. a player who simply resigned after my white 10th move. This meant that though I am awarded with a win, yet because my opponent resigned simply instead of playing the 10th move, he denied me earning some elo. That also implies that he saved his elo by simply resigning.
I dont know much above this site as i am pretty new to this. However, i have been already a victim of this sort of activities. For e.g., I could simply resign when i play bad openings and evals dip before 10th move and i can simply save my elo. That means i can simply resign vs. Big Guys as Black and play as Black only vs. weak players.
Just thought to express my views. Rest upto the moderators
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-26 11:20:57)
Quote festival, part 6
FICGS quotes file updated, thanks everyone :) Let's continue!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-26 16:24:43)
Go chinese rules : should pass count?
A player just told me that in chinese rules for the game of Go, consecutive pass change the score of the game (thus in some cases the winner as well), I just visited a few websites that do not even mention this rule that is taken in account by some Go programs.
In my opinion it does not have any sense to link this to the score of the game, but I may be wrong... Does anyone have an opinion on this and clear examples that show it should be taken (or not) here at FICGS ?
I'll add a word on this in the rules after it is clearer to me.
Thanks in advance!
Don Groves (2010-01-27 06:01:17)
Go chinese rules : should pass count?
Since Chinese rules count occupied points as well as surrounded points, passing is a serious mistake unless that player is certain of victory (at least 184-1/2 confirmed points on FICGS).
Consecutive passes end the game, so how could the score change?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-27 08:19:11)
Shirov-Carlsen
I do not have a correspondence chess database recent enough, all I can say is that it does not come from FICGS, too bad :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-01-30 01:58:20)
Go chinese rules : should pass count?
Extract from the tournament pages : "Scoring method is area scoring with chinese counting. Positional superko rule applies, it's impossible to repeat a previous board position."
I must admit that I have some difficulties to perfectly understand all this in english... so does it mean that passing never changes the score in FICGS games, or the contrary ? (anyway thanks again for helping)
Hannes Rada (2010-02-06 10:52:37)
E. Kotlyanskiy new FICGS chess champion
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000003
Congratulation to the new champ !
and to a lot of very intersting games !
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-08 14:01:52)
E. Kotlyanskiy new FICGS chess champion
Great fair play from both players once again. Thanks Edward & Xavier for the show, the games are really interesting!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-09 18:55:17)
Vocal message
A new small improvement, now FICGS should announce (in the pop up window) the start of a new advanced game with a vocal message. This will not totally solve the problem, but it gives some more chances to not miss the start of a game.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-10 23:33:26)
Download RobboLito
Here is the link to download RobboLito at FICGS, I'll add Igorrit & Ippolit when I'll find some time...
http://www.ficgs.com/Download-RobboLito-0085g3-f5841.html
Peter Unger (2010-02-18 16:27:33)
implementation of the XFCC protocol
Is FICGS compatible with the XFCC protocol? I ask because Aquarium 2010 update 4.03 has implemented.
see: http://www.chesscafe.com/chessok/chessok.htm
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-18 17:36:46)
implementation of the XFCC protocol
Hi Peter, no it isn't and the question is always "should it be"...
A past discussion on this :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=7973
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-22 01:21:35)
Rating calculation
What do you mean exactly a game's rating?
Rating calculation takes account of the Tournament Entry Ratings (TER) for each game and of course the current player's rating when the calculation occurs.
See - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-24 02:22:39)
Go
Hello Teudis, feel free to read the Help section for more details...
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=help
Garvin Gray (2010-02-24 11:21:51)
Ficgs clock setting
Hello Thibault,
The ficgs clock seems to be 'out' by ten minutes ie it is always ten minutes in front. If it is 10 past the hour by my clock, the ficgs clock will say it is 20 past. This happens regardless of what time of day it is.
Has anyone else noticed this?
Pablo Schmid (2010-02-24 18:46:11)
Conditional moves
Hello Thibault, I don't know if that proposition has been made in the past, but there are somes servers that use conditionnal moves, it's an useful tool to win time for both players on forced moves. Do you think it would be possible to put that fonction in ficgs?
Je profite au passage pour te demander ce que tu penses finalement du règlement sur 3 fois la même position.
Hannes Rada (2010-02-24 19:41:25)
Conditionnal moves
That's what I would like to have since FICGS started ....
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-24 21:08:18)
Ficgs clock setting
Hi Garvin, yes this is the same thing every 6 months or so... I've just fixed it, thanks ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-02-24 21:50:20)
Conditional moves
Conditional moves have been discussed several times and mainly in the following discussion where I tried to explain the main reasons why I'm not favorable to this :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=4360
About the threefold repetition rule (situational vs. positional), there is something to fix indeed but I can't do it right now, I'm just doing all that I can to have a large broadband at home, which is my priority for 10 years now... but that's just hell!
Hannes Rada (2010-02-24 22:09:15)
Conditionnal moves
--------------------------------------
In many forced sequences, only one side may take advantage of conditional moves to save time, that's not fair and that's the point according to me
--------------------------------------
Thibault, that was your argument against conditionals almost 2 years ago.
However I did not understand and still do not understand this explanation.
I my opinion both players benefit from time saving conditionals.
However maybe you could add an option under player's preferences - "conditionals yes or no" and if both players agree than conditionals could be switchend on for that games.
FICGS is really a great server offering so many different features, other server don't, but missing conditionals is in my opinion a major deficit of this server.
(Some minor things could also be improved)
Don Groves (2010-02-27 01:49:27)
mate in N moves. Game is going on :)
Reason #9: There are many players out there with zero integrity. Unfortunately, some of these players also find their way to FICGS...
Lazaro Munoz (2010-02-27 16:46:21)
Hosting tournaments
Would FICGS be able to host a closed group tournament? For instance lets say some chess club, or group wants to have a tournament. Could they, after getting themselves an id on FICGS send you a request to create a tournament for that group?
As an enhancement for the future you might want to create a group(s) concept that can be stored in each users profile, so that one can in the future create group tournaments that are open to that group. Since this site is built in the spirit of openess it need not be enforced but people should understand that some groups many not want to be so open so they should request it from someone, so maybe the group info should have the user and email of the moderator for that group who will give the ok to join the group.
For instance some groups may want specific language so they converse in their native language in the chat box, or geographic area. Or even opening specialist can create thematic openings (although it could get tricky there if someones enters one these thematic groups and decides to play a different opening).
There really isn't anything like it for free anywhere, ICCF will host tournaments however they charge a fee, for instance.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-03 14:29:25)
Hosting tournaments
Sure it is possible, I would even create such tournaments for free (if not too many ones) but it would be played with FICGS rules which are slightly different from FIDE rules. About players able to create their own tournaments, closed or not, I would have to think about this, I'm not sure it is really necessary as e.g. I always add thematic chess tournaments that I'm suggested, and "private" tournaments may be not so easy to start, but if there is a strong demand, I could arrange that.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-03 14:31:19)
Chess is...
The title says it all (the best anwers may be added to the FICGS quotes file) :
According to you, chess is....
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-03 14:32:13)
Go (weiqi) is...
The title says it all (the best anwers will be added to the FICGS quotes file) :
According to you, Go (weiqi) is....
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-03 14:32:47)
Poker is...
The title says it all (the best anwers may be added to the FICGS quotes file) :
According to you, poker is....
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-07 20:35:54)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Hello all...
As you may know, I built the major part of FICGS with a 33 kbps (actually more looking like a 5 to 8 kbps) broadband which is very very slow, even slower than the prehistorical modems... Internet is definitely not a priority in the french campaign (by the way, looks like nothing is not a priority anymore in the french campaign)
Since today, I've got 2 Mbps anyway (thanks to WiMax and Powerline technologies), which means several things :
- Regular freestyle cups (finally !)
- New improvements more regularly.
- I can play advanced chess :)
After a few days of vacation, I should be more active on the server, definitely :)
Dan Rotaru (2010-03-07 21:34:48)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Hi Thibault:
This is great news indeed. I can imagine being on the slow side of an Internet connection for such a long time :-(.
Cheers
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-07 21:53:47)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Yes, the most funny is that it's the main reason why I tried to play correspondence chess, cause I couldn't play on most servers without losing on time because of this **** broadband :/
Ilmars Cirulis (2010-03-07 23:42:58)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Congratz!
what does it mean - "french campaign"?
Dan Rotaru (2010-03-08 00:49:41)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Countryside, rural region or remote location is the closest translation.
Daniel Parmet (2010-03-08 06:41:29)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
this is already my favorite place to play as is... I can't imagine how much better it will be once you start changes from this news!
Mladen Jankovic (2010-03-08 11:07:48)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Wow, I remember how it is. I had a modem running over a broken phone line until couple of years ago.
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2010-03-08 12:19:15)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Instead of countryside, what about wilderness?
Garvin Gray (2010-03-08 13:29:35)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Campaign normally means a contest for elections. The period where the politicians attempt to woo you for your vote.
Garvin Gray (2010-03-08 13:30:05)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
And I agree, great day for ficgs. Bring on the freestyle cups :)
Lazaro Munoz (2010-03-09 18:46:17)
Great day for FICGS (and for me :)) !
Another definition for campaign is military, and describe a series of battles with a common aim. Such as Hitler's campaign into Russia (which was a dismal failure in the end).
Ralph Deline (2010-03-12 19:36:04)
Rating calculation
Hi Thibault,
Thanks for your earlier explanation. I wanted to respond sooner but then when I was at the FICGS site, I saw another player, also confused about his chess rating, questioning you about it so I threw in my two cents. In my situation, my opponent was rated about 80 points higher so when I drew, I thought I would actually go up in ratings points instead of down. That is still confusing to me.
Maybe my age is catching up with me, but for fifty years or more, using the formula for establishing ratings in Canada, I was always under the impression that your score and your opponents ratings, with a bit of math thrown in, determined your rating. I know at one time it was possible to win a tournament and lose rating points but I believe that was corrected about a decade or so ago. I wasn't playing for over a decade so I'm not certain on dates.
However, let me acknowledge the fact that I understand what you are saying, play less, win more, and your rating will improve. But I still have a hurdle to overcome. When a lower rated player ties with a highed rated player, regardless of colour, why does he get penalized instead of rewarded for achieving a result that is performing above his present rating? It doesn't seem logical.
You are probably busy and I've taken enough of your time. I don't think I will understand any explanation, you know, can't teach an old dog new tricks, so you don't have to try to explain any further. I just wanted my voice to be heard.
I have had three gross blunders in the last half year so maybe I am playing too many games. I hate to do it, but maybe I will try playing less.
Thanks for listening.
Ralph
Lazaro Munoz (2010-03-10 12:34:40)
Tournament Leaders
I am confused. In my section FICGS_CHESS_CLASS_C_000127 I have a full point lead and have had this lead for several weeks, yet I am listed as co-leader with another player (Panov) [I am not complaining, just confused]. I know that I have completed a game more than Panov. Is this 'leadership' based on total points? If so it has a bug; if it is based on points gained vs points loss then we are tied (just like every player would be at the beginning of the tournament). Btw, my game against Panov was a draw, I don't if that goes into the calculation and we both have a game in progress against the same opponent.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-13 21:24:37)
Poker Min Bid
Well, it seems that I often like to change well established rules, sorry :) .. I'm not sure if this change is necessary or not, I understand that "official" holdem no-limit rules have been designed to speed up the game but I quite like to play with the current FICGS rules.
Do you all think that it should be changed for the ruleset mentioned by Svante Carl?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-13 21:30:50)
Conditional moves
Hi Hannes, you mean in such a page?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000003&boards=1
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-13 21:43:04)
Rating calculation
You have to make the difference between ratings updated in real time (like advanced chess ratings) & the FICGS correspondence chess rating calculation, the idea of those ratings updated every 2 months is to avoid peaks, consequently when you win, draw or lose three games after the last rating calculation, your future rating does not take account of the first result THEN the second one THEN the third one, it is actually completely recalculated by taking account of all results at the same time, so you DO NOT win or lose points AFTER EACH result, your performance is recalculated according to the formula explained in the rules & that looks like the french FIDE rating calculation. One thing that explains "strange" variations after 2 or 3 results only is that the rating calculation is just more accurate when you have many results & particularly when your score is near 50%.
That should answer to the discussions I had with Kamesh & Ralph, but maybe my explanations are not so clear, sorry about that again.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-16 10:37:01)
Interview with E. Kotlyanskiy
Congrats again to Edward Kotlyanskiy, new FICGS chess champion after beating Xavier Pichelin (2577) in the 12 games final match of the 3rd cycle.
Edward kindly accepted to answer a few questions on his match and correspondence chess in general :
_________________________
> Hi Edward, first of all congratulations for winning this 12 games match against the former FICGS chess champion, Xavier Pichelin. You had to score at least one point more than your opponent, what was your strategy when the games started?
Knowing that I had to score at least +1 against Xavier, I had to try to get the games into complex positions where there are many options to play for both sides. At the point when the games started, I was the underdog to Xavier (mainly due to the face that I was rated about 200 points lower). In part, I think that one of the reasons why Xavier allowed the games to reach such complex positions is due to the fact that his rating was undoubtedly higher than mine and therefore he probably assumed that he could “outplay” me. Although this was simultaneously a brave and admirable choice, I think an option that many other players would have pursued would have been to play “drawish” lines with the hope of having all of the games ending in draws. I have great respect for Xavier due to the fact that he didn't choose such a path and allowed us to put on a hard fought show that was worth watching.
> What could you say on the hot moments of the match?
The first game in which I thought I had very good chances to win was game 34739. In this game (particularly on move 18) Xavier played the move Nb8?? Looking back at the move, I realized that the game was lost for him. I assumed that Xavier probably underestimated the threat of f5. There were no good responses and/or countermeasures for the move f5. For example, if 19) gxf5, I have 20) Nxh5 Nc6 21) Rc3! Bxh4 (Qd8 was also possible) 22) Qf4 Be7 23) g4! His king is just clearly caught in the attack! 19) exf5 also fails to 20) e6 f6 (trying to keep the king safe) 21) Bxh5!! gxh5 22) Nc6 Rc3 and therefore it’s easy to see that it is just a matter of time. Xavier did try something better although even that failed due to some nice moves. I believe that 21) g7 came as a surprise to Xavier (or that at least he hadn't seen this move when playing Nb8). After Nxh5 (another neat move), another line that I thought Xavier would enter (which is also losing) is 22) Qxc2 23) Qxc2 Rxc2 24) Nf6+! Bxf6 25) exf6. Clearly my pawns are just too strong! Knowing that I am winning after the mentioned alternatives, the other games (although I won three others) were just necessary to hold without falling for any tactics/tricks.
A second game I want to briefly comment on is game 34729. I played a very nice (although I am not sure if it is winning just yet) move known as 17.a4! It was a very nice way to open the position on both of our kings. In all honesty, the move that I think was winning in this situation 25) Rd3, I did not even consider too highly until the position reached that very move. After a relatively short analysis, I was indeed pleasantly surprised to see that; overall, it was completely winning for me.
> What could you say on the advantages and inconveniences of this 12 games match format played at a quite fast time control?
From the days when I first starting playing correspondence chess, I have always been accustomed to making moves rather quickly. In fact, when I first started playing, in some games I made moves within 10 minutes of looking at the position. Although I take a lot more time to analyze now-a-days, I still consider the speed of my play to be relatively faster compared to most other correspondence players. Playing 12 games simultaneously can have drawbacks as not having enough time to properly analyze; however, I didn't have such a problem. With the exception of a few games that I was playing on IECG at the start of the FICGS Championship, the 12 game series was my main concern.
> Without revealing your secrets, how would you define modern correspondence chess as a centaur (playing with chess engines)?
These days, it is impossible to play correspondence chess on a high level without consulting the engine. It is also unlikely that one can achieve a lot of success just by following the engine blindly (even after a long analysis). Personally, I know that some of my friends believe that in correspondence chess you are just following the engine but I believe that most “high level” correspondence players know that it just doesn't work that way.
In my opinion, one of the most important skills that a correspondence player should have is having some sense of where the engine he is analyzing with is faulty. To give a well known example, many people know that there are certain endgame positions that an engine alone can't be trusted in (a simple case is the wrong color bishop). In essence, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of whatever engine you are analyzing with is critical to playing correspondence chess at a “high level”.
> Why did you choose to play correspondence chess, do you play OTB (over the board) chess as well?
Before starting correspondence chess, I played OTB chess for quite a few years. When my schedule became busy, I realized that I wouldn't have much time to play OTB in clubs. I came across correspondence chess and got hooked on it very quickly. Also, I began to enjoy more of the subtleties of the game; something that is just lacking in OTB blitz games. I imagine that some people prefer to play practical chess (OTB) in which a move order wouldn't make much of a difference; however, I guess I am a perfectionist and believe the game should be played on as high of a level as possible.
> How many correspondence games do you usually play at the same time (on different chess servers or by email)? Would you say that it is an addiction?
Usually, I played about 5 to 10 games on average on all different sites. I did play via email on IECC but wasn't fond of playing by email therefore I went back to server only sites (IECG, FICGS, Schemingmind).
I can definitely say that correspondence chess is an addiction. All too often, I catch myself analyzing games when I really should be doing something much more time sensitive. Well, at least I can say that this addiction paid off in that I am the new FICGS champion!
> Are you interested in other games?
As far as board games go, chess is primarily the only game I play. At times I do play games like monopoly and scrabble with my friends. Another interest that I have is billiards.
> The next challenger for the FICGS chess champion title is SM Eros Riccio (winner of several PlayChess PAL freestyle tournaments). Do you think that you'll play him? What does this perspective inspire in you?
I can't wait to play Eros! I believe that he would be my toughest opponent yet (although I have played GM Leitão, Rafael (fide elo: 2619) and managed to draw). Eros is like an unstoppable juggernaut in corr chess. That said, I look forward to our games and I am certain that they will simultaneously be challenging and entertaining.
> Thanks and best of luck in your future games!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-21 01:13:54)
Freestyle Cup: April 2010
Dear chessfriends, the next FICGS chess freestyle cup waiting list is open until april 3. This 6 rounds swiss tournament will start on april 3, 13:00 server time (first three rounds, every 2 hours) and on april 10, 13:00 server time (last three rounds, every 2 hours). Prize is 100% of the entry fees in E-Points + 100 E-Points. FIDE GM & IM, FICGS / ICCF GM, SM & IM are invited to enter the waiting list for free, please just send a message to webmaster through My account page to register.
To enter the waiting list :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_chess_cup
Feel free to reply here if you have any suggestions, I hope that this format (2 consecutive saturdays, 3 rounds per day) will be ok for the most !
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-29 17:14:43)
Comment jouer ???
Bonjour Benoit, si vous êtes inscrit à un tournoi, il faut attendre que celui ci démarre... les parties "bullet" sont peu recommandées lorsqu'on débute ici car il faut bien comprendre que le site est une interface web et que l'on risque de manquer le début de la partie si on ne surveille pas le démarrage dans "My games" ou "Mes parties" (donc il faut se désinscrire après un moment avant d'oublier)
Mieux vaut donc s'inscrire à un tournoi lent avant tout.
Vous pouvez trouver l'aide en français ici pour comprendre la procédure :
http://www.ficgs.com/help_fr.html
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-31 17:06:17)
Touch move option !
Here it is, now you can choose if your moves should be sent as soon as played (without having to push the "Send" button), this works for chess, chess 960 & Go !
This should be a much more convenient option for freestyle/advanced games... at last :)
See your Preferences to change the option.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=data
As usual, please report any bug... Any suggestion is welcome ! Thanks.
Andres E. Leon (2010-03-31 19:06:50)
Difference between class A / rapid A
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_A Tournaments admits chess players with 2000-2200 ELO and FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_A is for 1900-2100 ELO players. Why there is this difference?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-03-31 20:30:54)
Freestyle Cup: April 2010
To the players who will participate to the next freestyle tournament, be sure to read the following discussion before to play :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8345
I recommend to practice this new option (touch move) by playing a few bullet bronze games before the tournament ;)
Xavier Pichelin (2010-04-01 14:02:09)
SITE DOWN HACKED???
It's a Publicité?
What Happened?
It's a Hacker to attaque the FICGS?
It's a April Fish??
Today is à 01 April 2010.I think is a April Fish!!
Best regards
Andres E. Leon (2010-04-01 14:45:00)
Difference between class A / rapid A
Thank you very much for your answer. And someone knows when FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP waiting list is going to be open, and when is the estimated date to start the games? Thank you in advance.
Michel van der Kemp (2010-04-03 16:58:45)
Weird technical problem
Thibault, thanks for organising this nice tournament. Lot of fun. I lost my first game against Xavier Pichelin, which I will totally accept, Xavier played excellent. However I do have a weird question.
About the game I receive this email:
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000002"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2010.4.3"]
[Round "1"]
[White "Pichelin,Xavier"]
[Black "van der Kemp,Michel"]
[Result "1-0"]
[WhiteElo "2405"]
[BlackElo "1921"]
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 O-O 8.c3 d5 9.exd5 Nxd5 10.Nxe5 Nxe5 11.Rxe5 c6 12.d4 Bd6 13.Re1 Qh4 14.g3 Qh3 15.Be3 Bg4 16.Qd3 Rae8 17.Nd2 Re6 18.a4 Qh5 19.axb5 axb5 20.Qf1 Bh3 21.Bd1 Qf5 22.Qe2 c5 23.Nf3 Bf4 24.Qd2 Nxe3 25.fxe3 Bh6 26.Qf2 Rfe8 27.Bc2 Qh5 28.e4 Rf6 29.Bd1 Bg4 30.Rf1 g6 31.e5 Rf5 32.Ra5 cxd4 33.cxd4 Rc8 34.Ra3 Rc1 35.Qe2 Rb1 36.d5 Bh3 37.Qe4 Bxf1 38.Qxb1 Qh3 39.Qc2 Bc4 40.Be2 Rxf3 41.Rxf3 Bxd5 42.Bf1 Qg4 43.Rc3 Qd4+ 44.Qf2 Qxe5 45.Bg2 Bc4 46.Kh1 Bg5 47.h3 Kg7 48.Bf1 Bd5+ 49.Kh2 h5 50.Qe2 Qd6 51.Rd3 h4 52.Bg2 hxg3+ 53.Kh1 Bxg2+ 54.Kxg2 Qc6+ 55.Kxg3 Qc7+ 56.Kg2 Qc6+ 57.Rf3 f5 58.b3 Bf6 59.Qd3 1-0
Move sent : 2010.4.3 - 16:34:26
Move replied : 2010.4.3 - 16:34:55
Last move sent : g7-h7
WhiteELO : 2405 ... 2405
BlackELO : 1921 ... 1921
This email was generated automatically by http://www.ficgs.com/
It says last move send g7-h7. How did I actually lose this game if the server still received my move? The result of the game came as a little shock to me, because I thought I had about 10 seconds left when I send the move, and the server did receive it as well, and somehow registered it.
Anyway I should have been faster and accept my loss.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-05 00:58:06)
Advanced chess ratings calculation
For some reasons that I'll explain below, I updated the advanced chess (bullet, lightning, blitz, freestyle) rating calculation rules to the following :
"Performance = Opponent Current Rating if the game is drawn, + 350 if the game is won, -350 if the game is lost.
The following bonus / malus applied to White and to Black makes ratings fair, as it is not possible to force a player to take White or Black before a game :
(White) Performance = Performance - 50
(Black) Performance = Performance + 50
If there's a winner and if his rating is below 2400, his new rating his :
New Rating = ((8 x Current Rating) + (2 x Performance)) / 10
Otherwise :
New Rating = ((9 x Current Rating) + (1 x Performance)) / 10
The rating calculation does not take account of wins obtained by a stronger player when the Elo difference is greater than 350 points, the same with losses by a weaker player.
In case of a draw or loss against a player rated more than 200 points less, the opponent's rating considered in calculation is : Current Rating - 200. A player who wins a game cannot lose Elo points, a player who loses a game cannot win Elo points."
More details :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_advanced_chess
The rule that just changed is "If there's a winner and if his rating is below 2400, his new rating his : New Rating = ((8 x Current Rating) + (2 x Performance)) / 10".
This rule will probably be updated again in a few months with a rating limit of 2200 instead of 2400, when advanced chess ratings will be more coherent with correspondence chess ratings.
The reasons are :
1) Advanced/freestyle chess is often neglected partly because players will likely lose some rating points (many strong players using Rybka 3-like engines still have a rating of 1800 or 2000, there are several reasons to this), the main point is probably the interface but I'm fixing it (e.g. the new touch-move option - see Preferences).
2) Chess engines are just stronger and stronger while the ratings do not increase with the previous rules, as a consequence players who just tried advanced chess once years ago shouldn't still top the rating list. It is of course a way for players to find their place quicker in the rating list & to incitate players to play more games as well.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-06 15:41:33)
Ratings calculation
Hi Lazaro, correspondence chess ratings are not calculated in real time, it is calculated every 2 months, see the complete rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
You may see an estimation of your future rating (taking account of the games played after the last rating calculation) at :
http://www.ficgs.com/players/munoz_lazaro/history.html
A 1885 rating should look like more logical to you :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-10 14:20:52)
Freestyle vs. Access providers
It looks like that access providers are a real problem during freestyle tournaments... In 4 rounds, 2 players (at least) lost a game on time because of them and 1 other had to play with his mobile phone card because his access provider was not able to see ficgs.com during a few hours.
It is possible that week-ends are a quite bad choice to play as most internet providers encounter most problems from friday evening to monday (and take much more time to solve it).
I do not see a clear rule that could solve all this, maybe more rounds would attenuate the problem... If you have any idea, let's discuss it!
Thanks.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-07 16:42:57)
Replacement in rapid silver 18
Hello all, we're looking for a player interested to replace Wayne in the Chess rapid silver #18, anyone interested ?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_SILVER__000018
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-10 19:37:35)
Congrats to David Evans!
David Evans wins this 2nd FICGS freestyle cup!
Here are the final standings (please note that the FICGS crosstable may be slightly different from the pairing software's one) :
1. Evans, David : 4,5 / 6 games played (berg 11,75)
2-3. Petrolo, Mauro : 4 / 6 games played (berg 12,5)
2-3. Taylor, William : 4 / 5 games played (berg 9,5)
4. van der Kemp, Michel : 3,5 / 5 games played (berg 6,75)
5. Boehme, Sebastian : 3 / 5 games played (berg 6,25)
6-7. de Vassal, Thibault : 2,5 / 5 games played (berg 6)
6-7. Nichols, Scott : 2,5 / 5 games played (berg 4,25)
8. Pichelin, Xavier : 2 / 6 games played (berg 5,75)
9-10. Moreira, Jose : 1,5 / 4 games played (berg 3,5)
9-10. Gray, Garvin : 1,5 / 3 games played (berg 3,25)
Of course and unfortunately, the number of "played games" includes losses on time without playing. There were numerous problems with access providers during this tournament...
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-10 22:18:47)
Prize : 170 Epoints or...
David also won the total prize in this tournament, 170 Epoints (100 Epoints + 70 Epoints of entry fees as 3 titled players on 10 total entered the waiting list), or 100 Epoints + 75% of 70 in real money according to the rules, at the winner's discretion.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#prize
Congrats :) .. let's hope the next freestyle tourney will be free of all these problems with access providers!
William Taylor (2010-04-11 01:24:05)
Thib
Hi Thibault!
I, and many others on this website are in the habit of abbreviating your name to Thib. I'm curious to know if this is a shortening which is actually used in France, or if it's just a 'FICGSism'...
Will
Robert Mueller (2010-04-11 09:12:03)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Thibault, I see there is going to be a match Rybka Forum vs FICGS. They are recruiting eight players to play individual games against FICGS members. Who is going to play for FICGS? Do you still need a player? I would be interested in playing, but I will be on vacation from May 8 to May 15.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-11 14:44:55)
Thib
Hi Will :) .. Indeed, it is !
FICGSism, yes let's find the FICGSisms... :o)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-11 15:20:48)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Hi Robert, I'm not sure yet if there are so many members at Rybkaforum interested to play (actually it looks like the most are FICGS players until there), but if it can motivate them, let's try to build a team already :)
Vacation would not be a problem as a long time control should be the option but there is no rule well defined yet. However the rules will probably look like the ones used in FICGS vs. Igame.ru
The thread at Rybkaforum is there :
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16132
Do not hesitate to post here and there if you're interested to play such a match!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-11 20:59:51)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Oh ok, thanks Robert, I didn't see this discussion at Rybkaforum before...
The idea discussed with "Vytron" is : Half players would play their game here at FICGS, and the other half would play their game at the Rybka forum... Of course there would be a kind of time control there but this would be a friendly match before all!
So please post here if you're interested to play in the FICGS team and specify if you would be ok to play your game at the Rybkaforum.
I'm in, of course (if my new rating allow me to play :)), and I'm ok to play at the Rybkaforum.
Wayne Lowrance (2010-04-11 22:47:43)
Match Against Rybka Forum
I am in if you need me. I think you will have many volunteers. I will play my games at either server, just as long as I am a FICGS member
Wayne
Robert Mueller (2010-04-12 05:14:47)
Match Against Rybka Forum
> So please post here if you're interested
> to play in the FICGS team and specify
> if you would be ok to play your game
> at the Rybkaforum.
Thibault, I would like to play for the FICGS team. I would prefer to play here at FICGS.
Mircea Hrubaru (2010-04-12 20:58:37)
Match Against Rybka Forum
I'm interested. On behalf of FICGS, of course.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-13 13:07:23)
Accounts at Rybkaforum
Hi Garvin, finally pairings will be arbitrary, so are you interested to play? (if yes, would you like to play at Rybkaforum or at FICGS?)
Michel & Mircea, would you like to play at Rybkaforum as well?
Currently Wayne, William & me will play at Rybkaforum, we need only one more.
Michel van der Kemp (2010-04-13 14:19:59)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Yes I can play on their forum also, though I prefer the FICGS interface here :)
Mircea Hrubaru (2010-04-13 15:58:44)
Match Against Rybka Forum
I think I want to play at FICGS.
Robert Mueller (2010-04-13 17:38:51)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Another subject that should be discussed is that of names (real or otherwise). It is my understanding that some members of the Rybka team will start an account at FICGS. I assume they will have to sign up using their real names? How will we know who is who on the Rybka forum? Or do we need to know that?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-13 18:03:22)
Match Against Rybka Forum
True, Garvin. I just made the suggestion at Rybkaforum.
Robert, Rybkaforum members who will play at FICGS will enter a real name for sure, just like other members. We do not have to specify our real name at the Rybkaforum, just following their rules.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-13 22:30:46)
Big chess ratings
Hi Lazaro!
"Big chess ratings are first estimated from current correspondence chess ratings (current rating -300 points, with at least 1400), then adjusted in real time after each result (...)"
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_big_chess
When you entered your first big chess tournament, the TER was not specified but your current correspondence chess rating was used (minus 300) to calculate your first big chess rating with your first result, so a rating of 1609 seems ok taking account of your opponents ratings. The first results may look quite arbitrary but some rules prevent to lose too many points when losing against a strong opponent with a low rating. Anyway there should be more class categories to get more chances to improve ratings (to be continued), we needed more players but maybe we can do it now.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-14 18:23:11)
Firebird, Ivanhoe vs. Rybka
Most are available there:
http://www.chesslogik.com
RobboLito & Firebird there:
http://www.ficgs.com/Download-Firebird-1.2-f7379.html
http://www.ficgs.com/Download-RobboLito-0085g3-f5841.html
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-16 23:18:05)
Poker : touch move + bet button
I've just changed the value of the "Bet" button from half the opponent's pot to twice the opponent's pot. This looks like more logical & may accelerate games... But the min bid rule has not changed yet! The min bid issue is being discussed there :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8254
Please note that the TOUCH MOVE option (see Preferences) now also works with Poker (fold, call, bet, raise & all-in buttons) & Big Chess.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-17 16:35:57)
The 42106 case, strange poker bug
For my personal records (if it happens again), a one time bug happened in game 42106 for a completely unknown reason...
The moves : 1.fold 1 2.check - 3.check 1 4.1 - 5.check 1 6.1 - 7.check 20 8.fold - 9.fold 1 10.check - 11.check 1 12.1 - 13.check - 14.*
Actually player White played more than 4 moves in a row after 13.check, which is impossible in theory.
Even more strange, when I corrected the game & replayed the 13.check, it was Black's turn so everything ok.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=42106
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-17 21:34:42)
Match Against Rybka Forum
We need a 10th player for the match vs. Rybkaforum, this player would play his game at Rybkaforum... Anyone interested ?
Our current team :
Wayne Lowrance 2479 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Harvey Williamson [2425 ICCF] (will play at Rybkaforum)
Thibault de Vassal 2376 (will play at Rybkaforum)
William Taylor 2110 (will play at Rybkaforum)
??? (will play at Rybkaforum)
Robert Mueller 2383 (will play at FICGS)
Michel van der Kemp 2226 (will play at FICGS)
Garvin Gray 2133 (will play at FICGS)
Kamesh Nookala 2126 (will play at FICGS)
Mircea Hrubaru 1988 (will play at FICGS)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-17 22:54:30)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Our almost definitive team :
Wayne Lowrance 2479 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Harvey Williamson [2425 ICCF] (will play at Rybkaforum)
Thibault de Vassal 2376 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Sebastian Boehme 2288 (will play at Rybkaforum)
William Taylor 2110 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Robert Mueller 2383 (will play at FICGS)
Michel van der Kemp 2226 (will play at FICGS)
Garvin Gray 2133 (will play at FICGS)
Mircea Hrubaru 1988 (will play at FICGS)
Samy Ould Ahmed 1889 [ICCF 2418] (will play at FICGS)
Stéphane Legrand 2222 (will play at (?))
Kamesh Nookala 2126 (will play at (?))
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-21 15:15:22)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Here are the pairings (games started at RybkaForum & are to start here)
Games at Rybka Forum:
Bobby C (RybkaForum) Vs. Harvey Williamson (FICGS)
Kamesh Nookala (FICGS) Vs. Mark Eldridge (RybkaForum)
omprakash (RybkaForum) Vs. Sebastian Boehme (FICGS)
Thibault de Vassal (FICGS) Vs. SpiderG (RybkaForum)
Weirwindle111 (RybkaForum) Vs. Wayne Lowrance (FICGS)
William Taylor (FICGS) Vs. Vytron (RybkaForum)
Games at FICGS:
Garvin Gray (FICGS) Vs. burch_michael (RybkaForum)
clement_george (RybkaForum) Vs. Michel van der Kemp (FICGS)
Mircea Hrubaru (FICGS) Vs. Gaetano Laghetti (RybkaForum)
Ivan Trajkov (RybkaForum) Vs. Robert Mueller (FICGS)
Samy Ould Ahmed (FICGS) Vs. José Sanz (RybkaForum)
Plant_Kevin (RybkaForum) Vs. Stéphane Legrand (FICGS)
Let's have fun :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-21 15:20:31)
Match Against Rybka Forum
About the rules :
Time control 20 days + 20 days / 10 moves at FICGS... for the games played at RybkaForum it is 24/48 hours per move in average & in relax mode, there will not be "losses on time"...
It seems to me that there is no other special rule, I just asked Vytron to confirm.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-21 15:22:13)
Final Match details
It is not so clear yet indeed, I just asked Vytron to confirm, if there's a special rule, I'll specify it as soon as possible in the original discussion :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8422
George Clement (2010-04-21 19:58:54)
Match Against Rybka Forum
Thibault, how do we access a match on FICGS in this tournament? Will you set it up?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-21 23:49:04)
FICGS Cup or Open tournament
Here comes back the idea of a FICGS cup or whatever the name... I'm not sure if this is a good idea as WCH tournaments take a lot of time to most of us already, best is to gather most players in the same competition IMO.
Of course I could create a rated category with no rating range at all in Special tournaments, but I'm not sure if there is really an interest in it, any opinion ?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-22 00:14:03)
Match Against Rybka Forum
All games started !
You can see all boards for games played at FICGS here :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__FICGS_VS_RYBKAFORUM_MATCH&boards=1
The other games played at Rybkaforum :
Bobby C Vs. Harvey Williamson
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16385
Kamesh N. Vs. Mark Eldridge
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16389
omprakash Vs. Sebastian Boehme
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16388
Thibault d.V. Vs. SpiderG
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16383
Weirwindle111 Vs. Wayne Lowrance
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16384
William T. Vs. Vytron
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=16390
Have nice games :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-20 16:02:07)
FICGS team (final)
Wayne Lowrance 2479 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Harvey Williamson [2425 ICCF] (will play at Rybkaforum)
Thibault de Vassal 2376 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Sebastian Boehme 2288 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Kamesh Nookala 2126 (will play at Rybkaforum)
William Taylor 2110 (will play at Rybkaforum)
Robert Mueller 2383 (will play at FICGS)
Michel van der Kemp 2226 (will play at FICGS)
Stéphane Legrand 2222 (will play at FICGS)
Garvin Gray 2133 (will play at FICGS)
Mircea Hrubaru 1988 (will play at FICGS)
Samy Ould Ahmed 1889 [ICCF 2418] (will play at FICGS)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-21 02:46:14)
Final Match details
Hi Wayne,
You mean the match FICGS vs. RybkaForum, right?
Robert Mueller (2010-04-21 04:36:04)
Final Match details
Somewhere in the discussions about this match it was suggested that the Rybka forum members only use Rybka and that FICGS members may not use Rybka. Is this an actual rule agreed upon or was it just a suggestion?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-24 00:08:44)
GoDiscussions & LifeIn19x19
FICGS Go players may have read this article in the latest AGA newsletter on the 2 Go forums... So there is a new Go forum called lifein19x19.com , but what happens with GoDiscussions?
Like many other members I experienced some problems regularly for a few months but what is behind the technical problems?
Does anyone have more informations on this?
http://godiscussions.com
http://www.lifein19x19.com
Wayne Lowrance (2010-04-23 01:11:29)
Wider rating range tournaments
Garvin, you have a very good point. I have been there and so I know how your feeling. It is very difficult to advance that is for sure.
Garvin It can be overcome, I have! please refer to my rating climb. I started off at rock bottom despite the fact that I had a rating of 2300++ going in here at ficgs. I did know know I could transfer part of my rating (1800 I Think) but I started at the bottom (1500 if memory serves).It has taken me for what seems forever to arrive to where I am now. I have worked very hard to achieve the Title and it's rating. I have a nice comp now, but the first couple of years I grew in stature with a 1.8 ghz single cpu. Have used that cpu most of my stay here.
What is my secret ?. Answer I have non. First is I have a excellent CC book (lousy for blitzing). I feel the real only way to advance here on FICS is outbook and out think your opponent in opening lines (ask Thibault :) So MY thoughts are that it would follow that I am not in favor of your proposal. Having said that, I will support what ever way Thibault goes with your ideas. Good luck my friend, I am behind you, but honestly cannot say I will support any new rating grading. Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-24 17:02:39)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Tano-Urayoán just posted an interesting idea in the following discussion:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8507
I was totally opposed to this idea at a first sight, but after a while I found some real advantages.
The idea : Any player could pay an entry fee to enter a high class chess tournament (e.g. 20 Euros for class M, 40 for class SM, 60 for class GM), whatever his rating.
Of course what we all see first is : Anyone can pay to make increase his rating faster, that is just unfair!
But let's imagine that a player rated 1800 pays an entry fee of 40 Euros to enter the class SM waiting list.
1) The waiting list will be filled faster!
2) If this player is actually stronger than its rating show, he'll find its place faster (the other players will not lose so many points because their ratings are protected - see rating calculation rules).
3) There could be such an extra rule: Players who are already in the waiting list or who will play the tournament may share 50% of the entry fee in Epoints, which would be a kind of compensation for them.
4) These entry fees will help to have more prizes in free tournaments (another compensation) and bigger prizes in e.g. freestyle cups, although I don't have any idea on how many players would be interested in this, so the site will become more popular and so on...
Anyway, please share your views if you have any idea to improve this one, and your opinion is needed here of course!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-24 17:04:09)
Wider rating range tournaments
Tano-Urayoán, your idea (with some changes) may be worth to be discussed after all!
Let's discuss it here:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8545
Thanks!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-24 17:53:33)
Bullet & lightning time controls
The bullet & lightning games are slowly but surely gaining in popularity, the next freestyle tournaments should help to continue this way...
Now that the touch-move option appeared at FICGS (see Preferences), maybe the bullet & lightning time controls should be faster to make it more different from each other and from blitz.
So far bullet is : 10 min. + 20 sec. / move , lightning : 30 min. + 1 min. / move
Maybe we could envisage this change :
Bullet : 5 min. + 15 seconds / move , lightning : 20 min. + 30 seconds / move
Any opinion?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-24 14:30:18)
Wider rating range tournaments
I also think about the possibility to imitate the advanced chess (Go as well) rating rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8375
There may be several advantages to this:
1) It would give a better image of the quality of the games compared to the past as engines are stronger and stronger but ratings do not increase in average...
2) It would allow players to access more easily the next category...
3) Old best ratings achieved a few years ago wouldn't be unbreakable anymore...
4) It may motivate retired players to come back to the fight :)
What do you think?
Wayne Lowrance (2010-04-25 02:00:36)
Careful wht you do with our loved F
Thibault, I have been here since the beginning. I have grown with FICGS. I am very proud to be a member of FICGS in good standing.
I see dangers ahead for you and our FICGS.
You need to be very careful my friend about Changing the overall makeup of FICGS. I think overall the "E" point conditions here is ok, as long as it does not infringe outward from where it is now> This latest proposal (buying into a high classification) is very bad and changes the premise of FICGS, which is: If you are good, diligent and work hard you will advance and be rewarded. Tites should not come easy. Same for rating points. For if they do come easy then they have no meaning.
Players who have earned their stripes do merit certain considerations, that is good and proper.
Another potential problem that I see is that FICGS is headed in a direction down yahoo chess lane. We all like these bullet games, they are fun. I am not at all suggesting their elimination. I am just counseling "be careful". Do not let it become the face of FICGS chess. Yahoo chess is a total disaster. I do not want our site to even look in that direction.
I have been monitoring the chatter on bullet chess and it is great, all are enjoying it. That covers the main points of interest for me. I am not against changes. I do not want changes that change the make up of FICGS as we know it now. Its your server, you may do as you wish of course Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2010-04-25 02:49:59)
Careful wht you do with our loved F
Having just read my post it does not take into consideration the renumeration value of changes. If you take FICGS, into the very profitable yahoo world, that would be good for you. You have a right to position yourself to maximize capital worth. This is good, it is what America is all about. So I should keep my big mouth shut I guess
Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-25 02:52:37)
FICGS
I understand you Wayne, I don't want to make such mistakes and that's why we talk so much about these changes in this forum :)
On entry fees for a higher class tournament, I agree on the main point of course, but some advantages had to be discussed. The success of this site is also money and money prizes in the future IMO so I prefer to discuss such ideas than to do nothing.
That was the first point. Then there are some other points that remain to be discussed IMO : 1) Maybe correspondence chess ratings should increase (in average) as engines become stronger. 2) Titles calculation rules should probably be harder as a consequence, maybe it should have been changed already.
Correspondence/Advanced chess is constantly evolving, our marks move fast, so rules may have to change. I don't think that FICGS can turn into a kind of Yahoo chess (I did not ever play there btw), the most important thing is the atmosphere and I know that if I make a mistake, someone will let me know very quickly as it happened once a few months ago. We all make that success in that way!
Mircea Hrubaru (2010-04-25 13:51:18)
Anand vs. Topalov, world championship
We must credit our mate Dmitry Domanov for the 16...Qd6!? move (1/2-1/2 Stephenson, Andrew (2256) - Domanov, Dmitry (2202) / FICGS__CHESS__WCH_ROUND_ROBIN_FINAL__000003 (1), FICGS 2008 and 0-1 Agustin, Santos (2010) - Domanov, Dmitry (2181) / FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_09__000006 (1), FICGS 2009).
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-27 10:37:30)
FICGS down, server HACKED!
The server was down for about 1 day, all my apologies. FICGS is still secure and was not in danger or compromised at any time, nothing was lost during the process, but another site on the server was hacked so the server was blocked to avoid to spread the virus. Everything should be ok now.
To be sure that no game will be lost on time because of this, I've added 2 days to any player expected to play and 12 hours more to all players. Thanks for your patience and sorry about all that!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-27 11:11:51)
FICGS down, server HACKED!
Actually I could have restarted the server in its normal mode earlier but I was to be sure that I had found all files added by the hacker and moved all files of the other site that had a security breach (and some more admin things)... I had to be very careful but finally I did not even had to reinstall the server. All this was a good lesson for me on anti-hacking.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-27 12:27:54)
Interview with E. Kotlyanskiy
The next final match "Edward Kotlyanskiy vs. Eros Riccio" in the FICGS chess championship should start in about 2 months from now! As always, I'm impatient & excited in advance :)
The next cycle should start on july 1st as well, the waiting lists will be open on may 1st, a few days more to wait!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-04-27 14:49:30)
FICGS down, server HACKED!
... and this wasn't april fool joke this time ;)
Benjamin Block (2010-04-28 15:55:07)
FICGS down, server HACKED!
Thanks, good work!! Very good that you send a e-mail to get the news, so nobody left this site because they think it has closen down or something.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-05 16:20:30)
FICGS chess database
Hello all,
As a reminder the complete FICGS chess database is available here (or see the link in Search Games in the menu) :
http://www.ficgs.com/databases/chess.pgn
Bullet, lightning & blitz games (including freestyle cup games) are no more included in this database to make it more coherent and of a better quality (too many losses on time because of connection problems or without any move played by one player)... This way bullet games are even more just for fun!
Don Groves (2010-05-08 09:12:52)
How many games at once?
Back when FICGS was younger, I believe there was a limit of 50 games at one time.
I think this limit should be reinstated. A player may think he or she can handle 100 or more games but what about the opponents who then must wait up to a year for a game to finish?
I still feel there should be a rule that mandates a shorter maximum time between moves (no more than 7 days) but limiting the number of simultaneous games could have the same effect, that of speeding up games to a reasonable duration.
If a player cannot make at least one move per week in any game, then they don't have enough time for the number of games they are playing.
Don Groves (2010-05-10 02:13:36)
How many games at once?
I've had my say, I'll stop now. I'm still cool with FICGS, no fear of that ever changing :D
No matter what system of rules is in place, there will always be those who find a way to take advantage of it.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-10 15:14:35)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Garvin, you can change the title for your posts in the discussion :)
Well, all your ideas may work fine, let's discuss it again in the original discussion on this topic :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8545
I just made a new proposal there.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-10 15:16:19)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Well, the discussion continued in another thread :
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=8555
Garvin's ideas may work fine, but while some players will like the benefits, some others will be deceived not to be able to take advantage of it (quite a chancy factor)...
Here is my new proposal (based on a few Epoints, not real money) :
- Winners of any standard (class) or rapid tournament, whatever the game, may buy a ticket for 10 Epoints to enter the waiting list for the next tournament category according the following conditions :
* No more than 2 players obtained the best score in the tournament. There's no winner otherwise.
* The player's TER must not be more than 200 points below the low rating limit of the waiting list.
* At most 2 players may buy a ticket to enter the same waiting list.
* The possibility to buy a ticket is valid up to 2 months after the end of the tournament and only after the official end of the tournament [when the tournaments list shows winners, not leaders of the tournament].
* The player's account must be credited of at least 10 Epoints.
Please correct anything that looks unclear and let's discuss it again :) Thanks for all your help Garvin & all!
I'd like to have Wayne, Michel's & other opinions on the proposed changes, is this at least more acceptable according to you?
Don Groves (2010-05-11 04:32:49)
A suggestion
Add an indication next to each game on the My Games page when that opponent is logged into FICGS.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-11 13:34:12)
Georges Stibal dies on May 1st, 2010
As George still has 8 running games, I have to adjudicate it, but according to the FICGS rules, these games will not be taken in account for his last rating...
Michel van der Kemp (2010-05-11 16:42:20)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
I just dont like the possibility to buy oneself tickets for higher tournaments. What's next? Next FIDE world championship challenger is going to be the one that brings the largest bag of money to the table?
Perhaps a commercial aspect to this justifies this idea. I know it's a lot of work to keep a site like this running, and FICGS gets many improvements all the time. It makes sense to get some revenue out of it, to compensate so much work.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-11 18:01:16)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Hi Michel! Thanks again for discussing it.
> What's next? Next FIDE world championship challenger is going to be the one that brings the largest bag of money to the table?
I don't know if this was designed to be humor (I guess, but maybe you meant FICGS instead of FIDE?) but in the context of current FIDE rules I find it very funny :) .. by the way if the same rules were applied at FICGS, anyone could challenge the champion for the title for $500,000 or something like this. Of course that would be great for FICGS and the current champion may appreciate such a prize as well, but that's not the point here.
However yes this FIDE rule may be compared to my suggestion, at a very different level though (the basic idea is the same: to build prizes for more interesting [free?] competitions), in my opinion an entry fee of 10 Epoints is quite different from what I suggested before already. Note that even if FICGS was not free, it would not justify such special entry fee more (not saying it cannot be justified!), after all there's an entry fee in the vast majority of OTB tournaments, if you don't pay it (but GM/IM that are generally invited to play for free - and most often take the prize), you cannot improve your rating, the problem is that the entry fee depends on the tournament, and the entry fee for closed tournaments (the main/only way to get norms) is often much higer.
I agree that things are somewhat different here as the main idea of FICGS is to be completely free. So the real question is : "Is FICGS still 'free' if a tournament's winner can choose to pay an entry fee in a virtual money (by the way it is quite easy to get Epoints without having to pay anything) to enter the next tournaments category".
- If despite of all the answer is "no", then FICGS is NOT free right now anyway as any player can play a rated 2 games match RAPID SILVER with an entry fee against a higher rated player to have more chances to win elo points. This way even IECG was not free (chessfriend), and even if something is really 100% free, it still doesn't mean fair, which is the main point here. Even if a tournament's winner could enter the next tournament's category for free, such a rule would NEVER be completely fair, as I described the particular cases.
Quite complex :)
Finally I'm not saying you're wrong in any way. Free or not free is a really complex question IMO, in my point of view, FICGS will remain free as noone needs to pay to become champion or to achieve the highest ratings (unlike FIDE). But if it is 99% free only while offering money prizes, I'd choose it anyway for sure.
Benjamin Block (2010-05-11 18:19:01)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Ficgs is still free... I think it can be very good indeed.
1.Some players maybe want training...
2.It will also stop an inflation. Because some new player came here and already have a high rating from example iccf.
And they start playing this site. Maybe they don´t have time for the games and left this site. With just giving a way some points.
Am i right?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-12 16:51:21)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Not exactly a vote Garvin, anyway a few opinions are much better than nothing and still matter to discuss.
My answer to Scott & Tano-Urayoán : I agree that none of these proposals is more fair than the current rules, but here is why at least choice #1 has also many advantages, for FICGS but also for the players : Of course, those who made it the hardest way like Wayne may feel that this is unfair to change the rules, but rules constantly evolve & this would be really a minor change (in the case of choice #1). The point is that while e.g. IECG uses this promotion system, it is unfair the same way that a player from IECG can register at FICGS with his IECG rating that benefited of this rule. From the start FICGS rules were harder than IECG rules when registering, but as ratings move faster here I thought that it would be a compensation, but it is not a reason enough not to improve the rules again if possible.
The reality according to me : choice #1 is less fair than current rules, and choice #4 is even more unfair, but the current rules aren't so fair either. Rules that would be completely fair may exist but would have too many bad consequences for sure, and at least FICGS would not have been a success by using it. Anyway, I will not take any decision today, let's wait for some more arguments, the whole discussion is actually even more interesting than the point that is discussed in. Finally, I'm quite favourable to try (as Garvin suggested) the choice #1 and discuss the consequences after a few months.
Benjamin Block (2010-05-13 14:47:40)
A suggestion
Change order of witch game... When i surfing on my Nintendo DS. I use the mobile version of ficgs. It is very good but my DS can only do the poker games, the other one is too wide. The thing that would be great is, if it would show all the poker games that it is my turn in, first. Then the other. It would save me a lots of time and job ("go to next game").
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-20 15:28:19)
Late resignation
Hi Arno, best is to call the referee a first time (most often it is enough), see the rules :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#adjudications
It was not so easy to build rules that fit to everyone (centaurs & non-centaurs), so you may have to play a few moves yet, but not so many in loooong & obvious endgames.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-05-20 23:48:59)
Updated !
As you may have seen, the FICGS rules have been updated with the rule that was discussed here...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#tickets
This is still an experiment, let's see the benefits (for waiting lists & future prizes), it may be changed yet.
If you just won a tournament, you should have received an email explaining all this.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-02 18:26:28)
Incredible poker hand
Just look at this strange hand between Jason Repa & Nelson Bernal Varela... the community cards and player's ones are really amazing... Pair of aces, pair of queens and a straight flush appears in the community cards... quite rare. And only 12 chips in the pot.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=43092&move=1023
Any comment on this one? :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-02 18:28:31)
Incredible poker hand
Another interesting one, here Rolf Staggat vs. Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff... when the Flush becomes Straight Flush against Full House... 170 chips this time.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=41893&move=373
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-04 00:34:04)
Contest : FICGS, acronym for...
"First International Community for Global Sleep" (Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff) :)
Sorry, I couldn't resist.... :>
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-11 18:39:47)
FICGS chess database
Why not... On the wish list.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-14 22:26:02)
10 moves rule for Poker
An interesting case... a Poker holdem game finished after only 6 moves (6 played by each player)! The winner was surprised to see that he didn't win any rating point, indeed there's a rule at FICGS (11.6) that says : "Games are not rated for the winner if less than 10 moves have been played by his opponent (most probably forfeit, silent withdrawal or obvious cheating)"
Another reason for this rule is that any player who lose to another one in less than 10 moves is most probably overrated so he should lose some points but his opponent may not win points, so I think that this rule may be ok for poker as well (and I'm not sure if playing all-in each time deserves to win some points :)), but I'd prefer to read some other opinions anyway.
What do you think?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-06-16 14:19:03)
Browser password issue
Hi Garvin,
Actually from the start of FICGS, the left login form did never store the password because it is a security issue... The right form stores it.
As for me I always use the left login and retype my password each time, I prefer like this.
Gino Figlio (2010-08-03 04:39:59)
Match vs. ICCF
I am not involved in ICCF management anymore but my suggestion would be to ask the ICCF President if he would be interested in promoting such a match, hosted in the ICCF webserver.
Make it ICCF rated and free. Maybe 10-20 boards.
Suggest that only players rated 2500 or more participate in the ICCF team.
Mention that FICGS will play with their top players.
Mention the total number of members in FICGS and how some of them may decide to play in ICCF events in the future if promotional events like this are created.
ICCF needs to see FICGS as a potential partner and not a competitor otherwise this match will not happen.
My personal view since I do not represent ICCF in any way.
Peter Schuster (2010-07-05 21:06:06)
CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000006
Hello Thibault,
when does the following tournament start:
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000006
Best wishes, Peter
Peter Unger (2010-07-06 17:40:19)
XFCC Play
In Aquarium 4 you can play corr-games with the XFCC-protocoll.
Will it be on FICGS-server in the near future?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-07-06 18:50:14)
XFCC Play
Hi Peter,
The answer is "most probably" no. This has been discussed there:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=7973
Thibault de Vassal (2010-07-07 12:07:52)
Class GM 2 : Rating average 2496
It seems to me that the strongest FICGS chess tournament (7 players or more) so far just started, I would like to apologize to my opponents, if I didn't lose so many points, it would have been a category 11 tournament for sure... :/
https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_GM__000002
Good luck everyone!
Hannes Rada (2010-07-09 22:46:19)
FIFA world cup 2010, predictions
> PAUL said: Spain wins final, Germany > wins 3rd place.
> Until now PAUL was always right.
> PAUL lives in a octopusses garden in > Oberhausen.
Ask Paul who will be the next FICGS chess champion :-)
Rolf Staggat (2010-07-12 14:32:55)
FIFA world cup 2010, predictions
@ Hannes
Let Paul PLAY the next FICGS-championship. He has nine brains, nine more than most chess-players.....
Svante Carl von Erichsen (2010-07-15 14:39:03)
How to link?
How would I link to a FICGS game or tournament from the outside? It seems that nothing works without login.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-07-15 16:45:22)
How to link?
Hi Svante Carl, you may open the homepage www.ficgs.com in your browser, then follow TOURNAMENTS, you'll find the public links to the tournaments & games.
The public link to any game is displayed at the bottom of the pages user_page.php?page=viewer&game=xxxx, it looks like www.ficgs.com/game_xxxx.html
Not the simpliest way, but anyway I'll add a small script to redirect from user_page.php to the public pages if the visitor is not logged in.
Kamesh Nookala (2010-07-28 15:38:18)
Match vs. ICCF
Dear Friends,
Why not we have a match vs. ICCF. I think, we have players who can shake the hell out of any opponent on board and highly qualified corr. chess players.
Thib, let's do it. Try and induce them for a battle to take REVENGE (if at all FICGS lost previously).
What you guys say?
Kamesh Nookala (2010-07-28 15:47:07)
Match vs. ICCF
Dear Scottie,
That's why i felt the need to make this post to prove that no longer FICGS is for only weak players :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-07-28 16:00:00)
1st team tournament : games & results !
Still waiting for the end of the game Parmet-Boehme before the definitive results!
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=32187
Kamesh Nookala (2010-07-28 16:00:14)
Match vs. ICCF
Hello Thib,
I am not sure. Somewhere from within my 1kb memory, i vaguely remembered that FICGS played with ICCF in the past and lost. I may be wrong too.
But, that's a real challenge and we got players who have nothing to lose. They know the tricks of trade and can grill the ICCF players. I suppose they will come up with weaker players, but not the top level. Once we show our mettle, only then will they know that FICGS means Real Business.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-07-28 16:21:55)
Match vs. ICCF
No, there were no FICGS vs. ICCF match yet. We lost our two previous matches against IGAME.RU (with engines, against a very strong team mainly from Ukraine! the site died since that time) & GAMEKNOT (without engines).
I doubt that ICCF will be interested in playing such a match (maybe Gino or anyone involved can say it), but maybe someone can throw the idea in the ICCF forum, like I did in RybkaForum... who knows after all.
Sebastian Boehme (2010-07-28 19:56:33)
Match vs. ICCF
Hello there,
great idea indeed. Facing the 2600 elo giants of ICCF.
Maybe even J. van Osteroom would play (although I doubt it a little bit ;-) )
I am looking forward to future matches and would feel honoured to be a part of the FICGS team in these.
Go FICGS Go! ;-)
Ruben Comes (2010-07-29 07:43:42)
Match vs. ICCF
Seems like a good idea.
But Thib said I do not think they are interested, at least institutionally.
Perhaps they can form a team of ICCF private.
Of course, I would play for Ficgs team, I'm not sure if I have the strength you need.
Xavier Pichelin (2010-08-01 11:03:51)
Match vs. ICCF
Bonjour,
Pourquoi pas?
Je peux lancer l'idée avec le président de ICCF car j'ai son email perso et que je communique souvent avec puisque c'est un français et membre actif de AJEC (association francaise des jeux echecs par correspondance).
Maintenant,
ici il y a beaucoup de fort joueur qui joue FICGS et fort joueur à ICCF (Eros, Peter qui joue la Finale du WC 26 Word Champion ICCF) etc...
Ces joueurs vont t-il jouer pour FICGS?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-01 15:50:59)
Match vs. ICCF
Salut Xavier ! Merci pour la proposition, et en effet (mis à part le fait que j'aie du mal à trouver de bonnes raisons à l'ICCF de jouer un tel match - à part la passion de la compétition) l'un des problemes majeurs dans l'idée est que quasiment tous les meilleurs joueurs du site sont également actifs à l'ICCF... A chacun de choisir peut être, ou bien seuls les joueurs actifs sur un site seulement pourraient jouer, pas de choix simple :/
________
Well, Xavier may submit the idea directly to the ICCF president, but one more obvious problem is that most of the best FICGS players are also active members at ICCF... If such a match would happen, the selected players would have to choose... Or only players active at one server only may be included in a team... no easy choice :/
Or maybe FICGS, ICCF and players wouldn't care about all this and only want a nice match that wouldn't mean anything, why not :)
Wayne Lowrance (2010-08-02 05:06:18)
Match vs. ICCF
Howdy. I think this would be fun. I would suggest some sort of mechanism that will prevent more than 2 to 3 days response with normal TC of 1 move/day. Maybe no increment.
I would be very pleased to represent FICGS team. Lastly I think the players should play tables starting at table 1 highest rank and so forth.
Just my view point. I am really overloaded with games but would add this to my list.
Wayne
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-03 11:49:16)
Match vs. ICCF
Hi Gino, thanks for your precious advices... Good ideas, and indeed ICCF could host the whole event (if they wish).
Still thinking about it... another idea (among others) : if only FICGS players who are not members of ICCF could enter the FICGS team, maybe the experience could be interesting as well as I feel that many 2200-2300 players here are getting stronger [maybe also due to the increasing level of engines] and will probably reach 2400 in a while, so they would have a chance to play a match against very strong ICCF players... The idea would be to see the real strength difference between these 2 categories of players (ICCF would be almost sure not to lose but for us the challenge would be even greater).
The other idea behind this is that ICCF may see an opportunity to make discover their server to these new players.
Finally we may suggest several ideas to ICCF, Gino's one, this one & maybe others... Whatever they choose, it could be interesting for the players, what do you think?
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-08 01:33:05)
PGN files
Several ways :
- Click the printer icon in My games then copy/paste the games in PGN format. (I still have to add a filter for the chess games)
- Save the complete FICGS database (click 'Search games' in the menu), then filter by your name in eg. Chessbase.
Andres E. Leon (2010-08-09 15:15:52)
Future Rating Question
From the last rating actualization, I finished five games. However, my future rating is now computed with only one game. I believed that in the past when I finished a game, my future rating was instantly actualized. How this issue works in FICGS?. Thank you very much, in advance.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-09 19:40:51)
Future Rating Question
In some cases, games are not taken in account in the rating calculation, e.g. if less than 10 moves are played (for the winner only).
Complete rules:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Feel free to ask if you have any doubt...
Andres E. Leon (2010-08-11 00:41:41)
Future Rating Question
I am sorry to bother you, but I do not understand why the system does not take into account three of my last four games, in the moment to calculate my future rating. For example, the last game that I finished in the FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_A__000075 tournament was:
Game 39469
Last move : 1-0 2010 July 3 22:30:1
[Event "FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_A__000075"]
[Site "FICGS"]
[Date "2010.01.20"]
[Round "1"]
[White "Leon,Andres E."]
[Black "Faust,Dieter"]
[Result "1-0"]
[WhiteElo "1904"]
[BlackElo "1980"]
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.e5 Ne7 5.a3 Bxc3+ 6.bxc3 c5 7.Qg4 Kf8 8.Bd2 Qa5 9.a4 Nbc6 10.Nf3 c4 11.Be2 b5 12.O-O bxa4 13.Ra2 Ba6 14.Rfa1 Bb5 15.h4 h5 16.Qg5 a6 17.Bc1 Kg8 18.Qd2 Nf5 19.Bf1 Rh6 20.g3 Re8 21.Ba3 Rg6 22.Bh3 Rh6 23.Rb1 Rb8 24.Bxf5 exf5 25.Qe3 Nd8 26.Ne1 Ne6 27.Ng2 Rc8 28.Qf3 g6 29.Nf4 Nxf4 30.Qxf4 Rh7 31.Bd6 Rg7 32.e6 fxe6 33.Qh6 Qd8 34.Be5 Qf8 35.Re1 Rc6 36.R2a1 Kf7 37.Qxg7+ Qxg7 38.Bxg7 Kxg7 39.Kf1 Kf7 40.Ke2 Rb6 41.Rab1 Rc6 42.Kd2 Ke7 43.Kc1 Rc7 44.Kb2 Rc6 45.Ka3 Rc7 46.Re5 Kf6 47.Rbe1 Bd7 48.f3 Rc8 49.Ka2 Rg8 50.Rb1 Bb5 51.R5e1 Rc8 52.Rb4 Rg8 53.Rg1 Rb8 54.Ka3 Rb7 55.Rgb1 Rg7 56.Rg1 Rb7 57.R4b1 Rg7 58.Kb4 Rc7 59.Rh1 Rh7 60.Rh2 Rb7 61.Ka5 Rh7 62.Rg1 Ke7 63.g4 fxg4 64.fxg4 hxg4 65.Rxg4 Rh6 66.Rh1 Kd6 67.Rb1 Rh8 68.Rxg6 Rxh4 69.Rbg1 Rh2 70.R6g2 Rh3 71.Kb4 Rh6 72.Rg8 Rh2 73.R1g2 Rxg2 74.Rxg2 Be8 75.Ka5 Bb5 76.Kb6 Kd7 77.Kc5 Kc7 78.Rg7+ Bd7 79.Rh7 a3 80.Rh1 Be8 81.Ra1 Bb5 82.Rxa3 Kd7 83.Ra5 Ke7 84.Ra1 Kd7 85.Rh1 Kc7 86.Rh7+ Bd7 87.Rg7 a5 88.Rh7 1-0
Besides, I am playing the FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_13__000008 group of the WCH, and I already finished three games.
Game 45063 Leon - Leclerc
Game 45064 Piantadosi - Leon
Game 45065 Leon - Dsouza
In one of them less than 10 moves were played (Game 45063 Leon - Leclerc ). However, in the other two games more than 20 moves were played, but when I finished these two games they were not taken into account in my future rating. Some of these games, particularly the Game 39469, I like very much and I spend a lot of efforts. It is a bitter that it is not used in my rating. I am afraid that the system is not actualizing my future rating, Can you help me to understand what is happening?
Again, I apologise for this inconvenience and I appreciate any help, thank you very much.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-11 11:09:44)
Future Rating Question
No problem, it is always good to check from time to time if everything works fine :)
So, your current rating is now 2031.
1) Game 39469, win against TER 1980, more than 10 moves, the game counts! It is obvious when looking at the Opponents elo average in the Future rating : Games calculated : 1, Result : 100 %, Elo opponents : 1980
2) Game 45063 : less than 10 moves played.
3) Game 45064 : does not count, explained by the rule "The rating calculation does not take account of wins obtained by a stronger player when the Elo difference is greater than 350 points, the same with losses by a weaker player." <- see http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_chess
4) Game 45065 : same reason.
Of course you cannot win Elo points by beating opponents who are much weaker (even if you have to play them sometimes, e.g. in WCH tournaments)... That's the core of the Elo system.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-08-12 22:46:32)
Replacement in Class GM 2 & rapid SM 6
Hello all, 2 players are needed for a replacement in the tournaments CHESS CLASS GM #2 (average 2496) and CHESS RAPID SM #6 (average 2408).
Please send me a private message (or email info*ficgs.com) if you're interested, thanks in advance.
Note: There's no specific rule when choosing players for replacements so the fastest players with the strongest ELO will play.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-09-16 13:01:23)
Chess WCH knockout final #6
Alberto Gueci beats Peter Schuster 7.5-0.5 in their match in FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000006
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WCH_KNOCKOUT_FINAL__000006
As this is a general forfeit at the end, according to the rule 11.6 it seems to me that all games should be rated for the winner except Game 45571 where the advantage is not obvious.
The score looks severe but Peter's play is always interesting & risky (look at game 45574)...
Alberto's future rating is now 2620, congrats you're the man to catch now :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-09-17 00:29:38)
Svante Carl von Erichsen on Go WCH #4
As you probably read in the news, Svante Carl von Erichsen won the 4th FICGS Go WCH, beating his challenger Huayong Yang 3-2, Svante Carl wins the Go championship for the 4th time in a row!
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000004
Svante Carl kindly accepted to answer a few questions on his match & computer Go:
FICGS - Hello Svante Carl, congratulations once again for winning this match against a surprising challenger who started here a few months ago with a 10 kyu rank, Huayong Yang, now rated 2438 after scoring 2 points in your 5 games match (which is a great achievement for sure). What did you think about his play & yours in these games?
Svante Carl - I think that he greatly underestimated his rank initially. As far as I know, he had not played for a long time and believed that his ability had therefore deteriorated. I do not think that you can drop more than one or at most two stones, though -- it is like cycling or swimming, you never unlearn it. I had the impression that we were quite evenly matched in summa, but our strengths are in different aspects of the game; I cannot really put my finger on the difference, though.
FICGS - After a previous win, you said that you spend a quite long time to analyze, which probably helps you to reach a higher level than 2 dan (your EGF rating) compared to OTB play... It looks obvious to me that correspondence chess moves generally ask for much more time than Go moves at a high level but I may be wrong, how much time did you spend on your longest analysis during the match? Do you remember for which move?
Svante Carl - I usually spend at least a few minutes on each move, except when the continuation is obvious. I often use more, and if I do not find a satisfactory move then, I will even postpone the move to another day, so that I can sleep over it and let my subconcious work on it.
FICGS - Do you watch other games played by your future opponent before starting your match? Do you think that this is really important in preparation like it can be in Correspondence chess?
Svante Carl - I sometimes glance over the games in the championship qualification tournament, but I do not try to prepare this way. I do not think that such preparation has any value in Go, especially in correspondence Go, since you have time during the game to do deep analysis. I usually try to take each game out of standard fuseki patterns pretty quickly, anyway. Of course, I know that my opponents in these title matches are always very tough and demand my utmost respect.
FICGS - Do you still follow the recent developments in computer Go? What do you think about the latest Go engines? How much time do we have yet before the best Go players are caught by computers according to you?
Svante Carl - I have the impression that the currently most promising technology (Monte Carlo/UCT) has the potential to achieve a rank of about 2 or 3 dan (EGF/KGS). I think that the next fundamentally new idea or breakthrough might add 2 stones, to get to 4 or 5 dan. I do not have any idea where it might go from that, but I think that it gets always harder.
What I would find interesting is having more intermediate board sizes. The best bots are almost on par with the best professionals on 9x9 now. I would propose to try to achieve a similar level on 11x11, then 13x13, then 15x15 etc.. Regarding 9x9, I think that the currently predominant komi of 7.5 points is too big, and that this has a negative impact on the experiments because the bots do not play in a balanced environment. It might be worthwhile to introduce the Taiwan rule (last move compensation) to get more fine-grained scores.
FICGS - What programs did you use this year to analyze? (just trying, of course it may be part of your secrets ;))
Svante Carl - It is not a secret. I just use an editor, usually EidoGo or CGoban3, to visualize the variations I imagine.
FICGS - Finally, what thoughts would you like to share on your 5 games, that could help us not to miss the best times or to help us to understand the most complex moves...
Svante Carl - I cannot give a detailed commentary, but I can try to summarize my impressions.
I think that Game 5 was quite balanced until move 21, but I think that the white invasion was a bit ambitious then. Of course, White did not need to die there, but after moves 32-33 I think that Black had a good result anyway (move 32 should go out faster in my opinion; note how E14 helps Black in enclosing White).
In Game 3, I think things got quite difficult for White in the lower left, but I let him take the initiative by backing off at move 35 (I should have simply closed off F10 then). White gained control of the centre as a result, and in the large endgame, I lost too many points there.
In Game 4, I fell behind in the opening through some slow moves (there was some discussion on the Life-in-19x19 forum about this, see the link in the comments of that game). In the endgame, Black then lost some points in the centre, so that I was a bit ahead when the game timed out.
In Game 1, I made some bad decisions on the left side, and never managed to turn things around. I think I was behind by about 5 points in the end.
In Game 2, I think that Black should not have ignored move 24. After I got quite some territory from my moyo and also reduced his top side, I could play it safe.
I look forward to the games with Olivier Drouot that recently started, but I also hope that Yang Huayong will re-enter the championship cycle.
William Taylor (2010-09-23 01:42:30)
Road to Grandmaster
Hello FICGS friends,
On the 1st of September I started a chess website - http://roadtograndmaster.com - which documents my attempt to become a GM (otb). The first post and 'mission statement' can be read here: http://roadtograndmaster.com/?p=11
Of course I realise the goal is extremely ambitious, but I'm going to give it a shot. :) I probably won't be playing much serious correspondence chess for a while, as I'll be focusing on OTB games, but I'll still be keeping a few games of one sort or another running here. Comments/suggestions about the site or the goal are welcome.
Will
Wayne Lowrance (2010-09-24 03:54:46)
whole database transfers made simple
This has always been a sore spot for me on FICGS. I want to be able to copy my ficgs database of games to Rybka. I have gotten help from nice folks here, but I am unable to do it. There just does not seem to be the right tools at each step or understanding to do it.
I would be satisfied if a step by step procedure is posted that entails each click of the mouse with out vague procedure statements.
Wayne Lowrance (2010-09-24 18:28:56)
whole database transfers made simple
Thank you Daniel. Can we continue with this via PM on ficgs ? There is discussion needed. I will send you a PM.
Thank you
Wayne
Wayne Lowrance (2010-09-26 20:46:49)
whole database transfers made simple
Is this what your talking about ?
How to import my Chess games in a chess database ?
There are several ways to import your chess games played at FICGS in a chess database like Chessbase or SCID. 1) You may download the complete FICGS correspondence chess database: Click "Search games" in the menu, right click & save "All games (PGN)". Import the file in your database, then you may filter the games by using your name. 2) You may create a PGN file by going to "My games" (please use the chess filter, click the rook icon if you also play Go or Poker, you may also select pending, running or all games) then clicking the printer icon. You just have to copy/paste the content of the new page into a new text file, then importing it in your chess database. 3) You may download the PGN file of a particular game or tournament, right click and save the "download" link at the bottom of
Do you mean "left mouse click" if I right click I get Link copy options, none of which seem to do what I want. I do not see a way to save "all games pgn" in any case which is what has stopped me for days. Left mouse click copies all database to where i want to open, Ie scid (which I cannot figure out either), notebad, but i see no filtering capability in notepad. So I do not know how/able to do "Import the file in my database" as your instructions say, sorry Thib, I am a pain in the butt. can you clear these things up for me ? especially your step 1.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-09-30 13:35:58)
Next freestyle tournament
A "freestyle chess tournament" is (according to me) a chess tournament played OTB or on the internet by players using any kind of help (chess engines [Rybka, Fire, Houdini, Fritz, Shredder, whatever...], databases, other players...) with a fast time control (a few hours per game at most).
The "FICGS chess freestyle cup" is a freestyle chess tournament played on the internet...
As "correspondence" implies all freestyle features but the fast time control, freestyle 'must' probably mean played at a fast time control, or the two words would mean the same.
Well, it may be worth to add the final definition in the Help section after all :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-01 17:51:59)
On colour allocation
On colour allocations, there was numerous discussions on this topic during the 1st year of the server. Well, I cannot remember exactly all my arguments, but briefly 1) Double round-robin is too much effort for the players while it does not eliminate totally the chancy factor. 2) On Berger, the whole FICGS WCH idea is to give more importance to the non-WCH tournaments, the very best player must be champion IMO, not only the winner of a few tournaments, that's why ratings are so important in the tie breaks (and that's why my first idea was to give White to the top seed in round robin groups)!
Less games for everyone per cycle + More cycles = More chances to find the real champion (and more fun :)) !
Scott Nichols (2010-10-01 19:29:31)
WCH Stage 1 groups (new players)
In my last WCH bracket I was rated 514 points above the avg. of my opponents.
I would like to suggest--All players over 2000 with at least 50 ficgs games played should be "seeded" into round 2. This would give players an incentive to play more and to try to reach the 2000 plateau.
Players below 2000 and less than 50 games would all have to play stage 1 to "qualify" for stage 2.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-02 00:03:55)
WCH Stage 1 groups (new players)
The number of players in each round must be coherent (round 3 : 5 to 9, round 2 : 5 to 9 x 5 to 9, round 1 : 5 to 9 x 5 to 9 x 5 to 9) ... if things are easier for players rated 2000-2300 during the first round, it will be harder for them later (e.g. 1 player qualified in a group of 11 players!).
But it is true by experience that the rating limit for the M group may be below 2300 (by the way it was for the last championship)
I'm against such a rule "All players over 2000 with at least 50 ficgs games played should be seeded into round 2", a bit complicated IMO, and players rated 2250-2400 will have the same kind of complaining then :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-04 19:17:37)
Private messages to the webmaster
Hi all, it looks like one of my email providers blocks FICGS emails these days so I may have missed a few messages if you sent it to me via the "My messages" form (to "Thibault de Vassal"), that's now fixed, if you noticed I did not reply to your message, please resend it to me.
Sorry about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-05 17:58:43)
WCH Stage 1 groups (new players)
Hi Philip, thanks for taking some time to give us these numbers, really appreciated!
Well, I did not hide that I thought about this championship this way, simply because I wanted it also to look like the old classical chess championship. The point that is discussed here is a tiny detail only compared to the whole idea... Of course the 8 players of the knockout cycle have much better chances to reach the final, and the current champion is by far the favourite. Why to play a WCH that would be a boring copy of IECG & ICCF WCH?
I think that everyone has a real chance though, maybe hardly on 1 cycle but by playing 2 or 3! Have a look at Edward Kotlyanskiy's tournaments, he started WCH 3 with a rating of 2132, seed #2 in a RR group... he is champion!
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_1_GROUP_10__000003.html
Daniel Parmet (2010-10-05 19:16:44)
Match Against Rybka Forum
darn I was interested in playing in this! Oh well maybe next time! Good luck guys, win!!!! Go ficgs :)
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-06 08:39:16)
Colour allocation change in WCH round robins
Hi again Garvin, I must say I didn't even know the Berger pairing tables, very interesting to pair 6,8,10,12... players, but maybe not so interesting for 5,7,9,11... as there is a bye.
Anyway, I may try to code it for these cases!
On the original topic, the discussion should continue on the question: Must we reverse the colors in WCH round-robin groups so that Seed #2 play White against Seed #1, as the tiebreak (TER: Tournament Entry Rating) is an advantage for Seed #1 already.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=9097
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=9093
As I explained in the other discussions (you can find some statistics in the first one), the whole idea of the chess championship is to find the best player, and rating is an important element in the process IMO. By the way I'm not sure if such an update would change the results significally.
Reverse or not reverse the colors in WCH groups, we need your opinion on this point!
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-06 14:20:56)
Colour allocation change in WCH round robins
Just noticed that Berger pairing tables for 8 players really look like the way 7 players tournaments are made at FICGS... Seed 1 plays White against Seeds 2, 4, 6, 8 while Seed 2 plays White against Seeds 3, 5, 7, 8 and Seed 3 plays White against Seeds 1, 4, 6, 8. Not really different and not a solution to solve the disadvantage of Seed 2.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-07 14:09:49)
Paul König is dead
After that Ingo announced it in the chat, I was waiting for an online source to publish the sad news in the forum... Paul officially left us during the month of september 2010.
www.bien.de/sauerland/index.php?view=article&id=209:schachbezirk-trauert-um-paul-koenig
Many of us played him here at FICGS, at other chess servers or over the board.
My condolences to his family.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-20 21:32:25)
Freestyle Fun
You said it all Scott, thanks for this very nice presentation :) Let's hope that a few of our italian freestylers will try to shake the tournament! The prize increased to 150 Epoints + Entry fees this time, not so much yet but always trying to offer more & more Epoints in all tournaments...
A small word about the connection, I noticed that when http://www.ficgs.com is not available, the internet access providers often let you reach https://ficgs.com , think about it if you encounter such a problem (whenever by the way), just like it happened to Mauro who courageously played half the tournament on a smartphone during the last event, the trick may have helped him :/
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-22 10:25:55)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Hi to all the FICGS players! In the last few days there has been in the works a strong tournament on the Rybka Forum. I know that most of you play a lot of games not only here but on others sites. I have been looking into the interest of having a type of World Chess Corr Blitz Championship. With the time controls being 2 to 3 days per move. There will be a time out or some kind of extra time system in place to get you a chance to AN critical positions. As of now there are discussions on the Rybka Forum for a Tournament Format that would be comfort to most of the players who play. I have been talking to the person who does the web design there and would are working out a new sub forum to keep this tournament organized and working a clock system so everyone can keep track of there time. I'm also having a prize fund organized to the top 10 finishers. Not so much for give money to the players, but as more a means to keep all the players interested and not have any problems with aborted games. This tournament will have 3 TD's to help with any problems that may come up. We are planing on having the tournament just after the new year. I have the interested of Wayne Lowrance and Ruben Comes has said he will play. If any are interested in playing in a World Chess Corr. Blitz Championship or if you have any questions or comments. Let know on here or your can leave a message on the rybka forum my user name is "thehug"
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-22 20:56:57)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Hi,
Gary- Thanks for your interest, I do remember to some of your replies to the FICGS vs Rybka Forum match. As you are a guy who likes some order in the matches. When I make the the pairings for the tournament I will be taking into account of ratings. And will make them fair. There are a couple of people who may not have official rating on the rybka forum, but I have a good idea of there strength :) One of them is actually playing reben a great game in the B90 a variation.
Daniel Parmet- Thanks for your interest I have you down.
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-23 02:39:34)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Just after the new year, It will be flexiable as I will give all the players a chance to make it the games. It will be something like a 1 to 1 1/2 week window to get all the players sign in and know what the groups would be. As of now I'm still working on how many games will be played. I will be caping it around 30 people or so give or take a couple. So I will update you on how many games. For rounds Im going to say right now it will 2 rounds as I know most don't want to drag it out to long.(If there is interested I will look into having a semi final, and championship match if people would want it.) The number of games will be flexiable for the FICGS players. As I know most of you have a lot games going on.
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-23 23:57:41)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
I have the interest of Gino Figlio and a couple of other strong FICGS players Im still trying to find out witch ones they are. The FICGS side is starting to look very strong if all players will play. The tournament format is coming a long. And when I have an update I will post.
Wayne Lowrance (2010-10-24 22:57:48)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Jimmy I am following your progress. I continue my interest in the Tournament. We have discussed my thoughts via PM, but to review here are the things of concern to me. First I do not want to overload my chess obligations in Tournaments I am involved with at FICGS now. I have a hunch that a Start date at or shortly after the year will work out provided it is possible to have no more than one (1) game running at a time.
Other features of interest to a lesser degree are management/monitoring of matches to make sure that excessive time outs are infrequent. A player should not be allowed to go on vacation so to speak during a match. In the event of hardware problems a player should have to live with the timer obligations and not making a unfair match delay.
Player ratings could be considered in pairings. Somewhat like board seeds. Top rated sits at board #1 etc.
I think this can be sorted out easily. Your have excellent inputs from others such as Vytron etc regarding timer details. 2 days/move sounds good to me Jimmy.
So continue your good work, I would be proud to participate god willing.
Wayne
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-25 08:28:18)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Thanks Thibault, My hope is to finish the details within the next 2 weeks. No not a round-robin, because that would simply be to much and to long. So I have gone with Vytron idea of a type of Elimination/Knockout tournament that is currently being discuss. As you are good about getting tournaments formed if you can read the current discussion and give some feedback on here or the rybka forum I would be grateful! It is in the corr chess section on the rybka forum.
Here are some of the key points and some interesting ideas that are being thrown around.
As I know most of the FICGS players play a lot of games so I have made a system that you play a 2 game match per round (One white and One Black). This would usually be a bad idea because of CC high draw rates. But we are thinking of using a unique draw odds system. Thought to many this may sounds a little strange its actually a great idea to inspire fighting chess for both sides. The idea was given by FICGS player Gino Figlio
"The scoring system idea- to draw with white (0.4), draw with black (0.6), win with white (1.0), win with black (1.1), loss with white (-0.1), loss with black (0.0)"
Another thing we are working on is the pairing system. As of now the only idea is to use a swiss pairing system after the first round.
Time Control- Since this is going to be called a "World Blitz Correspondence Chess Championship" The time controls are going to be a little faster than normal corr chess. It will be 48hr per move. But there will be a bluff time in here to help AN critical positions. This is also being debated. Right now we are looking at something between 1 weeks to 2 weeks(168 hours to 336 hours).
I had announce on the Rybka Forum in the last couple of days that a prize fund was being offer. I haven't had all my sources comeback to me yet. But as of know the fund is $1500 USD. It could be more, but I'll make official amount known before the tournament will start. I would say the winners share will be between 500 to 750. It all depends on what info I get back. I'm going to try and make all the prizes reasonable. And try and make it for the top 8 or 10 players. Also the winner will be announced the "World Blitz Correspondence Chess Champion"
I will be trying to finalize the details of the tournament in a quick fashion so I can figure out if the players interested would want to play or not. The tournament will begin just after the new year. It will be flexiable so get all the players in and know who they are playing.
The final details are that we are working hard to make the Rybka Forum really to play this kind of tournament. There is a new sub forum that will be made to help with out the traffic that would be going on with all the games. There is almost plans on getting a clock system work out. As at these time controls that would be critical.
Thanks in advance for any feedback form Thibault de Vassal and any other FICGS player!
Jimmy
Jimmy Huggins (2010-10-26 20:11:52)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
The players that have said they would play or are interested are as follows
For FICGS-
Wayne Lowrance
Garvin Gray
Daniel Parmet
Sebastian Boehme
Thibault de Vassal
Gino Figlio
Kevin Plant
Scott Nichols
and one guy called "Djevans" on my forum still trying to get a name. He has said that he is a FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP winner and twice finalist in the freestyle tours on chessbase. So a pretty strong player.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-26 21:29:20)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
"Djevans" is David Evans, he won the FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000002
Kamesh Nookala (2010-10-27 03:38:48)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Lol Jimmy,
It was more like "I am lost!" haha. AS of now, i have stopped all stuff. Just enjoying. But as your tour is scheduled somewhere in the new year, who knows I may jump in.
As of now, banging my head as to whether I should check IN into the current FICGS Freestyle or not :)
Regards
Kamesh Nookala (2010-10-27 06:35:12)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Well not really.
I am sorry if am being candid in stating that my first access to corr world is FICGS. It created the best impression which even ICCF could not. I am confident that your efforts will bring a great change to the rybkaforum. Keep the spirits high my friend, come what may :)
As far as my game vs Vytron, I am not sure where it is leading me
Garvin Gray (2010-10-27 06:37:02)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
The games could always be played on ficgs :)
Garvin Gray (2010-10-29 11:21:06)
Freestyle Fun
Thib,
How will you be deciding the draw for round one? What I mean is will you be doing a registration period and collecting names and then entering only those players in round one, or will you be entering all those who have registered via the waiting list, regardless of whether they are online or not at 1300 ficgs time.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-29 14:38:24)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
The problem is: Sometimes (Scott knows it), it is possible to play a complete corr. game [more than 60 moves] in about 30 hours! But sometimes it takes 8 months... Believe me, if I chose 30 days + 1 day/move as the fast time control at FICGS, it is because faster was not possible. And that's why there is a WCH cycle every 6 to 8 months, no more.
Robert Mueller (2010-10-31 09:26:02)
Freestyle Fun
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000003
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-31 11:11:50)
Crosstable
http://www.ficgs.com/crosstable_FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000003.html
Thibault de Vassal (2010-10-31 19:00:19)
Eros Riccio wins the 3rd Freestyle Cup !
Congratulations to Eros Riccio who convincingly won this 3rd Freestyle Cup !!
As for me I'm really happy with this result... I could have lost the last game on time (connection lost just after the draw), and time pressure decided in a lost position vs. Sebi... :/
- The standings :
Place Name Score Berg.
1 Eros Riccio 4.5 - 15.25
2 Thibault de Vassal 4.5 - 14.25
3 Kamesh Nookala 3.5 - 11.5
4 Robert Mueller 3.5 - 10.75
5 Gino Figlio 3.5 - 10.5
6-7 Ruben Comes 3.5 - 8.75
6-7 Yuriy Perikov 3.5 - 8.75
8-9 David Evans 3 - 6.75
8-9 Sebastian Boehme 3 - 6.75
10-11 Richard Bitoon 2.5 - 5.5
10-11 Jai Prakash Singh 2.5 - 5.5
12 Scott Nichols 2.5 - 5.25
13 Garvin Gray 2.5 - 3.5
14 Marcel Jacon 2 - 2.5
15 Xavier Pichelin 1.5 - 3
16 Jose Moreira 1 - 2
(the score is the one shown in the software, it may be not the same in the FICGS tournament page)
Finally we avoided the connection problems (really lucky), this was a really nice event, I would like to thank all players & especially Garvin who was up very late to play!
Lots of fun, definitely... I'll try to organize the 4th edition in about 3 months!
Sebastian Boehme (2010-10-31 20:00:30)
Eros Riccio wins the 3rd Freestyle Cup !
Also here goes my 50 cents about the tour.
First of all: Thib, very nice tour. Without you we would not have such nice events. FICGS rocks!
Secondly: Congrats to Eros, who made a last minute join and made me think: oh maybe he is out of shape, but you proved the opposite!
Last but not least....am grrrrr about my own performance a bit. I think time management I need to practise a little better next time. ;-)
Many regards,
Sebastian
Wayne Lowrance (2010-11-01 00:48:48)
Eros Riccio wins the 3rd Freestyle Cup !
Wow, my congrats to all who played. I feel I missed a special time. My chess work load did not permit me to play, But I am hopeful to join next time. I am chessed out, putting a ton of time on my FICGS games and falling further and further behind :)
Wayne
Garvin Gray (2010-11-02 10:20:43)
Eros Riccio wins the 3rd Freestyle Cup !
With the 30 mins plus 15 secs time control, more rounds on two days becomes problematical.
With a 1300 ficgs starting time, those from the Americas were starting at about 5am and I was starting at 10pm on the second day.
So adding an extra round would mean either play starts early, or goes later.
The only other solution would be to add an extra day and play 9 rounds.
In part, the time zone issue is another reason why I think a longer time control might be better.
Garvin Gray (2010-11-06 06:19:34)
Strong Tournament at Rybka Forum
Jimmy,
Possible slight change to start date proposal.
I would like to see the competition either start on December 1 (one month earlier), or on about January 14.
The reason for this is to try and reduce the impact of Christmas. If the competition starts on January 1, games could time out without people even knowing that they started due to being on holidays.
Perhaps starting earlier might be helpful as it means the competition starts while there is the current momentum for it.
But middle January is also good as it will give a chance for the new ficgs ratings to be used.
I think it would also be prudent about a week before the start of round one to personally contact all the participants and get them to confirm they are playing. Only those that confirm their participation will be paired for round one.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-12-06 20:53:07)
Eros Riccio vs Eros Riccio in WCH 5 ?
He did it... Eros Riccio qualifies for the 5th chess WCH final match (all games drawn against Alberto Gueci in the candidates final, knockout/round-robin rule decides, not TER here), and obviously he has "some chances" to meet himself at the top !! (of course he will not have to play the 12 games match in this case)
The crown will be probably very... very hard to take these next years, but I can predict that the winner, whoever he is, will have very tough matches to play to defend the title in the 6th (Alberto's revenge?), 7th and 8th edition... so many exciting games :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WCH_CANDIDATES_FINAL__000005
Congrats Eros!
Jimmy Huggins (2010-12-07 19:16:41)
Who's the favorite in the WBCCC?
This is just a poll to see what others think. I had do I similar on the Rybka Forum, but seeing there would have be bias base on each forum I decide to do one on each one.
So the question is simple.
Who do you think among the FICGS side will have the best finish? choices--->
Wayne Lowrance
Gino Figlio
Sebastian Boehme
David Evans
Ruben Comes
Scott Nichols
Daniel Parmet
Kevin Plant
Ramil Germanes
Peter Marriott
Daniel Parmet
Hrubaru Mircea
To my knowledge that is everyone on this side. Since there is no poll option just post a name and if you want give an answer. Pairing will be posted in less than 3 weeks. Good Luck to everyone playing! and I'll try to keep the forum posted on updates as the tourney goes a long.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-12-08 09:50:49)
Eros Riccio vs Eros Riccio in WCH 5 ?
Hi Wayne, if you find a better way to say it in the rules, please do not hesitate to suggest! :)
To find the chess WCH rules please follow :
1) Waiting lists -> Chess World Championship
2) Help -> General Rules -> Chess World Championship
3) http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html -> Chess World Championship
Thibault de Vassal (2010-12-13 23:14:40)
Chess positions too complex for engines
This topic may last a while but it could be interesting after all.
Why not trying to gather (and discuss) as many chess positions as possible that computers are still unable to solve with the best engines even working during days... It may help us to detect more weak points in the most recent engines.
Okay, I start with these ones:
Schuster-de Vassal : 1-0
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=36895&move=96
Peter played very well in this one but as far as I can remember this position was an easy draw... The plan was to keep the rook on the e column and White cannot progress. I knew that but at this moment, I had to play this move quickly and I made a stupid mistake: I trusted the engine... Rb8+?? 1-0 .. my comp was really a prehistoric one there but I wouldn't be surprised if the recent ones were still not able to avoid to play this Rb8+
The next position is less interesting but quite funny, and it looks like that the newest engines STILL do not understand it... Actually it shows +5.00 or even more while it is an EASY draw for any human player...
Utesch-de Vassal : 1/2-1/2
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=11345
Amazing, what do you think? :)
Scott Nichols (2010-12-15 23:20:40)
Chess positions too complex for engines
Hi Thib. This is one of the main games I had in mind when I responded to your quote.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__BLITZ_SILVER__000019
Or Game #40749
After 50. ...Be2 Rybka could only think of lines keeping the King close to the g4 pawn. Try it yourself anybody, the engine just didn't get it. It was a blitz game, but even at that time control I could see that my black Bishop could guard against the pawn advance from afar. So the winning strategy was to march the King to the other side of the board and escort the a-pawn to the queening square. This idea obviously was far beyond the engines horizon. After that game, my respect for Rybka's endgame play went down considerably.
Thibault de Vassal (2010-12-16 09:54:53)
Preparation in sicilian
Another game I remember, the typical win by preparation (I was absolutely not prepared in this variant yet) in a blitz game - Eros & Alberto made it well with this line during the 1st Freestyle tournament.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=15363
I don't remember what move is the point exactly at a first sight, somewhere around Qxe5 but Black did not expect what kind of endgame will happen after the next 20 moves, btw many are forced but the line may be too long for most engines. The game was lost already, and I'm not sure if engines choose the right way (wouldn't be a trap anymore)...
Don Groves (2010-12-20 04:03:49)
Server change (19th, december 2010)
When I try to connect to the secure server, I get the following error message:
Secure Connection Failed
An error occurred during a connection to www.ficgs.com.
SSL received a record that exceeded the maximum permissible length.
(Error code: ssl_error_rx_record_too_long)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-01 23:18:48)
Free tournaments with prizes
Hello Saurav, all explained here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#prize
In a few words, just send an email by specifying the tournaments with entry fee & prize you won you'd like the money prize for.
Peter Unger (2011-01-03 00:26:00)
Private messages to the webmaster
I cant get to the following tournament - why - the accepted participants have no ELO 2300+
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_SM__000008
(type : rated round-robin, time : 30 days, increment : 1 day / move)
7 players, 6 game (1 game against each opponent)
entry fee : 0 , prize : 20 (E-Points)
elo : 2300+
POL Broniek, Mariusz Maciej 2106
SVK Gazi, Miroslav 2289
USA Nichols, Scott 2200
Jimmy Huggins (2011-01-04 22:01:10)
WBCCC Pairings for Round 1 will be here
Hello to everyone, With in the next 12 to 24 hours the pairings for round 1 of the WBCCC will be known. I have a couple of other things to post here as well. 1.I will be running a commentary page here.
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=19300
I invite all the FICGS players to follow. There fellow FICGS combatants in play and I and a couple of others will be doing live commentary as the games go on. I hope to see you ya there! (Thib, I know you will let your presents be know when you can ;)
The 2nd thing to be noted is the info the new software that is being used. All the info for that is here. Look below on the page and you will see my name with the info on it.
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=20068;pg=2
Good luck to everyone.
P.S. I will try to remember to use your real name on here. When I post to make it easier to follow for everyone else. I'll try to have an update as games finish to let everyone know what going on.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-12 21:01:31)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Congratulations to SM Eros Riccio who made it in the 4th FICGS correspondence chess championship, beating FICGS WCH Edward Kotlyanskiy 6.5-5.5
As he already won the candidates final match in the 5th FICGS chess WCH, we'll have the next final match "Eros Riccio vs. Eros Riccio" :) .. just joking, means that Eros just won the 5th FICGS championship as well... 2 titles at once, an amazing performance!
Sure that we'll need veeeery strong players to try to move the new FICGS king (who also won 2 FICGS freestyle cups) in the next WCH cycles! :)
Congrats also to Edward who was really near in this match, maybe the players will explain what happened in the only game that didn't finish into a draw... Finally many thanks to both players for a nice show!
Paul Campanella (2011-01-12 23:37:37)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
It is my opinion that Edward could have easily held his championship title if he strictly played for a draw instead of trying to win any of the games.
Edward Kotlyanskiy (2011-01-13 01:29:48)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
I'd like to congratulate Eros on a very well played match. He had a very good match strategy coming into our games where he would try to put as much pressure on me as possible and hope for me to make a mistake. And it worked! A few mental slips on my part and before I knew it, I was lost. Just to re-emphasize what everyone already knows: Eros is undoubtedly one of the best corr players in the world. He deserved to win the championship. I thank him for making the games exciting, although maybe more for him than me :), and I look forward to playing with him again in the future.
Eros Riccio (2011-01-13 02:36:42)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Thanks everyone guys... Thank you Edward, it was a real pleasure for me to play with you, not only for the interesting games, but also for the many friendly chats we had during our exchange of the moves, you are a very nice person and I also look forward to playing you again soon in the future.
Vjacheslav Perevozchikov (2011-01-13 05:08:59)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Hi! Thank you both for the great match. Congratulations to the winner!!!
I have a question. What happened in the only game that not finished in a draw?
24... Rxc2!? wasn't a better choice for black? Or I missed something?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-13 14:53:17)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Two great players, a great match, much fairplay at the end, thank you... it will be hard to wait for about 10 months before the start of the next 12 games match in the 6th cycle (and yes I verified, Eros will not play himself this time :))
Daniel Parmet (2011-01-14 08:01:36)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
in the case of Riccio winning the challenger match shouldn't the previous Champ get a rematch just so there is a 5th title bout?
Daniel Parmet (2011-01-14 08:03:07)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Anyways congrats to Eros
Sebastian Boehme (2011-01-14 08:35:58)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
The most things having been said already, I would like to add a quote, which originally was about Bobby Fischer.
"Against Eros Riccio it does not matter if you win or lose. It matters whether you can survive."
Congrats Eros once again! Well done!
Cheers,
Sebi
Paul Campanella (2011-01-14 23:50:23)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
I agree with Daniel. Edward should get a rematch against Eros in the next championship.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-15 00:34:20)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Should be great, unfortunately things do not work that way (at least the current rules)... anyway Eros deserves those 6-8 months of "rest", at least to win his future matches in the 7th & 8th cycles :)
Paul Valle (2011-01-17 21:44:53)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Thanks to both players for a very entertaining match!
Xavier Pichelin (2011-01-21 11:37:09)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Congratulation Eros!
Double World Champion FICGS 0005 and 0006!!
Bravo!!!
Xavier
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-21 14:55:23)
Eros Riccio is the new FICGS chess champ
Double World Champion FICGS 0004 and 0005 actually.
Scott Nichols (2011-01-23 11:21:15)
Following the WBCCC games Round 1
Sad to say, Jimmy's one core computer gave out. He MAY have to forfeit first and maybe second round games before he gets back up. Meanwhile I will try to keep players up to date on FICGS side.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-09 20:28:47)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Okay, after another long thinking on the different effects of the possible changes, I think that we should try in a first time the following (something between proposals 2 & 4 plus minor improvements):
"All 2150+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) will play M & N class groups at stage 1. The two players with the highest scores (or TER in case of equality) of the M group will qualify for the round-robin final, while the player with the lowest score (or TER in case of equality) will be eliminated, the others will qualify for stage 2. The winner of the N group will qualify for the round-robin final and at most half the players in the group will qualify for stage 2, the others will be eliminated.
Also the new members declaring to use a chess engine when registering will get a provisional rating of 2000."
Let's see the effects during the next cycle, if things are not ok we'll reconsider the idea to prevent the provisionals to enter the wch waiting list. I don't like complex rules but I like the idea of "progressive" rules. Any argument in another way is always welcome.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-01-30 21:07:31)
Eros on his win in the 4th chess WCH
Eros Riccio kindly accepted to answer a few questions on his win in the 4th FICGS chess WCH, and explained how one particular game influenced another one that he finally won:
- Hi Eros, first of all congratulations for your latest outstanding results at FICGS, you won the Freestyle tournament, now two chess championships in a row... When the privilege of the champion is to defend his title without playing the preliminary tournaments, you are involved in all championship cycles & a few regular tournaments, do you plan to avoid that anyone can even reach the championship final in the future? :-)
Thanks! I must admit that this is really a magic moment for me in chess... if you consider that despite my recent ICCF Grand Master Title, probably I will also soon win my third italian Correspondence Champion Title out of three participations in the Italian Final Tournaments. And now also this huge satisfaction of being the FICGS Champion! I look forward to seeing a new challenger soon, I wonder who he will be, but let me enjoy the next few months for now ;-)
- What are your impressions on the games? Did you have any strategy from the beginning to the end? Finally did it work or was there another factor? (without revealing your secrets, of course :))
The games in the opening were as I expected, all Najdorf Sicilians except one game where I played 1.d4. My goal was to win at least one game, so I tried different aggressive variations as White (6.Bg5, 6.f3, 6.Be3 and 6.h3) with the hope of catching Edward unprepared on at least one of these, but uff, he was very well prepared on each one of them! A curious thing is that my biggest chance of winning happened in a game where I had the Black pieces! So Edward had to take some risks in one of his games where he had Black (the games where he had White were already finished or all very drawish) he was forced to avoid an easy draw he had (the 6.h3 game) and eventually he lost that game. Happy of having reached my goal of winning at least one game, I accepted his draw offer in that other game (6.f3 e5 7.Nb3 Be6 8.Be3 Be7 9.Be2) where I had good winning chances.
- You probably noticed, like many correspondence chess players, that the hardware still fastly improves while chess engines are continuously getting stronger, particularly since that "supposed" clones of Rybka (some may be even stronger than Rybka herself) appeared in the race. Do you think that the rate of draws will be so high soon that it may definitely kill correspondence chess? Do you have any opinion on these new engines?
I think that despite the big improvement of Hardwares and engines, we are still very far (and we will still be in the next 5 years, hopefully) from a situation where all the games will most probably end in a draw. So I think we can enjoy correspondence chess for many more years in the future, even if of course the Draw percentage at the highest levels will be higher and higher.
- I remember that you were surprised to win your match against Alberto in the Candidates Final of the 5th cycle (the reason why you do not even have to defend your title this time), the WCH rules (particularly the co-existence of the round-robin tournament & knockout tournament) are obviously not well understood by all players, what do you think about this system and the tie in 8 games matches? Are there changes you'd like to see in the future?
Yes, I really was! We were both convinced that with all draws, the higher rated player would have won (Alberto was higher rated than me in that match). Anyway it was our fault, as we didn't read the rules carefully. I am not sure what changes could be done in the future... maybe this is anyway the best setup, no new ideas are coming to my mind right now.
- Do you have a few more words for Edward after these nice games? Maybe also for your future opponents? :)
It was a real pleasure for me to play him, not only for the interesting games we played, but also for the friendly chats we had during the exchanges of the moves. I hope to play him again in the future for a rematch.
- Thanks for your answers and congratulations again!
Welcome, and thanks ;-)
_________
It is very interesting to see that a even a player like Eros prefered to minimize the risks (avoiding mouse drops or whatever) as much as possible by accepting a draw in a game where he had winning chances. Correspondence chess is definitely not all about chess, that's probably the lesson.
Also it is reassuring to read that correspondence chess is NOT dead yet, nor soon :)
Juri Eintalu (2021-09-04 17:22:19)
ICCF ratings
Hello. I am new here. I see that my ICCF rating has been converted into a FICGS rating. However, I have not found here any information about whether the FICGS rating influences the ICCF or ELO ratings.
Kamesh Nookala (2011-02-06 04:14:32)
Segregation of Games on this Server
Thib,
I will tell why i face the difficulty with my database. I have one single database, which is a collection of games from everywhere, be it Correspondence or be it games from playchess. Then, whenever i download games, i happen to merge them into my main single database. Everytime, i have to run a doubles check.
There is also a funny thing which i noticed. The game file for these games from FICGS is always chess.pgn. I have to create a new DB with crap name (remember: not identical to any name of the DB from which i earlier merged games to my single DB, reason is though the games are different, based on the import database name, the games will be marked doubles) and then merge them to the single DB. Again filtering applies. So, we can help you a bit with ideas to create a collection of games, as I hope everyone deletes the LINE games, which are still underway :)
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-12 04:18:32)
WBCCC Round 1 Update
This is the first update for the WBCCC, I guess some of you have been following some of the games there. There have been a lot of interesting games and some surprises a lot the way. As I'm reporting on the FICGS forum I will make most of this about the FICGS side. Here are some results so far and starting at the top boards.
B2 Uly(Vytron) vs Gino Figlio- Gino does a good job of defending a ..2.e6 line of the Sicilian. And both players agree to a draw after 34 moves.
B4 Daniel Parmet vs Sebastian Boehme- This was a Poison Pawn line of the Sicilian. The game ended before it even got out of book. A short draw, I think both people agreed that it was a good result for each player.
B6- Matt O'Brein vs Omprakash- A surprise if only for how short the game was. Matt shows his tactual muscles when his higher rated opponent much of had and oversight in this defense. As 23.g6! h6 24.Bxh6! and it looks like black has burned his bridges in this game.
B8-Stephanie vs Ruben Comes- This maybe the biggest surprise in round at least in terms of the bigger name on the FICGS side. Stephanie what looks to be a prefect opening all of the B90 lines and everyone agrees 32.Bc3! to be a new novelty and a very good one at that. Stephanie went on to grind Ruben down to a lost endgame. I very interesting game that has be to be seen to believe, I guess this going to show, that not all B90 lines lend to draws.
B13-Scott Nichols vs indrajit_sg- This was a long fought draw. When looking at the game early I thought white may have some chance to take advantage of his open g-file. But not a lot materialize later in the endgame(form the engines point of view).
B14-donkasand vs David Evans- David enter into dangerous territory with this B90 line. At move 19 he played ..Rb8 which looks to be a move to get out of book, because the other moves didn't look so good. Credit to David for finding a draw line in this game. Its another game with a look.
Kamesh Nookala vs Jimmy Huggins- What can I say I played an experimental opening and it backfired :) A well played game by Kamesh. Thanks for the chance to have a good fight with you.
Now on the 2nd set of games(Each player has 2 games in each round)
B3 Ramil Germanes vs Moz- Ramil here played a safe line in the B90 form the white side. So this looked like and easy draw.
B4 Sebastian Boehme vs Uly(Vytron)- Vytron plays and interesting side line of the Crao-Kann and play was very shape, but I got the feeling black played to ambitiously and had the worse of the position. He found a good defensive sacrifice and the good was hold to a draw. I think Sebi had winning chances, but I will have to look over the game to come up with an idea on that one. Anyway a great game to look over.
Ruben Comes vs Matthew O'Berin- Maybe the sharpest and most ambitious game in round 1. This goes in the the B97 lines, but Ruben goes for the Qf3 side line and produces a complex position after Rd3. I love this game so much I want to post the link again for everyone to please watch this game and post a comment about it.
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=20213
B13 Fulcrum2000 vs Scott Nichols- Scott tries his luck to be ambitious and backfires with his Bh4 idea. Even when looking at the game. I was thinking it to be a good idea, but as it turns out. It goes as just losing a tempo. I thought this was one of the more instructive games of the round. I liked the way white played the endgame.
And the last result I have for the round for the FICGS players is
B17-indrajit_sg vs Kamesh Nookala- This was an interesting draw were white plays and early sideline in the Sicilian that tends to be drawish unless black forces the play. Another well played game by both sides.
I just want to say there are a lot of games one should look at. As more results come in on the FICGS side I will posted. In my opinion one should follow Wayne's games I have enjoyed his play so far. He had to comeback some in his wild game with black vs deka, but I get the feeling this game will ended in a draw. I would also follow the underrated Matt O'Berin in games to come. He has proven to be a great player so far.
Kamesh Nookala (2011-02-17 08:37:45)
request again tour
Dear Scott,
That's a nice suggestion. But its implementation as of now with the WBCCC already underway is something which, at least for me, is a bit stressful. I am not at pc, and cannot be, 24x7. Of course, for people like you and many others, this will be an interesting factor. Thumbs up for such a suggestion!!
In the present scenario, I would highly recommend hosting of Freestyles at regular intervals BUT WITH WIDE PUBLICITY in all possible forums. With the WBCCC Format and given the fact that Freestyle at FICGS finishes in just 2 days or can even be 4 days (two Saturdays and two Sundays depending on the number of rounds we can increase keeping in view the Number of Players), I put my thrust upon another Freestyle event soon. Many can feel comfortable with a freestyle than a 10 days (no increment) battle, where the guys at home can have full advantage of and those at work under constant pressure :)
This is just my opinion :)
PS:: I am, not for a single moment, saying what you suggested is bad. That can help people like you. I believe it is awesome. But, for the present situation at WBCCC
Scott Nichols (2011-02-17 16:00:54)
request again tour
Just another quick thought. The guys at ChessPlanet did a great job in very little time to make the WBCCC the success it is.
But FICGS IMHO is simply the best interface on the web. Throughout the years Thib has make little tweeks and improvements to make it what it is today. So I see other places and ideas and think, how nice it would be to use those ideas on FICGS.
Kamesh Nookala (2011-02-17 19:13:14)
Friends, let's revolutionaize FICGS!!!!
Hi Guys,
FICGS is a great place. Atleast for me. I am very much attracted to the style of play. For more competitive play and attracting more correspondence chess players, while maintaining the purpose of correspondence chess, I think we all can help contribute in making FICGS the greatest server of all times to come.
I know what matters is real stuff, like the ICCF, but why not strengthen the identity of FICGS itself. We can have some games with various other servers (for e.g. the Rybkaforum match we had)
This way, in a calendar year we can have our tours fixed with each server, be it German or anything else.
As far as Thib is concerned, he is too much preoccupied maintaining the server. So, I request each and every member of this Server to throw some of their valuable inputs.
Warm Regards,
Kam
Scott Nichols (2011-02-17 19:18:19)
Friends, let's revolutionaize FICGS!!!!
FICGS has a warmth like home base. Lots of friends who are easy to talk to, and so many things to do! Eros is a GM at ICCF, but he still hangs here and plays many tours.
Getting the word out is key I think. Kam's idea is a good way to start.
Daniel Parmet (2011-02-17 20:10:42)
Friends, let's revolutionaize FICGS!!!!
I think this is a great idea. I would love to play some of these matches too despite my weaker strength. Let me know how I can help. I love FICGS!
David Ang (2011-02-23 15:55:23)
How long does it take?
A friend of my sign up for FICGS a couple of days ago. How long does it take to get signed up?
Garvin Gray (2011-02-23 17:22:21)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Topic is about the upcoming WCH.
I am wondering, are there any format changes in general?
And specifically in how provisionally rated and new players are handled in the group stages?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-23 18:31:34)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I hope there will be as few changes as possible. The "history" of the championships will be clearer this way.
I still have no idea of a better & clearer system for provisionally rated players but all ideas are welcome...
Garvin Gray (2011-02-24 03:08:56)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I have already offered mine, have them play in groups by themselves and the winner qualifies as normal by winning their group.
Scott Nichols (2011-02-24 06:55:14)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I second that.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-24 18:14:53)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
IMO the "bad" (if bad, actually I prefer random) consequences are not eliminated but only postponed while adding more complex rules. Better (from a ratings & results point of view) would be to block the entry to these players, but but...
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-24 18:49:15)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
If it is a problem with unrated players. Is it possible to have all players have to play at least 1 tournament before they enter Wch, I know that is not a lot of info to go on. But a provisional is a lot better than no rating at all.
Garvin Gray (2011-02-25 00:55:15)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I really would like to see the idea of those who are provisionally rated playing in groups by themselves, while everyone is seeded normally.
There should only be two or three groups of provisionally rated players, especially if they are seeded in groups of 9 players.
A second possibility= remove the exemption for players around 2300 so that they have to qualify just like everyone else.
This might even reduce the number of stages by 1, shortening the whole cycle.
Daniel Parmet (2011-02-26 00:36:24)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I third Garvin's suggestion.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-26 22:44:09)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Okay, I'm really thinking about a solution but right now I'm not completely satisfied with this option of having these groups of provisionnaly rated players. I really think that it just moves & postpons the problem while losing some advantages, by the way many established ratings are still underestimated...
I would like to try to explain again my whole point of view on the current wch rules. The way I've been thinking this championship is purely statistical, the idea was to find the best chances to see ALL the best players in the final rounds about each 2 years. It worked quite well so far IMO, actually my main regret is not to be able to extend the knockout tournament of 1 round (we would have 16 players instead of 8), that's why it is not possible anyway to have less than 5 rounds for the whole cycle. Each one is 30 to 40 months long, it could be worse. So the whole cycle's aim is not only to find the best player of the cycle but to give chances enough as quickly as possible to the new underrated players for the next cycles!
On this point, I'm quite glad to see players like Wayne who made it the very hard way, starting from ELO 1400 (!) to reach 2540 in about 3 years only. The WCH cycle helped many other players to find their place quite quickly in the rating list, also over 2400, and I have no doubt that the best players of the round-robin cycle play the round-robin final. Usually none of these new underrated players play the RR final, they have less chances than 2200 ones to play the 2nd round because of the TER rule but they win some elo points during the 1st round. That is fair IMO, some logical improvements now protect the ratings of 2200-2300 players but I agree that it is still hard to cross certain rating ranges because ratings do not inflate the same way than advanced chess, Go or poker ones.
In summary, let's say that it is unfair that 2200 players play 1 or 2 underrated players + one player rated about 2000 who may be worth 2100 or 2200, 2300 & more... He will probably lose some rating points during round 1. However he has more chances to reach round 2 with few chances to win but more chances to get some/many elo points back.
I do not say that there is no "problem" with the current WCH rules set (there will always be border effects, whatever the rules) but my point is that I'm not sure that any change that will have heavy consequences will have good effects enough.
Finally, if the most is favourable to such a change, it looks more logical to me to forbid the provisionnaly rated players to enter the wch waiting list. By the way we will have less forfeits during round 1, so the quality of the results may be improved. What do you think?
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-27 00:40:41)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Do you have to have played at least one tournament. To not be a provisional?
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-27 00:41:45)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Or to put it another way. Would I be able to play? I think I played in 2 tournaments I think.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-27 01:06:30)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Starting with a non-FIDE/ICCF/IECG rating, one need to have finished 9 games to get an established rating. 2 tournaments should be ok.
Garvin Gray (2011-02-27 02:47:16)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Thib, I have explained my point of view quite a few times and when you reply you keep either accidently mis-interpreting it, or are doing it deliberately.
I suspect there might be a language issue between English as a first language and French as a first language.
My issue is with the first stage groups, to which most of the players are allocated.
In none of my previous posts have I mentioned UNDERRATED players ie those who have established ratings on here, but most likely their true playing standard is higher than their rating.
I will try and explain my position again and I now see I am not alone in having this opinion.
With 15 or so groups in the first stage and having some players provisionally rated at 1800, this means those '1800' are seeded in the different groups at player number 3 or 4.
But a few of the '1800's' turn out to be quite stronger than that rating, meaning the genuine rated 2100's in that group get another person who can play to their level, whereas in another group which did not have an '1800er', the group that did not have the provisional 1800 gets a statistical advantage by having one less stronger player to qualify for round two.
Now to the argument that putting the provisionals in groups by themselves only delays the problem.
If there are only one or two provisional groups, then this means that only one or two provisionals make it through to round two.
While this idea makes those groups of questionable standard, it is extremely likely that whoever comes out of the provi groups is going to be of decent standard.
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2011-02-27 07:26:35)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Why?
What happens if the level of all the provisional players in this special groups is really below or at least 1800?
At least one players in this group will have an easy ticket to the second round and that is unfair to the rest of the "regular" groups.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2011-02-27 15:48:42)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
It seems that nobody likes the special groups for players with rating > 2300 in the chess WCH - but those who can play in these groups.
Maybe the provisional rating of a player should be (1800+<rating of the engine he uses>)/2 :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-27 21:34:13)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Hi Garvin, sure there might be a language issue... sorry about that :/ I think I only try to interpret what you say in terms of consequences on the whole thing but I may be wrong at some points, be sure I'm not trying to avoid anything deliberately.
The provisional rating already takes account of if the player uses an engine or not (at least I try to make an estimation on what the new member says in the registration form).
As I just said in the other discussion, maybe we could try to extend the M groups to the 2200-2300 players, it may satisfy everyone as it is probably easier to cross the 2000 barrier than the 2200's, what do you think?
Daniel Parmet (2011-02-27 21:57:03)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I disagree vehemently with the extension of the 2200 for the M group. The whole attraction of the FICGS world group is that its a chance to play these 2200s that I can never play otherwise. If you remove this chance, all you do is create a zone where the 2100s risk points and gain nothing. I'd have no reason to participate.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-27 22:46:42)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
??! but this way 2000-2100 rated players have much more chances to win 1st stage groups and to play 6 strong opponents the stage after instead of only 1 in these groups... well, it looks like a bit a contradiction to me to agree what Garvin says and to say this, or maybe I did not understand something again. Let's see what Garvin & others will say.
Garvin Gray (2011-02-28 02:16:26)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
If I understand correctly Thib ;)
You are suggesting that the 2100 ers get pushed up into the special WCH groups, rather than having to fight it out with the rest of the rif raf in first stage.
Is that correct?
If so, then while personally that might be helpful for me, I am against it on two reasons:
1) It will only push down the rating issues to 2000ers.
2) I think it would be better to not give the special exemptions to those 2200 and above. I think the special exemptions start at 2200, or is that 2300?
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-28 04:38:07)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Thib I feel for you :) Making a good tournament format is very hard. I know I pulled teeth to try and make my format. I had to do two things for my. 1.Make few games as possible and 2.Make it a reasonable time table for a blitz world championship. I believe Garvin did a great job with this in the parings. Lucky we didn't have a lot of unrated players. So Thib I would like to help, but can I ask a favor to you. Is it possible to get a breakdown of the ratings of the players for the last Wch? I think this would be helpful to maybe coming up with a solution. So maybe like..
What was the number of.
2300's+
2200's
2100's
2000's
1900's
1800's
below 1800's
provisional's
I know this maybe some work, but this breakdown can give us a picture of what you have. Personally speaking I think Garvin's idea is decent. Were you can put the highest advance provisional player in the lower stage round 2 bracket and the same for the lowest provisional player to go to the higher round 2 bracket, by performance of stage 1. I guess when you talk about statistical merits for your Wch tournament. You are trying to get the lowest error rate, but get the best value to it.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-28 16:07:33)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I'll answer this in a few hours. A quick suggestion meanwhile, do you think that provisional ratings (most are 1800) should be e.g. rated 2000 if the new members say that they're using an engine? It may help to solve many of these problems.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-02-28 21:02:18)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
@Garvin:
I suggest that all 2200+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) play the M group at stage 1 OR that all 2100+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) play the M group at stage 1 with the new rule that only half the players in these M groups can qualify for stage 2 and still 1 for stage 3. This combined to another new rule that would allow new members declaring to use a chess engine (not so many so far, maybe 20%) when registering would have a provisional rating of 2000 would solve IMO this issue (2000-2100 players would lose less points to those strong provisionally rated players during the wch) and would help to somewhat inflate the ratings that would be a logical thing when seeing the whole correspondence chess standards at the other sites (some already use this 2000 prov. rating). The ratings may even deflate due to the 10 moves rule. Actually I think I would be very favourable to one of these changes.
@Jimmy:
Fortunately there are players like Garvin, Scott, Gino & others who really helped to build the FICGS rules :) On the numbers of players by rating range, it is quite different from a cycle to another, sometimes we have 2 M groups, sometimes there is no M group at all so I'm not sure if it would be representative. Still I'm not favourable at all to have groups of provisionally rated players.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-02-28 22:44:19)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Your right Thib, nice to have experience :) I also had the help of Gino and Garvin. In seeing that, I will just watch form the sidelines now :)
Scott Nichols (2011-02-28 23:04:11)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Wow, it's really hard to follow the rules, just to understand I mean. I would vote for two easy to make changes.
First, do not allow provisional rated players to enter. These players have a high drop out rate and there is no way to judge their strength. It wouldn't be that hard for players to just finish nine games. It would also say a lot for their commitment.
Second, I really think everybody should have to play all rounds. The chances of having a repeat champion would be far less. Getting to just move into the next round is a HUGE advantage.
Daniel Parmet (2011-02-28 23:25:38)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I agree with Scott on both accounts.
I also think with you Thib re using the 2000 as first rating for new people using engines.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-01 11:17:27)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
The idea of this championship was to have a tournament looking like the old classical FIDE WCH, so it would be a non-sense to me to make such changes (the chess world will always be divided into 2 categories on this point :)), I'm not opposed to create something like a Cup tournament (the Freestyle tournament is one example) but it would be probably too much already for the addicted players that we are, so the WBCCC is a good alternative.
Glad to see that Daniel agrees on the 2000 prov. rating, does anyone have any opinion on the suggestions I made just after "@Garvin:" in my previous post?
Scott Nichols (2011-03-01 16:59:35)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Ah, I see what I suggested would be a different "style" tournament. You do a great job Thib with all your tournaments. They are always fun and enlightening.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-02 00:58:02)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I agree there as well. Thank you for this wonderful website. I do not want you to feel like our comments are against the great things you have done. I think we all just want to see the best FICGS we can see.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-02 10:51:41)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I didn't see it that way. I know there will always be possible improvements, it is just not so easy to find the best ones.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-02 15:29:10)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Ok, I have attempted to reply to some of this, but I keep losing the plot of what I am saying. Perhaps it is just that there are too many intertwined topics that it is all too much.
Can someone divide up the topics a bit so I can reply with more clarity?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-02 15:44:26)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Hi Garvin :)
The main point is IMO this suggestion:
"All 2100+, 2150+ or 2200+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) could play the M groups at stage 1 with the new rule that only half the players in these M groups can qualify for stage 2, while the winners will qualify for stage 3 as before.
Combined to another new rule, that would allow new members declaring to use a chess engine (not so many so far, maybe 20%) when registering to get a provisional rating of 2000, it could solve this issue.
Indeed 2000-2100 players would lose less points to those strong provisionally rated players during the regular wch groups, while they keep more chances to qualify for round 2, and it would help to somewhat inflate the ratings that would be a logical thing when seeing the whole correspondence chess standards at the other sites (some already use this 2000 prov. rating).
The ratings may even deflate due to the 10 moves rule."
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-02 15:47:18)
The most common mistake in chess
-> included in FICGS quotes book :)
Garvin Gray (2011-03-02 16:51:12)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Ahh now I know what is confusing. No paragraphs lol
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-02 17:52:00)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Okay, let's try this way, I've added paragraphs. Sorry, hard to read indeed.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-05 11:48:40)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I do not think the proposed idea of TDV solves anything at all. Instead all it does is move the issue from the 2100's to the 2000's.
I am not in favour of this idea that a rating is dependant on whether a person declares if they are using a chess engine or not. What happens if they do not declare, then start using one? Are they kicked out of the tournament? How do you prove the issue?
I think that solution creates more issues than it solves.
More and more I am in favour of the idea from a couple of others than players need to have an established rating before being able to enter the WCH.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-05 13:43:30)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
There is no similar issue for 2000's IMHO, it is probably easier to cross the 2000-2100 barrier than the 2100-2200 and of course 2200-2300. And once again they would lose much less rating points against these new 2000 provisionally rated players (that's mathematical).
On provisional ratings depending on if players declare if an engine is used, even ICCF (as far as I know) grants a 2000 prov. rating to some players, I was not convinced so far but finally... Of course new players can "lie" or change their mind on using an engine, they'll not be kicked out of any tournament but such a rule is surely better than nothing to get ratings more coherent, btw it is just an improvement of the current rule (new players who have no rating anywhere can choose their first rating between 1200 & 1800, and of course I fix it if e.g. the player declares to play with an engine with a new rating of 1200).
Anyway the idea of players needing to have an established rating before being able to enter the WCH is also fine to me. Let's just try to have more opinions on this.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-05 14:03:29)
FICGS chess WCH : choose your rule
Hi all, we need your opinion to choose a new rule for the next FICGS chess WCH, here are the proposals:
1) All 2200+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) play the M groups at stage 1 while only half the players in these M groups can qualify for stage 2. Winners will qualify for stage 3 as before.
2) Same than 1) but also the new members declaring to use a chess engine when registering will get a provisional rating of 2000.
3) All 2100+ players (but the 8 of the knockout tournament) play the M groups at stage 1 while only half the players in these M groups can qualify for stage 2. Winners will qualify for stage 3 as before.
4) Same than 3) but also the new members declaring to use a chess engine when registering will get a provisional rating of 2000.
5) Players need to have an established rating (9 finished & rated games) before being able to enter the WCH waiting list.
6) Same than 5) but also the new members declaring to use a chess engine when registering will get a provisional rating of 2000.
As for me, I think that 2) & 4) are ok for all reasons I mentioned before. 5) & 6) are ok as well but it's a pity to reduce the number of players in the wch cycle :/
Garvin Gray (2011-03-05 14:07:55)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Ok for me.
In order, most want to see first:
5
3
1
4
2
Not sure how 6) works? If players have an established rating, how are they new members and need to declare.
Surely the established rating would be used.
Alexander Blinchevsky (2011-03-05 14:40:26)
Strange game
I wonder to see that at such level someone will continue playing in that position: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=41015
The game was completely decided over 1 year ago, for now it's even force mate shown by any engine.
The only reason to continue playing that I see for the black is waiting for the opponent's (me) death. Sorry, Mariusz, I am not planning to do that in nearest future. :)
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2011-03-05 16:04:01)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I like 3 & 4 and 1 & 2. I do not like denying access to new members for the championship stages, seems elitist to me.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-06 08:56:33)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Aren't having players segregated from the rest being elitist. Tano, you have voted for proposals that are surely elitist ie allowing players to avoid the general population and giving them increased chances to qualify.
If you do not believe in elitism then I would have thought you were would be arguing that all players from all ratings should start from round one, including the 2300+ players.
Mariusz Maciej Broniek (2011-03-06 08:56:45)
Strange game
Hi;0)
maybe I am wrong in my opinion, but I think, that playing chess is for fun! I have a 7yo son, and he traing hard to learn playing chess. In lose position he play move by move and what is bad in that situation? It is only a hobby, its only for fun.. Not for rating, not for 1,0,=. All in FICGS used computers to play, he used a young brain and learn lose too. It is very important in my opinion. I have few games in the same sytuation - I am winner - but I have a time and... dont wont to die too ;0)) BECAUSE IT IS ALL ONLY FOR FUN.
Kind regards to you Alexander
Mariusz
Adri Steenbeek (2011-03-06 09:54:46)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
5) seems very reasonable to me.
The others are too complicated.
6) referring to 5) does not make sense, since they are unrelated.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-06 13:45:39)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Elitist may be not the right term here (I don't know what would be better though :))...
Thanks for sharing your views on this, Adri! Yes, 5 & 6 are unrelated, just wanted to see if the 2000 prov. rating was ok for the most.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2011-03-06 15:03:21)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I do not like this special treatment of players from a certain rating (no matter whether 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300) already from the beginning of the WCHs. And I don't like that the TER is decisive in the case of equal points.
I think it's bad luck if in a group are players with a provisional rating or a small rating (and the player starts to use engines now). But in my opinion all members should be allowed to play the WCH without restrictions.
Maybe games should not be rated for a player with an established rating, if the rating of his opponent is provisional only. But that's another theme.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-07 01:42:09)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
So many solutions... so many choices... :)
Garvin Gray (2011-03-07 16:30:52)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I can sum up my position in a few simple words from what I have read here:
Kick out the provies, make them earn their entry and
no special groups for the 2300 rated. Make them start with the rest of the riff raff from round one.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-07 19:24:44)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
How hard is really for these people to play 9 games? I would amend choice 5 to say no provisional unless they provide another corr website they play on to get a point of parity for their rating (like LSS/ICCF). I mean really the players most likely to timeout are those who have never played a single game of correspondence ever in their life.
I would also point out that if the special rating group is extended to 2100 then I won't be playing. No reason for me to play stage 1 if i'm top seed.
Why did the groups get changed from 8 man groups to 6 man groups?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-07 21:09:18)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Hi Daniel! In brief (before my huge next post):
"How hard to play 9 games": Not hard, but it may take months, maybe more than a year. That's a problem :/
On top seeds, I agree and that's the point to make "class groups" as much as possible. So everyone cannot have equal chances.
On the number of players per group, it only depends on the total number of players in the waiting list. Sometimes it is not possible to build groups of 9 players.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-07 21:18:26)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
On top seeds again, maybe I agreed too fast... Actually I agree that being the top seed is a good way to lose some elo points (but that's not the real point of playing a championship, the current FICGS champion will agree there ;)), but I think that I would prefer to play regular groups as the top seed with the 2100 limit than as the top seed with the 2300 limit. Less points to lose -particularly if the 2000 prov. rating rule is accepted- & more chances to play the next round!
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-07 21:45:17)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Well, I see that the idea of "equal chances for everyone" is still in the debate, that's quite strange as I thought it was obvious & accepted that such a thing cannot exist in correspondence chess.
No correspondence chess championship format can give equal chances to everyone because there is no time for this, and to try to do it only gives less chances to the best player to win it.
The way IECG & ICCF do it has probably as many advantages & inconvenients as we do it at FICGS but at the end the efficiency is quite similar to find as accurately as possible the best player among the highest rated ones IMO & everyone have NOT equal chances (either you have to play a few rounds more or there is a TER rule or whatever).
I'm not saying that one format is better than others, some will like the FICGS format, some will prefer other formats, that's all IMO. Do not think that the WBCCC format solves all problems, it tries to avoid the time problem but the number of players is very limited in the running edition.
Finally, why to play another ICCF/IECG championship here?
I think that there is no argument that can justify that all players (including the 8 players of the knockout after all) should play in regular groups, as well as no argument can justify the opposite. It was just a choice to make it different and somewhat looking like the old FIDE championship.
That's why choices 2) & 4) are really best to me. 2) may be better because the range 2100-2400~ may be too large for M groups, but another solution may be to build M (2250-2400)& N (2100-2250) groups like it was done in one WCH cycle, where the number of qualified players were different. Actually the idea of class groups with different numbers of qualified players is really interesting but of course, the chances are not the same for everyone once again.
Whatever the choice, surely it will not be ok for some players for any reason, but I'm now quite sure that a change should be done.
Wayne Lowrance (2011-03-08 06:19:02)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Howdy all. I have stayed out of this discussion. I am biased for sure. Garvin I can see your side, it is tough. But I believe in the existing format. Maybe a few minor tweaks are ok, we will see I guess. Garvin if your good enough, in time you will climb the ladder. If that is your goal. I have played at ficgs for what seems like forever. I started out at 1400.I came here with a previous 4 year record at another side with a rating of 2300.
I did not think I would ever get past 2200. In fact a member told me face to face via ficgs I would never go higher. I got all the more determined. This does not help you but I just wanted to tell you it can be done.
Maybe it is not fair.
Another personnel observation of apparent unfairness. aboard a ship in the navy first class petty officers get to jump ahead in the chow line. It is not fair, but that is the way it was. Man when I promoted to first class I had no compulsion to jump in ahead of long chow line.
So Thibault I ask for no drastic step to ficgs rating posture.
Wayne
Garvin Gray (2011-03-08 12:12:37)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Thib, originally I asked about the situation with the provisionals, so as the conversation has branched almost to a point where making any changes, I think for this one the issue of the provisionals should be dealt with first.
On the other issues, I have no real issue with the structure as is for the WCH, as long as other tournaments offered better opportunities to play higher rated players.
Put those in place and most of my concerns from this and the other thread are alleviated.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-09 22:26:30)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I will offer an argument in another way- please do not use the word progressive. As soon as I read that word, I think progressive politics and I run a mile :p
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-09 22:52:03)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I was afraid about that possible reading actually :)
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-10 01:47:38)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I'm not sure I even follow the changes... does this mean all 2150+ qualify for stage 2?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-10 02:45:04)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I'm not clear enough, as too often :/
Let's say that there are 33 players over 2150 in the waiting list. 8 will play the knockout, 7 (over 2300) will play the M group and 18 will play in two N groups of 9 players. From the M group, 2 will qualify for the round-robin final (round 3), and 4 will play round 2. From the N groups, 1 from each one will qualify for the round-robin final (round 3), and 4 from each one will play round 2. So from these 33 players, 12 will play in the round-robin groups stage 2.
Maybe this formulation (that should be included into the wch rules) will be clearer:
"Players with a rating superior or equal to 2300 will play 1st stage in class M groups if possible. From these groups the two players obtaining the best score will qualify for the round-robin final stage 3, the player obtaining the lowest score will be eliminated, the others will play stage 2.
Other players with a rating superior or equal to 2150 will play 1st stage in class N groups if possible. From these groups the winner will qualify for the round-robin final, at most half the players from these groups will qualify for round 2."
Garvin Gray (2011-03-10 02:46:05)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I think I understand the changes Daniel, so lets see how this goes.
The top eight rated players who have to nominate to play in this section participate in knockout matches (that is still the same).
Stage 1.
All players rated above 2150+ are placed in their own round robin groups, these groups are called Group M and Group N.
For players in the M group, the top two point scorers progress through to the round robin final.
The lowest point scorer from these groups is eliminated.
Those who finish from 3rd to second last just move to stage 2.
For players in the N group, only the winner qualifies for the round robin final and at most half the players from this group will qualify for stage 2, the others are eliminated.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-10 02:47:44)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Ah so this change basically means I can't play until I get to 2150. Gotcha.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-10 02:49:48)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Let's say that there are 33 players over 2150 in the waiting list. 8 will play the knockout, 7 (over 2300) will play the M group and 18 will play in two N groups of 9 players. From the M group, 2 will qualify for the round-robin final (round 3), and 4 will play round 2. From the N groups, 1 from each one will qualify for the round-robin final (round 3), and 4 from each one will play round 2. So from these 33 players, 12 will play in the round-robin groups stage 2.
I think this should be slightly changed.
1) The top eight rated players will play the knockout matches.
2) The next seven highest rated will play the M group round robin
3) Players 16 to 33 will play in 2 groups, called group N.
and then so forth.
The reason I offer this as a re-wording/change is that it is a little more flexible and it could be that more than 7 players above 2300 nominate, or that less than 7 players above 2300 nominate.
So in effect it just makes it clear that players will be allocated purely in rating order, rather than specifying a particular rating cut off.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-10 02:51:35)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Daniel- Ah so this change basically means I can't play until I get to 2150. Gotcha.
Garvin- You can still play. You will start exactly as normal in the general round robin groups. It used to be that players rated over 2300 went straight through to groups on their own, now Thib has moved the rating cutoff to 2150.
For those under 2150, it should make it easier to qualify for the next stage.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-10 02:52:59)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Daniel and others- I am just helping Thib out to clarify the changes as I understand them.
My personal position on the rating cutoff is that all the players except the champion and ex-champion should start from stage 1. None of this rating cutoff and special groups stuff.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-10 02:54:11)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
No, it makes it pointless. You are the top seed. You play underrated players or weak players both of which are a waste of time. You lose massive ratings points and never get a chance to play the stronger players. It is a complete waste of time to enter as the top seed.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-10 02:56:47)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
I agree completely. This is the whole fun of the event which is now gone.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-10 03:15:04)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
btw your assumption that all the 1st seeds get through is wrong. In fact, I didn't get through on my last go around because all the 1800s played drawing lines as white to try to make as sterile a position as possible. This of course forced to play for a win from a drawn position which exactly as you expect - lost. These new proposed changes are in my opinion extremely silly and biased towards people in certain rating brackets. Therefore, I can't participate until I'm on the better half of the bias 2150+
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-10 12:40:21)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Hi Daniel, I don't get your point. Now you're rated 2094 so you would be probably a top seed in the next regular group, playing maybe 2 provisionals (maybe one centaur rated 2000 and one centaur or human rated 1800 or 1700) instead of ~2 centaurs rated 1800 + playing as Black against a player rated 2200. I really think that it is a better "deal" for players rated 2000-2100 also. Yes you may still lose a few points (less than before IMO), but your chances to go to round 2 and play stronger players are much higher... I cannot say more.
@Garvin: your proposal makes sense. By "if possible" I mean that the rule is not strictly 2150 or 2300, I'll just try to make coherent groups (in size & ratings) so it quite looks like your way in practice I think.
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-11 08:39:51)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
well when i'm 2150 i'll gladly return to participating :) until then i'll beg off.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-15 14:08:19)
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Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-24 15:36:57)
5th Go WCH, analysis by SC. von Erichsen
Svante Carl von Erichsen is FICGS Go champion... for the 5th time! After his win in the match that opposed him to Olivier Drouot, here are his analysis on the games:
_______________________
- Congratulations for this 5th win in the FICGS Go championship! By seeing the score you give less and less chances to your opponents who seem stronger each time though... Several games may look quite mysterious to weaker players. What happened during these games?
- Svante Carl von Erichsen:
Hi!
I do not have the impression that my opponents have less and less
chances. I also make many mistakes, and was in a clearly bad position
in at least one game. Olivier made many very unusual moves in the
opening, which were difficult to handle in a calm manner.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47578
In game 3 (47578), this is apparent at move 18. White has gone for a
very centre-oriented game, while Black has made more direct profit.
It is difficult to say who got the better deal. Move 18 itself is
very unusual, and I am not sure whether the result was satisfactory
for me. I think that moves 41 and 43 were important, as stabilizing
the group in the centre takes priority when the centre is dominated by
White like this. At move 53, it is clear that Black needs to stabilize
the top group, but D18 seems more important in retrospect. Move 62 is
a bit odd---I think that living with S16 instead would be better. I
think that Black got a territorial advantage here. Since White got
additional central strength, Black turned to make his central group
safe again, which should be enough to win now. White 94 tries to
shake up things again, but getting separated on the lower side makes
it very hard for him.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47580
In game 5 (47580), Olivier chose a very unusual move again at move 8.
I think that the outcome until move 17 favours Black, however. At
move 36, it looks like Black will have to live in the corner, but the
white enclosure does have its holes. Alas, White's response to the
forcing move at P10 was a severe blunder, as Black can take back the
right side. Move 55 was big, but I had not anticipated that the fight
after move 56 would be so hard for me. I think that after move 93,
White put too much emphasis on hollowing out what once seemed like
prospective black territory. The ponnuki in the centre was worth much
more than what White made on the second line. With that strength,
reducing the white framework on the left was no question. I think
that White then tried too hard in the centre.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47576
Game 1 (47576) was characterized by a big fight starting from the
joseki in the lower right corner. I guess that a stronger player
could point out several mistakes by both sides. It resulted in a big
exchange, where quite some aji remained in both positions. Move 90 is
an unusual idea, it would be more normal to extend on the side. 91
and 95 were intended as forcing moves to give some support to the top
side. I think that Black has good prospects after move 99 and
especially after 113. White started an interesting invasion on the
left then, which was however stopped by the blunder at 138.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47579
Game 4 (47579) again featured some unusual moves in the opening,
namely moves 7 and 9. I think that immediately plunging through at 10
was not good. It was quite difficult for me to keep territorial
balance afterwards. I think that my invasion at the top was
premature, but it seemed like I could not keep up without it. The
attack at L13 was severe. I got lucky that Black kept back a bit, so
that I could get the cut at E7, which was more important than the six
stones around N13. It would have been possible to save them at move
98, but at the cost of letting Black break through L10. Sacrificing
them allowed me to cement the centre to put me comfortably ahead. L9
was then the start of a desperate attempt to reduce the centre. I was
quite sure that I could capture it, even though simply connecting
would most likely have been enough. I then made a big blunder again
with move 130 (I had to double hane), allowing a game-deciding ko.
Black had a lot of threats against the lower right corner, and I think
that this exchange would have put him ahead. However, he thought he
had an internal threat at D10, which I think was not one, as there was
no additional eye in the centre yet.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47577
In game 2 (47577), he got me in the opening with another of his
experiments (move 7). I think that I could have been satisfied if I
simply played the keima to P2 at move 14. However, I activated the
central stone instead, which led to Black getting solid positions on
both sides, while I lived small in the corner and struggled in the
centre. I then succeeded in making him overconcentrated on the lower
side, but at the expense of a quite large corner and not making many
points myself. Move 80 tries to stir things up more. I think that if
Black had secured O13 with move 97, the game would have been over.
However, things only began to look good for White after move 127,
which had to be played at R8 (it is sente against the middle group
then, so Black can live with S5). It is still not over, however, as
White has two weak groups to take care of. The lower side group can
live locally with a ko at G1, but the other group has to struggle---it
would be nice to find a clean sacrifice plan here, because it is hard
for the two groups not to compete for eye space. This was the last
game to end, and my opponent seems to have chosen to resign all when
he did not see a way to win the overall match anymore.
All in all, these were very interesting games where I think I learnt a
lot. I wish to thank my opponent, who played very well.
Thanks!
Svante
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-27 09:22:53)
FICGS Quote file
Tell me this whopper isn't worthy!
"If you are not prepared to be wrong then you will never come up with anything original" - Sir Ken Robinson
!!
Don Groves (2011-03-28 01:43:21)
FICGS Quote file
Similar to this one by the creator of Dilbert, Scott Adams: "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes; art is knowing which ones to keep."
Daniel Parmet (2011-03-28 03:52:44)
FICGS Quote file
not so similar.
Don Groves (2011-03-28 22:56:13)
FICGS Quote file
How so? They both say that the inability to be wrong inhibits creativity.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-29 13:41:40)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Thib,
I was wondering, how many people have entered each of the wch's from the first to number eight?
And how are entries going so far for this one?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-29 14:59:17)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
Looks like about 150 players are in the waiting list so far... not bad. From the 1st to the 8th, the number of players was around 120 to 150, as far as I can remember.
Garvin Gray (2011-03-30 15:50:27)
FICGS chess World Championship #9
One day to go!
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-31 19:50:04)
Segregation of Games on this Server
Finally, I just made a small update to solve this problem, now you may download chess finished games by 2 months periods, see:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=search_games#chess_database
Please report bugs if any... Thanks!
Don Groves (2011-03-31 22:53:24)
FICGS Birthday?
Thib -- you wrote that FICGS would soon be four years old but I joined in August 2006 and there were 350 members already. Maybe FICGS will be five years old soon?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-31 23:07:22)
FICGS Birthday?
Nope, I remember that I announced in the forums about FICGS in April 2006, and many strong players registered very quickly...
By the way the archives tell it:
http://www.ficgs.com/archives.html
At the very bottom of the page (or almost), the server started on April 5, 2006. About 220 players registered the first 25 days...
Don Groves (2011-03-31 23:23:26)
FICGS Birthday?
All true. But April, 2006 to April, 2011 is 5 years, oui?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-03-31 23:34:25)
FICGS Birthday?
............... oops :)
William Taylor (2011-04-01 00:40:10)
FICGS Birthday?
Is it possible to find out when I joined?
Don Groves (2011-04-01 03:44:51)
FICGS Birthday?
Have a look at your first game.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-01 09:26:08)
FICGS Birthday?
William, I think that the registration date has been added after you registered, so Don's method is probably best here.
William Taylor (2011-04-01 20:19:14)
FICGS Birthday?
Good idea Don. Looks like my first games started on Christmas day '06.
Sebastian Boehme (2011-04-02 17:15:00)
FICGS Birthday?
5th birthday of FICGS? Congrats on this first of all to this great correspondence server.
Sounds to me like there should be a special sort of celebration event for this to come.
Thibault now it is your turn. ;-)
Don Groves (2011-04-02 23:43:58)
FICGS Birthday?
I propose a toast to FICGS. We all tip our glass to Thibault at 00:00 server time on April 5th.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-03 01:53:04)
FICGS Birthday?
Ah! You challenge me Sebi :) I was not even able to find an april fool joke good enough this time... but I'll try! A special tournament wouldn't be a good idea right now though :/
Don, I can do this! Cheers at 00:00 April 5th!
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-04 01:44:31)
Conditional moves
Hi guys, I understand your feeling, sorry about that... yes it would be a huge work to make conditional moves for chess or all games at FICGS, anyway I'm still not favourable to this for some reasons, eg. (from a previous discussion) "I think it's not completely fair and adds a (small) chancy factor to the game, so in this way I understand time abuse. (...) In many forced sequences, only one side may take advantage of conditional moves to save time, that's not fair (...) there are forced lines where only one player has no choice".
Don Groves (2011-04-05 10:52:37)
FICGS Birthday?
You missed it but we had many drinks to your honor!
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2011-04-05 11:40:56)
FICGS Birthday?
Hi all,
Member # 12 (ROU). That's me. I think I joined before April 2006.
I don't remember how I joined and how I found it.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-05 11:49:56)
FICGS Birthday?
Hi Paul-Iosif !
For the story, I remember how Paul-Iosif joined FICGS because he is the first & ONLY member not from my personal friends who joined FICGS even before I announced it (which was a true surprise to me)! I remember that you found it through Google that indexed FICGS before that there is any friendly link pointing to it (probably thanks to a "whois" website).
Thanks Paul-Iosif for being still there 5 years later :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-05 11:52:56)
FICGS Birthday?
Hi Don, shame on me I had no computer at this time but I thought about it! Today is the day, thanks guys!
Paul-Iosif Guralivu (2011-04-05 18:33:44)
FICGS Birthday?
Hi Thibault!
The truth is that I wasn't always active in the FICGS comunity. Nor I'm a very good player.
But I still do enjoy chess.
And I'm happy FICGS provides a place where you can say: "Hey I played in an unofficial World Chess Championshiop".
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-07 17:29:11)
Recent problems at FICGS (DNS, emails)
Hi all,
You've probably noticed that the server was unreachable during hours yesterday & today, and that some emails arrived late, the reason is that I'm trying to solve an old DNS issue.
12 hours have been added to all players in running games, I hope that everything will work fine soon.
Sorry about that.
Daniel Parmet (2011-04-08 08:03:30)
Recent problems at FICGS (DNS, emails)
No worries! Keep up the good work :) We shall just label this all as a birthday spanking.
Peter Unger (2011-04-19 23:34:25)
You can't enter this tournament
Why? There are players with 2145etc. in the waiting list?
See the following?
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_SM__000008
(type : rated round-robin, time : 30 days, increment : 1 day / move)
7 players, 6 game (1 game against each opponent)
entry fee : 0 , prize : 20 (E-Points)
elo : 2300+
You can't enter this tournament :
Your chess rating : 2166 , is out of the restrictions.
Waiting list :
POL Broniek, Mariusz Maciej 2152
SVK Gazi, Miroslav 2272
USA Nichols, Scott 2184
DEU Wosch, Arkadiusz 2145
KAZ Alaguzov, Maxat 2415
PRT Pessoa, Francisco 2528
Kevin D. Plant (2011-04-20 12:18:31)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000041
Why does it show the following
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000041
Leaders : George Clement Mark Eldridge
who have 2/4 and I have 2.5/4
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-21 11:53:57)
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_M__000041
The tournaments leaders/winners are not updated in real time. Now it should be ok.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-04-21 11:55:57)
You can't enter this tournament
Hello Peter, all explained here:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#tickets
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2011-04-26 03:22:43)
Active rating lists
Hi Harshil, when I joined my ranking was 1400, now it is over 2000. I only played one class d championship. If you try to play chess rapid tournaments or the ficgs world champion with players whose ranking is higher than yours, you may progress faster. About the ranking system used here, it is pretty standard, you will find it in others chess sites or clubs.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-04-29 14:45:26)
WBCCC-New stuff and Round 2 Update
The last round was very exciting! And this round has had some great games as well. To speak of there is just 4 games left. Here is the report of the most important games this round.
Starting at the top boards. We have have...
B1-Loboestepario (Gino Figilo) vs CumnorChessClub (Kevin E.Plant)
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21163-
This game followed a Catalan. Gino makes ambitious choice to go with 5.Nbd2! I gave this move a ! Not because of its theoretical standing. But because it will lead to a position were white will give up a whole pawn for rapid development. Never the less, black is equal to the task and managers to hold on to the pawn for most of the game and keep the game balanced. With my human eyes, I thought for sure white had an advantage! After move 20.Be4, It looks like white has 2 racking bishops. While black has one black locked in! But in depth analysis shows, that black can hold on. And shows great defensive technique. Down the stretch. Well played by Gino and Kevin. On of my favorite games to follow.
B3-Mark Eldridge vs David Evans
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21165-
David has gotten tested in both his black games in this tournament. And this game was no different. We had another B90 line in this game. And ...8.h5 was used. This is becoming a common line in this tournament. Mark's treatment on the white side was great! I think his future opponents will think twice before trying this line again. At move 22, the game reaches the sharpest point. After move 22.fxe5! I thought that Mark had a chance vs David. But David founds some good moves to exchanges pieces and hold for a draw. The best of which was the combo of ...33.Rf3 and ...36.Rxg3! This was a nice find by him. Great job to David and Mark! I look forward to seeing both these players again.
B4-Stephanie vs Fulcrum2000
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21166-
I would normally just post FICGS member games here. But this maybe one of the top 2 or 3 most important games of this round. In what turns out to be the most exciting game of the round IMO. White has shown that they are quite good in the opening phase. At move 18 they choose 18.b3 which was suggested as being the novelty move. White gets a very strong game and after a king tour to capture the pawn. It looked like a win for sure!, but it seems a mistake was made at move 38. Instead of 38.Qc1!? the move 38.Qe8! seems to be a near winner. I thoughts on why this move was missed is because, White was in time trouble in both games. I have to believe this was a favor. As we speak Stephanie is close to defeat in the other game that I will talk about shortly. I would watch her for the reminded of the tournament. I think they will learn form this experience and be even stronger going future. Well done by both players.
B5-NATIONAL12 vs Kamesh
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21167
Two of my good friends battling here. This was a B90 battle. The novelty move was the straight forward looking 27.h4, but after some exchanges. White has to settled for equality. A good match to follow, the one other note made was this was a line pioneered by Eros Riccio.
B7-Wayne Lowrance vs tomski1981
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21169-
Wayne plays a good line vs the french vs tomski. In fact by the database expert, it was in a 100% win line!! But after the queens come off the board. It burns out to a quiet draw. Wayne has had good opening results, but has yet to get in the winners column. I have faith that Wayne will win a game very soon. Good game to both in this one.
B8-Uly vs indrajit_sg
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21170-
This was a nice game to follow. A french defense was chosen. The point in which it gets interest is the choice to play 19.bxc3!? Which leads to 21.Nh6+!? I loves this sires of moves! 27.Rh3! was also a good move here. But its seems black has just enough resources to hold the balance. ..54.Bxg6! was a good finally touch. Well played by both players.
B9-Balabachi(William Fuller) vs Sebastian Boehme
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21171
What was talked about as a drawish Ruy position. I found to be quite a game with all the early fireworks. I also liked the material imbalance in this game. Sebi has a rep of being very difficult to beat with the black pieces. This helps when you have the Ruy and the Posion pawn line of the Sicilian. As two of your best weapons. ;)
B10-Schachmatt (Matt O'Brein) vs Weirwindle
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21172-
This was an interesting Richter-Rauzer game. 15.Qf4 was the novelty move, Form there it got crazy. 21.Nb3 seems to invite a pawn race. Which in the end white loses. This was a tough game for white. I think he should have been able to hold it. But it was still a good game to follow.
B11-donkasand vs Ruben Comes
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21173
This was a nice positional game by Mike (Donkasand), This was a 6.h3 Sicilian. And we get the usually good defense here. ..7.h5 White gets great positional pressure for the whole game and even gets a pawn, but Ruben wholes for a draw.
B12-natmaku vs ralunger (Ramil Germanes)
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21174
This game was a Petroff with 5.Nc3. This kind of move gives white rapid development. Its seems black equalize pretty quickly. And on move 21 a draw was agreed on.
B13-Scott Nichols vs Omprakash
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21175
This was an interesting King's Gambit game. I think Scott didn't study his opponents rep. :) The King's Gambit is Om's specialty. So this was an easy draw for black.
B14-Keoki010 (George Clement) vs deka
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21176-
In this game black returns to his pet line of the Sicilian with 2.a6(Which he played in the last round) I believe this is called the O'Kelly variation. This time around he goes for ..7.Qb6 which looks a little better than ..7.Bb5!? A draw probably should have been possible, but George was able to grid out a win. Well played by both players.
B15-parmetd (Daniel Parmet)vs SpiderG (Peter Marriott)
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21177
This was a King Indian by black. And white does a good job of out playing his opponent in this game. Unfortunately it seems Peter has gotten busy in his life. This game was decide by time.
B16-Banned for Life vs TheHug(Jimmy Huggins)
http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=21178
I face off against Alan who has the white pieces. And is consider to be one of the best players when playing 1.b3. It was a difficult game for me as I decide before hand to play a dangerous line. Needless to say I lose this game after a few small mistakes on my part. I am founding that all the players in the WBCCC are good, I maybe better off being a commentator lol, but no one would have that.
This was the first set of games.
Here is the 2nd game of the 2nd round in the next post.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-04-29 19:39:52)
WBCCC-New stuff and Round 2 Update
Well promotion is going to be important. And I have been talking to some people about it and seeing what I can and should do. After this tournament is over, there is a good chance we will have a top tier freestyle event after that. It will be before WBCCC II. It will be a good way to promote a nice tournament. I know a some of the FICGS players would like to play in such a tournament. As far as OTB GM's maybe lol. :) I think getting more titled players form ICCF, here, and other sites is possible. I have about 5 to 6 sources I will promote heavily. Add a couple of others. I'm going to be ambitious and say we can get 60+ players in next year. And maybe more. It will be a great 6 round tournament next time. Since it will probably go the whole year. I will try and add something for vacation time in there. If we go over by a month or something. That would be oh ok.(For WBCCC II) and thanks for the compliment. :)
Paul Valle (2011-05-03 23:40:03)
Starting Rating
First of all: This is a great site, and love the fact that the Thib interacts with users to improve the site. Many decent chess sites out there, but this is rare.
When it comes to starting ratings, I would like to add some ideas for improvement:
The point of ratings is that they should reflect playing strength.
Likewise, the goal with starting ratings is that it should reflect actual playing strength.
Rules for both should be as equal and fair as possible.
Assumption:
I) the composition of «Active Players» and their ratings here on FICGS, are a valuable source in guesstimating a new players rating. Most players here play aided by an engine and the site is free, so players here should reflect what comes in the door.
(BTW My minimum definition of an «Active Player», is someone who has made at least one move in the period leading up to the official rating list.)
II) Lightning rating is a good estimate of Correspondence Rating.
I further believe that any choices or complications made to the FIDE rules of one starting rating fits all, should mostly be done to aid good Advanced Chess Players, and good OTB-players. Such complications might not be fair, but essential for FICGS to be relevant to the elite.
My proposal:
«Newly Regs» have a choice of THREE options upon starting to play correspondence CHESS on FICGS:
A) Start with a set rating. I would suggest this be set at the average or median off all Active players. Or a fixed numerical constant times this average. You could of course set up all kinds of formulas, but the main point in should reflect the current composition of FICGS members and not estimates based on unverifiable data given by the player.
Some players might feel that they are way better than this and might be discouraged to join and fight for a long time to reach the top tournaments they feel they are entitiled to play. The seccond option is created to encourage these players to join, and give them a choice to prove their skill relativly quickly and accurately.
B) Play 10 preliminary lightning games (starting with the same rating as in A), and then using the end lightning rating as the starting rating for normal tournaments. These players will get a much more accurate starting rating, and may be well motivated to put in the effort if they care. (If all the 10 games went close to 60 moves, and both players used all their time, the playing time would be around 16 hours)
Then there are the top international correspondence or Over-The-Board players. Why bother these with 10 lightning games?
C) Titled players can start in Master with a higher fixed rating (same as in option A, but multiplied with a higher constant), but must register by credit card to prove identity.
Possible drawbacks and problems
1) Assumption I and/or II is flawed
2) A poor player might be highly overrated choosing option A)
3) Players can dump lightning rating points to a friend
4) Implementation cost – development
-What ya think folks?
reg, Paul
Jimmy Huggins (2011-05-15 13:34:12)
WBCCC Round 3 links and more
After 2 rounds FICGS has 5 of the top 10 places in the standings in the WBCCC 1. With Kevin #1 and Kamesh #4 at the top with 3 points and Gino #6, David #7, and Sebi #10. Well Rybka Forum has 4 of the top 10. Fulcrum2000 #2, ppipper #3, WeirwindleX #8, National12 #9.
Many of these players are facing off against each other. Here are just a few games you that are must watch for this round.
Banned for Life vs Ruben Comes- Banned for Life (Alan) is one of the best with 1.b3. It should be interesting to see how Ruben combats this expert with the Larson System.
Sebastian Boehme vs David Evans- These two have crossed paths before on the freestyle field before. I took great interest in this match because Sebi has 1 on the highest winning % with the white pieces in the field and hasn't last a white game on FICGS. That I have seen. I can bet on some fireworks in this game.
Kamesh vs ppipper- Kam put on a good show with the white pieces vs one of the toughest opponents in the field (with my human eyes) and ppipper has done great with the black pieces. With both of his wins coming with the black pieces! O_o Should be fun :)
jitan vs Sebastian Boehme- Jitan is showing to be one of the top tier players in this event. I truly enjoy the tactical opening he played in his only win in the tournament so far in round 1 vs George. And gave Gino all he could handle in Round 2 (With my human eyes again) :)
A lot of the other games speak for themselves. Also keep on eye on Board 1 with Kevin. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-05-21 23:53:26)
E point encouragement
Well, fortunately it doesn't work this way :)
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#prize
Don Groves (2011-05-22 04:36:48)
E point encouragement
I'm not talking about prizes, I'm talking about when a member wants his or her money back from FICGS. If you don't keep track of how many of each member's ePoints are paid for and how many are bonus points, you will be paying back more than you received.
Kamesh Nookala (2011-06-01 14:08:38)
I am exhausted
@ Wayne - There is always a start point and a corresponding end point. You have done so much in your life. But, now, your life needs a bit care from your end. I am just 34 and your chess experience and game play are far bigger than my age. But, the end is inevitable. It is better to put an end for your games Wayne, which you did. What is important for me at this point of time is you and not your games. So, follow what doc says, take rest and I am pretty sure you will be strong enough again. But, then again, just WATCH chess, do not play it.. Else, it may drain your energy again. For whatever happened to me at WBCCC, I quit the tour Wayne. Just enjoying my life :)
Warm regards my good friend...
@ Thib - Yes, lot many changes. Had to quit smoking, though that was never a concern or a cause for my illness. I received only humiliation round after round at WBCCC. I couldn't take more and had to put an end to my corr. chess career for the time being. I am regrouping myself. And, certainly, FICGS is the place where I will come back to.
@ Sebi - Thanks friend. I am not a great corr. chess player. Just a player :p
Regards
Kam
Thibault de Vassal (2011-06-13 18:44:21)
Unable to login for several days?
Hi all,
It looks like a few players are still unable to login (actually to access the whole website) during several days from time to time.
I thought I solved the problem a few months ago and I did not encounter this problem since that time, so I'm not sure about what happens for these players.
A trick may be to enter https://ficgs.com instead of http://www.ficgs.com in your navigator, it does not work every time but it may help sometimes.
If this issue happens to you, please describe what you can do and cannot do here... Let's try to figure it out.
Thanks for your help!
Jimmy Huggins (2011-06-22 06:54:36)
The rise of freestyle chess again.
Hello to all my FICGS friends! I was wanting to post here to let people know about a live broadcast later today. Me and ICCF GM Arno Nickel will be having a match later to help promote freestyle chess. In truth this is another practice match to try and test a server for freestyle chess. He had own 1st match yesterday. And it was nice to see it being followed. I hope some of you come watch the event. Comments are welcome! :) The match will be at 6:30am Central Standard Time/7:30am Eastern Standard Time/12:30 GMT/ 11:30 Rybka Forum time. Look for a thread in the Rybka Forum/ Computer Chess subforum. The thread will be up several minutes before the match. The time control will be 60min+15sec, which is a common time control for freestyle chess.
For those of you who don't know ICCF GM Arno Nickel. He is in the top 10 in the ICCF and is one of the leading people to promote and bring freestyle chess to the fore front.
I hope to see you today and I'm sure there will be other matches to follow in the future. This will all lead up to a great tournament later on this year. :)
Mariusz Maciej Broniek (2011-06-22 16:49:31)
Thank you!
Dear FICGS Friends, Because of very bad health condition I have to take a break of playing chess. I am so sorry. I want to thank you, my Friends, for all good games and friendship. All the best to you! Kind regards, Mariusz M. Broniek
Jimmy Huggins (2011-06-23 05:04:22)
The rise of freestyle chess again.
Yes this was what we was hoping for. The results of the match were not as important to me. The broadcast was good, there will be a tournament later on this year. And I will invite my FICGS friends to play. :) My hope is the that system will support all the games for the broadcast and we get good commentary (I will most likely be one of them :) ). My aim for a date is between Nov-Dec. As this will be in between the first WBCCC and the next. The server is easy to handle once you have a first games under your belt. You are able to run everything though the server. So you can run your engines and books in there. The first freestyle event will be probably be a smaller tournament around 30 people maybe. But my hope is by the 2nd or 3rd edition the we will have good size tournament.
Anyone wishing to try the server and play a game let me know and we will work something out.
Lalit Kapoor (2011-06-28 10:39:04)
When a player declared winner?
The following tournaments are finished with no unfinished games but site does not declared the winner so far:
1. FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_A__000093 (last game finished on June 16, 2011
2. FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__TOURNAMENT_C__000049 (last game finished on May 24, 2011.)
Please let the players know about the rules upon this issue.
Daniel Parmet (2011-07-09 15:39:26)
Active rating lists
No matter my complaints, I am still *VERY* happy with FICGS and Thib. This site is the best correspondence site I've ever seen.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-07-11 23:26:36)
How come ...
Hello Robert,
The established rating list shows not only ratings built at FICGS but also at IECG or FIDE/ICCF (that are quite similar).
I understand your question and that point is similar to another recent discussion, that's why I'll make an update soon to distinguish players who never played any game at FICGS.
Pablo Schmid (2011-07-12 14:47:32)
Shogi in ficgs?
Hello Thibault and everybody, there is poker, and go, an asian strategic game in ficgs already. I think Shogi, (japanese chess) might be very fun here, this is rather misknown for occidental people and there is not many place where we can play that game. The game is very fun to play and complicated as well! Usually Kanji, japanese symbols are used instead of "pieces" but it exists "occidental symbols" that represents pieces, maybe we could try it with 2 interface possible, with pieces or with kanji like in playok.com
What do you think?
Don Groves (2011-07-13 08:36:20)
Shogi in ficgs?
I will second that idea.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-07-13 22:42:29)
More statistics for every player
I've just added a new feature to see more statistics on every player, see in Preferences >> (statistics)
You can see such informations for every player by typing in example this link:
http://www.ficgs.com/players/devassal_thibault#stats
(wow, that's really not glorious :))
Any suggestion is welcome...
Thibault de Vassal (2011-07-13 23:27:51)
Shogi in ficgs?
Sure, all players are invited to give their opinion on this point, I'm not really convinced by the idea for the same old reasons (too many similar games kill the games) but I'm always able to change my mind :)
Gino Figlio (2011-08-03 19:58:34)
Eros on his win in the 4th chess WCH
Eros,
It looks like we get to play again but this time it will be for a FICGS championship Final. Hopefully I understand the Semifinal tiebreak rules correctly otherwise this would be pretty embarrassing...
Best of luck,
Gino
Thibault de Vassal (2011-08-03 20:29:36)
@Gino
Hi Gino, you understand the semi-final tie break rules! Congratulations for another win in the knockout cycle. That will be another interesting match (the 8th FICGS knockout final) to follow! :)
Don Groves (2011-08-10 04:47:14)
Ideas for a Freestyle tournament
Yes, how do you handle all FICGS time zones?
Jimmy Huggins (2011-08-13 23:38:58)
Ideas for a Freestyle tournament
Oh ok if I had to swing in right now. It would be a Sat-->Sat event. 5 or 6 rounds depending on how many want to play. The time control at the moment would be 60+30sec. It seemed to work for FICGS freestyle cup. I guess the question is how many hours are we willing to go for a day.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-08-13 23:41:04)
Ideas for a Freestyle tournament
I guess the only real difference at the moment form my tournament to the FICGS freestyle cup is doing it on 2 Saturdays instead of Saturday and Sunday. I feel like this is a slight benefit that most seem to agree with.
Philip Roe (2011-09-18 05:19:36)
Phantom ficgs
When I am in the ficgs site, a second tab opens spontaneously in the ficgs format, and bearing some random message from the real site. The message scrolls across the page from right to left. I kill this tab and it returns after about a minute. It carries a label in the tab box "Message box 1"
Does this happen to anyone else? how do you get rid of it?
Garvin Gray (2011-09-18 14:03:36)
Phantom ficgs
Not for me.
Garvin Gray (2011-09-18 14:04:16)
Phantom ficgs
Are you logging in under http or https?
https is the secure server address, which might help with your issue.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-09-19 18:10:05)
Phantom ficgs
Hi Philip,
That's quite strange, this windows should appear in the main FICGS window (the chat bar is below this one).
What navigator do you use (on what computer or mobile)?
Philip Roe (2011-09-19 21:44:13)
Phantom ficgs
Hi Thibault,
This happens on an HP Pavilion laptop, when I connect using either IE or Firefox.
There is no apparent pattern to the messages. Just now I got a line from Wikichess, a tornament start announcement, a note from you, part of a thread on Game 58473, advice that a player has just logged on. They seem to be things that have recently appeared above the chat bar.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-09-20 14:43:35)
Phantom ficgs
I have no idea yet on how to solve this rare (obviously) problem :/ Did you try Garvin's suggestion to use https ?
It started recently only? So it worked on the same computer before?! Don't you have any idea of what changed at this moment on your computer? (installation of java any addon...)
Philip Roe (2011-09-20 19:11:01)
Phantom ficgs
Hi Thibault,
Thanks for trying to think about this.
I was just about to post that it had disappeared as mysteriously as it arrived, but as I was typing it came back!!
It must be something odd that only happens to me. Perhaps a side effect of some automatic upgrade. Who knows??
William Taylor (2011-09-26 01:18:37)
Au revoir
When my current games are finished I'll be leaving FICGS for a while to focus on other things (mainly the last year of my degree and OTB chess). Thanks for all the games, and I'll be back for some more in the future. :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-09-27 11:43:12)
About lag (timestamp system) for bullet
Just answering a question I just saw in the chat: no, there is no timestamp system at FICGS. Actually I made those bullet/lightning/blitz time controls while I had the worst (!) broadband in the world (until last year), according to me it was long enough even for a few seconds lag. The other reason is that I experienced the timestamp systems on ICS and other sites at this time and it didn't work so well. Anyway, we should probably use a software to use this system, and cheating would probably be possible then.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-10-04 21:41:38)
IP not banned
Hello Vjacheslav, no your IP is not banned, this is a recurrent problem that happens sometimes (but that did not happen for quite a long time), a few people (I had the problem too) were not able to connect to FICGS server during a few hours, a few days at most.
Sorry about that, still no way to solve this problem :/
Alvin Alcala (2011-10-05 19:51:04)
Official WBCCC freestyle cup 1 to begin
No what I mean you can post the FICGS server timing. All can determine whats the equivalent in their time zones. It can be seen in the "messegaes" (i.e. Paris, 2011 October 5, server time 19:50:30)
Jimmy Huggins (2011-10-06 07:34:10)
Official WBCCC freestyle cup 1 to begin
It will be between 12:00-14:00 FICGS time here.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-10-11 11:37:09)
Go Komi 7.5, advantage for Black/White?
A topic on the game of Go.
Someone suggested that the current FICGS Go champion should be able to decide the color of the 1st game (the WCH final match is played in 5 games) because the komi may be an advantage for White.
I'm not favourable to this idea because IMO the komi "may be" an advantage for White or Black according to the players level, and it should be about equal for top players (9p, theorically). Anyway, I guess that the champion has quite an advantage already by playing the final match only.
Any opinion on this?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-10-28 22:16:09)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Hi all,
The 4th FICGS freestyle tournament may happen on december 3 & 4 (2011) - three rounds each day at 13:00, 15:00, 17:00 server time. The format should be the same (30 minutes + 15 seconds per move) than the previous one.
That's quite a good moment IMO, just before the start of the next championship cycle.
What do you think? Any suggestions?
Thank you,
Thibault
Jimmy Huggins (2011-10-29 07:10:16)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
If you get this in, than I'm sacing my last tournament and probably just do the 60min tournament.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-10-29 07:11:38)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Its to hard to try and do a 90min tournament and do more than 1 game a weekend. People just didn't want to do it.
Jimmy Huggins (2011-10-29 07:12:46)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Well let me retract part of that. They DO want to play in a 90min type tournament. But getting to do more than 1 game a weekend was like trying to pull teeth.
Garvin Gray (2011-10-29 15:41:40)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Hmm I seem to be repeating myself :) Jimmy, one round per week, 90 minutes plus 30 secs.
Run it over seven or so weeks, a player can take a no explanation half point bye if they wish and then that will fill the time between WBCCC's.
Scott Nichols (2011-10-29 17:53:04)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
The more the merrier, :) I'm down for all of them....
Thibault de Vassal (2011-10-29 21:23:06)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
We shouldn't talk about several tournaments at the same time... quite confusing. So this is a thread about the next FICGS freestyle tournament only. Who would be interested to play this week end (december 3, 4) ? (starting with me, of course :))
Thanks :)
Wayne Lowrance (2011-10-30 05:35:52)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I would play
Robert Mueller (2011-10-30 07:48:45)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I would play, probably.
Scott Nichols (2011-10-30 13:43:32)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Yes, put me down.
Garvin Gray (2011-11-01 11:51:15)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Scott, you certainly put the thread down with your last comment :P
David Evans (2011-11-01 14:54:04)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Start a waiting list thib.........
Sebastian Boehme (2011-11-01 15:22:36)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Sounds interesting to me, speaking as of now: I will probably be able to play.
Garvin Gray (2011-11-01 16:40:27)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Agree with needing a waiting list
Gino Figlio (2011-11-01 16:50:44)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I would like to play as well
Thibault de Vassal (2011-11-01 20:58:17)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Okay, the waiting list is open! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-11-01 21:30:37)
Best poker hands (nov. 1st, 2011)
So far, we've had 2 royal straight flush...
Here is the top 50 of the best hands:
1. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=48259&move=509
2. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=46937&move=771
3. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=49350&move=623
4. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=46624&move=637
5. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=56107&move=440
6. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=50644&move=1331
7. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=26299&move=1092
8. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55390&move=490
9. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=52098&move=241
10. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51966&move=672
11. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=50555&move=652
12. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51963&move=532
13. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=44014&move=1035
14. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=50685&move=782
15. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=50389&move=764
16. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47962&move=896
17. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51259&move=104
18. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55175&move=34
19. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51458&move=492
20. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=57131&move=128
21. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=43081&move=393
22. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=56765&move=87
23. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=46758&move=66
24. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=53084&move=746
25. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=59372&move=35
26. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=52398&move=1033
27. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=52269&move=324
28. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=52254&move=13
29. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=49334&move=261
30. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=57873&move=759
31. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51962&move=586
32. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=42889&move=561
33. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=49503&move=64
34. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=47224&move=223
35. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=59395&move=222
36. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=48277&move=489
37. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=57879&move=1018
38. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51638&move=284
39. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=49335&move=53
40. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55529&move=513
41. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=52389&move=584
42. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=37460&move=1118
43. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=56261&move=260
44. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=54006&move=308
45. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=58252&move=1662
46. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=46860&move=457
47. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55442&move=353
48. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55426&move=83
49. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51469&move=326
50. http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=51037&move=2034
Robert Mueller (2011-11-02 17:47:12)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Why is it called FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000002 if it is the 4th freestyle cup?
Garvin Gray (2011-11-03 01:05:12)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Was there a ficgs freestyle cup 03?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-11-03 09:48:27)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Yes Garvin, see the tournaments list. Thanks Robert, it's fixed now :)
Andres E. Leon (2011-11-03 22:08:51)
Chess world championship #8 Question
Hello Thibault, I was playing the FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000008, which recently finishes. I would like to ask you, if I still have possibility to qualify to the next stage. Thanks you very much.
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_04__000008.html
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2011-11-04 01:16:27)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Fast answer
Garvin Gray (2011-11-11 18:29:27)
ficgs Server time
Server time is now five minutes ahead again and gaining more time.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-11-11 22:22:05)
ficgs Server time
Yes, that's strange as it should be corrected regularly automatically... I just changed it. Thanks!
Garvin Gray (2011-11-13 16:44:59)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Entries could be closed now. It would be a nice 8 player round robin :)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-11-22 10:52:44)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
ICCF SIM Igor Dolgov just entered the waiting list... Things could be even harder than last time if the italian team joins us :)
Jimmy Huggins (2011-11-28 10:38:22)
WBCCC 2 sign up and WBCCC 1 review
After an exciting WBCCC 1, Own Champion ppipper (José Sanz) wins with a finally score of 7.5 out 10. FICGS top players were in a tied for 2nd with Timothy Cookson, Sebastian Boehme, and Ruben Comes. Credit also has to go to David Evans who had ppipper as White in the last game. And went all out to beat him. In the end Jose pulled out the win with black. For those interested I highly recommend you read this article. About the champion talked about his tournament games.
http://www.chesscafe.com/chessok/chessok.htm
Now I wanted to go a head and open up the sign up for the 2nd edition of WBCCC and tell everyone about the improvements and add ons.
The first major improvement on WBCCC is that it will have a simple to use conditional move system. With our easy downloadable client we use. There is also going to be a 2nd tournament for those who prefer a little more time than own standard tournament of 30days per side. In the 2nd tournament that is going to be called Rybka Forum Grand Prix. Is going to be 30day for the first 40 moves and 30 days Sudden Death after that. So basically you get 30 more days for 40 moves on your clock. Now here is a few more things to know about the tournament. After each move, if you request it. You can have your move noticed to you by email. This is good for the busy person who doesn't check the game forums all the time. The other thing added to the tournament is that there will be a file on hand for everyone to check to see what sites everyone plays on it a head of time. This is good for guys who like to prepare for there opponent. As for other fun things offered. I finalize with chesspublishing.com that they will help for own best game per round and the winners will get there games analyzed by the top players there and will publish them on the forum. Which I can expand to here and the other forums I promote at. For some were scared of the time control, but in truth we only had 2 games time out, but this was because they left there games. Which was a disappointment, but 2 games over a whole tournament was very good! If you maybe interested, but are unsure about the time. I recommend talking to me and when can have a test game to see if you can handle it. Most know with in a week or 2 if they can do it or not. Thanks for the support of Thib and everyone that played this year and anyone that will try this next year!
Jimmy
Jimmy Huggins (2011-11-28 10:57:39)
WBCCC 2 sign up and WBCCC 1 review
Another great piece in the article is that of Nelson Hernandez. Who probably not many of you know of. He has been part of a 2 man team that has been very success in freestyle chess. He won one of the major championships know as the PAL/CSS which was sponsored by playchess (chessbase). Anyway to those who know him. He has a vast book that he has been working on for years and is a very respectable member of the Rybka Forum.
The game insight he gave in the article. That of 2 long time members of FICGS Kevin Planet and Sebi Boehme was very well done to say the least.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-01 19:20:12)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Hi all, as a reminder the tournament starts this saturday, december 3 at 1pm. / 13:00 server time !!
Good luck :)
Garvin Gray (2011-12-03 18:56:57)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Thibault,
Can you please post provisional round four pairings when all the games are done from round three.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-03 19:26:21)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Sorry, I can't... it may bring some confusion and favour a few players. Everyone (including me) will know tomorrow when games start...
Jai Prakash Singh (2011-12-04 05:32:15)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I got bye in rd 1 and draw in rd 3. But my points being shown are 0.5 instead of 1.5. Please correct it.
Garvin Gray (2011-12-04 11:31:34)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I am almost certain who my opponent will be and what colour ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-04 12:39:41)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Jai, the FICGS crosstable is not exactly the same as in the program that organizes it. I'll publish the full results at the end of the tourney.
@Garvin, there are good chances indeed :)
Garvin Gray (2011-12-04 14:25:51)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
I am thinking that for future freestyle cups, that the entry fee should be 20 euro and half of that is refunded if a player completes all their scheduled games.
A person who forfeits a game, or withdraws, does their whole dough and gets nothing.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-04 16:35:34)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Idea to be discussed Garvin! Interesting...
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-04 19:54:16)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Garvin, about your suggestion: what about forfeits due to connection problems?
Alvin Alcala (2011-12-05 16:05:38)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Many thanks, It was a lucky two days for me as the top guns are not around (Eros, David, & Ruben). Also much much stronger opposition if Alberto, Sebi, Kamesh, etc are included. In the next tour I hope more people will join as we barely have this type of a tourney in a year. :)
Garvin Gray (2011-12-06 12:05:27)
4th FICGS freestyle cup
Garvin, about your suggestion: what about forfeits due to connection problems?
Well for situations outside their control, no penalty. But the issue is how to rule on that and what stops a person from dis-connecting and then saying not my fault, isp issues or the like.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-15 21:01:47)
Big chess art :)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=55952&move=301&flip=1
Any other cool drawing?
Daniel Parmet (2011-12-17 07:37:30)
Holiday
I agree with Lehnhoff. No change to vacation should be done! Bad vacation rules are enough reason to quit playing on corr sites. Ficgs has good vacation rules.
Garvin Gray (2011-12-23 00:24:35)
5 player double round robins
Thib, the proposal is only talking about the general standard/rapid and other all entry tournaments (thematic for instance).
My proposal is not about changing tournaments like the ficgs world champs to 5 player drr's as they have no issues with getting players to join.
Alexis Duenas (2011-12-24 03:00:03)
money prize tournaments
by paying 30 euros entry fee a tournament should be created with 11 players and 2 prizes,ficgs could take a % and earn money
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-24 17:44:25)
5 player double round robins
Maybe we have a beginning of answer in this new discussion:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10165
Do you think that rated or unrated 5 players double round-robin would (partly) solve the problem?
Alvin Alcala (2011-12-26 18:07:46)
Achieving playing norms
I wonder how Scott manage to have so much norms. His very near to his goal now of becoming a ficgs master.
Garvin Gray (2011-12-27 08:52:26)
Achieving playing norms
Is there a table to see what it takes to get the titles?
Fide has tables for what it takes to qualify for different playing norms: http://www.fide.com/fide/handbook.html?id=58&view=article
so I am wondering if there are similar ficgs tables.
Of most interest is at what average rating does the score move from 4.5/6 to 4/6 and so forth.
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-27 18:52:14)
Achieving playing norms
It is all explained here :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
Jimmy Huggins (2011-12-28 12:22:45)
Achieving playing norms
Thib how many people have ever gotten a FICGS GM norm?
Thibault de Vassal (2011-12-28 14:30:49)
Achieving playing norms
3 ... and not the least : Eros Riccio, Michael Aigner & Peter Schuster !
You can find the full list of norms at :
http://www.ficgs.com/titles.html
There's a link (just fixed it) to :
http://www.ficgs.com/display_titles.php
Garvin Gray (2011-12-29 10:24:38)
5 player double round robins
I would still prefer 5 player drr's, but 4 player drr is acceptable.
All I want is this idea to start, whether it is 5P, 4P or Thib's idea of Maybe we have a beginning of answer in this new discussion:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10165
Do you think that rated or unrated 5 players double round-robin would (partly) solve the problem?
=======================
The only issue I have with this idea is the unrated part. All games need to be rated.
If its not rated, its not real :) and also it unrated games do not solve some of the rating band issues all of us have discussed previously.
Garvin Gray (2011-12-29 16:11:44)
Different tournament format
Thibault has touched on an issue that I have thought about for a while, so time for a new thread.
Regularly it is discussed about the issues regarding the rating bands, getting to play different players and all sundry similiar issues.
In my opinion I think what this site really needs is more events run under the correspondence style format (not freestyle cup style), where players of significantly different ratings are playing against each other.
Here is what I envisage:
Qualification Stage:
All players of all ratings enter. Groups are divided up similar to Ficgs, except that no players are segregated, so the highest rated player is in Group A, second highest rated player in Group B and so forth.
Even numbers in each group, with a maximum of nine players in a group. There are no substitutes after a group begins.
There are no special groups for the highest rated players or knockout matches. (this is most important to distinguish this event from the WCH)
Final Stage(s):
The winners of each qualification group advance to the final stages, everyone else is eliminated. If there is a tie for first, then all tied players advance. If only one group is required, then this is the final.
If two groups are required, then it would be semi finals and normal round robin pairings would be used and the cycle repeats to get a final group of .... players.
To encourage the highest rated players to enter and to give everyone else a chance to win something substantial, e point entry fee would be 10 epoints.
Steve Lim (2012-01-01 03:02:55)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
After logging in to FICGS, if I stay on any page for more than a few secs. I will not be able to click on any links (eg. submitting a move). If I click on anything, I will get the following error..
No data received
Unable to load the webpage because the server sent no data.
Can anyone shed some light on this problem? Thanks.
Don Groves (2012-01-01 09:10:56)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
I have the same problem is another program is running but not if only the browser is running. Maybe it has to do with the browser...
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-01 20:05:53)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
Quite strange... what browser do you use? Is FICGS the only site you encountered this problem with?
Don Groves (2012-01-02 00:02:18)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
I use Firefox. Don't know about any other sites as this PC (with Windows 7) is only used for FICGS games.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-02 00:35:04)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
But it happens rarely or always when you run these other programs? Really curious. This is probably a computer issue but that's hard to be sure.
Don Groves (2012-01-02 00:45:12)
On rules & players who lost 300 pts
That seems fairer than letting him continue to play in SM or M. The same problem occurs when a player leaves FICGS with games running and comes back a year or so later. Is there any good solution to this?
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-02 14:11:49)
Chess world championship #10
:o) Sorry, that's pure luck (or unluck)! :)
Anyway this is definitely the strongest FICGS chess championship until there... with 205 players (5 have to find a group yet), a record! The knockout will be very interesting to follow as well with the participation of our top seed, Michael Aigner.
Don Groves (2012-01-03 07:32:14)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
I think the issue has to do with my browser not responding fast enough to the server, so the server thinks there is no one here.
This seems to happen only when Houdini is running and using all cores 100% of the time.
Garvin Gray (2012-01-03 10:15:32)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
I get a slightly different issue. After about two weeks, I will get a message saying unable to recognise password- or a message to that effect, and then I have to use the link to reset password.
It occurs using the same computer and browser, so I do not believe there is an issue between switching computers that could throw off the server.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-03 13:40:13)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
Ah... Ok! Indeed, when you're running a chess engine while surfing the internet EVERYTHING can happen :)
I saw that also... Browser not responding, not loading a page (so disconnecting after a while) and so on... This is a computer issue, as Microsoft Windows is not able to do several things at once as Unix can do.
Don Groves (2012-01-03 14:16:01)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
MS Windows 7 dated 2011; Unix dated 1975. Ha!
Garvin Gray (2012-01-03 15:12:04)
Different tournament format
I am surprised Daniel Parmet has not replied to this topic considering my proposal should be much more acceptable to him than the current ficgs world championship design/format.
Where are you Daniel?
Josef Riha (2012-01-04 10:31:16)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
Hello to all, open the taskmanager and then set the priority of iexplore or whatever you use to high.
This will solve most of the problems.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-05 12:59:41)
Unable to stay connected to FICGS
That's right Josef! Thank you, I just added it to the help section.
Garvin Gray (2012-01-05 15:04:32)
ficgs Server time
is now 8 mins ahead
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-05 15:56:01)
ficgs Server time
Sorry... once again. Now fixed, thanks!
Garvin Gray (2012-01-08 16:55:23)
On rules & players who lost 300 pts
Looks like the player in question has been punted, or decided to leave ficgs as I can not find his name anymore and he longer appears in one of the waiting lists.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-10 11:28:44)
Ratings UpDates
Hello George,
That's a very good question... actually I have no clear answer on this (anyone?), but I did not invent this method used in all major correspondence chess organizations.
All I can say is that I "feel" that the results are quite good with this. The aim is to avoid rating peaks I guess. On the other hand ratings move a little faster (more points, not more often) at FICGS than in other organizations, I hope it balances.
Best is to learn to manage one's rating, sometimes best is to lose as fast as possible, sometimes not. Correspondence chess is matter of patience anyway...
Thibault de Vassal (2012-01-12 21:04:58)
Standard open : DRR with entry fee/prize
Finally, this discussion to replace the two following discussions that ended on about the same conclusion and to have opinions on this new chess tournament : CHESS STANDARD OPEN (rated double round robin for 5 players, with entry fee 30 epoints & prize 145 epoints, no elo restriction)
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10165
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10127
Garvin Gray (2012-01-18 16:52:39)
Standard open : DRR with entry fee/prize
And to add, I really am disappointed about the general direction this whole discussion has taken.
It was not my intention to create a tournament of this style when I asked for double round robin. It was my intention to get one of the standard or rapid's to change over to Double round robin, which has not occurred.
I am really starting to get the feeling that this site is starting to move away from the free part and is moving towards a paid site.
More and more tournaments are having entry fees attached to them, which is fine, but then if that is case then the free part of FICGS should be dropped.
Garvin Gray (2012-01-29 11:02:44)
ficgs Server time
Time check, I have three minutes ahead.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-02-02 15:28:34)
Standard open : DRR with entry fee/prize
Why naive? Actually I saw many many cheaters on other servers before to run FICGS, that's why I preferred single round-robin tournaments and I hope that is the reason why cheaters are rare here!
Anyway the answer is yes, a few players had several account and as far as I know they realized very quickly that cheating would take them more time than becoming GM :)
Jimmy Huggins (2012-02-02 19:05:14)
WBCCC 2012 started
Just wanted to wish everyone on the FICGS good luck! :) If anyone is interested I'll post the game threads over here.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-02-09 09:56:26)
annotated games
It is possible to post moves until the end of the game in Wikichess (and to comment it). But you can post a game in the forum as well (see the Help section to see how to post a board).
If the game was played at FICGS you can comment it after the game finishes.
Costantino Proietti (2012-02-12 19:30:55)
annotated games
Thanks a lot. Now I know how, but I don't find on this page: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=encyclopedia
where writing my post?!
Thibault de Vassal (2012-02-18 21:42:26)
Folding in Poker
Yes I agree. I mean, the player called must always show his cards (this is the case at FICGS), but the player who call must show his cards only if one player is all-in, otherwise he's free not to show it even if he has the better hand (here this is automated, so the rules are not fully fullfilled but this is so rare).
Thibault de Vassal (2012-02-21 19:46:09)
Folding in Poker
I cannot remember any change for the poker rating rules!? See there:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating_poker_holdem
When you win or lose a game against a similar rating, you still win or lose about 20 or 30 points so it goes quite quickly... And even faster under 2000.
The fact is that Nelson is really hard to catch :)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-02-24 00:21:47)
Folding in Poker
Erratum, you all right! The last change for poker rules occured last year (february 2011):
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=9557
I just lost a poker game so 12 points:
WhiteELO : 2039 ... 2051
BlackELO : 2160 ... 2148
So, yes ratings move less fast than in january 2011 but it still moves fast enough IMO. If the most doesn't agree with this we can return to the old rating rule, I'm still not sure what is best.
Garvin Gray (2012-02-25 13:57:13)
Folding in Poker
Ok, the main question to me is-
Which system is more able to predict the rules of a match before it begins?
If it was the first system, then that should return. If it is the current system, then keep it.
A more responsive system is usually better, but in the case of ficgs, this may not be good for two reasons:
1) While in otb chess/poker, there are very few mass time outs by a player, online this can occur, as is seen 'regularly' on here.
2) In otb chess, players do not have any kind of official rating until they have played a certain number of games.
This then means those early games to not affect all the other players ratings, which is not the case on here.
In terms of predictive accuracy, which is more accurate? That is the only consideration for me.
When I said that the ratings should be re-run, I did not mean we should start the ratings from scratch and begin from day one.
What I was saying is that ALL the previous results should be re-fed back into the system with the new rating formula and the ratings adjusted accordingly.
Then this would give information to compare as it would contain one set of ratings all measured by the same rating formula.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-04 22:08:50)
FICGS poker ratings
Let's continue the debate that started in this discussion:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10306
I'm still not sure of what is best but our top ranked poker player for a while (Nelson Bernal Varela) obviously participated to the discussion his way by resigning all his poker games to show us how much time it will take to regain his points.
His rating was about 2200, now 1924 and the date is march 4th, 2012.
As we're playing single round-robin tournaments only, the rating list was not so distorted but this is not at the advantage of class B players. Of course I do not encourage this behaviour in any way!
However, following the current rules on general forfeits I think that Nelson should continue his experiment so that we can learn from all this. In my opinion he'll reach the top rankings within a few months (particularly if he plays bullet games) which is quite short compared to correspondence chess.
This would actually justify - in my point of view (maybe Nelson's one too but I'm still not sure of what he's thinking about that) - the current poker rating system, so let's wait 1 month or 2 before to decide to make this change or not.
As a reminder, the initial proposal was: "should we change the poker rating rules so that we win or lose twice points after each game compared to now ?"
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-04 22:10:37)
Folding in Poker
To resume the initial discussion and after that the top ranked poker player resigned all his poker games to obviously show that he can regain his points quickly, I propose to continue the discussion in a new thread:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10353
Scott Nichols (2012-03-04 22:48:24)
FICGS poker ratings
An interesting challenge. I held the #1 spot for a long time and in truth lost interest and let myself slip down, playing rarely and then stopping for over a year I'm pretty sure. So just recently I announced my intentions to reclaim the #1 spot and hold it before this year is over.
Then soon "after" I said this, Nelson resigned his games to start this "experiment". IMO this is how, in addition to playing good poker, he achieved being able to stay #1 for long periods of time. First, you have to play as many games as possible, over a hundred or more. This will allow you to implement the second phase. That is you get to pick and choose which games to play out immediately an which to stop playing to continue at a more opportune time. e.g. Only finish the "winning" games to get to the top. Then when you have a sufficient lead to where a loss or two won't hurt your position, THEN play out the losing ones.
Thib quote from above " In my opinion he'll reach the top rankings within a few months (particularly if he plays bullet games) which is quite short compared to correspondence chess. " Well for him to do this, he will have to get by me, and others, this time. So consider the Gauntlet thrown down! Scott
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-04 23:01:30)
FICGS poker ratings
A problem is that it is impossible to enter new waiting lists when having more than 50 poker games running.
On the other point your strategy may work but at the end you'll probably lose many points... I prefer to lose the almost lost games before to win the almost won ones to have a stable high rating. Anyway it would take much time to sort, I prefer to play all games the same way.
That will be an instructive challenge for sure.
Paul Campanella (2012-03-05 00:11:09)
FICGS poker ratings
Correction, Scott... you shouldn't count your chickens before they hatch because the number one spot will actually be mine one day! :)
I entered my first poker tournament on February 14th, 2011. In barely over one year, I have managed to raise my poker elo from 1600 to 2071 ... an increase of 471 points in, what I consider to be, record-breaking time!
Here is my proof...
http://www.ficgs.com/tournament_FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__TOURNAMENT_D__000036.html
Considering the current situation, I am curious to know if there is anyone else that has managed to increase and maintain their rating by 471 points in such a short amount of time?
Not only do I have a winning record against you of 60%-40%, I also have a 50%-50% record against Nelson, which is better than almost everyone else on FICGS.
Regarding the experiment, Nelson will have to get by me as well. Since I am one of the only people on this site that does not have a losing record against him... it's not going be an easy quest. :)
Scott Nichols (2012-03-05 00:16:41)
FICGS poker ratings
:) Good one Paul. There are about 6-10 players here that have a real chance to be #1 by end of this year. I consider you one of them.
Garvin Gray (2012-03-04 23:47:06)
FICGS poker ratings
I am more alarmed than anything that a person's selfish actions, regardless of who they are, are not only tolerated, but are encouraged by statements like this:
However, following the current rules on general forfeits I think that Nelson should continue his experiment so that we can learn from all this. In my opinion he'll reach the top rankings within a few months (particularly if he plays bullet games) which is quite short compared to correspondence chess.
His actions now affect many players, which includes denying a place to someone in a tournament that he otherwise should not be allowed to enter ie class B tournaments where by all reports he is too good for.
How about we all do this to see how the rating system goes? I find his actions appalling and he deserves to be banned.
If this was done in chess, would the response be the same? If so and someone did it and the same response was given, I would be looking for another site to play at.
I believe people who act like this deserve to have their rating re-set and then spend quite a lot of time on the sidelines. They should forfeit all their games, but not lose any rating points.
What does this site stand for, I think that is one of the main questions? I play poker on here for something to do in the middle of my chess games, even though I am not particularly interested.
My playing of poker will stop if it is treated with such contempt.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-05 00:22:47)
FICGS poker ratings
I knew that you would answer this way... And you are right on several points.
I read the rules before to write this, we could envisage to change the rules on the general forfeits issue but it wouldn't probably be so easy to "fix" it. Maybe another discussion is needed.
About chess, this has been done the same way several times for different reasons, see Wolfgang Utesch, Wayne Lowrance... The only difference is that Nelson gave a bad reason (with the excuse that he may have done this to help to find the best rating rules, which was not necessary). But he could have said something else. What would be the perfect rule? The current rule was probably discussed in the forum previously. Nothing better was found, that's all.
Anyway, this site stands for applying rules... and IMO I have the choice between doing nothing in this special case and preventing Nelson to enter a waiting list during 2 months. Nelson was totally wrong to do this... (also because of Paul's previous message that proves that it is possible to climb the scale quite quickly, which IMO goes in the way of not changing the rating rules) but now that it's done, I think that the best thing for the site is to let him continue, at least we'll learn something from this and it will improve the rating rules.
Paul Campanella (2012-03-05 03:29:32)
FICGS poker ratings
Thank you for the compliment, Scott!
I consider you to be one of the top players and have great respect for you: as both top poker and as a person. You're also a very worthy adversary and our matches are almost always 3-2 (on either side)! :)
Thank you, Thibault, for recognizing my point that it is possible to climb the ladder quite quickly using the current rating system.
I would like to note that it is also possible to climb the ladder without using any strategy. Throughout all of my poker matches on FICGS, I always finished my games (both the winning games and the losing games). I could have easily waited a long time (like some players obviously do on this site) to finish my losing games, but I refuse to do that out of respect for my opponents.
Although poker is a game that requires a combination of luck and skill, I believe that respect belongs here as well. Out of my overall record of 202 completed games, I have won 120 and lost 80. During each game, I was always honorable. For instance, if it is my turn and I know that I am 4 chips away from losing a match 3-0, I will refuse to delay the game and deny my opponent his victory for the next two months even though I have 60 days left on the clock.
Besides, it is my philosophy that the best thing to do when opponent outplays me is to accept the loss, learn from it, and then try to win in a rematch! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-05 13:36:51)
FICGS poker ratings
Paul, then do you agree that the current poker rating rules are fine? Because of your rating history and because it avoids the possibility to have significant rating peaks by delaying to lose games that are almost lost? (seems logical to me)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-05 16:51:57)
FICGS poker ratings
Ah, another argument for the current rating rules: unlike advanced chess, bullet poker games count for the same rating list, so it is quite easy and fast to win points this way.
Paul Campanella (2012-03-05 16:55:11)
FICGS poker ratings
Yes, I say keep it the way it is!
Don Groves (2012-03-06 04:03:50)
FICGS poker ratings
It will take Nelson longer to reach his goal if the rules are left as they are now. My answer is to keep them.
Alvin Alcala (2012-05-30 00:55:06)
Ficgs: Number 1 freestyle chess site??
FICGS has a better user interface for freestyle compared to other site. Its just need to sponsor more freestyle events to gain more players. Yes definitely its number 1.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-03-10 16:57:02)
Replaying games
Hi Don, actually you can also replay poker games, see e.g.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=64299
Just click the double arrows that surround << move >>
Does it work?
So you can show me your AA series :) It happens sometimes (just like any other hand, but it is more remarkable for AA) but I would be surprised that it is related to the algorithm, it's most probably statistical.
Don Groves (2012-03-13 16:14:25)
Replaying games
If I click on this link you gave:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=64299
I don't see it.
Scott Nichols (2012-03-20 17:39:19)
Slow tournament entries
3 days increment! It would be more fun to watch paint dry or grass grow. Some players, and we all know there are plenty of them out there, could keep a totally lost endgame going for over a year, just out of spite.
Which brings up another subject that would help immensely to speed up games without hurting quality.Install the 6-man tablebases on here, or at least let a player claim a win, draw etc when 6-man is reached. In this age of computer chess, if you have the equipment to even sign on to ficgs, you have the ability to go to a tablebase site and see the result. Plus, even the oldest computers, (like mine, :), can find the mate in under a minute in 6-man positions. So for someone to be able to drag the game out just for spite, for me, is a reason not to sign up in the first place.
Michael Rogers (2012-03-21 21:57:53)
Slow tournament entries
A player's games on ICCF and SchemingMind can be accessed directly from the Chessbase interface. Has FICGS considered installing this feature? Also, would an "Open" tournament, allowing all ratings, help?
Pablo Schmid (2012-04-07 15:57:22)
Longest ficgs game of chess
Hello, just for curiosity, is it possible to know what is the longest ficgs game of chess in terms of moves numbers? What is the result?
Scott Nichols (2012-04-07 16:30:49)
Longest ficgs game of chess
Game #49540. Click on "About" for all sorts of stats, :)
Pablo Schmid (2012-04-07 16:31:58)
Longest ficgs game of chess
Wow, thank you very much!
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-15 13:53:20)
About Pinformant
Dear chessfriends,
Please receive my apologies for a stupid bug that happened yesterday (my entire fault). Some of you may have received an invitation twice for a new social network (pinformant.com) that is dedicated to help to promote FICGS on the internet [technically Pinformant is actually a part of FICGS]. That will not happen again!
A few words on this new website: Pinformant is a kind of "social browser" where it is possible to share and discuss full web pages (soon applications and games) displayed into a single page. It quite looks like a basic social network, but the display is quite new as far as I know - It is also a way to boost shared websites traffic instead of simply "stealing" their content.
Why this new website: I needed a website able to gather more people to have the means (thanks to advertisement) to make a better promotion for FICGS. So your help & participation is warmly welcomed anyway.
Any feedback is welcome as well! Thanks in advance.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-16 17:37:09)
About Pinformant
Ok, I signed up a couple of days ago and have looked at it a few times. Have to admit that at this stage I just do not get this.
At the moment I can see a chessbase article on the World Champs, Kramnik on his thoughts about current players and the ficgs home page.
What am I to do now to maximise how to use this new place? And how does this help get more chess players to ficgs?
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-16 22:08:04)
About Pinformant
I agree that the site's purpose is not clear enough yet, I have much to do in this way... But one thing is clear, this website has nothing to do with chess but if you personaly use it this way (like I do)!
The interest is (IMHO) that if you like to share web stuff with friends but do not like the way of Facebook e.g. by using real name, things about private life & so on... This is one more alternative. The main difference with similar social networks is that you share full web pages instead of extracts (saves time, boost sites traffic).
To fully use it, like in every social network, you must have friends (so you probably need to invite friends, that can be done easily thanks to a really great script named Adiinviter - that will be used at FICGS very soon). That way the site may become viral - after some work, we'll see.
How it helps FICGS: This year I launched several websites in this aim and one thing is still missing: a massive source of visitors, in other words a big sponsor! Advertising is quite expensive and it will help this way. So you'll see changes here as fast as Pinformant's traffic will increase...
Niklas Hallqvist (2012-04-19 11:53:19)
XFCC Play
I wish XFCC was considered, it would clearly ease the coupling between my local chess database and analysis environment and FICGS. Today I rely on copy/paste and it's really tedious, esp. when running many games.
Just my $.02
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-19 15:16:13)
Slow tournament entries
We must no forget IMHO that playing correspondence chess here has absolutely nothing to do with playing chess at Gameknot...
Playing with one's real name is really not the same as playing with a casual name, the involvement is different. The rapid time control is really hard enough IMHO when analyzing 10+ games seriously. Time controls at ICCF are longer than our standard's one as far as I remember. Times have changed though, engines as well but not everyone can play 1 move in each game a day.
FICGS will never compete with Gameknot in the number of players or games played, but the quality of chess games may be higher in average.
Let's not try to fix a problem too quickly by creating another one. The main problem right now is that no games enough are starting each month, I'm working on!
If once this problem is fixed you still think that standard time control is too long then we can debate it and envisage a change of the time control or to create a new tournaments category.
Ramil Germanes (2012-04-20 05:19:16)
Slow tournament entries
In my almost two years of playing here in FICGS, I have observed one major factor why tournament entries are going down.
For me, it's because of the large difference of the rating brackets in a certain tournament class.
For example, in a standard class M tourney (2200-2400), if I have a rating of 2300-2399, I will not play because possibly almost all of my opponents there will be around 2200+ and the thing is it's very hard to win against these players now and I may lose rating points even if I draw with them.
But by decreasing the difference in the rating brackets, let's say 2300-2400 or even 2300-2350 for example of a certain tournament class, will encourage me to play in these tournaments because the possibility of losing rating points by drawing is minimal.
With these new bracketing, it will also give us an easier way to climb the rating ladder thus encouraging us to play more games!
Garvin Gray (2012-04-20 15:50:47)
XFCC Play
Damn, I am still getting that issue where i can not read ficgs links on here. Each time I click on a link, as per the above link, a new window opens and I get the please type in your username and password again message screen.
And then I am back to the home page, not the link.
I have just tried in firefox, chrome and ie.
Ramil Germanes (2012-04-21 00:49:35)
Slow tournament entries
Garvin and Thib:
The way I see it, the problem is not how many registered players here in ficgs but how many wants to play.
Look at the case of the ficgs world championship. why there so many wanted to play? the waiting list fills up quickly. because they know that there is more to gain than to lose in the championship.
Not like in a tournament that higher rated players tend to refrain in joining due to possible loss of rating points with very little to gain.
Also even if more players registered here, but if they waited very long for others to fill the waiting list then they might lose interest and might not play or even come back again. (This is also what I felt before when I first join here.) And we also see many players in the rating list without games played and not connected here for a long time. Maybe this is the reason why.
Anyway these are just my observations and not pushing Thib to change the way I see it.
Daniel Parmet (2012-04-21 01:34:43)
Slow tournament entries
Well my reason for not playing at FICGS (despite the fact it is the best site out there!) has been that I can't play the stronger opponents. The rating restrictions have forced me to ONLY play unrated events here or seek other places to play.
However, other than ICCF which costs money there are no other places to play strong players. I just had the most horrendous chess experience of all time at LSS. So my conclusion is that I have probably reached the end of my correspondence career altogether save the ocassional unrated ficgs game if I notice a strong cue up in one of them. I certainly won't be playing my rating class ever again.
The problem IS NOT the time control. The time control here is lovely. I am curious what Thib's solution might be.
Daniel Parmet (2012-04-21 01:48:03)
Slow tournament entries
FICGS strengths:
Free
Well Managed
Friendly
Well Programed
Easy to Navigate
User friendly
Great rules
Great vacation settings
Great Time controls
Great variants / choices
Problems:
Lack of players
Lack of ability to play stronger players.
For all the awesome things here.... the one weakness makes it hard to continue to find people to play.
Ramil Germanes (2012-04-21 02:01:43)
Slow tournament entries
Daniel:
If we have the option to challenge a player of our choice then your second problem is solved.
Your first problem is partly due to negative reactions of players here due to not able to play stronger players but if that is met we all be satisfied and might give good overall reactions about ficgs which might help to attract more players in the long run.
The more important part is the current players here must be satisfied for the site to attract more players.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-21 02:21:24)
Slow tournament entries
"Why only tournaments?" : Because rated 2 players matches may lead to easy cheating (silver/gold ones makes it possible). I'm not sure if unrated 2 players matches would be interesting...
About Daniel's main reason for not playing anymore at FICGS, I'm working on and I'll let everyone know when it's solved!
Ramil Germanes (2012-04-21 02:34:13)
Slow tournament entries
ok thib good luck!
hoping for a better ficgs
Garvin Gray (2012-04-21 09:27:58)
Slow tournament entries
I have proposed previously that a new tournament should be created for all players, similar to the current ficgs world champs, except that ALL players need to start from round one. No knockout series, or separate m groups.
All players of all ratings start from round one.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-21 16:42:15)
Slow tournament entries
I am a fan of the ficgs wch and I think it has many positives. One negative I am starting to notice is that since I am now above 2200, I am getting exactly the same opponents (give or take one or two) who I play in the normal tournaments.
So the groups start to blend into one and it can be difficult to remember if I am playing a wch game, or a normal game, against the same opponent.
I think it would be an interesting exercise to see if the same person can win both events.
The ficgs wch could be held twice a year, and this idea could be held in the other quarter of the year (twice a year also).
Then after some time, see which format gets the most entries and positive reviews.
Daniel Parmet (2012-04-21 16:49:34)
Slow tournament entries
I won't play in the ficgs wch because I am the top seed and this is disgusting to me. Not only does it mean I won't get strong players, it also means I will lose massive ratings points which will in the future ALSO prevent me from playing strong players. Two awful effects!
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-21 18:05:09)
Slow tournament entries
The FICGS WCH is held every 8 months, so about twice a year. I'm still not opposed at all to organize a "CUP" event but it would take many rounds as well and I'm afraid it kills regular tournaments, so we probably need more players for this.
@Daniel: your current rating is 2080, I cannot believe that it is not possible for you to win points in CLASS A... If you win one (or reach 2150) you could enter a CLASS M with 10 Epoints, seems far from impossible.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-21 19:04:37)
Slow tournament entries
Thib: The FICGS WCH is held every 8 months, so about twice a year. I'm still not opposed at all to organize a "CUP" event but it would take many rounds as well and I'm afraid it kills regular tournaments, so we probably need more players for this.
Garvin: I understand what you are saying, but currently numbers for each of the divisions are small and taking a long time to fill, if at all.
The 'cup' could even attract a few new players, or at least drag a few inactive players out of the woodwork.
I understand your point about the number of rounds. I think this could be alleviated by having nine or eleven players per group.
One of the biggest issue, which feels like it is starting to plague the ficgs wch, is a draw rate of about 95 percent.
Don Groves (2012-04-21 21:18:56)
LSS is the worst Corr server
I am wondering why this was posted here. It does not concern FICGS at all. The LSS server would seem to be a more appropriate venue for comppaints about its service.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-22 18:49:49)
Answer from Ortwin
Well, here is the answer from Dr. Ortwin Paetzold (LSS/IECG) that he asked me to post here. I'm glad to do it of course so that we can hear from both sides and make our own opinion with:
>>>>>>>>>>
Daniel Parmet is twisting the reality a bit. I take the right to quote my full answers, however as I do not have the permission to do so, I will not post the notes from Daniel to me, unless he quoted it here himself already.
Fact 1 is that Daniel has not read the rules of LSS or forgot about them. There is a function in LSS which lets the webmaster check this esp. in case of rule questions. Therefore he might not have known about the rule, however, when registering on LSS each player is asked to study the rules and to play according to them. I am sure, the same holds for FICGS and any other server.
Fact 2 is that on 4th April Daniel Parmet has lost a game on time by violating the 30-days-rule. The server automatically stopped the game and awarded the point to the opponent, independent from the position. The server also imposed the two week suspension to start a new tournament. The 30-days-rule was installed at IECG more than 10 years ago and I had included it into LSS right from the beginning. Daniel Parmet asked politely why the admin has cancelled his game (which I had not).
Fact 3 is that in my answer about the query why the game was finished, I have answered with reference to the rules:
“Your game was forfeited, because you did not move for 30 days. This is the maximum number of days to be used per individual move, independent of the total amount of time you have left. See the Rules and Usage Section under "Violation of Time Control". This is also the reason of your two-week-suspension. “
In his response Daniel Parmet called the LSS “a joke of a site”.
Fact 4 is that I answered to this insultation:
“Well, it is not my fault that you have not read the rules during the past five years you have played here! To be honest, this is impressing!”
I do not think this is more rude than insulting me/LSS because one has made a mistake!
Fact 5 is that I did not remove him from the waiting list of the LSS Anniversary 2012 as requested, because I thought that – once Daniel thinks reasonably about the case – he might want to continue, esp. as he wanted to continue all other games. Furthermore LSS has a feature where each player can remove himself from the waitinglist of this tournament. This all happened on 5th April! I then forgot about the matter.
Fact 6 is that on 19th April the LSS Anniverary groups were created including Daniel Parmet to one of the groups. As he was no longer suspended that time I missed that he still was on the waitinglist. I would otherwise have tried to get a replacement, which I did in other cases . When he claimed not to play in the anniversary on 20th April, I decided to remove him from all tournaments he was playing. As the tournaments were in an early stage (start date 15th Feb, Parmet finished only 3/10 and 1/12 games in them), I believe it makes less impact to withdraw a player then letting him influence the outcome, esp. as e.g. he would not use a potential qualification to the LSS WC Semi-Final or the Consolation Finals. I commented that action with the following message:
‘I have withdrawn you from this "joke of a site" (your own - wrong - words. It is not my fault that you have not read the rules!)
Thanks for playing here.’
The answer was unfriendly so I decided to cancel the membership permanently.
I would like to thank Thibault for the opportunity to express my view. I do not intend to comment anyfurther in this matter, as I think the two different versions are speaking for themselves.
Daniel Parmet (2012-04-22 19:43:08)
LSS is the worst Corr server
FICGS already has a rule like that in that its every 60 days here which is far more reasonable. And I have used that to great effect to beat a strong player it required 49 days of analyzing some tough lines to win. If at 30 days, I was forced to move, it would have been a draw.
Mr. Ortwin forgets to mention I didn't violate this rule. But then Ortwin has shown himself to be a very unreasonable character.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-24 15:01:32)
Ficgs World Cup
Following discussions about slow tournament entries, bracket and band rating issues and many other topics, a common item that came out of those discussions is that trying a modified version of the ficgs world championship is worth a trial.
So Ficgs World Cup sounds like a good name.
Format:
In the Ficgs world championship, there are many different qualifying stages, depending on your finishing position from the last cycle, your rating at the time of entry and the strength and total number of the other entrants.
While this format is very good for the concept envisaged when it was created, I think a ficgs world cup, with a format that will be explained below is required to cover a few gaps that are in the ficgs world championship.
The ficgs world cup will work as follows.
1) Everyone enters before a certain date, say June 1st 2012.
2) As soon as entries close, that is it. Entries are not taken after this date and there are NO replacements. The groups are meant to be of equal strength. Adding a new player can distort this.
3) Entrants are then divided into groups of roughly equal strength. Highest rated person is seed 1 in Group A, 2nd highest rated person is seed 1 in Group B. Serpentine pairings are used to allocate all players to each group.
4) How many players and how many groups is determined after the entries have closed. I would think that there will be probably 11 groups of 11 players (121 entries in total). It might be likely that we have to have three stages, depending on total number of entries.
5) 1 person from each group qualifies for the final stage. This is determined by total score, total wins and then TER. This does differ from the tie break formula of the FicgsWCH.
Pros:
1) Everyone gets a game against players of different ratings, no segregated groups or players
2) Everyone starts from stage one
3) The format is clear to understand
Cons:
1) May not be as tempting to the highest rated players (fear of loss of rating points)
2) Might take longer to finish
In my opinion, this is a format that deserves a couple of trial events to see if it is successful
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-24 16:37:02)
Ficgs World Cup
Well done Garvin. I agree with all points (for once :))... maybe it can be done in 2 rounds though (would be better so that the most successful players avoid to have 2 or 3 cups running at the same time in a few years)
Garvin Gray (2012-04-24 17:13:09)
Ficgs World Cup
Whether two or three stages depends on how many entrants. I think there can be only a maximum of 11 players per group and also only a maximum of 11 players in the final stage.
Scott Nichols (2012-04-24 18:52:36)
Ficgs World Cup
Sounds intriguing. I assume it would be Rapid time control like the Wch. Just one little idea, would an entry fee of 2 E-points be good? Everybody that signs up here gets 2 free E-points, it would be a good way to use them and also it would cut down on the people that start and don't finish.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-24 19:30:14)
Ficgs World Cup
Ah, I assumed that the rapid time control was the only solution but actually we can envisage something else... maybe to have tournaments of 13 players if it is successful.
Or maybe we can have a limited number of places!? (so that the most motivated enter it first, and it would solve the total number issue)
I'm not so favourable to the Epoints fee here, but that's probably worth to be thinked twice.
George Clement (2012-04-24 20:37:58)
Ficgs World Cup
I'm with Scott sounds intriguing. Also raped time control would be fine.
George Clement (2012-04-24 21:17:34)
Ficgs World Cup
:) Didn't mean raped time control in previous post but rapid. Sorry for the typo. ;)
Peter W. Anderson (2012-04-24 22:58:29)
Ficgs World Cup
Sounds like a good idea to me. Big groups are a good idea - it gives more chance of getting a clear group winner without tie breaks.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-25 00:26:09)
Ficgs World Cup
Who thinks that a limited number of places (81 = 9x9 or 121 = 11x11 or 169 = 13x13 according to how the waiting list fills) would be a good idea?
And what about a rating band to avoid forfeits by casual players? Maybe ratings above 2000... In some ways it could be a real alternative to the WCH for all players rated from 2000 to 2200, and there would be less games to play at the same time (less frightening to entry)... just a thought.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-25 01:52:44)
Ficgs World Cup
Seen a few ideas, some that I thought would not be popular are been suggested as to give it a go. Good:)
There is a simple solution to keeping it to 2 stages. Just announce there will be 11 groups and leave the number of players in each group till when you know the final numbers.
So 220 players would be 11 groups of 20 players. That might be too much for some people, but you get the general idea.
Perhaps with 20 player groups (hypothetical of course), a slightly longer time control would be a good idea, perhaps 30 days initial plus 3 day increment ;)
Thib: I was thinking about the issue of the number of groups and I think it has to be eleven groups in the first stage. Then each of the 1st place group winners go through to final stage.
I am against any concept of rating bands, or even the mention of the concept. That is totally against the principle, design and point of this format.
Steve Lim (2012-04-25 03:55:03)
Ficgs World Cup
Hmmm.. food for thought.. to summarize.
2 Stages of 20 games
or..
3 Stages of 11-13 games
Pros/Cons?
I too am against the concept of rating bands however we need a way to deal with casual players and dropouts. Especially if there is a no replacement policy..
Garvin Gray (2012-04-25 04:43:19)
Ficgs World Cup
I think everyone needs to be completely clear when they mention the term rating bands:
In the context used on ficgs, it means a minimum and maximum rating that players can play in. For example in the rapid waiting lists, there is a rating band of 1900-2100. Meaning only players between 1900 and 2100 can play in that group.
If you are talking about players being suspended, then please specify that and be clear that you are talking about suspensions.
I apologise if this reads as a cranky reply, but this whole concept is being devised to not have any kind of rating bands, or special exemptions for any player.
So I bristle quickly and strongly as the suggestion of rating bands or special exemptions, to the point that I will abandon this concept if rating bands or exemptions are going to be implemented.
George Clement (2012-04-25 17:28:04)
Ficgs World Cup
I also agree with Garvin and Thib. 11 groups, rapid time control, and no rating bands. However I think we need an activity requirement, nine or 10 rated games wouldn't be too bad of one!
Garvin Gray (2012-04-25 18:04:47)
Ficgs World Cup
To simplify the activity requirement, it can be that all players must have an established rating. No provisionals and no estimated ratings.
An issue regarding number of groups is, what if we 50 or so entries. 11 groups of 5 seems rather silly, so I think it would have to be 5 groups of 11, with 2 players qualifying for the final stage.
While having 2 players qualify is not ideal, it is better than having 11 groups of 5 players, which defeats one of the purposes of giving more games across different rating groups.
George Clement (2012-04-25 18:41:11)
Ficgs World Cup
To simplify the activity requirement, it can be that all players must have an established rating. No provisionals and no estimated ratings.
That would be really good! As far as the groups I think it would really depend on the number of entries. It will be tough to predict ahead of time.
Daniel Parmet (2012-04-26 01:13:45)
Ficgs World Cup
Great idea Garvin.
As far as activity goes, I think it should be either an established rating with a history of no time forfeits. It definitely should not be calculated based on RATED games. This is silly. I play many unrated games these days because its the only way to play strong players. I don't play rated here anymore because of the rating bands. So your activity requirement would exclude the very type of player you are trying to grab.
Peter W. Anderson (2012-04-25 08:59:48)
Ficgs World Cup
Either 2 stages of 20 or 3 stages of 11-13 would work for me. 20 is my personal limit for the number of games I play at once, but for this format I would make an exception and take on the group of 20 even if I had a few games running.
Like Garvin I am against banding on this, as it is against the original objective. I guess you could put a lower limit in, but I think it should be much lower than 2000. Maybe 1800 or even 1700.
One way of dealing with casual players and minimising the likelihood of drop outs is to only open the tournament up to someone who has already completed (a much better test than started) a certain number of games on FICGS. Perhaps 30 games which equates to 5 normal tournaments, (or even higher, at the risk of me not being eligible!).
Garvin Gray (2012-04-25 09:16:51)
Ficgs World Cup
Ahh now I think I understand some of the previous comments.
What you guys are talking about is a rating floor, not a rating band. With a rating floor of say 1999. So all players must be rated above 1999 to participate.
Not a big fan of a rating floor for this as it goes against the original objective, which is to provide more opportunities for players of different ratings to compete against each other. This does not only apply to 2000's v 2200's, but also applies further down the rating list as well.
The effect is not as pronounced, but still applies for the original objective.
I am in favour of an activity requirement. The standard in otb chess is that a player must have played nine rated games to get a rating, so the minimum activity could be ten completed games.
I am not as strong on the idea of an activity requirement as I am on no rating bands (which is very different to rating floor).
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-25 10:58:56)
Ficgs World Cup
Okay, so far I agree with Garvin on all main points I think.
- No rating floor (or rating band, of course)
- 11 groups whatever the number of players
- I think that the rapid time control is still ok as many games should be finished quite fast
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-26 09:35:30)
Ficgs World Cup
After a while I went back and prefered no activity requirement at all (not a big deal if 3 or 4 players give up their games in a group, I'll do replacements as in the WCH). And to be more accurate, the number of groups would be at most 11.
Garvin Gray (2012-04-27 04:16:52)
Ficgs World Cup
Please, no replacements. If people can not organise themselves to add themselves to the entry list before the close of entries, they do not deserve to enter.
I think it is fairer to have one or two players not participate in a group than it is to add players after the event has started.
Please do not use replacements. This concept is meant to be the opposite in almost every way to WCH, and the main idea is to keep it as simple as possible.
Having replacements add a complication that is not required. It will also distort the balance on ratings of each group where forfeited players occur.
How do you ensure that each group where a forfeited player occurs and get a replacement? Otherwise you have filled some groups and not others.
See the hornets nest that is created by using replacements. Please do not use replacements, just let the normal standard tournament factors decide the final placings and people in the final stage.
George Clement (2012-04-27 20:42:54)
Ficgs World Cup
Again I agree. No replacements! Let matters fall as they may when someone forfiets.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-27 20:45:16)
Ficgs World Cup
Okay, anyway I like the idea to do very different of the FICGS WCH!
Garvin Gray (2012-04-28 03:13:36)
Ficgs World Cup
Ok, new name- The anti-ficgs wch ;) :P
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-29 18:26:23)
About Pinformant
Hi Garvin, If you really want to help, just use it like you may use Facebook or similar sites e.g. share web pages of interest, comment it and invite friends. The site will help (very much) to get new members here as soon as there are about 1000 active members, thanks to ads of course. You'll see it quickly!
To invite friends, just click the earth icon in the top menu on the right and find your contacts in your webmail or social networks (this inviter will be used at FICGS soon, it may not work on IE or Opera though), or follow this link (if you are connected) to find all ways:
http://pinformant.com/user.php?page=friends
Thibault de Vassal (2012-04-30 20:32:31)
Slow tournament entries
I really have no idea if something can be improved there. One thing is sure, the average time for a game is not the same according to the rating... I guess that it would be not reasonable to set a rule for each category so...
About the standard time control, if a player has 74 days on his clock and is to add 40 more days, he'll never have more than 100 days anyway.
Maybe this limit can be changed but once more players are free to choose the rapid time control and as for me I really appreciate not to feel too much time pressure in my games and I know that many share this view. Let's not forget that the FICGS Chess WCH is (as far as I remember) much faster than e.g. IECG or ICCF Championships...
Thibault de Vassal (2012-05-01 01:36:08)
Slow tournament entries
Well, sure swiss system is great (FICGS freestyle cup is a swiss tournament too) but IMHO it is quite bad for the correspondence chess format (because of the number of rounds and the human factor)... Of course it would have some advantages but I think that inconvenients are more important, added to the fact such tournaments couldn't be 100% automatized.
Garvin Gray (2012-05-01 02:34:43)
Slow tournament entries
I would rather just get ficgs world cup started than worry about swiss system tournaments.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-05-09 01:46:02)
Xiao Tong on his win in 6th FICGS Go WCH
Xiao Tong, winner of the 6th FICGS Go championship, kindly accepted to answer a few questions, here is the first part:
FICGS - Hello Xiao, congratulations once again for winning this nice match. Svante Carl von Erichsen was FICGS champion from the start of the site, after winning 5 championships. What did you think about his play & yours in these games?
Xiao Tong - Mr. Svante Carl von Erichsen is the strongest player I have met on this site. The games are so tough. In the middle of this match I thought I would lose in at least two games. At last I am lucky to have a 4-1 winning.
FICGS - Would you like to tell us a few words about you (where you live, other games you play, Go servers you play on...) so that we know you better?
Xiao Tong - I live in China but when I started to play Go on this site I was visiting France. In China when we play Go face to face, generally it takes 2 or 3 hours. But when we play on the ineternet, we always choose 30sec/move. I always play on TYGEM site, which is a China/Korea cooperated site. Before playing we need to install a client software. You can visit this address http://www.tygembaduk.com
FICGS - Unfortunately you are one of the rare chinese players at FICGS, but obviously they do very well. We all know many chinese Go champions names, could you tell us your opinion on the state of Go in China and in the world nowadays?
Xiao Tong - The past 10 years can be called Korea decade. They won more world championships than Chinese players, because before 1990 few Chinese children studied Go. But when China won several matches between China and Japan in late 1980s, more and more children started to study and play go. And then these millions of Go children grew up. Now Chinese players can get more world champions than Korea. I think besides the several world champions there are 30 young players in China who may win world championships in the future. They aged from 16-25.
FICGS - The best Go engines would now reach a level of 4 or 5 dan, is computer Go something that helps in such a correspondence Go championship according to you (and without revealing your secrets of course)? Do you think it is becoming a danger as it is for chess?
Xiao Tong - I don’t think computer Go engines can do anything. They are too weak.
FICGS - Do you watch other games played by your opponents before starting your games? Do you think that preparation is really important like it is in Correspondence chess?
Xiao Tong - I don’t take much time to analyze my opponents. But I will watch their games to get a first evaluation. World champions need to prepare before the game, because preparation can save their time in game. For me, preparation mean nothing.
FICGS - This FICGS Go championship is still young, what did you think about it? Would you change something, any rule, to improve it?
Xiao Tong - 1, Encourage players to play live games. One game can be finished in 2 hours when they play at 30sec/move. The more they play, the higher the site level will be. 2, when the world champion match is live on net, encourage player watch the games through your site. Let the watcher can bet on the live games. It will be more funny.
Many thanks to Xiao for these instructive answers, to be continued...
Don Groves (2012-05-09 17:04:38)
Xiao Tong on his win in 6th FICGS Go WCH
I think his suggestion of FICGS carrying live games is excellent. I don't know if this might be too much work for Thib though ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-05-09 21:54:16)
Xiao Tong on his win in 6th FICGS Go WCH
I agree also... Well, I should add some words on that when new players login for the first times. But many are quickly discouraged as they do not find any opponent. But maybe we just need (much) more players.
As for me I'd like to play more live Go games, I only need more time mainly because of my correspondence tournaments :/
Any other ideas are welcome...
Paul Campanella (2012-05-11 04:57:14)
Playing poker for e-points
Members of FICGS are able to play chess for e-points but poker challenges are only allowed in "bronze".
Why are members of FICGS not allowed to challenge other members to either "silver" or "gold" poker games?
Paul Campanella (2012-05-11 04:59:09)
Playing poker for e-points
I personally think that playing poker for e-points should be allowed on FICGS.
It would make things more fun and might make players think twice about making foolish moves because actual money is on the line!
What does everyone else think?
Thibault de Vassal (2012-05-12 13:41:03)
Playing poker for e-points
Epoints system for chess is the same than participating in an OTB chess tournament with an entry fee & prize. I guess (I hope) that this is authorized even in US.
But anyway you're right Peter, it took me much time to be sure of what it was possible to do or not. Actually FICGS could have started about a year earlier without that problem :/
Anyway there are many ways to turn around laws, e.g. if prizes are not money & so on... Maybe I could envisage something like that.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-05-13 14:18:28)
Ficgs World Cup
... still thinking about it.
Sometimes it seems to me that such a championship would look like too much to FICGS WCH round-robin groups & could make regular tournaments entries slower (also not all interested players could play both WCH & CUP). Sometimes I'm more optimistic & see it mainly as an event more.
Any opinion after these few weeks?
Garvin Gray (2012-05-13 15:27:19)
Ficgs World Cup
One opinion- Get on with it.
Paul Campanella (2012-05-15 14:07:37)
Faster Refresh Time
Here is an example of why I consider the 30 second refresh time to be bad...
Example: Pretend someone is playing 10 poker games on FICGS simultaneously.
Having the refresh time take so long is quite annoying due to the fact that nothing appears during the 30 second time interval, but after the 30 seconds are over... the page gets refreshed... then all 10 moves appear at once and it is difficult to manage.
Perhaps if we shorten the time to 15 seconds, it would end up being easier for everyone who is playing multiple games at once due to the fact that they can see their opponents moves as soon as they are made. 10 seconds is obviously too short of an amount of time to consider but I can't understand why the 15 second rule would be a problem for anyone trying to chat because it does not take 15 seconds to type a few words and hit the enter key.
If people still think that 15 seconds is too fast, then how about we make it 20 seconds? That could be an ideal amount of time to consider because it is faster than 15 but slower than 30 seconds.
What does everyone think?
Neel Basant (2012-05-16 17:51:40)
Ficgs World Cup
what will be the restrictions and conditions ?
Garvin Gray (2012-05-18 02:43:21)
Ficgs World Cup
I suggest you read all the posts Neel. The answers are all there.
Garvin Gray (2012-05-19 15:24:06)
Second match v Rybka Forum
Hello all,
I have been thinking about this for a while, but I was wondering how many ficgs players would be interested in participating in a match vs Rybka Forum.
We tried this concept once before with limited success from an organisational point of view. From a playing pov, ficgs had little success :o
I am thinking something like this for a format:
1) Time control 30 moves initial plus 1 day increment
2) All individual matches are two games
3) Players are to play in rating order. - RF now does have some kind of rating system, at least for WBCCC participants. I think more of their players have also come over to here, so have ratings here.
4) We possibly could use xfcc play, which would allow conditionals to be used, but might mean all the games are played and shown at RF. - Might be possible to have them shown here somehow 'live'.
So, time to get some interest. Who would be willing to participate?
I am going to post this over at RF as well.
Michael Rogers (2012-05-20 22:16:17)
Second match v Rybka Forum
Garvin,
Would we be using the FICGS interface?
Don Groves (2012-05-23 07:08:22)
Members who never played
The rating lists are full of people who joined FICGS, then left after not playing even one game. What purpose does it serve to have these people in the rating lists? The lists would be more informative if these names were dropped.
Garvin Gray (2012-05-29 11:54:54)
Ficgs: Number 1 freestyle chess site??
Title is deliberately provocative :)
Was looking to see how many other freestyle chess sites there are and came across this wiki article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Chess
The trend might be changing as Advanced Chess is offered on the correspondence chess server at FICGS as the default mode of play, with special, unrated, "no engines" tournaments being the exception, rather than the rule. http://www.ficgs.com/
Garvin Gray (2012-06-06 13:53:31)
Second match v Rybka Forum
Hello all,
Current discussion here: http://rybkaforum.net/cgi-bin/rybkaforum/topic_show.pl?tid=24942
Following discussions on RF and now what looks like a completely different format to what I was proposing and ideas I had in mind and seeing what looks like a no compromise situation from the RF side, it looks almost certain that I will not be having anything to do with organising this event, or participating for either side.
When I first came up with this idea of trying to get a second match going, one of the main ideas was to help promote both forums and playing clients to a wider audience, and especially to the better players for both sites.
Now that I see what RF seems to have in mind, or at least what they are willing to accept for playing conditions, I find them wholly unacceptable and contrary to the ideas and purposes originally intended.
The current proposed design really does have a pro RF feel about it, in that FICGS players will have to learn how to use xfccplay to play on here, plus possibly sign up an account, but RF players will not have to do the same at FICGS. I am also wondering, what happens if the high majority of players from both sites say they only want to play on their own forum. This whole competition falls over.
RF 'bosses' have been kind enough to allow xfccplay to be used for these games to make them a better product. I do not think it is unreasonable for RF players to play some of their games on FICGS.
Secondly, the current proposed design also goes competely against another original idea, which was to have the top player from RF competing against the top player from FICGS. And so on down the boards. This current design will most likely result in random board pairings and henceforth likely mis-matches, rather than having showpiece games and at the same time having the bottom players from both sides games counting as much as the top board. Potentially it could now be the top player from FICGS against the two bottom players from RF and vice versa. That is ridiculous.
So all in all, I have proposed a format originally on both sites. I do not see the current proposed format as achieving anything substantial and certainly not in the vein of the original ideas. Had I known the current structure was going to be proposed, I never would have bothered proposing this in the first place.
Unless the current structure changes, I hereby resign as overall organiser and go between for both forums and also as a participant in the second match.
Kind regards,
Garvin Gray
Garvin Gray (2012-06-08 11:07:00)
Second match v Rybka Forum
Following on from my post above, we will now be going with the format originally posted, which is:
1) Time control 30 moves initial plus 1 day increment
2) All individual matches are two games
3) Players are to play in rating order. - RF now does have some kind of rating system, at least for WBCCC participants. I think more of their players have also come over to here, so have ratings here.
4) Xfccplay will be used for the games played at RF
5) Conditional move system will be used for the games played at RF. Games played here will be using the standard interface.
Both sides are going to have to make compromises. Ficgs players who are not already familiar with xfccplay are going to need to learn how to use it and will also need to join RF.
RF players, who are not members of here already, will need to sign up to here and learn how to use this interface.
I can not give a definite sign up by this date yet as some of the nuts and bolts are still being worked out.
Can everyone start saying if they are going to play? I hope this will be more than just the players who already play in WBCCC as I do hope it is the best players from both sites participating as well.
Nick Burrows (2012-07-28 01:14:03)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thankyou for all your hard work Thibault - it is much appreciated! Ficgs rulez!!!1!
were you c'est la vie or stressed la vie?
Scott Nichols (2012-07-28 01:29:58)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
This brings up the quote, "you never know what you've got till its gone." Been wandering aimlessly to other chess sites, into unfamiliar territory, and sometimes unfriendly. Now again we have a homebase, a place to park our cars! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-07-28 00:10:50)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
First of all, I've added 15 days to all players in running games because of the delay and the fact that many of us may have no access to internet during the summer vacation (this time is added to the 46 days, 13 hours and 20 minutes since the crash for players expected to play), this issue was discussed at Rybkaforum, of course it may be unfair to few players in certain games where their opponent had few time but I did not find a better balanced solution, sorry about that :(
Among other consequences, the current championships cycle will last 10 months instead of 8, and july correspondence chess ratings will be updated very soon.
Well, how to start... fortunately such an event is rare but possible, and following the Murphy's law, it happened (first time for me), the server's hard disk crashed and the least I can say is I've not been lucky, even if I obviously did some things wrong.
Of course I had enough data at home to rebuild all games until a few hours before the crash but I thought it was worth it to pause the server during a few days/weeks to recover more moves, and if possible ALL moves. I really hoped that it would work and at the end it did, but not completely... for unknown reasons. I had also other data to recover from the server, including some FICGS data that were not backuped correctly (my bad), because I did not think far enough 6 years ago when I coded the first FICGS scripts... That will be fixed very soon.
So, because the DDrescue process did not work -unlucky- just after the crash, my server provider (OVH in France) had to send me the hard drive and it took sooooo much time already :/
Then I tried to recover some files and the databases by myself and I learnt much on how to save a hard drive but each process was really long, it took several days again...
Finally none process completely succeeded, few sectors of the hard drive remained unreadable and unfortunately the FICGS database is divided into very numerous parts written everywhere on the disk.
At the end, I brought the disk to the very best professionals able to save it... the process was quite long again and it did not completely worked as well, for an unknown reason the current database was still not readable but they did much better than me at the end.
Finally the whole process was worth it, but I did not expect it could take so much time.... 46 days, 13 hours, 20 minutes. And that's a shame :(
Of course, I could have used a RAID 10 server, I was not favourable to this choice because it is not 100% safe as well, I don't know it enough and it's much more expensive. I'll reconsider it though.
But the other things I did wrong are clear anyway, I lacked of experience in such a situation and most important, I'll do now better backups also on another server every hour. Next time (if any), we'll lose at most 1 hour of moves but the server will be able to restart within 1 day.
One thing is sure, internet was really empty for me without FICGS during this long month and a half and I missed our tournaments too much so that happen again! Have no doubt, FICGS would not have stopped in all cases but once again I'm really sorry about that and all consequences... I can only hope that you'll enjoy your games as before.
Thanks for your understanding.
Best regards,
Thibault
Don Groves (2012-07-28 07:07:22)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thanks, Thib, for all your hard work to bring FICGS back to life !
Peter W. Anderson (2012-07-28 09:01:10)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Really good to have FICGS back. Thanks for trying so hard rather than giving up on what is a difficult problem.
Donation to follow - a small contribution towards RAID (mirroring perhaps?) or whatever it takes to make the system more resilient.
Charlie Neil (2012-07-28 10:11:05)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thibault
Thank you for all your work. I missed my "club". Even down here among the 1200+ graded players we need our chess. We strive to improve.
Daniel Parmet (2012-06-09 05:36:02)
Second match v Rybka Forum
As far as a Rybka Forum match goes, as long as the time control is 30 days + 1 day increment then I would love to play.
As far as LSS match goes, I would only agree to play if it was on FICGS whree Thib would have control rather than the insane man that runs LSS.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-07-28 00:10:21)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Finally............. Oh I missed it so much, so much.
I'll write the whole story below. I hope it's now all ok, about one hour of moves should be missing, the hour just before the hard drive crash.
Thanks for your feedback and again, my apologies to all for this long, too long, really too long delay........
Joop Simmelink (2012-07-28 11:11:44)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Fast answer
Robert Mueller (2012-07-28 11:18:35)
Rating List
Number 1 in the established rating list (Rene-Reiner Starke) has (a) never played a single game on FICGS, (b) is not currently playing any games at FICGS and (c) has not even logged on since 2010. Why is he the number 1?
Garvin Gray (2012-07-28 15:34:59)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Scott, I am reminded more: to err is human, to really foul things up requires a computer :)
And, if computers get too powerful, organise them into committees, that will do em in
lol
George Clement (2012-07-28 17:04:44)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thib thanks for getting it back. Great work.
Sebastian Boehme (2012-07-28 17:26:23)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Many thanks for Thib on the hard effort put into making FICGS run again and on the surface look again as it used to.
Now may the rumbles and big tournaments continue.
Right in time with the big games of the Olympiad in London! ;-)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-07-28 20:03:20)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thanks again to you guys for your great understanding, I don't deserve it...
Many thanks Peter, be sure that I'll use it carefully (I'm to start the mirroring)!
Sylvain Praz (2012-07-28 23:18:04)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
I'm very glad that it could get ok again, really missed to play^^
Thx very much Thibault for all the work!
Jose Carrizo (2012-07-29 00:45:52)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thanks Thibault for your effort! FICGS is the best.
Paul Campanella (2012-07-29 01:55:41)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
46 days is certainly no joke and I imagine that this was no easy task. Instead of giving up and letting all the data just remain lost, you went above and beyond to recover everything as best as you could. In my opinion, that demonstrates your loyalty, devotion, and determination as the best website administrator around!
On behalf of myself and all of the other members of FICGS, I want to sincerely thank you for looking out for our us doing everything in your power to fix the situation as fast as you could.
3 CHEERS TO THIBAULT DEVASSAL!!!
Now that everything is back to normal... lets all have some imaginary champagne and toast the fact that we are glad that everything is back up and running! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-07-29 02:47:29)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Cheers !!!
Garvin Gray (2012-07-29 03:24:12)
Second match v Rybka Forum
I think we are now finding out which players would be most likely to represent ficgs in a ficgs v Rybka match.
Garvin Gray (2012-07-29 03:26:02)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
The 46 days was so long that my ficgs games database was starting to gather dust lol
Rodolfo d Ettorre (2012-07-29 16:10:57)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
Thanks Thibault. Great effort.
Don Groves (2012-08-02 06:11:16)
Rating List
My feeling is that a player should not be in any FICGS rating list until they have completed at least one game at FICGS.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-08-03 16:26:08)
Rating List
Well, a bit further a player should not start with a 2400 rating, wherever he's coming from. I think it is interesting for many to know who registered at FICGS. The "complete" correspondence chess rating list is the only one where one can see all registered players, most inactive players just disappear of the active players list after a few weeks, is it a real problem!?
Anyway I understand the point but I fear I cannot do anything before a while, whatever the final decision :/
Daniel Parmet (2012-08-06 10:18:06)
FICGS IS BACK !!!!!!!!!
many thanks Thib.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-08-18 13:16:50)
FICGS backup is now ok!
Well, simple things are quite complicated sometimes (so many limitations on Linux) but finally the backup [site + database] works fine now...
Now the server can bug, crash, explode, whatever... I can completely reinstall FICGS in a few hours from most situations. There should not be more than 59 minutes of moves lost in the process.
- Complete backup every hour on a distant storage space.
- Complete backup every week on another distant storage space.
- Multiple database backup on the server (case of other problems)
- Moves incrementally sent to my email every 12 hours.
So, definitely the recent break shouldn't happen again... I hope so.
Alvin Alcala (2012-08-18 14:31:18)
FICGS backup is now ok!
Good job Thib! keep it up!
Thibault de Vassal (2012-08-18 14:53:40)
FICGS backup is now ok!
I wouldn't say that but "better late than never" for sure :/
Don Groves (2012-08-19 09:39:13)
FICGS backup is now ok!
Great news, Thib! You only need the last hour's moves sent to your email, right?
Thibault de Vassal (2012-08-19 14:02:59)
FICGS backup is now ok!
That's the essential but much better is the whole thing.
David Ward (2012-09-12 17:33:33)
Faster Refresh Time
I get the following report after clicking "No refresh" on the "My games" page, but I continue to get messages that Internet Explorer blocked a popup from www.ficgs.com.
"This page will refresh itself when you have a new move to play, then you'll see a (!) at the beginning of the page title.
If you do not see the clock below, your browser could not support Frames & Javascript or it could be turned off. In this case you will have to refresh the page manually.
This option is currently off.
Possible refresh delays for this session: no refresh, 5 sec, 10 sec, 30 sec. "
Thibault de Vassal (2012-09-20 17:20:31)
Limit number of poker games
The shorter the games are, the more important the chancy factor is, so ratings do not mean anything anymore...
But it would be more fun for certain players, I agree with this. FICGS is dedicated to be a place for ratings, it wouldn't be so coherent. As for me I see no fun at all in a pure chancy game, it's just like playing roulette forever.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-09-27 23:39:12)
Eros Riccio wins 6th and 7th chess WCH
By beating Alberto Gueci in the final match of the 6th chess championship & Ostap Hladky in the candidates final of the 7th chess championship, Eros Riccio will remain FICGS chess champion for at least 16 months! After this huge performance, Eros accepted to answer a few questions:
----------------------------------
- Hello Eros and congratulations again for winning your 3rd and 4th (respectively 6th and 7th cycles) FICGS chess championships in a row, beating Alerto Gueci in the 12 games match of the final match and Ostap Hladky in the 8 games match of the candidates final so that you meet yourself in the last round that thus will not happen for the 3rd time of the championship (first time was during the first cycle because there was no champion yet). All games of the two matches were drawn, but it does not say much on the intensity of the match as we all know your strategy since your win in your first final match vs. Edward Kotlyanskiy when you explained that your preferred a draw that guarantees the victory than a possible win where a mouse slip is still possible. Obviously your strategy works very well but one can add that you had an impressive number of running games at the rapid time control, so very much pressure... How did you live these last months of correspondence chess and these two matches?
Hi Thib! And thanks once again for the congratulations. These 28 games (let's not forget also the 8 games match against Gino Figlio) probably started in the worst moment for me, just a few months after the very important European Team Championship on ICCF had started. When I told my captain that I was starting another 28 games... he was very disappointed and worried, as he had repeated a lot of times to every player of our team not to start new tournaments and to focus only on this tournament. Also for this reason I had decided not to join the new Italian Championship and other tournaments and to withdraw from the Champions League, but unfortunately I had no control on when to start my FICGS games. So... my priority was for my ICCF games, and fortunately for me all I needed to do in my FICGS Matches to win was to make draws, and that's what I tried to do in most of my games as fast as possible, and to my surprise my opponents accepted to draw many games quite quickly, not trying to fight each game "to death" like I would have done if I would have been them. This of course only created quick boring games, but I didn't see the point in putting energy in trying to win games myself.... I think my opponents should have done that!
- We all know that you and Alberto are good friends from long time, did it influence your match in the 6th WCH in any way according to you?
Well, it's a good think knowing your opponent's habits... you can send your moves as soon as you know he goes to bed :-)
- Ostap Hladky is undoubtly one of the strongest players at FICGS, was this match (7th WCH candidates final) very different from the other one?
Hladky was the strongest player I had ever played on FICGS, he is very unpredictable, he simply plays unexpected moves that engines don't suggest, but if you show them those moves, they slowly realize those are very good moves. I risked to lose more than one game vs him, even as White. Luckily I still managed to draw, and in my opinion he also accepted some draws too quickly.
- With the last evolutions of chess engines, playing better & better chess, would you say that you now spend less time on each game or not at all?
I don't spend less time on my games, I still try to use (almost) all the time on my "clock". Trying to analyze as many variations as possible with the time you are given has little to do with engines improvement, who still are far from being able to always suggesting the best move by simply letting them run for hours on a static position. You need to analyze going "forward" in the position in order to be able to find the best moves.
- By the way, it is said sometimes (again) that correspondence chess will not survive the decade, what do you think? Do you envisage to change for Go or poker like many players? :)
Wins and Losses still happen even at the highest levels at the present time. I think that many years still have to pass before having all draws in high level tournaments. When that happens... and it will probably happen sooner or later as chess in my opinion is a draw with perfect play... then probably new rules will be introduced, maybe the board will be enlarged and even new pieces with new movements might be invented.
- You now are ICCF GM with an impressive 2624 rating, how are going your other correspondence chess competitions? Do you have any goal to reach yet?
All my ICCF tournaments are going good, and very soon I will be Italian Champion once again (just waiting my last opponent to resign a lost position). I still haven't reached the first place in the italian elo rating list though. That would be a goal I would surely have pleasure in reaching, and of course I would like to win the ICCF's World Championship at least once. After that I can retire :-)
- Thank you Eros, also for this great correspondence chess lesson.
Welcome Thib! A pleasure for me.
Thibault de Vassal (2012-10-07 19:16:15)
WCH Final match
I'm not sure if there can be a real debate on this issue (but we can try of course)... all opinions are in the nature, when I created FICGS I had in mind the original FIDE WCH and I'm still a huge fan of this system. Now fact is FIDE WCH does not mean anything anymore (its champions as well) after numerous bad changes and I feel FICGS chess WCH makes sense more and more.
12 games is enough to fight for a win IMO and I'm sure that there are a few players able to beat Eros in such a match (doesn't mean it would happen anytime though :)), I'm just too impatient to watch the next ones. Eros is building his name in correspondence chess in multiple places at the same time, and the fact that it happened here so quickly after he joined us makes me think that the system is good! I see nothing to change, the result of his match with Alberto was fully explained by Eros, the score has no importance at the end... and he deserves his other title in the other cycle even more by not having to play the final match... just my opinion of course, as I can understand all systems (ICCF etc.), just a question of personal taste at the end.
Garvin Gray (2012-10-09 16:33:26)
WCH Final match
Thib: I think your analysis or love with the old style world champ format contains a flaw in relation to playing on here.
In the old style world champs, games are played one at a time. On here, all the games start at the same time.
Secondly, with the old style world champs, the matches were over 24 games, so the equivalent would be to play the final match over 24 games.
The current world champ cycle suffers from the same effect as the ficgs final match does, the match is too short, resulting in lots of draws because one loss is devastating.
If you do not want to change the rules to encourage players to try for wins, then lengthen the match to 24 games.
Otherwise you are just like quite a lot of organisers who just love the past (tradition) and are not prepared to make the players actually try to win games, rather than bore their viewers to death with short draws.
Garvin Gray (2012-10-09 16:33:54)
Ficgs World Cup
And on a related issue, there is still this event to get off the ground.
Daniel Parmet (2012-10-15 05:45:36)
WCH Final match
I don't want to enter the Wch due to rating bias in the groups. So until that is fixed I am only interested in FICGS World Cup.
Garvin Gray (2012-10-15 10:43:37)
Ficgs World Cup
Bump :)
Thibault de Vassal (2012-10-15 12:50:09)
Ficgs World Cup
Hi Garvin, I still have doubts on launching what would look like another championship based on ICCF WCH format when we don't have players enough... I'm afraid we have other priorities before that :/
Thibault de Vassal (2012-10-27 01:07:25)
How to amend rating?
Of course yes, sorry I forgot to mention it. Just send an email to : info (arobase) ficgs.com
Garvin Gray (2012-11-03 02:02:48)
Eros Riccio wins 6th and 7th chess WCH
Under the system we have at the moment, for a person to become Ficgs world champ, do they need to beat Eros Riccio in two consecutive matches to become champion?
Robert Knighton (2012-12-02 05:03:13)
Problem with new groups for the chess WC
You could do this but.. I don't know how good it would be. I would be willing to play outside my rating if that would help. I'm still new to FICGS so my rating isn't a very good comparison with other players here yet.
2 Man Double Round Robin
AUT Rada, Hannes 2465
USA Johnson, Bobby 2412
4 Man Double Round Robin
ISR Blinchevsky, Alexander 2206
CAN Deline, Ralph 2179
GBR Soszynski, Marek 2143
DEU Wolf, Bernd 2113
Nick Burrows (2012-12-02 13:09:34)
Problem with new groups for the chess WC
I think people are getting a bit too uptight!
Allowing new players hardly affects anyone's chances of progressing in the tournament, yet it allows the late players who didn't have the opportunity to log in a chance to play in the most enjoyable of all tournaments on Ficgs.
Robert Knighton (2012-12-05 21:34:02)
Problem with new groups for the chess WC
Wayne Lowrance said: "Robert Knighton. You dont understand me. I was saying it is unfair for the two strong player having to compete against a much weaker player. It would have cost him point 4 sure. "
Yeah I see what you mean there. Even if I could compete at that level then those players at a higher rating would suffer for it.
Also, no offense taken. We can peacefully agree to disagree on issues and perhaps we can settle it with a game one day :)
Seems like there should be a provisional tournament that new players coming to FICGS enter into automatically to determine rating, but that is a discussion for another place.
Garvin Gray (2012-12-13 16:52:12)
WBCCC 2013
This information is in regards to the World Blitz Correspondence Chess Championship for the year 2013.
It is held on Rybka Forum www.rybkaforum.net.
There is a full sub forum located on that forum that explains a lot of the rules, current list of players and specifics of information.
For a general run down, read on:
My name is Garvin Gray and I am the organiser and arbiter for this event. This event attempts to bring as many strong correspondence and freestyle players together from all the different playing sites, such as iccf, ficgs, playchess, lss and many other sites.
As the title says, this is a blitz event, meaning the time controls are short compared to normal correspondence play. This requires players to devote a greater share of their focus to these games than would normal correspondence play.
This event has been held for two years now, with the 2012 version still in progress. Feel free to browse the 2012 sub forum to see the games and how the structure works.
In the two years of this event, I feel that many new discoveries have been made and advanced freestyle chess knowledge has certainly been increased, to the benefit of all. Those who have participated in both events have gained a lot from their participation and I want to see this continue.
To allow this event to start and finish in one calendar year, we start in mid January and for 2013, it will finish in mid December. The format requires that you will play one game as white and one game as black in each round. There are 10 games in total.
Each round is paired as an individual swiss using the dutch pairing rules, but accommodations are made because each person must have one white and one black game per round.
Kibitizing is allowed and encouraged, but discussions about future positions, game analysis or anything else that could affect the result of the game is not allowed. Feel free to read the thread on game commentary.
There will also be a thread for each round that allows discussion of events during the round, general discussion about games or other general chit chat.
We do seek to provide a friendly, but competitive environment for those who want to advance their freestyle skills, or test themselves against other players from the different sites. This event will take up quite a bit of your time as the time control is fast, the play is difficult and the enjoyment factor high.
This is not meant to be a deterrent, but I feel I should make it clear that you need to be dedicated and willing to play each and every game/round.
Withdrawing or timing out mid game is not acceptable and will see you removed from the event. If you think you can not complete a particular round, it is better to contact me and have you withdrawn from that round. You are free to rejoin the event in these circumstances, but will receive zero points for those two missed games.
I hope to see more entries and good freestyling to everyone.
Cheers,
Garvin Gray
WBCCC 2013 Organiser
Thibault de Vassal (2012-12-21 00:56:41)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Dear chessfriends,
I just received this proposition to play a "Chess Server Team Tournament" that would be played on ICCF web server:
Any opinion? Who would be interested to play such a tournament?
____________________________
Dear Thibault!
In recent years many friendly matches between different chess servers have been played. It has become a good tradition to organize such matches. A very good idea is to organize a round-robin tournament to find out the strongest team of a chess server.
We invite a team of your server to take part in the first unofficial correspondence chess championship for chess servers.
The championship is unofficial, because ICCF Officials do not head it.
The Organizer and Tournament Director is Pavlikov Andrey Nikolaevich who is experienced in organizing and directing both domestic (Russian) and international correspondence chess tournaments.
Invitations have been sent to administrators of the following chess servers:
Bestlogic – http://www.bestlogic.ru/
Chesshere – http://www.chesshere.com/
FICGS – http://www.ficgs.com/
GameKnot – http://gameknot.com/
LSS – http://www.chess-server.net/
SchemingMind – http://www.schemingmind.com/
Chess Planet – http://chessplanet.ru/pages/game-zone (to play chess on this server one must have a client program which is free to download at main page of the site)
If you have a proposal to add any chess server, it will be taken in consideration.
Regulations of the event
http://www.mocorrchess.narod.ru/wccstc/en/regen.html
Information on the event may be seen at http://www.mocorrchess.narod.ru/wccstc/wccstc.html
Best wishes, Andrey Pavlikov,
Russian Correspondence Chess Association Vice-President,
The Organizer of the event
Daniel Parmet (2012-12-21 01:19:29)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I would gladly play for FICGS. Is this ICCF rated? How many boards in the teams?
Bogoljub Teverovski (2012-12-21 16:54:43)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I'm ready to play any board for FICGS team. My ICCF ID# 862003.
Alvin Alcala (2012-12-24 08:13:18)
Chess Server Team Tournament
How we will be shortlisted in this team tournament to represent FICGS?
Bogoljub Teverovski (2012-12-24 12:14:22)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Who'll serve as Team Captain for FICGS?
Wayne Lowrance (2012-12-24 19:06:57)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I am in if FICGS wants me to play...Wayne
Bogoljub Teverovski (2012-12-30 13:00:10)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Imho, if certain server cannot enter a team of just 30 players, it becomes clear this server has a very weak resource. Therefore FICGS should enter 30 players without hesitations.
Neel Basant (2013-01-04 05:29:26)
Chess Server Team Tournament
If FICGS wants , i will play willingly..
Ostap Hladky (2013-01-04 22:58:52)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I will play for FICGS.
Niklas Hallqvist (2013-01-10 00:20:41)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I will play for FICGS, no strings attached. I have ICCF id 451419.
Valery Nemchenko (2013-01-10 05:22:51)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Dear Thibault!
I am willing to participate in the team event of FICGS e server. My rating ICCF-2465. Please let me know who else from our server will be played on a board which I claim? Best regards, Valery
Daniel Parmet (2013-01-10 18:11:49)
Chess Server Team Tournament
I volunteer to be team captain. But we now have 31 players wanting to play. Also I would point out that we will probably get slaughtered on the lower boards as things stand right now. I saw at least one person wanting an ICCF team average of 2300. I would point out that I think a 2000 player here is 2300 over there but as things stand our FICGS rating average is 1964 based on the top 30 players ratings. For the 9 players that do have ICCF ratings our rating average is 2235.
Here is what information I could collect on our team so far:
Name FICGS Rating ICCF ID ICCF Rating TITLE Comment
1 Ostap Hladky 2527 941012 FIM
2 Valery Nemchenko 2521 940836 2465
3 Frits Bleker 2313 220159 2395
4 Garvin Gray 2281 30503 1993
5 Alvin Alcala 2237 896046
6 Wayne Lowrance 2194 FIM
7 Maxim Genchev 2187 940752 2309 Wants ICCF average of 2300
8 Arkadiusz Wosch 2169 89923 2307
9 Neel Basant 2138 280279
10 Daniel Parmet 2098 514938 2300
11 Om Prakash 2091 280243
12 Bogoljub Teverovski 2083 862003
13 Niklas Hallqvist 2082 451419
14 Kieran Moore 2042 260252
15 William Fuller 2033 514688 2350
16 Dmitry Tsimbalenko 1959 142268
17 Sergey Demchenko 1955 142224 2077
18 Nick Burrows 1944 212164
19 Rich Pinkall Pollei 1900 515095
20 Daniel Blike 1874 515250
21 Jose Moreira 1831 Are you the IM Jose Moreira id#399007, Rating 2390?
22 Thomas Hasyn 1808 865001 1922
23 Mathaios Vardoulakis 1800
24 Dinesh Bhandarkar 1707
25 Shih-Chu Liao 1660
26 Josef Zmolil 1632
27 Ray Downs 1536
28 John Worthington 1510 515287
29 Claudio Cabrera 1462
30 Arnab Sengupta 1340 280192
31 Jiri Mach 1010
Nick Burrows (2013-01-10 18:30:03)
Chess Server Team Tournament
yes I think some of our ratings are way under the actual level. My rating is 1934, but would be more accurate at 2300.
We should simply take our 30 highest rated players at the deadline for registaration in order to do Ficgs justice.
Neel Basant (2013-01-10 18:56:15)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Wait..
There will be entries from better players.
as within 6 hrs we have already 31 players..
More better players will reply as FICGS has too many good players..
Daniel Parmet (2013-01-10 20:51:37)
Chess Server Team Tournament
right now the top 30 responses by ficgs rating average to 1998. 10 of those 30 have ICCF ratings which average to 2166.
I'd like to us have a 2100 FICGS rating average so we can be a competitive team...
Alvin Alcala (2013-01-11 04:49:37)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Very sad news! So many interested players from FICGS wanted to join.
Charlie Neil (2013-01-11 19:55:38)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Thibault,
If you need a lowly 1133 FICGS graded player to play count me in , Current ICCF grade of 1700, ECF 111. I have an ICCF ID as well.
And if not I don't mind. I enjoy my FICGS games.
Bogoljub Teverovski (2013-01-11 22:06:09)
Chess Server Team Tournament
What a shame for FICGS!
Maxim Genchev (2013-01-12 10:54:08)
Chess Server Team Tournament
Respected organization FICGS!
Please tell me, have you an official invitation to the participation in the team competition of the servers?
The fact is that until now, I was told, there is no agreement on this championship with IKCHF.V this case (if one has an official invitation and was later denied participation on the team FICGS) it is reasonable to make a complaint to the ICCF
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 00:23:43)
FICGS admin scam me
This admin is a big liar and scammer. I post here all story.
In 2010 I ask him how I cashout if I wish to.Bellow is our conversation :
"Re : cashoutMonday, January 4, 2010 3:25 PM
From: This sender is DomainKeys verified"Thibault de Vassal" - ficgs at yahoo . com - Add sender to Contacts
Hello,
There's no button, you just have to ask me :) How many Epoints do you want to convert in Euros ?
Please specify your email at Paypal or Moneybookers.
Best wishes,
Thibault
Hi!
I don't see the button for cashout! Where is it? "
He didn't tell me nothing about some condition.Why? Because that time
was not specified.
Bellow is our conversation in the present time :
"Hi, I wish to cashout my 7,14 Epoints, to my Paypal account.Thank you.Regards.
Hello ,
You have to win at least one silver/gold tournament to cash out Epoints, feel free to read the conditions here:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#prize"
...and on chat:
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you are a charlatan
(2013-01-15 23:46:58)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
I lost more than 7 euros,My deposit was much more
(2013-01-15 23:32:03)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
I just ask my money only ,not a profit or an interest
(2013-01-15 23:31:13)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
not crook.
(2013-01-15 23:29:42)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you think I care about 7 euros ,I have checked you if are or
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you are a bank,but for you only
(2013-01-15 23:26:30)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you are just a liar
(2013-01-15 23:25:15)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
your rule
(2013-01-15 23:24:44)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you told me about L511 ,I checked and write nothing about
devassal thibault :
This is a games server, conditions are clear on this...
(2013-01-15 23:17:12)
devassal thibault :
I would have told you to deposit? So, to be a bank for you?
(2013-01-15 23:16:07)
devassal thibault :
This is only a misunderstanding, obviously. sorry about that
(2013-01-15 23:15:09)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
You lied to me to make deposit here
(2013-01-15 23:14:01)
devassal thibault :
.. and let's see what others think...
(2013-01-15 23:13:59)
devassal thibault :
Just publish this email on the forum...
(2013-01-15 23:13:43)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you think I am naive?then why you lied me then,in 2010?
(2013-01-15 23:12:10)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
ahaha,you are not lawer ,you are liar,liar, liar
(2013-01-15 23:09:24)
devassal thibault :
I'm not lawyer, but a lawyer told me what I can or cannot do
petrescu horatiuadrian :
from the law
(2013-01-15 22:39:35)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
ok ,tell me the article of legislation or give me the link
(2013-01-15 22:39:27)
devassal thibault :
french laws... but I guess that's the same in most countries
(2013-01-15 22:30:41)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
tell me which laws ,yours laws?or what
(2013-01-15 22:25:52)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
which laws?
(2013-01-15 22:24:57)
burrows nick :
ah!
(2013-01-15 22:02:52)
devassal thibault :
as money prize, by winning silver/gold tournaments
(2013-01-15 21:57:38)
burrows nick :
how is money recouped?
(2013-01-15 21:40:31)
devassal thibault :
FICGS cannot be a bank... that's you ask for
(2013-01-15 21:15:02)
devassal thibault :
In one word : because of laws...
(2013-01-15 21:13:32)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
or you don t want because the terms?
(2013-01-15 20:59:26)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
speak clear
(2013-01-15 20:58:33)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
I don t understand why u cannot,because the server?
(2013-01-15 20:58:24)
devassal thibault :
That's the point of this server after all
(2013-01-15 20:40:34)
devassal thibault :
Anyway, winning one silver game would solve the problem...
(2013-01-15 20:40:10)
devassal thibault :
.. but the fact is that I cannot do this & never could
(2013-01-15 20:39:11)
devassal thibault :
We can even discuss it in the forum if you want...
(2013-01-15 20:37:09)
devassal thibault :
That's specified in the conditions... just read it
(2013-01-15 20:36:18)
devassal thibault :
The number of Epoints had to be a multiple of tournament fee
(2013-01-15 20:35:59)
In my country exist many charlatans but I see in France too.France is beautiful country but "there are lees to every wine".
Thibault de Vassal (2015-08-03 02:34:42)
Improving netiquette rules
Well, after a few days thinking about a complaint, I finally decided to open a topic about this public remark in game 86290 (no need to name the players again here in the forum, by the way best would probably be that they do not intervene in this discussion) :
"my engine has said ckmate in 19,but black player,maybe,prefers passing by 51 days to lose on time"
Context most probably hasn't to be known, rules have to say if it fits netiquette or not (is it insulting or not, is it subjective or not) and of course this is the question.
In other servers, this may lead to a suspension or it may not IMHO, so I'd like to gather opinions on this case, any suggestion to improve FICGS netiquette rules will be appreciated.
In my opinion, we'll have to determine if any PUBLIC remark on the use of the clock is acceptable or not and if not, what measurement to apply.
Jay Melquiades (2013-02-23 07:02:02)
FICGS admin scam me
thibault ponders if this player also goes
after admins at icc as he does here???
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 01:04:29)
FICGS admin scam me
...and more chatting
petrescu horatiuadrian :
yes i lost 4 ,is not mistake ?you are a mistake
(2013-01-16 00:53:06)
devassal thibault :
... a bank just by saying it
(2013-01-16 00:51:34)
devassal thibault :
because it explains that it's not possible to be...
petrescu horatiuadrian :
no gipsy,but then why you told me about L511 code?
(2013-01-16 00:49:44)
devassal thibault :
There's no mistake, obviously...
(2013-01-16 00:49:14)
devassal thibault :
Then you won 1 & lost 4 silver games...
(2013-01-16 00:49:09)
devassal thibault :
I know exactly how many epoints you bought/ when and how...
(2013-01-16 00:47:47)
devassal thibault :
What do you expect? finding FICGS rules in french laws?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 01:07:41)
FICGS admin scam me
Hello again Horatiu,
Sorry to see that you do not accept to realize that FICGS rules have always been clear on that point (it is specified that it is required for you to read and understand it before using this site), also that this site is not a bank, which is true for all similar websites - at least in France but most probably everywhere.
So here is the continuation of our conversation in the chat room (you have to read it from bottom to top). We can continue it here if you wish, this way we'll not bother everyone with this. By the way, maybe other players who experienced the epoints thing will be able to confirm all this.
Do not worry, I will not delete this discussion, at least this will be informative for everyone (I hope).
______________________
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] of course ,I just open a topic to see everybody who are you
(2013-01-16 01:00:12)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] I have no problem with this.
(2013-01-16 00:58:59)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] anyway, we can continue this discussion in the forum...
(2013-01-16 00:58:49)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] insults are unnecessary...
(2013-01-16 00:58:28)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] and fraud
(2013-01-16 00:58:23)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] yes i lost 4 ,is not mistake ?you are a mistake
(2013-01-16 00:53:06)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] ... a bank just by saying it
(2013-01-16 00:51:34)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] because it explains that it's not possible to be...
(2013-01-16 00:51:20)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] no gipsy,but then why you told me about L511 code?
(2013-01-16 00:49:44)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] There's no mistake, obviously...
(2013-01-16 00:49:14)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] Then you won 1 & lost 4 silver games...
(2013-01-16 00:49:09)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] I know exactly how many epoints you bought/ when and how...
(2013-01-16 00:47:47)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] What do you expect? finding FICGS rules in french laws?
(2013-01-16 00:44:05)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] you are a charlatan
(2013-01-15 23:46:58)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 01:34:58)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
is the reality,are you forgot who talking?
(2013-01-16 01:33:16)
devassal thibault :
Okay, just do it... :)
(2013-01-16 01:32:52)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
defaimation,ahahahah ,are you child? is not defaimation this
(2013-01-16 01:32:31)
devassal thibault :
I will not hesitate to use it if necessary...
(2013-01-16 01:30:56)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
boehme this site is scam as long as not pays its members
(2013-01-16 01:30:15)
devassal thibault :
But we have a law in France on "defamation"...
(2013-01-16 01:29:54)
devassal thibault :
I allow you to say what you want here on this story...
(2013-01-16 01:28:55)
...continuation
petrescu horatiuadrian :
and I will post on others forums on internet ,and on WOT too
(2013-01-16 01:26:40)
boehme sebastian :
You seem to forget what this site contributes to chess!
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 01:38:23)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you threaten me and others with your con
(2013-01-16 01:36:49)
devassal thibault :
Just pollute other places with this and I'll defend myself..
(2013-01-16 01:34:31)
devassal thibault :
.. defend your views but now you threaten me
(2013-01-16 01:34:08)
devassal thibault :
I was patient enough and gave you a large occasion to...
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 01:49:36)
FICGS admin scam me
...and
petrescu horatiuadrian :
how you defend smart crook?
(2013-01-16 01:45:39)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
conversation from 2010
(2013-01-16 01:43:33)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you defend of what? you forgot I have proofs?my proof is our
(2013-01-16 01:43:15)
burrows nick :
there's a strange smell in here...
(2013-01-16 01:39:51)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you threaten me and others with your con
(2013-01-16 01:36:49)
devassal thibault :
Just pollute other places with this and I'll defend myself..
(2013-01-16 01:34:31)
devassal thibault :
.. defend your views but now you threaten me
(2013-01-16 01:34:08)
devassal thibault :
I was patient enough and gave you a large occasion to...
(2013-01-16 01:33:19)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 01:57:01)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
I wait your answer
(2013-01-16 01:55:11)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
told me in 2010 about your condition,tell me
(2013-01-16 01:54:47)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
you are patient jerk? tell me then how you explain why not t
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 02:10:00)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
why you lied to me in 2010?
(2013-01-16 02:05:18)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
question
(2013-01-16 02:04:26)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
thib ,I will not insult you if you answer me at my last
(2013-01-16 02:04:17)
devassal thibault :
that's the same here, but you can win money prizes...
(2013-01-16 02:04:11)
devassal thibault :
when you buy something, is this still your money?
(2013-01-16 02:03:53)
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 02:14:49)
FICGS admin scam me
Continuation......
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] ..everyone cannot be a bank
(2013-01-16 02:10:12)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] ... already answered too... because it explains that...
(2013-01-16 02:08:54)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] Please do not delete chat messages everyone.. not now
(2013-01-16 02:08:12)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] You clearly misunderstood me and did not read rules
(2013-01-16 02:07:00)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] I answered that already in the forum...
(2013-01-16 02:06:47)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] There's no "if" there anymore... just ask
(2013-01-16 02:05:50)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] why you lied to me in 2010?
(2013-01-16 02:05:18)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 02:16:44)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
I didn't understand you???? is not even one word about your
(2013-01-16 02:14:41)
devassal thibault :
..everyone cannot be a bank
(2013-01-16 02:10:12)
devassal thibault :
... already answered too... because it explains that...
(2013-01-16 02:08:54)
devassal thibault :
Please do not delete chat messages everyone.. not now
(2013-01-16 02:08:12)
devassal thibault :
You clearly misunderstood me and did not read rules
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 02:18:48)
FICGS admin scam me
Fast answer
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 02:23:00)
FICGS admin scam me
... continuation
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] ... but according to FICGS rules & FR laws, that is obvious
(2013-01-16 02:16:55)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] Once again... yes, I can convert epoints...
(2013-01-16 02:16:25)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] condition in your answer since 2010
(2013-01-16 02:15:17)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] I didn't understand you???? is not even one word about your
(2013-01-16 02:14:41)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 02:29:53)
FICGS admin scam me
P.S why you remove the comment???
Daniel Parmet (2013-01-16 05:59:50)
FICGS admin scam me
Petrescu it sounds like you have a lack of understanding on what Terms and Conditions (or TOS as they are often called) mean... the ones on FICGS as pretty clear... so how do you manage with more complicated TOS such paypal's ?
Garvin Gray (2013-01-16 07:28:11)
FICGS admin scam me
My head hurts. I was hoping that by starting a thread some clarity could be brought to the discussion, but all I really see is just an endless stream of back and forth chat bar claims and counter claims.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu,
Would be nice in simple to understand, clean and precise language, what you are claiming to have occurred.
Others have experience with the e point system here.
I have asked you to detail your complaint here, hopefully without all the rhetoric. But if you start abusing me if I do not give you the answer you desire, then I will not reply and you get no resolution.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 11:57:37)
FICGS admin scam me
What you do not understand stupid admin and others stupids which are on his side,that I DO NOT require profit or interest,I am asking ONLY MY MONEY, but less than what I invested, what is so hard to understand ?
This admin invents all sorts of conditions to make HIS OWN bank here.It is obvious.
No other legit site does have a such condition so obvious to robbery his members.
For this reason I was saying I'm going to discuss this issue and on other forums because here are only flatterers of this greedy french admin. Remember : ONLY MY OWN MONEY ,I asked.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 12:04:07)
FICGS admin scam me
P.S. Have anyone heard about playE4 ? This site have no such terms like ficgs.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 12:29:30)
FICGS admin scam me
Dear Horatiu,
Unfortunately for you, I also kept all emails that you sent to me and that I sent to you... Now here are the facts:
I sent 30 emails (!) to you to kindly answer again and again what is explained in terms & conditions and Help section. I explained to you how to use a captcha, how to use the site and so on..........
First of all, you forget one important thing: It is required that you ACCEPT and UNDERSTAND terms and conditions BEFORE you register.... Obviously you didn't understand it, I cannot do anything there.
Second of all, you are of bad faith and here is a clear proof:
Among the very first emails (before the one you mention), here is the answer I sent to you:
<<<<<<<<<<
December 14, 2009 - Monday, 21:22
Hello,
It is all explained at - http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html & http://www.ficgs.com/help.html , when you have Epoints, you can play Silver & Gold games, winning Epoints or money according to the results & tournaments...
Best wishes,
Thibault
<<<<<<<<<<
I guess that you kept this one too but you "forgot" to mention it...
Now, I've said enough. I was patient, but now I'll apply FICGS rules (you should read it carefully) and french laws as soon as you act again against me.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 13:31:54)
FICGS admin scam me
30 emails to me???? When ? Before or now???
You angry because I telling the truth ? The truth is disturbing, right?
I don't know if your site is legit or not with the condition that everybody can play for money and use soft here and not operate only with his brain ,like Garvin Gray which in several moves he defeated me twice.Greedy admin Thibault you must have an security system for those members who want play without machine ,only with their head.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 13:42:09)
FICGS admin scam me
30 emails from february 2009 until now. I send it to you to your email.
As you can see, I have no reason to be afraid of anything :) You can defend your views, I do not ban you for that. But anyway you are of bad faith, why would you have kept only one email from 2010 and not the others? Anyway, the fact is that I mentioned those terms and conditions while I did not even have to do it because you were registered already.
I'm not angry about anyone, I'm just sorry for you that you do not even know how to use a website (reading & understanding terms is the first thing to do). Then I do not accept insults just like everyone, nothing more.
Finally, this site is perfectly legit and you are free to verify it.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 13:52:08)
FICGS admin scam me
You are arrogant again ,when you say I don't know how to use a website.I asked you about a button for cashout or not?
And you did't answer me why your site not use a security system implemented .Why you avoid to answer me?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 13:58:15)
FICGS admin scam me
About the button, I have no idea... What's the point here? If there were a button, it would follow the exact terms and conditions. It changes nothing.
What do you mean by "security system"? We use SSL, like many other sites. What's the point here?
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 14:08:00)
FICGS admin scam me
Of course you didn't hear about an security sistem that it can cach the player who use a software program.You are an superficial admin.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 14:10:41)
FICGS admin scam me
Ah.... Obviously you really did not read the terms and conditions... actually you don't even know what this site is all about.
Actually, it is specified in terms & conditions that we ENCOURAGE the use of chess engines!
FICGS is a "computer chess" website before everything else.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 14:11:49)
FICGS admin scam me
continuation of the chat... for archives :)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] I resend it... with another email...
(2013-01-16 14:04:13)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] term
(2013-01-16 14:03:20)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] yours are included in.... :)
(2013-01-16 14:03:12)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] I told you send that emails which you told me about your
(2013-01-16 14:03:10)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] hey admin are you really stupid??you sent all yours emails??
(2013-01-16 14:02:09)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] but I can publish all emails in the forum if you want
(2013-01-16 13:59:08)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] obviously Yahoo blocks when too many messages
(2013-01-16 13:58:38)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] now I have: Remote host said: 554 Message not allowed
(2013-01-16 13:49:41)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] did you receive the first ones?
(2013-01-16 13:49:28)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] terms I will shut up
(2013-01-16 13:44:44)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] if you realy found some email that you told me about your
(2013-01-16 13:44:23)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] no problem
(2013-01-16 13:41:18)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] yahoo email
(2013-01-16 13:39:38)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] what message you found in your arhive ,send it to me to my
(2013-01-16 13:39:29)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] Please use the forum if you have something to add...
(2013-01-16 13:12:13)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
[Remove this comment] game ,set and scam devassal
(2013-01-16 13:05:46)
burrows nick :
[Remove this comment] Game, Set & Match Devassal
(2013-01-16 12:57:23)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] before registering, maybe we can now end this discussion
(2013-01-16 12:51:03)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] added to the fact that you had to understand terms & cond
(2013-01-16 12:50:40)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] the clear conclusion is that I did not lie to you...
(2013-01-16 12:50:14)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] I found a very interesting email in my archives :)
(2013-01-16 12:30:28)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] You should read the last message in forum, Horatiu...
(2013-01-16 12:30:05)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 14:18:55)
FICGS admin scam me
petrescu horatiuadrian :
which is specified that you told me about your condition
(2013-01-16 14:16:00)
petrescu horatiuadrian :
that email?:))),no admin boy ,send me an email from 2010
(2013-01-16 14:15:24)
devassal thibault :
I resend it... with another email...
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 14:30:15)
FICGS admin scam me
Your last email is with that message about registrating ,where is the specification about the rule we talking about ?
Garvin Gray (2013-01-16 14:49:14)
FICGS admin scam me
Help me out here, according to Horatiu I have done 'something' wrong, but I am not sure what it is, or when it was done.
So what have I done wrong since I am personally named?
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 14:51:05)
FICGS admin scam me
Ok ,you told me. But you must implemet an security system for that members who want to play without machine.
And remember ,you this condition is not honest ,because I ASK MY MONEY NOT an interest or profit.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 14:54:11)
FICGS admin scam me
Nothing Garvin ,sleep well with your soft machine.:)))).And when you wake up and you are ready for a honest game chess without machines call me and we play on playok website.sweet dreams!
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 15:39:18)
FICGS admin scam me
That's nonsense Horatiu, since this site authorize computer chess, it is perfectly honest to play with machines, and of course I don't have to implement anything to avoid that...
About your money, you bought Epoints... You cannot ask for money just like this, you have to win silver/gold games to claim money prizes according to terms & conditions. You accepted this when registering.
Continuation of the chat:
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] you just had to click the link...
(2013-01-16 14:18:23)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] the conditions are in the link
(2013-01-16 14:18:04)
devassal thibault :
[Remove this comment] this is the right email! with correct date
(2013-01-16 14:17:39)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 15:56:49)
FICGS admin scam me
If we play with computer chess ,then is not a game chess anymore for us.It is a game for stupids and lazy brains,or for disabled mental people.
Every one knows Chess is a mind sport."Chess is the game that gives the highest honor human intelligence."(Voltaire) You promote here an activitie to slow down the mind not for its sharpness.
Yes I accepted ,because I was lazy and I didn't read the terms.But this does not mean your rule is corect and legit.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 16:20:21)
FICGS admin scam me
Of course you will don't implement anything because you are very avaricious.You are miserly for 7 euro :)))))),not to mention an implementation chess security system
Garvin Gray (2013-01-16 16:42:06)
FICGS admin scam me
Horatiu, if I understand your point and I probably do not. I think you are asking for your 7 euro to be returned, is that correct?
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 16:45:41)
FICGS admin scam me
Yes for only for 7 euros.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 17:14:06)
FICGS admin scam me
Well, obviously you do not have any idea about what computer chess is... there are thousands of fans all over the world, full forums only about that, even the very best chess players in the world like to play it (Kasparov, Anand, Polgar, Ivanchuk...)
You still do not understand that this has nothing to do with avarice. Noone here wants to see such a system to be implemented.... first of all because it cannot be 100% sure (it would be very easy to cheat anyway), then everyone would suspect everyone to cheat... FICGS is a peaceful place (without counting 2 or 3 players out of hundreds/thousands) so this is fine like it is. For information we also offer NO_ENGINES_TOURNAMENTS for those who want to play with their brain only, but it is not rated... for the same reasons.
We have no problem that a few players cannot understand it at the end, but we do not need to hear again and again that computer chess is "lazy" or "dishonest", that is just untrue and insulting.
About your 7 euros, all has been said, I've nothing to add. This is not a bank, if you want a money prize, you know what to do (starting to read the terms & conditions).
Garvin Gray (2013-01-16 17:37:51)
FICGS admin scam me
Computer chess, in terms of players just letting their engines play against other engines (playchess for instance) can be lazy, but the centaur version we play on here is anything but lazy.
I would go as far to say that calling centaur/freestyle chess on here LAZY is the most ignorant statement ever made in these forums.
Big call, but I think I can back it up :)
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 17:56:29)
FICGS admin scam me
I was expecting at your shit answer,how else can think a man of greed carried to absurd.You are a man without morals and scruples.I cast pearls before swine.
Anand and Kasparov no play against computer for money stupido.You infantile ?
"None here wants to see such a system to be implemented":))) Hey arrogant boy I am nobody? I am member here since 2009.And how you know everybody else no wants ,you asked them ? Stupid and inflated admin.
And how many times you will repeat like a parrot that this site is not a bank so often I will say myself IS A BANK FOR YOURSELF. Everybody can see.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:07:11)
FICGS admin scam me
Garvin,if you say your mind is not lazy ,and if you say I am ignorant ,i challenge you at a fight without using any machine.What do you say you accept ? There are many websites like playok.com where we can play without using programs not how says jerk admin that "it would be very easy to cheat anyway" How you cheat if is an implemented security system?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:10:33)
FICGS admin scam me
Of course I meant players who understood what this site is....
If someone registers while thinking this site is a TV shop website, he may claim that there are no TVs enough to buy on here and say the admin that he should ask all players if they want TVs available to buy but well.... wouldn't it be quite ridiculous?
Players who are not aware that the use of chess engines is encouraged are very rare... The message "As a reminder, the use of chess engines (Rybka, Fritz, Shredder...) is allowed and encouraged in standard chess tournaments." is visible when anyone enters any rated chess tournament.
Is it really necessary to have this message blinking in big size on all pages?
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:16:33)
FICGS admin scam me
Hey boy, ENGINES CHESS ARE ALLOWED WHEN YOU LEARN CHESS NOT WHEN YOU PLAY FOR MONEY.
Are you so stupid with your statements and next time I will not answer you because even God cannot fight with stupid and scam men.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:18:25)
FICGS admin scam me
About cheating on these websites, quite easy... just use a chess engine, copy its moves from one window/computer to another and do not play the best moves all times... playing the 2nd or 3rd best move should be enough to beat most human players...... and do not win in less than 50 moves. No program can detect it. And almost everyone would be able to do that.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:19:01)
FICGS admin scam me
Anyway, there were too many insults... also you started to harass other players. I'll apply FICGS terms & conditions (that you should definitely read) in consequence very soon.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:22:38)
FICGS admin scam me
Yes ,2 computers,but you didn't hear about that security system that can track every your move and can detect if you play with soft or not from another computer.That website ,playe4 using this system....stupido
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:24:32)
FICGS admin scam me
If you say so... I hope you'll enjoy these websites.
My best wishes.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:25:09)
FICGS admin scam me
I wait your ficgs terms ,arrogant admin.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:28:17)
FICGS admin scam me
Again, you can find it here:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:30:14)
FICGS admin scam me
If you will say again even one word against me,or if you will insult me,I will start a war against you and your website on other forums and sites.Do not mess with me scum and greedy man.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 18:38:26)
FICGS admin scam me
Quote: "..also you started to harass other players"
Maybe you want to say I harass you,no one speak something about that.You want peaceful then behave as such,like honest admin,not like a greedy.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 18:46:32)
FICGS admin scam me
Just do what you feel...
You already know what I'll do in response.
Regards,
Thibault
Josef Riha (2013-01-16 19:30:27)
FICGS admin scam me
@Petrescu: you childish Chess Troll, shutup and leave this site if you're too lazy to read the conditions. We can live very well without an unrespectful person like you.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 19:39:22)
FICGS admin scam me
@Riha,(what a name is this? gipsy name?)YOU are unrespectful and your patron admin.You kiss his bottom because he let you play here with program? Very nice.
Horatiu Adrian Petrescu (2013-01-16 19:40:55)
FICGS admin scam me
Q :"You already know what I'll do in response. "
What you will do? tell me.
Josef Riha (2013-01-16 19:50:09)
FICGS admin scam me
Your answer is an evidence for racism. I ignore all messages from you in the future.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 19:51:31)
FICGS admin scam me
@Horatiu: Just read our conversation again.
Best regards,
Thibault
Thibault de Vassal (2013-01-16 19:56:14)
FICGS admin scam me
I'm very sorry that you had to read this Josef, we shouldn't have more messages from him in the future...
My best regards,
Thibault
Josef Riha (2013-01-16 20:00:05)
FICGS admin scam me
Hello Thibault, delete this member from our site. There's no place here for such an Ceausescu-like person. It seems he is living int the past of his country.
Vadim Khachaturov (2013-01-16 20:52:11)
FICGS admin scam me
Thibault, please, instead of sending heaps of messages to this noble man, just send a ten pills of Haldol to him. It will better help him and all of us.
Don Groves (2013-01-17 18:32:44)
FICGS admin scam me
Vadim -- :>)))
Thibault de Vassal (2013-02-23 22:32:47)
FICGS admin scam me
Hello Jay,
Is it the case?
Jay Melquiades (2013-02-24 04:19:26)
FICGS admin scam me
dont know thibault... havent been there for a year or so
Garvin Gray (2013-03-02 10:47:03)
What size groups do you prefer?
Larger groups will always take longer to fill. I would prefer larger groups, but I prefer groups to start regularly, rather than waiting three or so months for a group to start.
I think we do have a serious issue with groups not being able to start because of insufficient numbers.
I proposed the ficgs world cup to complement the ficgs world champs. Rather than attempting to tinker with the group bandings we have at the moment, perhaps it is time to consider that players are more likely to join another 'event' rather than just another group that was just like the previous one they played in.
Garvin Gray (2013-03-10 14:26:50)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
When will freestyle 5 be held?
I think it is time for Alvin Alcala to put his title on the line.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-03-10 16:28:12)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Yes, I was seriously thinking about it for a few weeks... It should be feasible on march 30-31 or april 6-7
Any opinion?
Alvin Alcala (2013-03-10 17:11:47)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Nice to know it will be finally held. I the like the schedule of April 6-7 to have enough time for advertising the tour and have more participants.
Garvin Gray (2013-03-12 16:16:50)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
March 30-31 is Easter. Personally no issue for me and I would prefer three days straight, but Easter could be an issue for others.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-03-13 12:53:13)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Okay, April 6-7 looks better all ways. Let's do this...
Thibault de Vassal (2013-03-13 13:12:49)
Announcement
Hi all,
The 5th FICGS freestyle tournament will happen on april 6 & 7 (2013) - three rounds each day at 13:00, 15:00, 17:00 server time. The format will be the same (30 minutes + 15 seconds per move) than for the previous edition.
Entry fee : 10 Epoints, prize : 100% Fees + 70 Epoints
Deadline : 2013 april 6 - 12:00 server time
This time, just like other players, IM, SM & GM will have to enter the waiting list by themselves (entry fee : 10 Epoints), but they will recover their Epoints if they play all rounds.
Best regards,
Thibault
Garvin Gray (2013-03-14 13:48:30)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
I would like to request one change. That the event either be 5 or 7 rounds, not six.
Six rounds throws up the possibility of someone receiving 4 whites 2 blacks and other players 2 whites 4 blacks.
That is rather unfair on those who get 2/4. With 5 or 7 rounds the worst that can happen is either +1 or -1 for colour balance.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2013-03-23 13:51:58)
Vacation: change for 3 days minimum?
On other sites vacation can be taken per tournament. That's what I prefer. But I think the current vacation rules on FICGS are ok.
Garvin Gray (2013-03-30 09:40:20)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Need to get your names in to enter. Otherwise it is likely to be cancelled.
Currently 5 entries so far.
Alvin Alcala (defending champion), David Evans, Wayne Lowrance, Thibault De Vassal and myself.
Garvin Gray (2013-03-30 09:44:52)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Also, everyone who enters should be careful.
Daylight saving time starts tomorrow morning, so the time difference between you and local server time will be different between now and the start of the freestyle cup.
Alvin Alcala (2013-03-30 17:04:32)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Playing in the FICGS Freestyle Cup is a worthwhile experience. I encourage you to participate in the tour.
Garvin Gray (2013-04-06 05:58:17)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
For everyone, so they can work out what time 1pm server time is for them:
http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?iso=20130406T13&p1=195
Thibault de Vassal (2013-04-06 21:49:28)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
After round 3, Alvin is leader with 2.5 out of 3! Many good games already (not from me :o))...
See you tomorrow!
Thibault de Vassal (2013-04-07 22:48:43)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
The tournament is over... Alvin convincingly won it, once again.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Several things to say... first of all, I'd like to apologize again for this catastrophic first round, I just made a bunch of mistakes after a bad click :/
Second of all, I would like to thank all players, sincerely, for your patience & good vibes in this tournament! It is always nice to play & organize in this mood :) Special "big up" to Wayne & Garvin for their efforts to play very early or very late...
Finally, I'd like to thank Garvin for his constant involvement in FICGS tournaments... His help is always appreciated!
See you for the next edition (before next year, I hope)...
Alvin Alcala (2013-04-08 00:28:18)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Thanks for hosting this tour Thib. We all learn from this experience.
Peter W. Anderson (2013-04-10 09:06:37)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Congrats to Alvin. I dropped in a few times to watch a few minutes of the games and you always seemed to have stuff under control :) Impressive against tough opposition.
Alvin Alcala (2013-04-10 17:13:00)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Thanks for the compliment. I always put pressure and seems works well :). You should join next time, it's quite fun!
Garvin Gray (2013-04-12 19:42:11)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
What I would like to see is that these are regularly held, perhaps one each quarter.
That way there is better promotion, more play and less issues, both in the running of the event and players knowledge of how this event works.
On the structure of the event, I would like to see a 20 second increment, instead of 15.
I found the 15 second increment quite often was just enough time to:
See position
Input into engine
See evals
Input move into game position
Make move on here.
An extra 5 seconds would make a lot of difference.
Alvin Alcala (2013-04-15 19:26:26)
FICGS__CHESS__FREESTYLE_CUP__000005
Last tour was missed out so hosting this tour in yearly basis is already tough job for Thib.
Attila Ba (2013-04-20 17:53:41)
Poker rating anomaly
Here is the game:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=72777
Thibault de Vassal (2013-05-07 13:17:57)
Eros Riccio on his win in 8th chess WCH
As you may know, Eros Riccio won the 8th FICGS chess championship by beating Jeroen Van Assche (who remains undeafeated though, he did not lose a single chess game at FICGS yet) in the candidates final, preventing him to play Eros again in the final.
Eros kindly accepted to answer a few questions:
- Hello Eros. First of all, congratulations for winning this 8th FICGS correspondence chess championship. Once again, you did not even have to play the 12 games match to defend your title as you won the qualifying tournament. In these conditions, the challenge was really tough for Jeroen Van Assche, in despite of his prodigious chess. He had to beat you consecutively in the candidates final (8 games match), then in the final (12 games match). How did things go in this candidates final?
Eros: Hi Thibault, thanks again! I was also worried to have to play a very strong player like Van Assche, but fortunately I had again the advantage that all draws were enough to win, and so my strategy was again not to take risks in all my games. As White it was easy... and surprisingly also as Black. The only game where I had to be more careful than others was this one: 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 a6 6.Bg5 e6 7.Qf3 h6 8.Be3 Qc7 9.0-0-0 Nbd7 10.Qg3 b5 11.a3 Rb8. Here Jeroen surprised me with an interesting novelty, 12.Kb1. The two times I had played this position I was White against Gueci and Kruse, and in both games I continued with 12.Bxb5 but couldn't get more than a draw. The idea of 12.Kb1 is to sacrifice a Pawn for the initiative after 12...b4 13.axb4 Rxb4 14.Nb3 Nxe4. The White Bishops are very strong after 15.Nxe4 Rxe4 16.Bd3 Ra4 17.Bd4 and fully compensate the Pawn less. Anyway I managed to defend, and when I was finally able to trade the Queens we agreed for the Draw.
- You also won the ICCF Umansky Memorial a few weeks ago, the italian correspondence chess championship (again) as well, obviously you played numerous games last year, what do you plan for the next months? By the way, Jeroen already qualified for the candidates final of the 9th cycle, meaning that he may play you in the final match next year if you defend your title again, is there a chance that we can see a revenge?
Eros: Yes, like in the past, also last year I have played a lot of games... anyway for the future I am planning to reduce my games a lot. At the moment, except a few games in minor tournaments, I am only playing for the italian colors at the Olympiads and European Championship, for ICCF. I didn't register for the new Italian Championship this time... I prefer to wait that another individual top ICCF Tournament starts. And of course I am also waiting to meet my next challenger for the FICGS Final! Maybe it will be Van Assche again, we have to see if he beats his opponent in the semifinal (actually next candidates final).
- It looks like a few chess engines reached a certain maturity, I mean algorithms. As a consequence, the computer speed may become the major evolution factor during the next years, that is generally slower than the program's improvements (but the future may have surprises, of course). What do you expect from the computer chess world in the next few years and its impact on correspondence chess?
Eros: As I have already said in a previous interview, being chess probably a draw with perfect play, the more engines get stronger, the more draws we will see. That's quite obvious.
- You probably do not play chess over the board so often, yet you have a quite good ELO! (about 2200, while many correspondence chess masters are rated below 2000 or not rated at all) By the way, I can certify that you are a strong blitz player after we met a few years ago. Do you still play tournaments?
Eros: I am not playing otb chess for a few years, my peak was 22... and a few points, I don't remember exactly. One of the main reasons why I stopped is because later, when analyzing my games with an engine... every time I got frustrated a lot seeing all the blunders I was making.
- Do you estimate that playing OTB chess is good to improve at correspondence chess?
Eros: Yes, it's useful especially if you develop a strategical style, then also in your corr. games you can see more easily "long-term-strategy" plans, which is still the "weakest strenght" in all engines.
- Do you feel that you're still improving at correspondence chess? If yes, is it mainly a question of opening book or something else?
Eros: Improving at corr. chess... hmm... I will surprise you with my thought about this matter! I think I can evaluate my strenght according to the speed of the computer I am analyzing my games with. When I bought this computer, 3 years ago, I felt like I could beat the corr. World Champion. Now... as my computer is becoming older and older, I feel like my play is getting weaker each day it passes. So my answer is that I am still getting worse at corr. chess, not improving.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-05-09 17:57:09)
Eros Riccio on his win in 8th chess WCH
Eros just told me that he will try to answer all questions (by FICGS players) in this discussion... so if you have any idea to try to discover his secrets, please just ask! :)
Eros Riccio (2013-05-09 18:57:45)
Eros Riccio on his win in 8th chess WCH
Thib, let me start pointing out that I have no secrets except one: Luck. It accompanied me throughout these FICGS WCHs.
So guys don't ask me to reveal my "secrets", as I have none!
Tom Kuge (2013-05-21 23:14:18)
isn't this game over?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=71164
position on board is mate-this game is still in my running games list more than a week
Don Groves (2013-06-03 12:48:23)
Playing activity top 20 players
I agree with Neel. The lower rated player has done a better job to tie the higher rated player and deserves to advance. The current FICGS rules always seem to reward the higher rated players.
Garvin Gray (2013-06-04 14:56:48)
Wch cycles possible changes?
With some discussion once occurring about the format of the Ficgs wch, time for a new thread with a different slant.
Some posters have given their opinions on pros/cons of the wch cycle and changes they would like to see happen.
Most though are not incorporated because Thibault is against them, or thinks they will not work.
So time for a new question so it might be possible to get some changes or refinements.
Thibault, on what items in regards to the wch would you be willing to see some changes, or at least incorporate well thought out proposals from the members?
This could at least lead the discussion on where to head for a discussion on these matters.
Because quite frankly if Thibault does not agree with your proposal, it will not happen.
If someone wants to know my opinion on this whole matter. Feel free to ask and I will post in a later post, or possibly a whole new thread as I do have quite a bit to say. Be warned, some may not like it ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2013-06-05 00:06:55)
Wch cycles possible changes?
Hi Garvin!
Some changes have been made for the chess WCH, about 1 year and a half ago, complicating the rules but not so bad IMO.
I'm not against changes but I'm definitely for coherence... as you know, I think that there is no point changing FICGS WCH going to another round-robin one, just an example. It would kill the original scheme & previous championships value just like FIDE killed its own scheme. I gave my opinion on this when launching the very first championship. Also, I'm quite convinced that constant changes always become bad and hide another problem.
I'm still favourable to create the FICGS CUP with another scheme though! But conditions are not fulfilled... we have no new players enough, numbers are very bad these times. FICGS major problem is here... solving it and most changes proposals become useless.
Anyway, do not think that I will have the last word here for ever, that won't be the case... I only hope that the best decisions will be made for the site.
Daniel Parmet (2013-06-07 01:07:26)
Playing activity top 20 players
Thib, I already went from a 2100 rating to a 2372 rating (and my rating is still CLIMBING FAST) with to SIM norm events on ICCF in a mere 32 games. While I have played over 200 games on FICGS and have yet to have a SINGLE opportunity to play a strong tournament. My strength grows but my rating does not grow because this site has gone out of its way to establish rating barriers. Why should I push myself to unbelievable lengths to try to break this site's barriers when I have another site that will happily let me play players of my own strength or slightly stronger without any such herculean effort?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-06-10 00:16:11)
Playing activity top 20 players
I do understand that you choose the stronger opponents (like most strong players), that's why you could have chosen the class M tournament with the ticket opportunity... That's the point I still don't get.
Thanks for your words and your proposal... I'm always looking for ideas to spread the word about FICGS in the chess world. The more players, the more fun for everyone!
Thibault de Vassal (2013-06-15 23:42:26)
Playing activity top 20 players
I repeat here that I never had the intention to do "better" than ICCF or whatever... When I played at IECG before FICGS, I thought that some things could be different and fit more to a certain number of players (starting by me), so I did it.
I see absolutely no interest to make another IECG or ICCF with less players or so. Consequently, it is fully understandable that ICCF is much better for many players. That's cool! :)
I know that Daniel has a great experience in many chess fields and I always read his posts carefully (whatever my opinion), all opinions and posts in this forum always helped much and I thank you all for this...
Thibault de Vassal (2013-07-15 14:16:39)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
Yen-Wei Huang, winner of the 8th FICGS Go championship, kindly accepted to answer a few questions for this very interesting interview!
_______________________
- Hello Yen-Wei and congratulations for winning the FICGS Go championship! Xiao Tong was obviously a tough opponent, yet you won 5-0, what happened during this match?
Hi Thib. Thanks again for your kind invitation. Xiao is definitely one of the strongest Go players on FICGS, and I was really, really lucky to have won all five games. In fact, I was behind in three of them until Xiao made some mistakes late in the games: in game 69092, I forced a tough ko fight which jeopardized my lower group. Xiao made a mistake at P2 as he missed my T3 could force another ko. Game 69093 was very close towards the end but I think the move at C13 caused him the game. Game 69096 was even closer that I won by half a point thanks to the big 7.5 komi. The other two games were not easy either and I am glad I could have hung on to the lead. Overall I really enjoyed our match and I would love to have a rematch with Xiao in the future.
- You're from Taiwan, could you tell us a bit more about you? At what age did you learn Go? Do you have any other ranks (e.g. at other sites)?
I learned Go when I was 5 and I have always enjoyed playing all my life. I used to play on servers like KGS and Tygem and I was around 6-7 dan on these sites. Recently I don't have that much time to play so that's why turned to turn-based server like FICGS.
- What do you think about the world of Go these days? Who is the very best player in the world according to you?
I think the past two years were the "warring period" in the world of Go. I would say Lee Sedol was the best player two years ago, but he seems to have lost his dominant position recently. There are many rising stars that are winning the world champions. I am especially keeping an eye on Yuta Iyama, who I think is No. 1 in Japan and has started to threaten the dominance of Chinese and Korean players.
- What about computer Go and its future? How many years do you give to the human before losing to the machine?
As a software engineer I foresee the computer Go beats the world's No. 1 player in two decades. Crazy Stone already beat Yoshio Ishida with four handicap stones earlier this year, and I believe it wouldn't take long for computers to beat pros in two handicap stones. The real challenge will come when computers need to go from handicap games to even games since they need to advance from defensive mode to attack mode. I am really excited to see how Artificial Intelligence can surprise us with its "creative" moves when the time comes.
- Do you use engines or databases? What advice would you give to beginners (and to your future challengers :))?
I know there are many useful Go engines and databases that are being developed these days, unfortunately I don't really know much about them. I do use http://ps.waltheri.net/ if I need to look something up, and I go to http://tom.com for commented games (they're in Chinese, nonetheless). Advice to beginners: just go to any search engine and you can easily find all the free resources you want. Advice to my future challengers: just try the new variations since I know none of them :)
- What new features would you like to see at FICGS?
Firstly I'd like to thank Thib for maintaining such a wonderful site. I enjoy playing Go and Poker here and maybe I'll start playing Chess sometime (I really suck so I'm not ready to embarrass myself yet). The ability to play different games is what makes FICGS unique. As Thib mentioned earlier, we need much more players, and I think FICGS simply needs to host much more tournaments, probably some with shorter time settings. With more games and more player engagement, more people will stick around. Another feature I'd really like to see is FICGS client for cellphones/tablets. The main advantage of turn-based servers is that it allows people to play wherever for whatever period of time: a 1-min ride in the elevator, a 10-min wait at the bus stop, or a couple of hours at home. If playing on FICGS is made easier, I know I will be more addicted to it :)
- Thank you very much and good luck in the next final match...
Thanks! And please go easy on our Poker match...
Don Groves (2013-07-15 19:55:32)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
Yen-Wei: Do you think increasing the size of the goban to 23x23 would keep the computers at bay for a few more years?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-07-15 20:04:54)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
Ah, good question! In my opnion, a few more years maybe... but not so much.
Yen-Wei Huang (2013-07-16 05:01:18)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
I doubt it. Since the 23x23 goban can be a very different game that no humans are familiar with, I believe by the time computers catch up with humans in 19x19, they can beat humans in 23x23 as well.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-07-16 10:31:44)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
I forgot this point, you're probably right Yen-Wei :)
Don Groves (2013-07-17 01:42:20)
Interview with new FICGS Go champion
Thanks for your quick response!
Joerg Moormann (2013-07-28 22:38:58)
Next WCH Stage start
I registerd yesterday for FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000012 and my name is on the table. Strange.
Mladen Jankovic (2013-07-31 19:14:38)
Thematic tournaments?
I encountered it playing here, the interesting part is that it enables the black king to go on the attack early.
I've played it in game 2032, where I withdrew my king from the center even though pressing on did not seem impossible.
https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=2032
Peter Unger (2013-08-12 18:49:37)
tournament finished but no leader
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_STAGE_2_GROUP_03__000010 is finished but there is no leader. Why?
Will be a stage 3 tournament?
Sam Berkman (2013-08-22 20:08:10)
New FICGS software?
Is this a new moving system now? Just wondering Thib.
Sam Berkman (2013-08-22 20:27:04)
New FICGS software?
Its pretty nice I like the new system. :)
Sam Berkman (2013-08-24 01:44:12)
New FICGS software?
And now it disappeared was that just a test?
Garvin Gray (2013-08-24 19:42:36)
New FICGS software?
what new moving system?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-08-27 12:59:26)
New FICGS software?
What new moving system are you talking about, Sam? Maybe you tried the "fast moves" interface!?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-08-27 13:10:01)
Next WCH Stage start
I have so many other projects... particularly during the summer. But none of them is the reason why FICGS doesn't evolve or doesn't get new players enough.
Sam Berkman (2013-08-27 21:56:51)
New FICGS software?
Maybe that was it.
Joerg Moormann (2013-09-02 13:30:18)
Withdraw from a waiting list?
Hi,
is it possible to withdraw from a waiting list? I couldnt find a button for that.
I registered for FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_E__000167 (ELO 1200-1400), some weeks ago, but meanwhile my rating is 1505.
Scott Nichols (2013-10-08 16:52:38)
Best Freestyle Site
This site is still IMHO the best site for Freestyle. The interface is easy to understand and everything is clear, that's important to any site.
That's why I don't understand why the traffic has dwindled so. I'm sure we could come up with something to increase the Freestyle on here.
I'll start with my idea, :) Have a monthly Freestyle OPEN tournament. The only requirent is a 2 E-point entry fee. The winner gets 90%, FICGS gets 10%. The time controls would have to be bullet, 5 min with 15 second increment. If 8 players or less, it could be a round robin. 9 players or more, even up to a hundred!, would play a swiss style. Make it unrated so anybody could join. Have it on the first Sat. of the month. It would have to start at least by 1800 server time to get all the rounds in in ONE DAY.
Peter W. Anderson (2013-10-10 09:58:08)
Best Freestyle Site
One thing that might help generate traffic for both freestyle and normal time limits is a Wiki entry for FICGS with a few links from other Wiki articles.
Any reason why FICGS does not have one?
Stephane Legrand (2013-10-27 10:55:40)
FICGS poker ratings
I experiment what Scott says at 2012-03-04 22:48:24 many times... see for instance game 72996 ...
Eduardo Alex Baeza Ibanez (2013-11-06 20:21:23)
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__00
i need some help!!, i was confused, and don't read very well, and then i accept to invitations to play big chess, how can i cancel this? because i don't have time to play a so long game like this, sorry about that, was my mistake.
the name of this tournament is FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__00
Thibault de Vassal (2013-11-13 23:24:28)
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__TOURNAMENT__00
That's not possible... it happens sometimes, you just have to resign these games.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-11-21 15:43:37)
World chess championship Anand / Carlsen
Hey Peter, does game 9 remind you something? :) Obviously Magnus did much better than me in this one... I'm quite surprised that he chose this line though.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=74374
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-16 18:44:40)
Entry fee for higher class tournament
Right now, it is fully displayed in the rules page only.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#tickets
The ticket option is reminded (with a link to rules) in each email specifying that a tournament is won and on the "My messages" page. I'll probably add it to the Waiting list pages soon.
By the rules have been updated!
Garvin Gray (2013-12-20 15:18:41)
WBCCC 2014 Entries Open
Entries are now at seventeen. More ficgs players wanted. If you know someone from another site who might be interested, please contact me.
1. Garvin GRAY GARVIN GRAY
2. Om PRAKASH MASTER OM
3. Scott NICHOLS SCOTT
4. George CLEMENT KEOKI010
5. Nikolaos SARAKENIDIS TRANDISM
6. Djordje KASABASIC ARMAGEDDON
7. Paul WATSON NATIONAL12
8. Matt O'BRIEN SCHACHMATT
9. Carlo ALTIERI ITACA2
10. Mark ELDRIDGE MARK ELDRIDGE
11. David EVANS DAVID EVANS
12. Neel BASANT NEELBASANT
13. Timothy COOKSON WEIRWINDLE
14. Ruben COMES RUBEN COMES
15. Erik VAREND DEKA
16. Jose SANZ PPIPPER
17. Michael GLATTHAAR DONKASAND
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-23 21:55:40)
FICGS__BIG_CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__5
Hello Lazaro,
Sorry, the list remained open for replacements and it wasn't closed :/ It is by far too late now to start new groups, the new cycle will start in about 2 months from now, so feel free to enter the waiting list again as soon as it is open again.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2013-12-24 14:12:26)
FICGS poker ratings
I also have this problem with exactly one player. And I have now decided to act in the same manner against this player. If it looks as if I lose then I'm going to reply when my time is almost over.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-24 14:36:50)
FICGS poker ratings
Heinz-Georg, have you replied in the correct thread? This one is about poker and ratings.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2013-12-24 15:07:01)
FICGS poker ratings
This is the right thread, Garvin. I have the same problem as Stephane in his poker game 72996. And I tried to describe my way to handle this situaton.
Peter W. Anderson (2013-12-26 11:55:26)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
I thought it would be a good idea to have a record of the FICGS world chess championship results somewhere in an easily digested form. So I have compiled them and published them on a blog.
I have done this mainly for people who are already members here but also wrote an introduction to FICGS for those who may not be familiar with it. Who knows, it might leads to some new members :)
You can see the article here
http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4640212584288527521#editor/target=post;postID=4543488454188377326;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=postname
The link to the championship results is at the bottom. I hope someone finds it interesting. I have beeen quite careful in compiling it but I expect there may be a few small errors in it. Please let me know if there are and I will make the necessary corrections.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-26 15:39:07)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
I am getting a message. Your current account (graygarvin@gmail.com) does not have access to view this page.
Click here to logout and change accounts.
Geez I find links on this site such a pain , almost all the time.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-26 15:41:30)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
That was from chrome. From firefox I get same message and the header says I do not have permission to view the page.
Peter W. Anderson (2013-12-26 15:47:53)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Thanks. I put the wrong link in.
This should work OK
http://chessengines2.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/ficgs-correspondence-chess.html
Garvin Gray (2013-12-26 16:16:26)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Yes, that now works :) Thank you.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-26 21:37:21)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Hello Peter and thank you very much for this!
Just a question: where does the date 13/08/2013 comes from for cycle 8 (eg)?
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-26 21:59:43)
FICGS Facebook app in question
Hello all,
As you probably have noticed, we have less and less new players and it seems that many correspondence chess sites encounter the same problem (but chess.com, maybe gameknot... mainly).
Nowadays, it seems that everything goes with Facebook and Facebook applications (even if Facebook enforced their rules in many ways around apps), so I'm thinking about making one... somewhat against my principles. In my opinion, there may be many other reasons why chess sites lose popularity but that's another story.
So I'd like to know your opinion on Facebook applications (well, most are spammy and with one goal, gathering personal data... that's quite obvious) and why not we could share ideas to make it useful and viral as much as possible...
Peter W. Anderson (2013-12-26 22:22:27)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Hi Thib
What I did was go into one of the 1st round group and look at the date the first game started. Prompted by your question I have checked and I can see that this is not quite right as some games started sooner - perhaps the date on the games is when the 1st move is played rather than when the game is created.
I will go through more 1st round games and make the date more accurate and update the document tomorrow (or perhaps you have an easier way or getting the dates?)
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-26 23:48:23)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Oh ok, so it may not be the right date in all cases because of additional groups that started after the usual date, indeed. To avoid mistakes, all quarter finals in the knockout tournament started at the correct date.
Alvin Alcala (2013-12-27 07:06:40)
FICGS Facebook app in question
Thib good idea. It's an option we can choose where we are more comfortable.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-27 17:23:41)
FICGS Facebook app in question
Facebook is a very good medium and does not have to be 'spammy'. People have the ability to control what other see by controlling their settings.
The group admin can also decide who is able to enter a group, either by having the group as open or closed group.
Since pinterest was a bust, and I think facebook is the way to go, this idea should certainly be advanced.
I can see possibilities where it could help not just ficgs, but other sites as well as there are going to be players on facebook who are from other sites who are not on ficgs.
So I think it has the potential to be a win all round.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-27 17:24:30)
FICGS Facebook app in question
Oh, and troublemakers and trolls can be kicked out of the group :)
Peter W. Anderson (2013-12-27 17:49:49)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
Dates now corrected :)
By the way Thib, when will the 13th championship start?
Garvin Gray (2013-12-28 02:42:08)
Ficgs World Championship 13
Been asked in the results thread, thought I would bring it across to here.
When is it going to start?
I have a secondary comment and suggestion that relates to starting time. Number 12 and the groups from 10 and 11 all started at the same time. That loaded a lot of games at the same time, which I certainly found to be a huge impost and impacted on the standard of play.
I went in one day from only having a few games, to having 10 Round Robin Final games, a second stage final plus a first stage M division all started at the same time.
All these games were started at exactly the same time. Not even a week apart from each other.
I really do wish for this upcoming cycle that the divisions do not start at the same time.
For instances, there is no reason why entries for number 13 could not be open now with the idea of starting February 1.
Then all the second stages/knockouts from previous groups could start in March, which has been commented on by Thib in the chat bar.
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-29 18:06:16)
FICGS World Chess Championship results
March 1st, 2014 !
Thibault de Vassal (2013-12-29 18:12:25)
Ficgs World Championship 13
March 1st, 2014... 8 months after the previous one, as usual.
I understand that starting all new rounds at the same time is quite heavy but at least it is clear, including for me :)
Anyway, let's gather a few opinions on this to discuss it further.
Garvin Gray (2013-12-29 23:37:42)
Ficgs World Championship 13
Just because it is clear, does not mean it is best. As you quite often have said. This event is meant to be about finding the best player, hence quite a few of the rules which I do not agree with, but that is your justification.
So if that is the justification, then starting so many games at the same time can not help the standard of play and then hence can not help in getting through as many of the best players as possible.
Peter W. Anderson (2013-12-30 10:00:31)
Ficgs World Championship 13
I am not sure that having lots of games starting at exactly the same time is really the problem. Having lots of them running simultaneously seems to be the issue to me and I don't see how that can be avoided without slowing down the world championship cycles.
I'll recount my own recent experience. I had a cycle 12 quarter final starting 2/7/13 and a cycle 11 semi-final starting 3/7/13. That I could manage OK. Then I had a cycle 10 round robin final starting 29/7/13. This gave 26 games and I did find this quite a strain. I don't think that overall it was any better than if the round robin had started at the beginning of July. Yes I had nearly a month with only 16 games, but on the other hand some of those 16 games were reaching difficult points and requiring lots of time when I had to start the extra 10.
If the round robin final had been started in say September or October then it would have been easier for me but that seems to be introducing an unacceptable delay.
Joerg Moormann (2014-01-22 15:08:06)
Bug? Mate but game not finished
Hi
I played 29.... Re3# at 18. Jan. 2014.
http://www.ficgs.com/game_77611.html
It's checkmate, but the server did not finish the game. What went wrong?
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2022-11-26 09:36:07)
I did not win a game since 3 years
Btw, here is the link to the gsame where I won against a KG with Nf3: https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=137701&auto=1&flip=1
Garvin Gray (2014-02-15 08:59:20)
Standard time control abusers
Ok, I have long had enough of this and since Thib believes that everything is a ok, it is time to start naming the abusers and their actions. Perhaps that will force Thib to start taking action against these people, because I, for at least one player, have had a bloody gutful of this player wasting my life.
The player concerned is: Mariusz Maciej Broniek and the game in question is: https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=71232
He has repeatedly made all his moves in the last 5 days of the time control, then let his time run down to the 5 days and then made another 10 moves and rinse-repeat and will do it again.
Mariusz is clearly able to move faster, but is deciding to 'game' the time control in an attempt to either annoy the S*** out of me, or hope that I will resign.
The significance of this game is that whoever wins, wins the tourney and all the e points, totalling 48 e points. I am +10 ahead and it is time Thibault stepped in and put a stop to this behaviour.
Either Thibault applies the 'bringing the game into disrepute rule' against players like this, by firstly giving a warning and then declaring the game lost, or Thibault makes it clear he stands on the side of those who seek to abuse and 'game' the time control and does not give a stuff about the lives of the members who they continue to stuff over.
Garvin Gray (2014-02-25 11:36:55)
Standard time control abusers
Broniek is now down to seven days in my game against him and has 9 moves to make. I have no doubt that he will make the time control, then will sit on the game for another 35 days.
Thanks Thibault for wasting my life like this.
You have a choice, you can either be on the side of the abusers or the victims. It is clear which side you are choosing. At the clear cost of the site.
I know why most people are not commenting and this because they are scared to offend you, even though they hate behaviour like this. Instead they just do not participate in the events.
I have noticed that no one is promoting ficgs anymore. Perhaps it is because the members have grown tired of seeing a site admin allowing members to act in manners like this and not being held to account for it.
Peter W. Anderson (2014-02-28 08:36:07)
Standard time control abusers
True!
There are advantages to how the FICGS world champs are organised, but one disadvantage is that you can end up playing lots of Wch games and not really have time for normal tournaments.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-03-03 11:22:35)
Class A, class M & class SM closed
Hello all,
Waiting lists for chess class A, class M & class SM tournaments are temporarily closed as an experiment, following the discussion in the thread:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=11507
My sincere apologies to players who entered it already, but anyway you all know that class & rapid tournaments are difficult to start for 2 years now, so we're working on different ways to improve the situation.
Of course, you can send me an email if you want to remove your name from these waiting lists.
Heinz-Georg Lehnhoff (2014-03-03 18:14:56)
Standard time control abusers
Why do you think that a serious player would join FICGS if he cannot play serious correspondence games here? He hasn't done it during the last two years, so he will not do it after this restriction of tournament structure.
IMO time control 30/+1 is only suitable for correspondence cafe chess games. It's enough time for poker games, maybe even go games, but chess? That's enough in no case, if you have to work or want to play on others sides too.
I don't play normal chess on this side because the class tournaments are not attractive enough. At least I should climb the next class level if I win a tournament. With this ELO-driven classification that is not the case. And in the WCH there is not enough time to play a serious game. Furthermore, I don't like the preferential treatment (own groups) for the "better" players. I think that many players feel the same way.
By the way I think it's terrible that chess players are condemned here because they spent their time (or vacation) as they need it. According to the rules that is their right.
Michael Sayers (2014-04-19 17:05:02)
remove from non-started tournaments
Is it possible for a player to have himself removed from the waiting list of tournaments which have not begun if he might not be able to complete the obligations and if he doesn't make this mistake again?
(specifically
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_B__000205,
FICGS__CHESS__CLASS_C__000210,
FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_B__000217,
FICGS__CHESS__NO_ENGINES_TOURNAMENT__000071,
and
FICGS__CHESS__UNRATED_TOURNAMENT__000037
- these are many!!!).
Much appreciated if possible :)
Michael S.
Garvin Gray (2014-04-21 04:23:35)
Reduction in max days available? (move)
Currently ficgs has a rule that states: 11. 4. Time rules - Any move in any game shall be played in a maximum period of 60 days, otherwise the game will be adjudicated on time.
I think that 60 days is way too long a time period as a maximum limit and would propose that this be halved to 30 days.
This means a player has to play one move in each of their games every 30 days. This does not seem anywhere near onerous to me.
Michael Sayers (2014-04-21 18:45:39)
Standard time control abusers
Hi Timofey,
These are just ideas off the top of my head. I don't know what a solution would be to the issues mentioned in the thread. FYI, I don't work for ficgs and am just a fellow member commenting on things :)
Real cc needs three days per move + no big delays except in rare instances (and maybe a courteous message would help, such as "I hope you don't mind but I need a few more days here to figure out what to do", et c.). Courtsey and sincere communication make a lot of things much smoother!
All The Best,
Michael
David Fierry Fraillon (2014-04-23 09:09:36)
Standard time control abusers
Hi all,
I am suffering a player abusing of time control ... he has waiting for 29 days for playing one move and then alternating one move / one day of vacation.
I read all comments on this post and i do agree with both of you (Garvin and Thibault) on main points.
Basically thibault you're wright but maybe you will reconsider your position by looking at it with new eyes :
- In the current WCH at least 6 players are using this ''technic'' : the Pech family (Stepan, Matej, Jaroslav and Jarsolav senior), Pechova and Mach
- They all coming from Czech Republic
So what i think : it is only one player (and i am sure you can check that with IP connection). That player is not interrested in winning elo and is stupid by using the same country.
It is not a person interested by chess it is only someone who want bad on FICGS : and that the point you can use for banning him.
Obviously, I am not sure of what i wrote and in theory i do not agree with writing names of the guilty ... but in that case i think you should consider that guy like a hacker and not like a chess player using a stupid technic for winning elo.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-04-23 12:27:04)
Standard time control abusers
There have been many discussions here that concluded that human factor (particularly decisions by me) should be reduced to minimum... David, I'm perfectly aware of this case, this is a permanent test for FICGS rules. But reasons for a ban here would be kind of fuzzy and I think we must avoid that.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-04-27 19:07:11)
remove from non-started tournaments
Yes, you found the right way :)
As a reminder, the email is : info [arobase] ficgs [dot] com
Michael Sayers (2014-05-12 15:57:25)
undetected checkmate
Hej,
The 20.Qd6# in this game hasn't been detected as checkmate by the server:
http://www.ficgs.com/game_80090.html
Thanks for any attention to this!
Mvh,
Michael
Timofey Denisov (2014-05-16 16:39:39)
big chess pgn viewer?
and I think would be good to develop PGN converter FICGS notation to Winboard notation (squares a0 - p15 with letter i, short notation a la "common" chess).
Sample:
[Event "Edited game"]
[Site "CHESSPC"]
[Date "2014.05.10"]
[Round "-"]
[White "-"]
[Black "-"]
[Result "*"]
[FEN "rnb1rbnqknbr1bnr/pppppppnnppppppp/7pp7/16/16/16/16/16/16/16/16/16/16/7PP7/PPPPPPPNNPPPPPPP/RNB1RBNQKNBR1BNR w KQkq - 0 1"]
[SetUp "1"]
{--------------
r n b . r b n q k n b r . b n r
p p p p p p p n n p p p p p p p
. . . . . . . p p . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . P P . . . . . . .
P P P P P P P N N P P P P P P P
R N B . R B N Q K N B R . B N R
white to play
--------------}
1. g3 d13 2. f3 Nh12 3. Njk2 m13 4. m3 Qn9 5. h3 Qxn1 6. Nn2 Qg8 7. e3 Bj8
8. f4 Bh9 9. Nj3 Nm14 10. Bk5 Nc13 11. Qo7 Nl12 12. Qxo14 n13 13. Qo4 Rpo15
14. Qg4 Qxg4 15. hxg4 Nk10 16. Nhi3 Ni9 17. Nc2 Ro7 18. d3 Nj7 19. Bl4 Rn7
20. l3 Ngi14 21. Ngh2 Bi8 22. e4 Ro15 23. Bo4 e13 24. Ni4 Be14
Peter W. Anderson (2014-06-23 13:21:52)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
https://onedrive.live.com/view.aspx?cid=AFB49FE3A5961D46&resid=AFB49FE3A5961D46!238&app=WordPdf
I'll update this every six months or so.
Alvin Alcala (2014-06-23 19:01:04)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Cool! keep it up :)
Garvin Gray (2014-06-24 05:17:57)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Sorry to bring up an old topic, but it does show again that Eros Riccio has not actually won the World Championship match since the 4th cycle. All he has done is drawn the match.
The final match rules really do need to be re-written to make it more of a contest so the winner actually has to win the match.
It is thoroughly ridiculous that any one person is still champion after four drawn matches, without having won any of them. In some of them, not even winning a single game, IIRC.
Neel Basant (2014-06-25 06:12:07)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
I agree with Garvin.
Need to do something which will result interesting championship not boring and drawed one.
Nick Burrows (2014-06-25 17:11:51)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Indeed, if a top player wants to draw a game he can. Therefore possession becomes 9/10 of the law. Analogous to the otb candidates - Should the final be an all play all??
Timofey Denisov (2014-07-03 00:37:10)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Maybe just increase number of games in final match, for sample, to 24? (as in old live chess championships)?
Thibault de Vassal (2014-07-04 02:03:32)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Garvin, it seems to me that this is only a question of definition: you win a chess game if you can take the king, or if your opponent runs out of time, or... and you win a championship if you fill certain conditions. Kramnik retained his title by this 7-7 against Leko in 2004 because it was defined this way. The question to know if it is ridiculous or not seems quite subjective.
@Timofey: 24 games would be a huge load of work. 12 games is quite a lot already and I'm not sure it would change anything. For example, Eros explained why he offered a draw in a probably winning position. Finally, we could change everything and make another ICCF but would it be useful or interesting when it already exists?
Timofey Denisov (2014-07-08 08:19:31)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Maybe, "revolving system"? For sample, first simultaneously start 12 games, but next game will start after end one of these games, etc until all games of this match started.
It will not huge load of work, but will give much more concurrency :)
Garvin Gray (2014-07-08 17:01:05)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Timofey: That format could result in more short draws as the players see it as a way to get through the early games faster.
The better format would be to have it as 12 games, but if one player is ahead after eight games have been concluded, the match is over.
The second idea would be to play an eight game match, and then if the result is 4-4, another four games are played.
That would encourage both players in the first eight games to try and win more games as they would know that agreeing to short draws does not shorten the match length, in fact it could lengthen it.
Garvin Gray (2014-07-08 17:04:32)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Thib, I know you are going to defend the status quo on everything. That is what you do. You do it on everything, so I have pretty much lost interest in trying to change or improve things around here.
The site with either live or die as is. I am finishing up my games and then seeing what happens. My participation is coming to an end. I am finding it has stagnated overall in terms of site progression, ideas and overall administration.
It has become stale for ideas and the format is dead. Time to move on me thinks.
Timofey Denisov (2014-07-08 18:48:30)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Timofey: That format could result in more short draws as the players see it as a way to get through the early games faster
Really? Why people in Final match will do short draws, when if result of match is draw Champion keeps his title?
This is very nonprofitable to Candidate.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-07-11 01:01:06)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
Starting games one after another will take... years! 4 more games after the first 8 ones is 8 months more.
Garvin, I'm not defending the status quo to do nothing at all (even if it's ok for me from times to times), I really think that things are better as they are, even if there are many problems mainly due to the lack of players. Well, nowadays the curb of new players is going the right way, I hope this is only a start.
Peter W. Anderson (2014-07-13 10:54:56)
FICGS WCh results summary updated
I have given the question of the format of the WCh matches a lot of thought.
There is no doubt that having the advantage of the draw is a huge advantage at correspondence chess, much more so than at normal chess, simply because the draw rate is so high amongst strong correpondence players.
However, there are disadvantages to other formats. It is true that a tournament final gives a better chance of having a new champion. But the outcome is dependent upon the results of players who are not necesarrily fighting hard for the prize (perhaps they have an early loss, perhaps other parts of their lives become too busy). You might hope that in the final this would not happen, but if you look closely at the games in the round robin finals you will see some strange results, clearly drawn games being lost etc. If it can happen in the round robin final it could happen in a championship final.
Having more games in the final is a very logical option. However, as Thib has pointed out, this will create a big workload. It would make it almost impossible for a serious challenger to enter consecutive championships without having to withdraw from later ones if they reached the final (this is already very difficult witouht more games!).
Another option would be an advanced chess play-off. I would be concerned that this would be too dependant on who had the biggest hardware with less chance for human skill.
Finally, there is the chance to decide a tied match with a toss of a coin. Not a great way of picking a champion.
This problem is not so much an issue with the format as with the game itself - chess is almost certainly drawn with sensible play and as engines get stronger it is going to become harder and harder to win games.
All in all, I think the current format is very reasonable, perhaps the best.
One final observation re Neel's comment that a top player can draw a game if he wants. Perhaps, and if this is 100% true then the draw problem is realy severe. However, I am a little more hopeful. Eros Riccio sometimes beats even very strong players playing the same openings he plays - it is not as if the openings he plays are guaranteed draws in practice. He finds ways of putting them under pressure and sometimes they make a mistake. Perhaps eventually he will do so too (we may have to wait for him to get old!). Or to put another way, chess is almost certainly drawn but it is not an easy draw even at correspondence if white plays really well!
Nick Burrows (2014-08-25 13:11:47)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Here is a heads up, so you can avoid the same mistake I made.
I saw there was an available "gold" chess match against a player I thought I could beat, so I bought the required e-points and began the match. My opponent then played no moves and lost on time. I asked to cash-out my winnings. Thibault pointed out a rule in the small print that allows himself to claim the money that I had won.
I then asked for a refund of my money. Thibault refuses, because he is greedy and wants to earn 200 Euros for doing F*ck all. Now my money is trapped inside Ficgs.
*Buyer beware*
Garvin Gray (2014-08-26 14:13:03)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Nick: I have been reading the rules. Can you please point out the rule, as I have been reading the rules and I do not see where either version is mentioned?
Nick Burrows (2014-08-26 20:06:27)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Garvin: This is the paragraph Thibault referred me to -
b) "When a player wins a tournament with an entry fee (not null) and prize, he can choose after the game(s) to keep E-Points (by default) instantly added in his FICGS account or, if he has E-Points enough in his account, a money prize. Entry fees and prizes in E-Points are published on the tournament page in "Waiting lists". If games in such a tournament have not been really played for a win, for example if a participant obviously lost quickly one or several games only to allow his opponent to get the money prize (and particularly if it happens several times), these tournaments will not be considered as win and the player showing this behaviour may lose his E-points involved in the tournament at the referee's discretion."
looking at it now, this doesn't even seem to cover my specific circumstance, as is this an instance of a player "not playing for a win"?
I always thought Thib was a nice guy, but his greed in this instance has really surprised me, and left a bad taste in my mouth.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-26 20:26:15)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Hi all,
I'll wait a few days before saying my word on this point (if necessary) to see how people read it by themselves. Thanks for your patience.
Garvin Gray (2014-08-28 12:39:55)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
So Nick, just to clarify what happened if this two game match:
Player A (opponent) enters Gold Waiting List
Player B (Yourself) joins Gold Waiting List sometime later.
The two games start.
Both games time out with no moves being made in either game and you never heard anything from Player A.
Is that correct?
I do have an opinion, or a couple of opinion on what I think should occur here, but it is dependant on the timeline of events. So I want to get them in the right order before stating my opinion.
Nick Burrows (2014-08-28 17:39:26)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Correct Garvin
Alvin Alcala (2014-08-29 11:34:16)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
The game mentioned was against David Evans.
Garvin Gray (2014-08-30 07:46:33)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Had some more time to think about this. Read the rules, read them again. Especially about where if a person asks for a financial payout from e points to Euro (and then converted to their currency.
They receive 75% of the stated e point amount.
So by my calculations-
David Evans paid 100 euro to enter the waiting list.
Nick Burrows paid 100 euro to enter the waiting list.
The advertised prize for winning the match is 196 e points.
So lets say that this match was played on merit and Nick won 2-0. He would receive 196 e points in his account. That is already 4 e points that FICGS is keeping for itself.
Then if Nick decided to 'cash out' those 196 e points, he would receive 75% of that- so 147 EURO.
This means that FICGS has received 200 EURO originally from these two entries, and paid out 147 EURO to Nick for his win.
Now, in the circumstance that has occurred here, the rule mentioned is more designed for multiple player tournaments to stop rating manipulation (sandbagging and the like), not for this circumstance.
Also, this rule states- For example if a participant obviously lost quickly one or several games only to allow his opponent to get the money prize (and particularly if it happens several times). This would then be saying that David Evans deliberately lost both games on purpose to attempt to give Nick the prize (even though David paid the money out of his own pocket). Why wouldn't David just give the money straight to Nick?
If FICGS really does believe that part rule I have quoted has been violated and that David has engaged in game fixing, will FICGS be taking strong against David Evans, including suspensions or banning him from this site. It would be the logical conclusion for game fixing. Since this is the rule being quote to deny a payout.
Now the only other circumstance that I can think of why FICGS has attempted to deny a payout if that FICGS believes that Nick only entered the GOLD match, believing that David would not play the two games. That is a risky strategy for Nick to take, considering David is an active player, especially for 100 euro and 2 games.
Considering that even if FICGS pays out the money on this two game match, the site still makes 53 euro from a 2 game match, and I do not see a rule that justifies not paying it out, this money should be paid out.
A further question now is- Are these fees fair? A 53 euro profit from a 2 game match?
Alexis Alban (2014-08-30 17:18:00)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Nick should get the prize money, it was David's responsibility to be present when he entered the advanced chess match.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-30 22:44:50)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I have to specify here that the rule mentioned is absolutely not about rating manipulation (by the way, there is already another rule for this), it is about money prize in 2 players matches only, maybe with 3+ players in unlikely cases! It was added when a player got a money prize after getting a few free Epoints and without playing any move... Of course, that was not acceptable (the prize was paid though, following the rules) as games recorded -especially silver/gold tournaments- should be worth to watch. So these are the reasons for this rule: To avoid empty games, to punish the player who didn't play (by taking Epoints, which is a obviously strong act in this particular case) and to redistribute Epoints to players who deserve it. Just like the rating rule, why a player should get a money prize by winning games without fighting?
I don't think that suspension or banning is necessary here (it would be really hard according to me, anyone can have good reasons for a long absence, but I'll consider this option if many players complains on this point).
To answer the last point, I don't and I cannot know if Nick entered this match believing that David would not play and I don't think that should be the point. As always, we need undisputable rules, as fair as possible, and I do think this one is a good one.
One important thing: The site does not make 53 Euro from this match, at most the site makes Epoints (on the other hand, most are offered by the site, by far). That makes a big difference!
Finally, if I understand Nick's point well, the way to understand "if a participant obviously lost quickly one or several games only to allow his opponent to get the money prize" may be ambiguous so it could be not possible to make the decision (who can know if David really wanted to play these games, wanted that Nick or anyone else get the prize?). So I probably should make it more clear to avoid such situation - even if I doubt that players realize about this rule before entering a silver tournament.
Garvin Gray (2014-08-31 10:53:40)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
From what I have read here from your response Thibault- I see no grounds AT ALL to not pay the prize.
The rating rule is there for the best interest of the site, because ratings are meant to be the way we all judge what standard of play we are and what divisions we can enter.
So comparing a rating argument with this argument is drawing a rather long bow indeed.
Just like the rating rule, why a player should get a money prize by winning games without fighting?
Already answered about ratings. About winning games without fighting (or playing), Nick entered under the conditions believing the match would take place.
If he entered the match believing it to not take place and David did play, then Nick has taken a risk that has backfired.
The point is that it is not Nick's fault the match did not take place. From my reading of the rules, there is nothing clear that says you can not pay out the prize.
Remember, you are making an absolute ruling here that applies FOREVER. This means that in effect you have taken 100 epoints at least out of Nick's account, his original stake, for just entering a match.
I would ask as site admin. Why would ANY player on this site want to support paid matches after this event and circumstances?
When the site admin can in effect, I was not happy with your match conditions that it was played under, I don't really have anything to point towards, but I did keep your cash anyways.
I for one will not be supporting any matches or tournaments from now on whilst this practice remains in place. I do not want to enter a match, have it not take place and then the site admin say, tough luck, not your fault the match did not take place, but I am keeping your cash.
The more I look at this and type, I am finding it hard to not say that Nick Burrows has been robbed of his cash. These events are real.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-31 13:13:23)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Garvin, If I follow your thinking, there is no reason why Nick shouldn't get the rating points as well, for the exact same reasons.
Please note that I did not take Nick's original stake from his account, he keeps all his Epoints involved in the match, just like if the match did not happen. Maybe there was confusion there. Only David's Epoints are in question (as specified in the rule). I hope this answers the 2nd question and rest of the message.
Nick Burrows (2014-08-31 14:40:39)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
If the conditions that FICGS operates under were explicit, why would any player ever buy e-points?
Pay 100 euros for a match that you may get to play after a long wait of many months. If you get an opponent, but he doesn't play moves; Ficgs keeps his 100 Euros. At no time can the e-points you bought be converted to cash unless you enter the above process, and win, when Ficgs will take 25% of your winnings.
Like a bad joke isn't it!
Perhaps a better business model would be one that gave attractive and fair conditions to the players; so that rather than stripping bare every victim you trick into the system, you have take less money from each player but with many, many more participants?
Nick Burrows (2014-08-31 16:11:44)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
And let's not try and fool anyone Thibault - the one and only reason that the rule was introduced is because it means you get to keep 100 euros.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-31 16:36:03)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Once again Nick, you didn't buy a particular match, you bought Epoints without any certitude to play this match (that could have started without you, then you'd have asked a refund, I guess)...
And saying FICGS keeps Euros on this case is not exact, FICGS keeps Epoints just like those that are distributed in free tournaments prizes.
You seem not to realize that FICGS is not a casino and cannot be one. When you participate at a tournament over the board and cannot play the opponent you wanted to play, there is most probably no refund. If there is no other participant showing, there could be a refund (because no other match would be possible) but I doubt that you get the whole prize, nevertheless the tournament would probably keep some fees. That's quite the same spirit with this rule.
Finally, I think that players may want to buy Epoints to really play games and casually win and get a money prize. As explained in the rules, the 25% rake should be balanced with the results after a certain number of games. Things can go very fast with bullet or lightning games. If you really want to get a money prize, it can take a few hours after you find an opponent... Didn't you think about it?
About business models, believe me: FICGS is not a good one in France. I did not make it and I don't run it for money. By the way, as far as I know, even poker sites have difficulties under french laws.
Nick Burrows (2014-08-31 18:11:33)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I bought E-points believing they would be instantly purchased, and I could instantly start the match. There was no warning it would take several hours - so I did buy them for the specific match.
It may not be "exact" or "technically correct" to say that Ficgs (you) keeps Euros; but it is "essentially" true, although you "technically" cannot admit that you are actually running a casino under a different name due to French law.
These games are NOT modeled on any o.t.b chess tournament in existence, but they ARE modeled EXACTLY on a heads-up poker match. Which are run by CASINO companies and who ALWAYS pay the winner (me) and pay your money back, when you request it.
No I did not consider playing bullet for money, as that is a pure hardware contest.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-31 20:50:58)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
That's wrong, it is specified in the My account page (within days):
"Please send us a message through the form below after any payment on FICGS account, mentioning your name, address, country, account (email) at Moneybookers, the number of tickets you bought and the amount transfered. Your account in E-Points at FICGS will be updated within days."
Anyway, definitely I do not have to know that you bought it for this specific match or to act according to this view.
On the casino-like point, I invite you to contact the french government like I did, they will explain you why it is either the same or different in so many ways that it is impossible to know for sure at the end. At least I'm sure that the part of random is not the same in poker than in chess and that I have no right to act like a casino: all prizes must be related to tournaments, there's no possible "cash out" there.
Nick Burrows (2014-08-31 21:45:24)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Whether I read every single aspect of your terms and conditions is not really the point is it?
Whether you believe me or not - I DID purchase the points for that one specific match. If I buy some virtual currency for a particular tournament, then that tournament (after a 2 month wait) becomes unavailable, why can the money not be returned?
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-31 22:21:31)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Because the product sold is Epoints, not tournaments.
By the way I just remembered that this is also specified in the rules (membership.html) :
"Tickets in E-Points can't be sold to other members or paid back."
Nick Burrows (2014-08-31 22:43:48)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Just because you've covered your ass in the rules, doesn't mean that they are good or fair.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-08-31 23:23:24)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
That's true, it doesn't mean it but please allow me to think it's fair enough though. At least, it seems to me that's very subjective.
Finally, I'm sorry for your disapointment but whatever the rules (that are now updated and I do think that the past & current version are fair), this is the only way to build something.
Dominique Geffroy (2014-09-03 22:09:00)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I will jump in, even though I have no affiliation with either party, and do not even know FICGS that well, having played only a handful of games here. But my background is finance, and I have decent training on fight against financial crime. What Thibault is trying to say, if I understand correctly, is that his business is running under some legal constraints, and in particular, I guess he has to prove to the regulator that in no way may his operation be used as a money laundering scheme by organized crime.
This is why the business would never be allowed to turn epoints into cash, except when there has been a real *unpredictable event*, i.e. a real game, a real tournament, which triggered such cash payment.
The reason behind this is that as soon as you have a failproof, 100% safe way of turning money into goods and back into money, there is room for money laundering activities on the back of such practice. The money becomes clean, because it acquires an identified source: FICGS in this instance. Even with a 25% cut, that is something very interesting for organised crime: cleaning the money has a price. By imposing that un *unpredictable event* happens, this opportunity taken away from would be abusers.
I understand your frustration, but once again, as an outsider with no stake whatsoever in this, I am pretty sure that if Thibault were allowed to do differently in this instance, he would.
Nick Burrows (2014-09-04 16:33:51)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
1. Why didn't he say as much.
2. The taking of the prize money from my won game, was a choice and not an obligation. This choice was based 100% in greed.
Dominique Geffroy (2014-09-04 21:58:31)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
1. I guess he obeys laws imposed on him without delving into the whys and hows of why they exist...
2. Well, the message I was trying to convey is that in the eye of the authorities and the regulator, a conversion of epoints to money triggered by a game which looks fixed is an open door to money laundering, and therefore ruled out. Regulator says: no risk, no money. If there was no move on the opponent's side, the regulator says there was no risk.
I nevertheless have to agree with you, as anyone with common sense would, that it is very convoluted and unfair, because you are obviously not a money launderer and you would deserve your reward. Such server rule therefore probably needs to be put forward much more clearly by the organisers, who have in my opinion absolutely no leeway in this respect (This forum post will probably useful for that).
So maybe there is greed, maybe you are right. I do not know this person and will neither launch an attack on his personal character, nor try a defense. But all I can say is that even if he was a benevolent benefactor of humanity, he would risk prison if he converted epoints to money following a not contested game.
Dura lex, sed lex.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-09-05 01:25:46)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I must say that Dominique explained some things much better than I could... Thank you! On the second point, I guess that I'll have to deal repeatedly with this "doubt" for ever or for a moment as I tried to update the code for the prizes according to this rule but was not able to do it without making it too heavy, so I'll continue to take Epoints from winner's account each time in such situation before I rewrite the whole thing.
Finally I have to say that reasons for such rule remain at the same time fuzzy (I'm not able to justify it by specific points in the law - that is fuzzy itself) & personal because I want to avoid any risk and because I do think it's fair, which is subjective of course! As I already said, Epoints are taken there, others are offered there... So yes, I could have made another choice, I could even delete this rule (whatever it implies), you can think this is greed on this specific act, but at the end it fits the rules [in despite of the human factor at that time, which is now fixed] and that's the most important thing IMHO.
Nick Burrows (2014-09-07 16:52:48)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Treating people the same as you would in a chess game; laying a trap and hoping they fall into it.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-09-08 01:17:12)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
That's said. Well, in my opinion that is not the case and it is quite insulting... but that's said.
Nick Burrows (2014-09-08 16:11:10)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Well I find that to win a Gold chess game and end up with 100 Euros less than I started with extremely insulting.
Alexis Alban (2014-09-08 22:22:39)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
But you still have 100 e-points right? Why not challenge someone, maybe you'll end up with more euros than you started with. Of course there's the possibility that you might lose all of it, but that's the risk involved in gambling.
Nick Burrows (2014-09-08 23:17:04)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Accepting a challenge just took 60 days with no moves. I will probably have to wait 3 months; just to wait for a player I can't beat accept the challenge.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-09-10 16:38:26)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
You could also look for a player by using the chat bar and start the match if you estimate that he's not too strong (or sleepy) for you...
Thibault de Vassal (2014-10-02 23:01:55)
Eros Riccio makes a record at ICCF
GM Eros Riccio has now played 408 rated games at ICCF, since 2001. This is the highest number for the top 25 (at least) and this is a huge performance due to his rating and numerous games at other servers (including 212 games at FICGS). Just amazing!
https://www.iccf.com/RatingList.aspx
Garvin Gray (2014-10-28 23:51:08)
July 1 2014 Fide laws of chess
With the next ficgs wch approaching, I assume this event will now be held under the new rules for the fide laws of chess that began July 1 2014.
Where is the new information contained that states how the new rules will be applied to this event as some of the fide laws chess have had some significant changes and could be make a large change for how some rules are applied on here.
Thibault de Vassal (2014-10-31 15:38:43)
July 1 2014 Fide laws of chess
FICGS rules are based on current FIDE rules so I don't see any major change except I should specify this "default time" (which is the total time here, but in the WCH tournaments). Do you see anything else?
Thibault de Vassal (2014-11-02 14:19:06)
July 1 2014 Fide laws of chess
About repetition and number of moves without a pawn move or capture, FICGS rules already specify that it does not apply here so there is no change to make.
The rest of your message explains the context I was talking about. But we don't have to agree on anything: As I explained when FICGS started and many times after that, I wanted to make it (particularly the championship cycle) different from what already exists (and closer to previous FIDE cycle). Obviously, you prefer the other way, that's not a big deal, and there is ICCF or LSS. I would have been ok to make a cup cycle if we had players enough but that's definitely not the case. What to add? There are many reasons why FICGS has quite few members (real names to start...) but there are well known advantages to this. Otherwise there are chess.com, gameknot, so many sites full of players. Finally, complaining players are probably the most important ones here because they constantly bring ideas. There was many many improvements in the first years and it did not go against the coherence of the site. Your cup cycle idea does not even go against the coherence of the original idea of the site, only the context is wrong here. Changing the WCH cycle for a ICCF-like one would be the worst thing to do in this point of view. But that's only a point of view.
Jing Huang (2014-11-08 12:02:55)
How is the WCH challenger decided?
In the (unfinished) tournament GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000011(http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000011), Ruzin, Praz and I all have exactly the same points, but it seems that tournament GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000011 (http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000011) has started with Ruzin as the challenger.
Does anyone know how this is decided? Thanks :)
Jing Huang (2014-11-08 12:14:21)
Registered for Go WCH 12 but excluded
I have registered for the GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000012
(http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_go_wch)
However, in the started tournament (http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__GO__WCH_TOURNAMENT__000012),
there are only 9 players despite that 12 players have registered.
Sasa Radojcic, Angelo Piantadosi and I are somehow excluded. Does anyone know the reason?
Peter W. Anderson (2014-12-20 10:26:14)
FICGS chess WCh summary updated
https://onedrive.live.com/view.aspx?cid=AFB49FE3A5961D46&resid=AFB49FE3A5961D46!294&app=WordPdf
One hard fought game remaining in the 9th World Championship match. Well worth a look.
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=80633
Thibault de Vassal (2014-12-22 18:20:59)
FICGS chess WCh summary updated
The link does not appear the right way because of "https" and exclamation mark in parameters, sorry about that :/
Thanks Peter!
Alvin Alcala (2014-12-24 16:46:08)
FICGS chess WCh summary updated
Seems black can hold.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-01-09 20:46:20)
Eros Riccio on his win in 9th chess WCH
Eros Riccio kindly accepted to answer a few questions after his win in the 9th FICGS correspondence chess championship. Once again, his answers are worth to read... including probably a few surprises and valuable informations for most of us!
_____________________________
- Hello again Eros. Congratulations for this new win! So you played Jeroen for the second time in a row, this time in the 12 games format. There were 12 draws but it does not mean a lot. How did things go?
--> Hi Thibault! Nice to answer your questions again :-) I managed to resist again Van Assche's assaults, this time he was well-determined to win, as he made me really suffer in a couple of games. The first game was a semislav, me as Black. He played a rare variation (starting with 14.Be2 followed by 15.Qd3) that was new to me. At first the engines were giving 0.00 evaluations, but after the move 22.Qg3 they started to realize that Black's position was difficult, and they kept increasing their evaluation in White's favor move after move. That was quite a scary thing to see, and I really thought that I could have lost the game. I had to use all the thinking time (leave included) to be able to resist. This new variation impressed me so much that I decided to use it as White myself as a surprise weapon, and in fact it allowed my engine on autoplay on my old I7 980x to win a lot of games as White and a 500 dollars prize getting first place in a strong tournament on Infinity Chess. The second game was a Spanish, me as White. After his 7...0-0 I decided to avoid the Marshall (that would have probably happened if I had played 8.c3) trying the AntiMarshall variation 8.d4. I am now convinced that this variation gives nothing good to White, but I didn't know that yet when I played it! Already after the rare strong move 11...c5! things were starting to get difficult for me. He simply continued with c4 and d5, getting space advantage with his Pawns on the Queenside, while I could find no attack at all on the Kingside. Again I had to be very careful to escape with a draw.
- What can you tell about your other results this year, particularly at ICCF where you're now ranked #9 with an outstanding rating of 2639 ?
--> My ICCF elo in the past few years has raised. Slowly, but it has raised. I had no defeats and a couple of wins in the Olympiads and European team tournaments started in 2012. I am satisfied of that, as winning nowadays in top correspondence tournaments is very difficult. Important is to remain undefeated.
- Last year, you said that you felt like your play was getting weaker each day because your machine was getting older, did you finally upgrade it? But maybe this is a secret...
--> No. As I wrote earlier, I haven't updated my machine. Fortunately cpu's general speed has kept increasing not as quickly as in the past, so my I7 980x can still compete.
- Did your vision of computer chess evolve after these last 18 months? What do you expect for the next years? Do you plan to become a chess cyborg? ^^
--> Fortunately for our hobby, computer chess isn't rushing towards the "all draws" situation that I talked about a couple of years ago. That's because, fortunately, increasing cpu's power and engine's strenght is getting more and more difficult. Yes, some main lines already lead to all draws often, but chess gives so many openings options that to avoid that, you can simply play subvariations. When played a lot, also subvariations will become main variations. Then again, when the draws rate gets too high, you just pick another less played opening. It will take many years to cover every opening to a high draws rate.
- Your next challenger is Peter W. Anderson, who made a convincingly path through the round-robin cycle before to defeat SM Igor Dolgov 5-3 in the 10th candidates final (by the way he's also playing the 11th candidates final). It seems that you never played him before. How do you feel this match? Do you have any words for your opponent before that the games start?
--> I am happy to play a new player! We have just started our match, again, all my first moves as White were 1.e4. What to say... it's up to him to avoid main lines as Black (he already did it answering with 1...g6 in three games) if he wants to try to win with the black pieces. But the real challenge for him of course will be to try to win with the White pieces. It will be interesting to see if he can find holes in my Black repertoire like Van Assche was able to do. Let's wait and see!
Alexis Alban (2015-01-27 00:37:48)
Eros Riccio on his win in 9th chess WCH
Thanks for answering these questions Eros, it was a very interesting read. I hope someday I will be able to play for the FICGS Championship. For now I hope you two enjoy your match.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-03-09 01:26:15)
FICGS freestyle chess superstars
Looks like our freestyle chess champions made it again at InfinityChess in a very tough engine-team tournament (finished 2nd tie but very near):
The team named "Freestyle Chess Superstars":
* Dracodaatson, GM Eros Riccio
* Spaghetti_Chess, IM Alberto Gueci
* Ultra-d, David Evans
* Maximus, Alvin Alcala (Team Captain)
Results and round-by-round results:
http://infinitychess.com/Web/Page/Public/Article/DefaultArticle.aspx?id=208
http://www.infinitychess.com/Web/Page/Public/Article/DefaultArticle.aspx?id=205
Congrats guys :)
Alvin Alcala (2015-03-09 04:22:26)
FICGS freestyle chess superstars
Thanks Thib!
Peter W. Anderson (2015-03-09 09:19:55)
FICGS freestyle chess superstars
Congratulations guys. A plus score for each of you :)
Scott Nichols (2015-03-09 09:29:18)
FICGS freestyle chess superstars
Wow, great article! Congrats to our players! I would have bet big on these superstars winning it all. I actually had a chance to play, but personal issues have kept me in la-la land the last few months. But it's going to be great fun going thru the pgn file slowly, :) Great job guys!
Andrew Fischhof (2015-04-15 07:09:00)
GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000010
Just curious ... what happened to
FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000010?
Thanks :)
Thibault de Vassal (2015-04-15 14:17:15)
FICGS__GO__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000010
Hello Andrew.
Well, just like Eros Riccio in a few chess championships, Yen-Wei Huang won both preliminary tournament and previous final match, so he didn't have to defend his title (he should have played against himself).
Angus James (2015-05-01 14:38:48)
Problems with FICGS automated email?
My opponent made a move on 27.04.15 but I didn't receive an automated email telling me until 30.04.15, 3 days later. Has anyone else experienced any issues with delayed FICGS automated notifications recently? Thanks
Josef Riha (2015-05-02 12:41:45)
Problems with FICGS automated email?
I have the same problem but it's solved now.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-05-03 00:07:17)
Problems with FICGS automated email?
Yes, I had to deal with a server problem... it took about 2 days, now everything should be ok.
Alvin Alcala (2015-06-08 00:48:41)
2nd centaur weekend tourney
Congrats. I knew it! ficgs produces centaur champions...
Peter W. Anderson (2015-06-14 17:34:57)
FICGS Chess WCh Results Summary Updated
Web address is...
https://onedrive.live.com/view.aspx?cid=AFB49FE3A5961D46&resid=afb49fe3a5961d46!402&app=WordPdf
Next summary update probably December.
Peter W. Anderson (2015-06-14 17:52:04)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
I recently played in an Infinity Chess freestyle event and was impressed by one of their tiebreak rules. If scores were tied a player got a bonus if he had stalemated an opponent.
I would like to suggest this is adopted in the matches (not tournaments) in the FICGS world championship and that is it the first tiebreak rule applied, i.e before ratings and whether wins or only draws have been played. I would also suggest it is adopted for the title matches too. Perhaps it could be introduced from the 15th cycle onwards or even in existing cycles (11 to 14) where a match has not begun.
This seems a very fair tiebreak rule to me, which would normally reflect who overall played better (came closer to winning) in a drawn match, especially where all games are drawn.
The only disadvantage I can see to this rule is that it would prolong games as some that would currently be agreed drawn would in future be played through to stalemate.
On the other hand it would get us thinking hard about which drawn endgames lead to stalemate and which don't and that in itself is quite interesting.
Peter W. Anderson (2015-06-16 18:45:50)
FICGS Chess WCh Results Summary Updated
That link is now dead as a found an error in it.
The corrected version is here....
https://onedrive.live.com/view.aspx?cid=AFB49FE3A5961D46&resid=afb49fe3a5961d46!404&app=WordPdf
Alvin Alcala (2015-06-18 20:40:09)
FICGS Chess WCh Results Summary Updated
Good job peter!
Thibault de Vassal (2015-07-05 14:11:09)
A couple of questions
Hello Nathan,
1) On the waiting list page, these rules are combined to the playing rules that you can find here:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
2) Yes, I'm late for the other tournaments 'cause my internet provider decided it :) I'll make my possible if it works well today. Sorry about that.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-07-05 14:22:20)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Thanks for the article Alvin, I read it entirely. My feeling is still about the same than Pablo's: This is deeply changing the game. Doesn't it mean restarting from zero while at the end (which may be not so far), the same problem will appear again... maybe slightly weaker, but still?
On the other hand, I concede that I made a (less) deep change in the rules when I started FICGS, by not adopting the 50 moves rule, so I'm still hesitating.
My position would be first to wait and see what ICCF will decide on this point, meanwhile I'll try to have more opinions here on this.
Jan Ohlin (2015-07-06 09:34:18)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=78874
Stalemate points as favour for black´s good opening play or white´s strong middle and endgame play?
Thibault de Vassal (2015-07-11 02:18:11)
E. Riccio on his win in the 10th CC WCH
Once again, Eros kindly answered a few questions after his win in the 10th FICGS correspondence chess championship. His answer on tie break rules meets the discussion in this thread:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=11773
____________________________
- Hello Eros and congrats again for this new win in the FICGS correspondence chess championship! This time, your opponent was Peter W. Anderson and you're playing him once again in the next final match. Actually, all games finished in less than 3 months, which looks like superfast, how did it happen?
Hello once again Thibault! Yes, the match with Anderson was very quick. The reasons are that he moves very fast, and like me, I don't seem to remember that he took any day of leave.
Also, our games were not played until the very end; many draws were agreed with many pieces on the board, as soon as we thought that none of us had winning chances.
- For many players, it is quite impossible to beat you in such a 12 games match (probably because of the tie rule). After all these won matches do you start to think that the advantage is too big?
It's a fact that a very high percentage of correspondence games played at the top level ends up in a draw... (and that percentage is even higher in my case, as my strategy is to avoid taking risks) so yes, talking against my interests, I think that something in the rules should be changed.
- By the way, your opponent suggested an interesting tie rule in the forum ( Chess, Poker & Go forum - Topic 11773 ), in the context of more general new ideas for correspondence chess rules (e.g. article by GM Arno Nickel - Correspondence Chess – the draw problem ) in order to increase the interest of the game. Do you have any opinion on all this?
The idea GM Nickel launched could be interesting, even if before we can say for sure if it can be applied in serious tournaments, it needs to be tested.
If I understood correctly, having a piece more in a draw endgame, after the game is over, a little plus on the score would be given to the player who had the small advantage.
I always thought like: How unfair! That player had King and two Knights against a lone King of his opponent... still he only got a half point anyway! Or even worse, in theory, one player could have this position: King in e1, Bishop in h1 and 6 Pawns from h2 to h7. (Black King in h8) Counting the value of pieces that would be a a +9 advantage, like a Queen more, but still it would be a draw. Another crazy scenario, more common, are those blocked positions were 16 pawns block the center (or more simply any fortress position) and not rarely it happens that a color has a huge material advantage but can't break through in any way. In this last case the player with material disadvantage could have found a genial idea to reach that blocked position, should his opponent with extra pieces still be given an advantage after the game?
Another important consideration is that this rule could discourage attacking players to play gambits or make sacrifices, as if the attack fails, their efforts to try to win would be punished! This last case would even increase the draw rate.
Probably Nickel didn't talk about giving a plus after games finished with advantage but still many pieces on board, anyway those positions (except the 16 Pawns one) could very well be played on until only one piece would be left.
After these examples we can see that there are so many different ways that a position with material advantage can be reached... but it's not always fair that the player with the advantage should be given a plus after the game. As a paradox, an advantage should be given to the opponent if he smartly managed to sacrifice one or more pieces in order to reach a draw endgame which he would have lost if he didn't give away material.
- Of course, the level of chess programs is for much in it. Do you feel that high level correspondence chess and centaur chess evolved much this year, or did it reach a kind of peak?
The level of correspondence chess increases in a parallel way as computers, databases and chess programs improve. Slowly everything keeps improving. Of course, due to the more thinking time, correspondence chess will always have a higher draw percentage than blitz games played by computers.
- Finally, what can you tell us about your correspondence chess path this year, particularly at ICCF where you're currently ranked #13?
On ICCF I am fighting with the Italian Team (I am playing in second board behind the World Champion Finocchiaro) in the 9th European Team Championship.
---> https://www.iccf.com/event?id=44123
Thibault de Vassal (2015-07-11 02:24:37)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Eros Riccio just gave his opinion on all this when answering a few questions on his win in the 10th corr. chess WCH, you may have a look here:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=11811
Pablo Schmid (2015-07-12 02:09:18)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Here is most examples of my ficgs practice (corr and Advanced chess). This represent a low percentage of my games. These games are food for thought from my own assisted experience against that rule that I call "+1 decisive advantage chess". I believe you could already burn a lot of chapters in ending's book. Most of my games show balanced games until the end, sometime, the "punished guy" could have played another drawing defense, sometimes not, unfairly to me. The game would be more safe, with less sacrifices of piece vs 2 or 3 pawns and things like that because of fearing an ending with king vs king + piece or king vs king + pawn even if the sacrifice was sound and well played. Game 22895 and 84758 I would probably have been punished by the rule in the ending of game 22895 (and my opponent in the other game), and that type of ending in general (piece + pawn up vs piece when the king cannot block the pawn). Game 37122 Shame on me, my advantage in that ending was not sufficient to force my opponent to sacrifice his bishop for my last pawn. This is why I only deserve 0,5!
Game 37920 That king of pawns vs piece + pawn would become lost for the player without the piece, what a way of punish some balanced sacrifices for pawns!
Game 54907 and 20704 That kind of opposite bishop ending would be "lost" for the guy pawnless even if the transition into an inferior but drawn ending was the intention of the "inferior guy".
Game 74870 The ending is perfectly balanced but my opponent couldn't finish the game the way he did because of the rule.
Game 74875 I would have been half-losing in the pawn ending after a nice defense in an interesting unbalanced material line.
Game 74880 the ending knight + h pawn would have been "half losing" for me even if we can't say that I was clearly worse overall.
Game 76734 and 76764 Technichally this game is not directly concerned by the rule but it is very close. I was on the verge of defeat but I have managed to defend stubornely. If he have played well to get a winning position and then the win disapear because of bad play but still finish with a draw, he would get a bonus because he played better overall? The way I managed to defend would not be rewarded?
Game 77809 In this game the whole deep opening line would probably be "half losing" for Black in the ending because of the new rule.
Game 80954 Suddenly it seems that I would have been punished for my defense in the final position.
Game 85106 I did not play specially badly but... I would have been punished for my way of finishing the game!
Stephane Legrand (2015-07-18 11:38:04)
Team tournment
And FICGS team tournament?
Bogoljub Teverovski (2015-08-03 09:46:39)
Team tournment
Team tournament should be nice, say, 4 boards. Besides FICGS should sponsor it's own team for the next season of ICCF League.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-08-06 01:38:48)
Improving netiquette rules
Thank you Scott! Goes right in the heart.
Just trying to find the "best" way, this is really hard in some cases (e.g. such case), that's why help and discussion are always welcome ^^
About this case, I think I'm still following my line (also strongly suggested by Gino during the first months of FICGS) that human decision should be reduced to the minimum. It is obvious that it demands strong rules and patience to all players (particularly during a possible Dead Man Defence)... Here, it is important to check if the "insulting" aspect is subjective enough or not, I must say I don't feel qualified to say it. I had to make a decision by myself, but I'd prefer being able to read it in the rules next time.
Alfonso Di Giandomenico (2015-08-18 13:20:00)
Team tournment
Yes, I mean FICGS team tournament :=)
Sorry, for my English
Alfonso Di Giandomenico (2015-08-18 13:28:05)
Number of tournament won
in statistic (FICGS statistic are great!), I think, this item is not clear.
I think is an important element.
Scott Nichols (2015-09-14 15:44:05)
New quotes?
A great joy in life is to have a job where FICGS screen is hiding just behind my work screen, :)
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-08 18:11:38)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Your idea is attractive Garvin! But, it is a question of time also, and organisation of championships cycles... I don't see a satisfying solution with this one.
Scott's idea looks like the original FICGS cup's idea... and ICCF WCH. Just one more correspondence chess RR championship.
Alvin's idea is exactly what a correspondence chess champ. should avoid (IMHO), I mean server or internet provider problems... It would be a shame that it decides a winner (like it may have happened in freestyle tournaments). Also, this is just not correspondence chess anymore.
Garvin Gray (2015-10-09 16:57:51)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Thib: I have not replied to this topic since my last comment for two reasons. 1) Nothing new to add 2) I had seen Scott's comment and was rather upset by it as I saw the danger in it. This discussion, in my opinion, is about one topic only.
We have discussed the ficgs world cup and other formats before, and can again, but this discussion is for one item only, so I did not want to contribute in any way to derailing the discussion. So I decided to refrain from comment as I had nothing to add.
To respond to your comments Thib- timing of the championship cycles will always be an issue, no matter the format. Regardless if you use 12 straight games, my format, or Alvin's. Or any other version.
We already have different groups starting at different times, and the final starting at different times to the other groups. This is just how things happen. It is possible that the final could be over in 8 games and in a shorter time period and time gained.
I think this format is worth trying for at least one cycle. That is also what happens with the otb world championship. There are format changes from time to time. Some are successful, some are not. Matches used to be 24 games in length. Now they are 12 games. One was played as an 8 player double round robin.
Things change as the environment changes.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-15 01:04:01)
Number of tournament won
A first update done on the tournaments statistics page (bottom)... before something better. Example:
http://www.ficgs.com/players/nichols_scott/tournaments.html
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-16 01:12:10)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hi all,
The recent discussions on FICGS chess wch tie break rules just gave me an idea...
Obviously, there are no satisfying solution (for everyone I mean) for a change in the wch rules. In my opinion, wch rules are great already, even if there are too many draws in matches.
The idea of a cup tournament is here for years but I didn't see any way to include it, in a several rounds version at least, in our calendar because of the wch cycle, the slowly decreasing number of active players, and so on...
But what do you think about this cup format:
An enormous round robin tournament with the 33 (1 player for each piece on the board, it's a symbol but the number is to be discussed) highest rated players who entered the waiting list. It is 32 games per player for 1 round only, duration of games could be the standard one (because there is one round only), longer but maybe fits more the number of games and additional games in other tournaments.
Looks like a great challenge and a real alternative, with very few risks of draw odds, cheating or whatever... It may be the biggest correspondence chess round robin tournament on the internet.
Any opinion? Would you play such tournament?
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-16 01:12:57)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Finally, this discussion inspired me an idea on a possible FICGS cup:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=11877
Janos Helmer (2015-10-17 04:15:24)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
...Yes !
Garvin Gray (2015-10-17 14:19:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
This is different to my Ficgs world cup proposal, which had clear goals in mind.
In my opinion, this just seems like one big round robin and once the games start, it will be rather difficult to feel like the games are anything special, unless the field is red hot.
And a big fat no to the standard time control. Lengthen the rapid type time control if you wish, but do not use the standard type time control.
30 days plus 3 days per move should be satisfactory.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-17 18:23:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Yes, we may use an intermediate time control, any idea on this is welcome.
Scott Nichols (2015-10-19 21:03:30)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
10 days plus one day per move is my preferred time control.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-19 22:52:25)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Scott, you could really play 32 games more at this speed? Are you such a machine? :) That's inhuman, IMO.
Scott Nichols (2015-10-20 00:12:22)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I had over 80 games going steady for over 10 years at the fastest time control offered. Probably not as unusual as you think.
Jose Carrizo (2015-10-20 01:45:23)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Very interesting proposal! 32 games = lots of fun. And 30 days plus 3 days per move seems reasonable.
Clodomiro Ortiz (2015-10-21 09:47:50)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I agree with the ten days+one day per move format,but if considered too rapid i suggest a 20 days+one day per move time control..as you know, several players tend to extent games almost endlessly when fall into unfavorable positions,,
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-23 22:10:19)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Could someone copy-paste Garvin's original idea for the cup tournament? I'm not sure which thread deals with it (even if I think I remember the main scheme)...
By the way, I agree with your points Garvin, finally question is what tournament do we want? ... Surely we'll have many different answers. Multi-rounds tournaments bring many problems (first is IMO that next rounds start-date still surprise many players), that's what I thought one round could be interesting. Also, it looks like a big challenge with a fast result. But I agree that many top players would think twice before to enter it, but wouldn't they do the same in a multi-round similar event? To be continued.
Jan Ohlin (2015-10-23 12:09:23)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Should there be any sense of self-torture like this should it be ten days+one day per move format which makes it difficult for people to use computers in full. I hope...
Timofey Denisov (2015-10-23 12:22:09)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
10 days start + 3 days for move, I think :)
Garvin Gray (2015-10-23 13:11:56)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I think this whole discussion has missed the original point of why I made the original proposal for the ficgs world cup.
It was to give players who were in the 2100 to 2200 and below more opportunities against players rated 2300 and above, whilst still also giving the top players something to play for ie the tournament win.
So the original concept was that there was no knockout groups, or starting final match, but instead that all players started from round one, and then everyone had to qualify for round two from there, with only the winners to advance at each stage.
The format above could have even taken over from the waiting lists we currently have, which struggle to be filled, as they give more purpose.
Instead, what is being proposed now, is just one big round robin. As someone who has just organised a round robin event, I can assure you, soon after the games have started, the players will soon forget which games are for the world cup, and which are their World championship games, and which are their Rapid SM, or Rapid M games.
Next, the strength of the field. For this event to work with the monster round robin, it really does need most of the top players competing. How can this be ensured to make it a worthwhile event?
Related to this- the time control. Very few serious correspondence chess players are going to sign up to a time control of 10 days initial time when they potentially have 31 games.
Remember, this is meant to be one of FICGS main events on the calendar. That is at least how I view it.
The time control should be 30 days plus 3 days per move if the format is single round robin with 32 or so players.
I still believe the original proposal of mine is the one that should be adopted, not the single round robin that is being discussed now.
I will not be playing in the single round robin.
Stephane Legrand (2015-10-23 17:52:07)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I really prefer Garvin's proposal.
It looks like a real cup and not the enormous round robin tournament first proposed.
Sebastian Boehme (2015-10-24 00:57:15)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
What about to make it easier for most players, split the big round tournament into an A and a B group as preliminaries of say 16 players.
And so oh then the final groups the best 8 of each winner group go to the Final and the last 8 players of each group go to the B final?
This in my opinion could ease a lot for players and still would be challenging.
Stephane Legrand (2015-10-24 07:54:19)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
why not doing Sebastian's proposal and
Garvin's proposal (maybe with a shorter time control)
and you'll see ...
Garvin Gray (2015-10-24 08:40:42)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Here is the original thread: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=10509
Garvin Gray (2015-10-27 00:53:11)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Has this conversation just died?
Thibault de Vassal (2015-10-27 23:03:32)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hi Garvin... Surely not!
Well, just read your cup idea again, here are my thoughts:
- In my opinion, in both ways, top players will probably ignore such a tournament. So, the challenge point may be most important.
- In my opinion, the 33 players round robin is even more simple (and avoiding complicate cases depending on the number of entries), more different from FICGS WCH, faster (no choice to make about playing 2 cycles at once) and with more chances of clear victory, but does it really bring something in both cases? Quite subjective at the end.
Stephane Legrand (2015-11-08 09:53:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Perhaps the winner can be qualified for a big Wch candidates final or something like this.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-11-10 01:43:46)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
This could be an additional option, right (maybe not so easy according to the duration of the tournament though)...
Garvin Gray (2015-11-10 01:50:55)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I really do believe the first question that needs to be asked is. What is the purpose of this event?
Then after that question has been asked and the answer gotten, then the format is rather automatic.
I believe the purpose of the event should be to have all players start from round one in different round robin groups, and then the winners of these groups progress to the next stage (This could even be the final of 11 players if there is eleven groups).
So in all it could be just two stages.
Scott Nichols (2015-11-10 14:37:41)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
This is all just re-hashing the Wch event. All that needs to be done is 1. Have a tie-break playoff. Each round of (2) games having a shorter time control until a win is reached. 2. There should be no returning champion privileges. Everyone will have to start from the beginning with the final 8 players qualified for a double RR to determine champion.
Herbert Kruse (2015-11-15 19:43:01)
repetition wrong in ficgs
i just had a game drawn, but it was wrong, because only 2 times the same side was on the move
i am angry!
Herbert Kruse (2015-11-15 19:53:42)
repetition wrong in ficgs
wikipedia
the threefold repetition rule (also known as repetition of position) states that a player can claim a draw if the same position occurs three times, or will occur after their next move, with the same player to move.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-11-15 21:44:52)
repetition wrong in ficgs
That's right!
I send a message to you then fix the game.
Best,
Thibault
Bogoljub Teverovski (2015-11-16 21:53:45)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
It's necessary to insert a deadline (Nov 30 the latest) for discussions, and to make final choice quickly (by Dec 10 the latest).
Sergey Zemlyanov (2015-11-16 22:09:27)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hi all. I try to express my opinion.
The main idea of mass round-robin tournament is good but
I think that the strong players might reject it.
As it seems, I see 2 different ways here:
1st. To have a strong tournament with top players.
2nd. To have a mass tournament just for fun.
In order to organize the 1st tournament you should do the next things:
1. To set up money prizes for winners (more prizes -> more top players might be interested in).
2. To send out invitations for players by email and etc.
3. The time control should not be too fast here if you want a qualitative games
and good tournament.
4. About splitting into the groups.
4.1 Semifinal stage.
I offer to play several qualifying semifinal rounds with 2-3 chessplayers coming into the Final stage.
For example, we have 50 players. So we can create 5 Semifinal groups with 10 players in each with 3 coming out places for the Final.
The time control here I offer 10+2/21 with vacation.
4.2 The Final stage.
I offer 15 players for the Final stage and 14 games for everyone,
or, another variant is 7-8 finalists and 14-16 games with color change for everyone.
About the 2nd tournament my opinion is:
1. To set up money prizes depending on entry fees, for each player.
2. To play mass round robin tournament with 1 game against each player
with faster time control, 10+1/21 for example.
In 1st variant you need to find a contributor to organize the tournament.
But it should be interesting. The 2nd variant with entry fees is interesting too, I think.
AMICI SUMUS,
Sergey Zemlyanov.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-11-17 02:34:49)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Why not a deadline... with a few more opinions, I think it will be possible (if it goes in one direction more than another)!
Anyway, we see that new opinions bring more and more questions and differences :)
On Sergey's points: First of all, I must say that if I could have brought bigger prizes for tournaments, there wouldn't have been such discussions, the whole thing (WCH particularly) would probably work better... but this is not the case, unfortunately :/
As I already said, multi-rounds tournaments are not compatible with longer time controls, and that's a pity. That's why I proposed a 1 round big tourney with a longer time control, but many players seem to be used to the rapid (or even faster) one. Finally, the schedule you propose looks like Garvin's one.
Firhan Firhansyah (2015-11-19 01:02:25)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I like a tournament with short time control about 1 - 3 days per move. And i more like with big prizes
Stephane Legrand (2015-11-26 18:48:38)
repetition wrong in ficgs
Wrong draw in Game 82598. Last position white to play... ??
Thibault de Vassal (2015-11-28 21:23:37)
repetition wrong in ficgs
Finally... the bug seems fixed! The game just restarted at the last position.
My sincere apologies for the inconvenience.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-12-02 02:48:10)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Finally... after a way too long thought on this FICGS cup idea and FICGS wch format, I think that Garvin's idea for this new tournament should be tried.
1) Eros just won the latest WCH with all games drawn again, but not all games in the knockout tournament are draws (e.g. latest candidates final). I think that we must keep this original format because it doesn't exist elsewhere and because it is a real challenge (and it must be possible to beat Eros in 1 game... one day :)) ! Of course, the other reason is that I didn't find any other acceptable way in case of equality.
2) I still think that there are problems in both my cup idea and Garvin's idea in the current context, but this cup will be different enough from the WCH, so the two formats should probably coexist so that each player can choose (or play both).
Garvin Gray (2015-12-02 09:32:52)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
In regards to point 1) I have never made any comments in regards to any of the other knockout matches other than the final match involving Eros.
I have made no proposals to change the format of those matches.
My only proposal is in regards to Eros's final match.
2) The ficgs world cup concept in my original format- if fully implemented, is in fact, dramatically different from the ficgs wch, and has little similarity to it.
What I could see it do though, if popular, is it might make some of the division groups less enticing to enter.
In my opinion, that would just be site evolution. If the high majority of the site prefer- ficgs wch, ficgs world cup and some of the divisions (or one style of the divisions), then an important discovery has been made that is beneficial to the membership.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-12-03 01:55:06)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I forgot to add: One of the reasons I finally chose your format is that most players chose it (I also received a few private comments on the discussion).
Anyway, let's try it. To be continued very soon.
Scott Nichols (2015-12-07 17:34:23)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
The entry fee changes everything for the better IMO. That cuts out the non-serious players. The time controls to me make a difference simply because of advanced age. (will I die before this is finished?) Of course for me, none of it matters since I already retired from CC. Zero games going, yay. What did it for the me was the constant arguing for longer time controls. In the old days of snail mail, that had a point, but not now.
Thibault de Vassal (2015-12-08 00:14:54)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
What do you think about the entry fee idea, Garvin? Scott, do you have any prediction on the number of players according to the entry fee?
Scott Nichols (2015-12-08 01:22:21)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
The 32 players were fine. Time controls (a little long for my taste, but...) are even OK. I had 2 big beefs with the wch. 1. playing a 1400 that just bought a new comp that NOW plays 2000+. If I beat him--0 rating points, draw--I lose many points, etc. 2. The "seeding" of players is not fair IMO, everybody should start at the start line. then the winner can feel much more proud to repeat as champion. I actually may win an ICCF semi-final (#45349), one more game needs to finish. I was seeded 10th of 11 players when it started. I mention this because in far too many of the Wch games were drawn much too early IMO. In ICCF, at least my tour's, the games were fought much longer, down to less than 10 pieces quite often. I looked at this last one and they are calling it a draw in the middlegame. I ask WHY? Just because it's 0.00 for a while, so what? It's the WORLD CH.! How many chances will a player get the opportunity? Each game should be fought to the death. Eros is very busy and has to be getting on in years, make him WORK for it! Sorry to ramble, just a few thoughts...
Garvin Gray (2015-12-08 13:32:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Entry fee is a must. But then it could be seen as more elitist than the ficgs wch. Something to consider.
Herbert Kruse (2015-12-14 10:04:54)
repetition wrong in ficgs
ok, i will test it now, i make a move and have 3 times the same position, but antonov has to move now, before i was my turn 2 times
Herbert Kruse (2015-12-14 10:08:21)
repetition wrong in ficgs
ok, it worked, nicely done .)
Garvin Gray (2015-12-16 11:33:39)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Has my observation about the entry fee for the ficgs world cup in relation to the ficgs world champs 'derailed' some of the plans.
Garvin Gray (2015-12-16 11:39:44)
TER rating calculation
You have now changed the conversation.
Originally it was about ratings and how rating changes are made and why TER and current ratings are used, and I answered part of that conversation, which was not fully explored.
Now you have changed the topic to talking about matches and TER's. That is a different conversation altogether. And then you are debating the format of the ficgs world championship knockout system, which has been debated so often on here.
It is contained in about every tenth thread.
Please choose a topic to discuss. Which is it?
Thibault de Vassal (2015-12-17 00:19:38)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I'm considering! (takes some time as usual :)) I'm still not able to make a solid opinion on this.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-05 17:58:28)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Well, my feeling is that the number of players may be more varying in percentage with an entry fee (we still miss players)... on the other hand, it may more probably look like my idea of a 1-round-big-round-robin... Now I say why not after all. But would it be satisfying for the most? That is the question.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-06 03:08:01)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I thought the only point of difference now was whether to have an entry fee or not?
I thought it was clearly decided that the stages and qualifying concept had been clearly decided in favour of.
Jan Ohlin (2016-01-06 09:34:33)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I usually prefer the simple, easy to understand solutions. We have not yet fully tested using reliable gambit openings alternatively closed openings and if it does not feel good with the other proposals, as then, there is still no reason to rush off
Garvin Gray (2016-01-06 09:38:59)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Jan: This is the thread for the ficgs world chess cup. Are you in the wrong thread?
Jan Ohlin (2016-01-06 17:56:41)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Please calm down, Garvin. There is plenty of time to consider which will be the best decision.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-07 19:33:20)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Garvin, we agree on that but I would be surprised if the entry fee would not divide the number of players by a factor of about 2, maybe 3 ... if we have about 70 players in the case without an entry fee, you can imagine the problem with: we would be sometimes able to launch a 1-round tournament (2 RR rounds for from 25 to 32 players would be strange IMO), sometimes not. If we choose no entry fee, the problem is solved, otherwise we must figure out several cases.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-08 00:55:45)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
For the stages concept:Without an entry fee, it will be critically important to go from advertising start, to entry close to competition start and games playing at a fast rate. They can not be allowed to sit around and gather dust.
The longer the time period between when players sign up and when they actually have to play, the more chance that some will not actually end up playing. Hence the discussion of a commitment factor (entry fee).
I have no issues with a no entry fee event, just that if we go with a no entry fee event, it needs to go from ENTRY OPENING DATE to start in a quick period of time to reduce the number of non players.
Herbert Kruse (2016-01-09 22:36:31)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
my ideas:
no change in running cycles, but the new one´s should be with lesser time and more games per opponnent
Jan Ohlin (2016-01-11 06:30:26)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Lesser time and more games per opponent in connection with more difficult openings to handle for chess programs, could be crucial so chess skills will decide, not computer skills.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-12 06:13:47)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I just want to see the tournament get underway.
I do agree though with larger groups, as in groups with nine or eleven players in each. This then reduces the effect of non players on the end result.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-17 15:44:55)
Wch Match Tie Break Rules
Alexis Alban: I apologise if my reply seems a little bit harsh, but are you entering the conversation half way through and have not read the entire thread and preceding discussions?
This thread deals solely with the FICGS World championship and its format, mainly in particular with what happens with drawn matches in the knockout stages.
No one has suggested AT ALL, that the champion has to start again from the beginning (from round one).
That format, what I really wish Thibault would get started on with starting, is from the FICGS world cup, which is a different tournament entirely. It is a completely different structure, with different aims. If you wish to debate that tournament, please move your discussion to that thread.
I am really am trying to work hard to try and prevent thread drift.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-18 02:47:01)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Garvin, a few more questions (do not worry, this tournament will exist & it will start this year!), according to your rules, how would you plan stage 1 & stage 2 if we have let's say 73 players for the first edition, and 103 for the second one? I mean the number of players in each tournament for the 2 stages.
Then, well... maybe this FICGS cup should have started at the very beginning of FICGS. I just didn't think that it would be useful and I'm still not sure but anyway, as a new FICGS WCH starts every 8 months, shouldn't it start 4 months after each WCH cycle? The waiting list for the next WCH will be open in a few days already. Shouldn't we take a few more time and do it best?
Garvin Gray (2016-01-18 09:53:00)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I take you mean if in Ficgs World Cup 1 (FWC1) we got 73 players, then in Ficgs World Cup 2 we got 103 players?
Is that correct?
If that is correct, then in FWC1, using a number of 73 players, it would be 4 groups of 10, 3 groups of 11.
For the second stage (finals)= I know this might be a bit controversial, but I think the TER rule should be dropped and those who tie for first should progress. Since we have seven groups, that should mean at the most eleven players in the final.
This will have the by-product in the round robin games of everyone knowing that if they can finish outright first, they knockout everyone from their group immediately.
In FWC2- With 103 players, same format, just more groups.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-19 00:25:30)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Yes, correct. Thanks for this answer!
Isn't it a problem that in a few groups, half players take White one time more than Black? ... and some to have one game/opponent less than in other groups? (by the way, a bit harder to code/launch the games)
These points (equity) were always of first importance to me in all tournaments and I don't remember having seen this elsewhere (but I can be wrong, I'm not used to ICCF tournaments, for example). What do you think? Why is it such a problem for you to wait a few more days to "complete" a waiting list? Please note that I'm not really opposed to this idea, I just want to be sure that not all players disagree with this.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-19 02:55:13)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
As long as the group sizes are large ie 9 or more players, then I do not think it is a great concern if some of the groups have even numbers.
As we experience in any of the groups, be it world champs, standard games, rapids etc, there is always someone who does not play, so even if every group was 8 groups of 9 players, one group would become distorted and would really be an 8 player group with the inevitable consequence of some players receiving 4W/3B and others 3W/4B.
If the group size is large, 10 to 11 players per group, then the difference between 5W/4B and 4W/5B is not that great, compared to a group of 6 players, where the split is 3W/2B.
With large group sizes in the first stage, this could mean only a few groups (say six groups of 11 or so players), then the second stage could be held as a double round robin which solves all the problems.
This rule is already included in the current FICGS World champs for when groups are six players or less, but is rarely used.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-19 20:24:05)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Okay, that makes sense to me. Well, I'm going to write the rules page for this cup tournament, I'll post it here very soon.
One more question, what would be the limit under which there should be only one round (e.g. less than 33 players -> 32 games per player) according to you?
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-20 22:07:04)
Emails from FICGS
Please can anyone tell me here if he receives (or not) emails from FICGS since last week?
Stephane Legrand (2016-01-20 22:09:28)
Emails from FICGS
I receive mails for answers in forum
Ilmars Cirulis (2016-01-20 23:29:59)
Emails from FICGS
I have them too.
Ilmars Cirulis (2016-01-20 23:30:37)
Emails from FICGS
Answers in forums and game results. (I have unsubscribe from new moves in games.)
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-21 02:34:59)
Emails from FICGS
Okay, here it is:
2 players do not receive emails from FICGS for about 1 week... these 2 players have the same email provider, so obviously and for any reason (?) this provider banned emails either from ficgs.com or (more probably, as it happened already before) from the whole OVH system, which is maybe half the french internet...
I can see only two solutions for these players:
- You may contact your email provider and ask to solve this problem...
- You may use another email provider at least to receive emails from FICGS.
Very sorry, but I can't do anything here.
Alexis Duenas (2016-01-21 15:45:42)
Emails from FICGS
i do not received emails from ficgs last time i received was before wch started but not now
Alexis Duenas (2016-01-21 15:53:15)
Emails from FICGS
but i receive every time i register for a tournament and when the tourneys starts
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-21 19:22:32)
Emails from FICGS
Thank you Alexis!
Garvin Gray (2016-01-23 23:37:06)
Emails from FICGS
I think I might have not received last couple of emails about moves from opponents
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-26 21:19:20)
Emails from FICGS
Is it still the case Garvin?
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-26 21:40:10)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
One more concern while writing these cup rules: Are norms fair while having one game more with white or black in tournaments? There never was the case before here.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-26 23:31:39)
Emails from FICGS
Just got an email for a move.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-26 23:35:08)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
In otb tournaments, norms are completely valid regardless of colour balance. So that is no issue.
As I have said before, the tournament can start with 11 players, then someone does not start and that makes it a 10 person round robin, but the norms still count, even though colour balance technically for the actual games played was uneven.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-27 00:38:13)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Ok, I agree with that.
Here is a first try for FICGS cup rules:
"FICGS world cup championship is a multi stages tournament. All players who entered the waiting list are involved in single round-robin tournaments (2 stages or more will probably be necessary). All games during the whole cycle are played in 30 days + 1 day / move. As a reminder, the use of chess engines (Stockfish, Houdini, Rybka...) is allowed and encouraged in cup tournaments. Norms are possible according to FICGS general rules.
Round-robin tournaments are groups of 5 to 33 players (most probably 7 to 13). The winner of each group is qualified for the next stage. In case of equality, the player with most wins (and if necessary the player with the lowest tournament entry rating, then the lowest current rating) among the best scores, is declared winner and qualified for the next stage if any. Groups are built grading all players by rating and distributing them to obtain similar elo averages. There will be no replacements in these tournaments.
In the case of a withdrawal, the games won't be rated if a player warns the referee before the tournament starts and at most 15 days after a new stage started but the first one."
Anything to add?
Garvin Gray (2016-01-27 03:38:32)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I think I have a different view on a couple of points, based in part in relation to the feedback I read to comments about TER.
Also, it comes from how I view the structure of the first stage, which is only a few groups and large numbers in each group ie 6 groups of 11 players, rather than 11 groups of 6 players.
========================================
FICGS world cup championship is a two stages tournament. All players who entered the waiting list are involved in single round-robin tournaments.
All games during the whole cycle are played in 30 days + 1 day / move. As a reminder, the use of chess engines (Stockfish, Houdini, Rybka...) is allowed and encouraged in cup tournaments.
Norms are possible according to FICGS general rules.
Round-robin tournaments are groups of 5 to 33 players (most probably 7 to 13). The winner of each group is qualified for the next stage. If there is a tie for first place in a group, each player advances to the second stage.
Groups are built grading all players by rating and distributing them to obtain similar elo averages. There will be no replacements in these tournaments.
=======================================
Effects- with only a small number of groups, and ties for first progressing, it is possible the second stage final could have 7,8,9 or 13 players. That will be determined.
But what I see is the main factor is that with large groups and ties going through, is all the players know they have to make a decent score to advance from the start. A good TER will not get the job done.
Also, if the scores at the top of a group are close, there is more incentive for players to attempt to get a score from their games as being the only one to advance knocks out everyone else, without any complaints about TER rules.
An entry limit will need to be put on when the final stage is double round robin. If there are six qualifiers to the final stage, then it should be DRR. 7 players in the final would make 12 games. Is that too much?
Thibault de Vassal (2016-01-27 22:47:28)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Well, I'm not even sure if I agree on all points but I see no objection at a first sight, so why not (I'm just surprised with this tie rule). Do other players have an opinion on Garvin's points?
Roger Llull (2016-01-28 10:11:23)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I would not like to see groups of fewer than 8 players to remove luck as a factor and to make ties less likely. I would not like to see groups of more than 12 players so they are not overloaded.
Also the tournament should always end in 2 stages so people know it won't be too long, and in case of a tie the winner should be the player with the most wins in the whole tournament.
And one more thing, please implement rules to reduce the number of non players and careless time losses. Like a minimum Elo, a minimum of finished games, and require 2 to 5 E-Points to enter.
Some of this would be valid for the WCH too. For example, stage 2 with only 5 players is ridiculous, because luck can play too big of a role.
Garvin Gray (2016-01-28 23:12:19)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hello Roger and thanks for your reply,
I would not like to see groups of fewer than 8 players to remove luck as a factor and to make ties less likely.
Garvin- Yes, this is something, at least from my point of view, is what I am trying to avoid. It also reduces the impact of any withdrawals in a group.
I would not like to see groups of more than 12 players so they are not overloaded.
Garvin- Unfortunately, Small number of groups, two stages, and if a large number of entries means something needs to give. So it could be the size of the groups. But hopefully they can be kept to a maximum of 11.
Also the tournament should always end in 2 stages so people know it won't be too long, and in case of a tie the winner should be the player with the most wins in the whole tournament.
Garvin- In my suggested version- I covered the two stage part. I take it your second comment refers to what happens if two or more players end up on the same score in the second stage?
Roger- And one more thing, please implement rules to reduce the number of non players and careless time losses. Like a minimum Elo, a minimum of finished games, and require 2 to 5 E-Points to enter.
Garvin- Quite a few of the withdrawals have come from top players in the past. The most important aspect to reduce the non players is to go from announcement, to closing date of entries, to start a quick and orderly process with no delays.
So after the rules have finally been worked out, have quite a period of time of publicity, then two weeks enter and then Thibault has to close entries straight away, get the draw done and games going.
The longer the lag period between announcement, entries opening, entries closing and games starting, the more chance of players 'going walkabout'.
Roger- Some of this would be valid for the WCH too. For example, stage 2 with only 5 players is ridiculous, because luck can play too big of a role.
Garvin- In the current WCH rules, it is already covered that Double round robin can be used if there are 5 players. I have complained previously to Thibault when he has not implemented this rule when put in a five player group.
In my reworded version for this competition, I asked, at what point should the second stage final for minimum qualifiers move from a double round robin to single round robin?
6 players, 7 players? It does seem like 6 players is the correct number. If only six players qualify from the first stage, then the second stage is DRR. If seven or more qualify, then it will be single round robin. Practically, this would most likely mean there were 6 groups, and each player won their group outright. Or 5 groups. And 4 groups were one outright, with the other group having 2 players finishing tied for first and both advancing to the second stage.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-02-04 00:22:39)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
So, by following this ruleset, at the end there can be several winners, right?
Garvin Gray (2016-02-04 16:19:52)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
That is possible.
You can be certain that any tie break rule for first, especially in a round robin final, will cause more disputes and hard feelings than having a tie for first.
There is no 'fair' way to break ties for first. So why bother when they all scored the same points for first?
Scott Nichols (2016-02-06 01:45:40)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
There is one fair way, sets of 2-game matches with time shortening with each tied match. (better for spectators also) That way, no luck is involved.
Garvin Gray (2016-02-09 03:24:17)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
And then you will just have more complaints about the faster time control and the title being decided by speed of the computer, superior engine.
Also there will be issues of trying to find an acceptable time for all participants. How do you find an acceptable time if players live in USA, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Oceania region.
If the games are all held at the same time for an accelerated time control, similar to the freestyle concept, then that is dramatically different to the original format.
Rapid playoffs are not ideal in OTB chess, but at least they are played at the same time of day as the original games, and some of the players are not forced to play at 3am, where others get to play at 3pm.
Also, all this requires extra organisation on Thibault's part, unless he writes into the original rules about when the finals will be, but still the playoffs will be still be unfair for the stated reasons.
A different idea could be to have a third round involving those who tied from the second stage. So if three players tied, they would play each other four times.
1 v 2
2 v 3
3 v 1
2 v 1
3 v 2
1 v 3
1 v 2
2 v 3
3 v 1
2 v 1
3 v 2
1 v 3
Garvin Gray (2016-02-09 03:26:24)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
But really overall, I do have to protest, all these discussions I think are having a detrimental effect on the overall tournament.
Most players just want the tournament to begin. Seeing all these extremely small detailed discussions being talked through I know from personal experience irl just drives players away.
The longer they go on for, the more you lose players. This is why I keep saying, get on with it and get the tournament GOING.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-02-11 15:52:20)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Don't worry Garvin, I'm quite used to it :) Anyway, one or several winners after round 2 is ok for me, I only think that we must avoid any advanced chess games or a casual third round.
The tournament will start on July 1st (between the next 2 WCH cycles), the waiting list will be open in June (2 weeks before the start?), but it will be advertised a while before.
Garvin Gray (2016-02-12 01:26:27)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Ahh thank you. Some definite answers about progress. And dates :) This now allows players the opportunity to prepare. Time to get the word out.
This now can set a bit of a FICGS calendar :)
Garvin Gray (2016-02-13 01:48:08)
Resign message
Thib,
Only a small suggestion, but it annoys me. When resigning a game and you tick the resign box, ficgs asks, do you wish to resign this game?
Of course I don't want to resign a game, but I feel it is the best thing to do, or I have no other option :P
So can you change the message to: By confirming this box, you are resigning this game, is this your stated intention? Or something like that.
I hope you understand my point :)
Nick Burrows (2016-02-26 21:49:10)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Any update on what you spent my money on?
Scott Nichols (2016-02-26 23:26:02)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
If the match wasn't played and he wants a refund, he should get a refund. Sometimes the tournaments take a long time to start so there should be a "withdraw" button to all events. Sometimes a person's situation changes and he can't play, so he should be able to withdraw instead of being paired and not be able to play any moves. This is bad for both players.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-03-06 23:29:33)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I usually (when possible) delete entries in waiting lists on demand, if there are epoints involved then it is back on the account. It is well specified though that no refund in money is possible. I don't know what to add here.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-04-16 01:18:01)
7 pieces tablebases
Hi all, I just realized that 7-pieces tablebases (Lomonosov tablebases) have been produced... 100 Tb would be necessary to use it!! Looks like that it is available on another chess website, but not for free yet.
It would be useful in the last game of the 13th round robin final :)
http://www.ficgs.com/game_87413.html
Paul Campanella (2016-04-18 18:59:14)
FICGS app for iPhone, android, etc.
How about creating an app for FICGS? What does everyone think?
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-11 19:53:28)
Server crash (april 2016)
Hi all, welcome back :)
First of all, my apologies for this new server crash, about 4 years after the previous one...
The Raid 1 technology has its advantages, the 2 hard drives are almost-exact copies from each other, but it also has its difficulties [e.g. the "almost" part] and I just had to learn much about it to try to restore the server as I encountered not 1, not 2 but 3 hardware failures at the same time, added to a 4th hardware failure at home on the FICGS development PC, and of course added my "famous" incredibly bad internet connection. Murphy's law ^^ ... So, both hard drives and a SATA cable have been replaced on the server. Finally, the system had to be reinstalled and I had to upgrade it, which caused many difficulties these last few days. At the end, it was not possible to restore the very last FICGS database, so we lost a few minutes or hours of moves (fortunately it happened early in the morning). But nothing essential was lost at the end.
I'm still not 100% sure (if it's ever possible) that everything will work fine with this upgraded version of PHP & MySQL, obviously there are some problems with accents for players names (will be fixed soon) but let's go for a try. I probably made mistakes during the whole process that finally took 20 days but the good thing is that I should be able to better prevent such failures in the future. Thanks again for your patience!
As I said in the login/messages page, an email has been sent to warn everyone. If you tried to register or to change your password during the last two weeks, it was not taken in account so you'll have to do it again. 20 days (it was not possible to move during this time) have been added to all players expected to move, and 7 more days have been added to all clocks (including players not expected to move, to avoid any surprise in case of real vacation or something).
One more thing: It may be not possible to connect through SSL with https:// anymore in the future, I still don't know how to configure it on this system.
Let's play! :)
Best wishes,
Thibault
David Fierry Fraillon (2016-05-11 21:35:58)
Bugs after the server crash
New games times look strange to me :
I guess Thib has put a time increment to avoid the time lost during the server crash.
What i find strange (on my games only of course) :
- a player who it was not the turn to play also get the time increment
- on the tournament FICGS_CLASSE_A_000166 :
the increment seems to be 6-7 days more than it should be
A player who was on vacation get a 7+19 days increment. I think the solution in that case is to increase the number of vacation days instead.
I will check my other tournament and i'll be back
David Fierry Fraillon (2016-05-11 21:46:12)
Bugs after the server crash
Tournament FICGS_CLASSE_A_000170
- i 'm also finding that strange 7 days increment ina ally my games, for both player
The good news :
-that over day increment seems to be a constant
-no moves lost
-As you said the more than 100 days bug does not exist after playing one move
i played one move : it looks to be a good move :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-11 21:46:55)
Bugs after the server crash
Yes, that is normal: I added 7 more days to everyone, this way if someone left or has no internet access during a while at the time FICGS reappeared, he shoud not lose any game on time.
I do this after any server crash.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-12 01:45:16)
Bugs after the server crash
Yes, unfortunately the emails issue must be solved before :( It could take some time. I'll let you know.
FICGS is now paused again, it is not possible to login for now.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-25 21:37:17)
FICGS restarts (2016 May 25)
Hi everyone, nice to see you again, I missed our games :)
First of all, my apologies for this too long delay... I went through hell to try to fix these first major issues (emails & database compatibility) that were the consequence of the forced system update that followed the server crash of last month.
Unfortunately, internet protocols & languages are constantly evolving and FICGS is late on these changes. Added to the fact that databases, databases tables, database interface, database calls, PHP language, PHP files, content display, browsers (and I probably forgot ones) communicate with variable charsets, the result is that it is impossible to make FICGS (which uses both UTF-8 and ISO-8859-1 according to the content) compatible with this system change in one shot...
Consequently, it will take a long time to make it right... Feel free to report any bug in the "Bugs after the server crash" discussion in this forum.
Thanks in advance! Have good games ;)
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-25 22:04:14)
Issues with emails after server restart
It is possible that a few players did not receive the email about the announcement of the server restart, and maybe cannot receive any email from FICGS anymore after that the server restarted. That's why I added a few days more to clocks.
A possible issue in this case is that FICGS ip was blacklisted by your email provider because of the period when the server was sending emails not authentified. It seems to work fine with Gmail, Yahoo... but it may be the case with Microsoft emails and a few smaller providers.
In this case, please send an email to info (at) ficgs (dot) com , I'll see how to fix this.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-26 02:19:21)
FICGS restarts (2016 May 25)
Ratings / norms / tournaments results have not been updated yet, I have to examine codes further before the calculations, sorry for the delay.
George Jempty (2016-05-26 07:44:30)
FICGS restarts (2016 May 25)
Regarding ratings, if you get to them around June 1 give or take, maybe you should then update them every two months, but on the even numbered months instead of odd as in the past. Just a thought
Herbert Kruse (2016-05-26 10:59:50)
FICGS restarts (2016 May 25)
thanks for all your work, i missed FICGS, was as guest in ICCF and chessworld.net during that time, but this is by far the best server :)
Thibault de Vassal (2016-05-26 21:49:03)
FICGS restarts (2016 May 25)
Thank you very much Herbert & all for the encouragements, it always goes right in the heart and helps me to find solutions, even in desperate situations :)
George, your idea makes sense a lot but such habits are difficult to change, I'm too afraid to forget and make a mistake in the future :/
Ilmars Cirulis (2016-06-08 04:50:34)
Bugs after the server crash
Can't reproduce the problem from this computer. It was fallen off lower row of chess board and some more problem with h1 square.
Today at the evening or tomorrow I will return to the computer where that happened and try to get some screenshot and more information.
Everywhere else it works okay. Yay for FICGS, nay for exploring this strange thing/bug. :)
Aniruddha Duttagupta (2016-07-01 20:48:35)
Rating calculation gain/loss
I'm playing in FICGS Server since last 18 months, but still unsure about the process of rating calculation after finish of a game.My query is that after a game finishes,while calculation of gain/loss of rating of the players which rating figure of the players are taken into account? Their rating figure as at the start of the game or present rating at the time of finish of the game? Can anyone kindly enlighten me?
Thibault de Vassal (2016-07-03 00:12:14)
Rating calculation gain/loss
Hello Aniruddha,
Your current rating and your opponent's TER (Tournament Entry Rating) are taken in account. It's all explained here:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
Jan Ohlin (2016-08-30 05:24:52)
underpromotion possible?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=91786
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=91787
...and it look as the problem will occur in more of your games, something need to be done about that.
George Jempty (2016-09-02 10:21:48)
Player of the Year
I've been thinking it would be interesting to have nominations for a "Player of the Year" that FICGS members could then vote on. Qualifications could be listed in a manner similar to the following:
1) 15 wins, 13 draws and 0 losses since Oct 2015
2) Rating increase of nearly 250 points (1904-2152) during same time period
3) As 1904 player finished tied for second with score of 4/6 in tournament where average rating was 2041
4) Won a standard B tournament with score of 5.5/6 and a performance rating of 2332
5) Guaranteed tie for first place in a standard A tournament (currently tied for first and is playing in the one remaining game in the tourney against someone one point behind)
6) Currently leading stage 1 group of 2016 World Championship with score of 5/5
7) Finished tied for first in Rapid M tournament for which it was necessary to buy a ticket because TER of 2077 being below normal minimum of 2100
Yes I'm bragging on myself more than a little bit, but still I think that the listed qualifications are pretty objective
George Jempty (2016-09-07 13:58:50)
Player of the Year
Yeah well I'm 2014 USCF which is how I started on FICGS a few years ago but I lost several games on time when I lost interest in chess in general. But regardless if the above is about me or not, it represents a good way to write up the qualifications I think
George Jempty (2016-09-09 17:56:01)
Player of the Year
The game I am the most proud of the past 12 months is http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=89124 a draw against Ortiz in the first tournament mentioned above. I got a poor position with a poor opening and around move 30 was down around 0.6 to 0.7.
I took all 45 days of my vacation before December 31st and devoted almost all my analysis to this one game, with a new 8-core, 32 GB RAM machine, as well as buying Komodo 9.3 (I'm now up to 10.1). Ortiz did not play so accurately and by move 45 the engine evaluated me as completely even in a few lines but they were complicated and I was much lower on time than my opponent.
However I found a forcing line of about a dozen moves that the engine thought was inferior, but I knew was a dead drawn ending: R+2P vs. R+3P all on the same side of the board, with me also having a sufficiently active rook. So I went for this simpler solution which also let me gain time on the clock as I'd analyzed everything out beforehand. Finally after about a dozen moves in the ending Ortiz offered the draw.
George Jempty (2016-09-13 14:41:12)
Missing chat
I once accidentally deleted a comment the first time ever I clicked on the triangle -- I did not realize the purpose was to delete. Rather I thought it would "expand" a chat topic. This was probably close to a year ago. In the meantime yes I primarily delete my own comments. However recently Duenas decided to post comments about an ongoing game of his with Cirulis, which to me just seems inappropriate for chat as there is a message box for each move of a game, as well as private messages. Those comments bumped a bunch of other comments possibly relevant to the whole FICGS community off the front page, so I deleted them.
I'm sorry if you Mr. Brodie if you think this makes me a cretin, but I'm just trying to keep the chat relevant to *everybody* on FICGS, not just two players, and in any case I think you rather over-state your case: "illegal hacking", references to "justice", etc. -- it's just a chat board. In any case what you are suggesting is a "policy" issue, but I think there is a "technical" issue too. And that is, once you click on the triangle you get a popup box with one button (an "alert") instead of two buttons (a "confirm"). A confirm would allow you to undo the delete, for instance if you accidentally clicked the triangle. Thib if you are reading this I am a web developer with nearly 20 years experience and could quite easily implement this, as I know you have a lot of other priorities.
George Jempty (2016-09-20 15:46:07)
Failed to receive email
I failed to receive an email for Sorbi's 25th move in the following game: http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=move_express&game=93675
Thought I should report it in case it's an issue for anybody else
Thibault de Vassal (2016-09-20 23:05:50)
Missing chat
First of all, who deleted such or such chat message is of a tiny importance... The main interest of this chat is usually for instant conversation. However, I'll fix those chat issues soon, thanks for your patience.
Second, insults and provocations are not acceptable here. I suggest to read the FICGS terms and conditions quickly before I have to apply those rules. Thanks in advance.
Garvin Gray (2016-11-17 07:36:41)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
With ficgs now back up and running and seemingly most of the back end issues sorted out, I am now bringing up the topic of the FICGS World Cup and when will it start.
We had a format, a concept and almost a start date, then the whole site collapsed.
With now that WCH has started, the very first Ficgs World Cup could start in early January, with possible plans to hold one every six months (rough schedule).
Bogoljub Teverovski (2016-11-17 10:12:51)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Yes, Ficgs World Cup should start in early January!
Thibault de Vassal (2016-11-17 20:13:35)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
It should have started 4 months after the last WCH cycle... well, it was not humanly possible. So it was planned to start on March 1st, entries during February (4 months after this WCH). Why january?
Garvin Gray (2016-11-17 20:46:24)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Ok then. At least I have a starting date :)
Garvin Gray (2016-11-30 02:01:25)
Future penalties for games lost on time
I know this topic comes up for discussion from time to time, but seeing the results from Rapid A 192, I think a more thorough discussion needs to take place about what should be done about players who lose multiple games on time.
I know on ICCF, they have very strict rules in this matter, and I believe that FICGS should follow the same procedure.
Players should be made aware before entering a tournament that they are expected to complete all their games, not just time out some of their games without consequence.
If players do not want to continue their games and feel that it is ok to let their games time out, then FICGS should take the position that their services are no longer required on this site for a stated period.
The ICCF rules should be followed in this matter.
Herbert Kruse (2016-11-30 11:11:02)
Future penalties for games lost on time
if you ban every player who loses on time, there will be less and less players here, but i want ficgs to have a big number of members
Thibault de Vassal (2016-12-02 22:06:28)
Future penalties for games lost on time
Hi all,
On dead man defence, Herbert said it all and as far as I can see, this rule works (when used, of course)!
On losses on time, I'm still not sure of what rule is best but I'm quite sure that simple rules are often best. However, I guess that rules could be more incitative about finishing games even without sanctions ("threat is stronger than execution") I'm not sure how efficient it could be on a free website though, FICGS context is not ICCF context. So I'm open to any change but I'm still not favourable to any suspension or banishment (that could lead to even more games lost on time). Also, I do know that life events could lead to this, I do know that there are many good reasons to lose on time, unfortunately :/
Garvin Gray (2017-01-05 01:10:02)
Future penalties for games lost on time
Returning to this issue:
Ficgs already has a policy on this issue from its rules. It is covered in 11.6:
Any player who forfeits (by resignation or silent withdrawal) his games in an equal or winning position, without giving an explanation to referee in a rated chess tournament could lose his other games in the tournament, get a limited access to the server and couldn't enter waiting lists anymore during a period of 2 months, at the referee's discretion.
Thibault de Vassal (2016-12-14 20:13:25)
Netiquette
About Netiquette
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
Herbert Kruse (2017-01-11 13:33:50)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
can u open entry earlier?
i forgot sometimes to register
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-11 15:28:01)
Adjudications & 7 pieces tablebases
Hi all,
Just a reminder about reasons why some games may be not adjudicated even when the result is announced thanks to 7 pieces (or 6 pieces, 5 pieces...) tablebases:
- FICGS chess rules are slightly different from FIDE rules (no 50 moves rule), so an announced draw may not be a draw here.
- According to the rules, any player (who may not use engines or tablebases) has the right to see the game going until a "quite" clear position.
But any player who estimates that the result of the game is known can call the referee to shorten the game.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#adjudications
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-18 03:32:56)
GM Eros Riccio 12th WCH & chess
Finally, here is a new interview with FICGS correspondence chess champion GM Eros Riccio, who gives us his (surprising?) impressions on his latest win in the championship, his current match and correspondence chess nowadays... A good matter to think about!
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournament&tournament=FICGS__CHESS__WORLD_CHAMPIONSHIP__000012
____________
- Hi again Eros... Once more, congratulations for winning this final match in the 12th FICGS correspondence chess championship. This time, it seems that things went quite differently than in your previous matches (you scored 9 out of 12, which is a huge performance at this level), could you tell us what happened in these games?
--> Hi, yes, finally we have seen some wins after a very long series of draws. I was surprised too, I didn't risk to lose any game and I could even win one as Black... What to say, my opponent was simply not as challenging as the previous ones.
- It's a long time since you won the previous match, would you like to tell us about your other results this year, particularly at ICCF where you now rank #9 with an outstanding 2643 rating?
--> My latest final on FICGS were my only games of 2016. On ICCF I have taken some rest, the too high draw rate didn't incentive me to start new tournaments, also because drawing all games with a high rating means losing points.
- In the next final match (13th cycle), you play Peter W. Anderson for the 3rd time... so you probably know each other's opening book quite well. What do you expect for in this match?
--> Anderson is a very tough opponent, it's not a coincidence that he reached the final for the third time. I tried to win at least one game as White, but he's incredibly hard to beat. I experimented with almost anything possible against his modern defence, but I could never find a single weakness in his repertoire. I will see what to invent this time against his terrific 1...g6.
- As you probably know, another Go champion (Lee Sedol) lost a 5-games match to AlphaGo this year, while chess engines (now Stockfish 8, Houdini 5 Komodo 10...) slowly but surely continue to improve... Still waiting for the quantum computers. How do you feel things should go in the next years? Did your way of playing advanced chess or correspondence chess change these last years?
--> I have said a lot already about the very high draw rate of the recent years... I am surprised that some changes haven't been done already, like switching to chess 960, even modifying some chess rules, or at least giving 1,5 points for one win. Otherwise a lot of players will lose interest in seeing a series of all draws in the tournaments they play. I am one of those players who lost interest in correspondence chess, and even in blitz chess, engine vs engine, as we can see the extremely high draw rate situation there too.
- Finally, what can we wish for you for the next year? :)
--> Wish me to lose the match with Anderson :-) even I got bored of seeing myself there over and over in the final! That will bring some new air and that way I can take some total rest in corr. chess.
- Many thanks for your time, have a great match!
--> Welcome, and thanks.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-22 03:11:36)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
As you can see, earlier was probably too early...
Garvin & all who participated into this discussion, what do you think about making the Cup tournament a thematic chess (e.g. King's gambit) championship?
Garvin Gray (2017-01-22 10:00:16)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Absolutely bloody not. There has already been a long discussion and a lot of work put into getting a somewhat agreed format.
Thibault, this is exactly what I expected you to do with this ficgs world cup, try and renege on the agreement at the last minute and attempt to change the format.
And with this concept of some kind of thematic championship, no one is going to agree on which opening to play.
We have an agreed format for the ficgs world cup and all you have to do is open the entry list for it, which starts February 1st for play beginning March 1st.
You renege from this and I will almost certainly walk from this site.
Roger Llull (2017-01-22 12:55:21)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I'd prefer to have something different created from the ground up with mainly top players in mind, where the draw problem really is. But top players' time is precious, that's why I proposed bigger prices sponsored by people who are interested in specific openings.
This cup seems especially favorable for intermediate players, and the chance to score a few draws against higher rated ones may actually be a good thing that would be lost with complicated openings.
Roger Llull (2017-01-22 13:07:38)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
*Prizes* is what I meant, not prices...
Jan Ohlin (2017-01-22 15:07:19)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
FICGS WM will be matches where half of the games is different thematic, every player choice two, and the Cup will be really many games with short time, awoiding draws that way? Is this the discussion!?
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-22 19:00:28)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hi Garvin! I'm just still open to ideas and was curious about your opinion (it could have been different after all)...
This discussion is still fresh, so let's see how it evolves, let's start this cup as it was decided and maybe we'll have a change in the WCH format or maybe we'll have later a kind of "King's championship" on the King's gambit with a different format, to be sure to try everything ^^
Stanislas Gounant (2022-11-23 20:17:39)
I did not win a game since 3 years
The problem with the starting positions in FICGS thematic tournaments, one of the player can open the position and it will be draw. Some years ago, someone show me a youtube video about a game played on TCEC between leela chess zero and Stockfish.
https://tcec-chess.com/#div=sf&game=61&season=15
The engines start to play at move 7, white had more space and black can't open the position
Garvin Gray (2017-01-23 17:12:46)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
If the WCH format changes, and becomes something like this, or incorporates elements of the current FICGS World Cup two stage format, then of course a different concept for the world cup 'could/should' be considered.
That being said, if the Ficgs WCH format changed to something similar to the current ficgs world cup, especially if it involved a final stage being a round robin of some number of players, then it would start to look like the format that is used at ICCF.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-24 02:39:37)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I started to change the waiting lists page... Most probably, the WCH will not change (for the moment at least), the CUP waiting list will be open next week (rules page should be visible tomorrow), and possibly a "KING supertournament" thematic event may happen from time to time (later) with rules still to be defined (later)... To be continued.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-25 00:19:48)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Garvin, I uploaded a first version of the cup rules (see waiting lists)... is it near enough to what we discussed in the forum according to you?
Garvin Gray (2017-01-25 09:18:35)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I have read the formatted rules. The only difference between what is in this thread and what is in the entry conditions is how ties for first will be broken.
If you read back through this thread, I said:
Garvin- For the second stage (finals)= I know this might be a bit controversial, but I think the TER rule should be dropped and those who tie for first should progress. Since we have seven groups (this was based on this discussion at the time- Garvin insert 25/1/17), that should mean at the most eleven players in the final.
This will have the by-product in the round robin games of everyone knowing that if they can finish outright first, they knockout everyone from their group immediately.
--------------------
And we continued discussing the rules and it was agreed to remove the TER and other 'tie' rules have those who finish equal first all progress.
So that rule needs to be changed.
As quite a few of the entrants will not have seen this thread, or any of the other discussions, perhaps a slight explanation for round one of how this event is different to the FICGS world champs would be helpful to 'sell' the event.
As in. For the FICGS World Chess Cup, The Highest Rated Player will be seed 1 and placed in Group A, Second Highest Rated Player will be seed 2 and placed in Group B and so forth for seed 3, seed 4 etc till all players have been allocated to their respective groups.
All players start from the first round and there is no knockout stage.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-25 15:58:25)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Oh ok. As soon as it is different from WCH rules, we can try this... and it's even simpler. Let's hope that the "3 or 4 players tie with the same score in a group" case will not happen too often though, otherwise we may have a final stage with two dozens of players :) Possibles look like huge and cycles may not look like each other.
The cup rules page is updated.
Garvin Gray (2017-01-26 02:30:15)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Before I first proposed abolishing the first place tie break rules, I went through a lot of the stage 1 WCH groups and checked how many ties there had been for first, and especially looked for multiple ties.
There were very few indeed.
The odds of three or four players finishing on the same score, when the group size is likely to be 9 or 11 players and the ratings of the players will be from 2300 to 1200 is extremely low.
Hence why I proposed the removal of the rule in the first place.
The rules are accurate now.
As to when to open the waiting list- I have also commented in this thread that having the waiting list open for too long will increase the number of forfeits when play begins.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-26 04:11:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
How long should it be open according to you? 1, 2, 3 weeks?
Garvin Gray (2017-01-26 11:37:58)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
1) Being a new event, an email should be sent to all members explaining this event and that it is a main championship event. And that entries will open Wednesday 8th February.
2) Entries open Wednesday 8th February and close Wednesday 1st March. That gives everyone three weeks to enter.
3) Entries close Wednesday 1st March. The event needs to start straight after this date.
I am aware that you need to update ratings, work out the groups, load everything into the server to get the event started, so there is a lag time after March 1st.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-01-27 01:53:33)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
It should be ok. Let's do this way!
Herbert Kruse (2017-02-08 11:51:22)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
today?
Garvin Gray (2017-02-15 23:34:39)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Woohoo. Entries are over 70 with two weeks still to go!
Thibault de Vassal (2017-02-18 22:51:08)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
That's quite a good result indeed! Well done...
Thibault de Vassal (2017-03-01 20:48:56)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
96 players... luckily, 12 groups of 8, that's the first time we create groups with an even number of players.
Peter W. Anderson (2017-04-19 08:46:20)
Thematic with lowest chances of draw
One possibility would be to take a selection of openings from the last TCEC final. These were deliberately unbalanced to reduce the drawing chances. They were a superb set of openings. To make it fair people would have to play both sides of an opening.
I could also provide you with some hard to hold positions from the modern defence (I won't be playing, so there will no unfair advantage).
Re the previous suggestions:
- benoni with early Bf4 is a good choice
- czech benoni is definitely overscored by engines but will be a tough hold nonethless; I would watch these games with interest
- Hennig Schara is great fun and I have never lost with it on FICGS, but it really is awful if white plays the best line (but I am not going to say what that is!).
- KID would depend on which line was chosen; some lines have been analysed almost to death, others have plenty of scope left.
One other possibility - a Breyer Lopez. Quite a tough hold IMO and therefore a good choice if everyone plays both sides.
Peter W. Anderson (2017-04-19 13:42:06)
WCh and other ramblings
Congratulations to Eros for retaining his FICGS world title again. A casual glance at our 36 games might give the impression that I did not put him under much pressure apart from in game 95512. Actually it is more a case of him making it look easy. He generally plays extremely accurately in the opening and avoids deeply hidden pitfalls in the middle game – I always get the feeling that I am playing someone who understands the game well rather than someone purely reliant on engines.
I have decided to give up playing normal correspondence chess. Engines have simply become too strong and the amount of human input into my games has decreased over time. Human input remains (games 95516, 95512, 93727/87343 being good examples), but there is far too much hard work with engines these days for my liking. I am sure a GM would add a lot more value but I am a mere mortal! I will probably play some big chess instead. I tried this a couple of times and really enjoyed it. I just hope nobody writes an engine for it.
With regards to the format of the world championship, we need to recognise that with engines getting stronger the draw odds is a bigger and bigger advantage for the champion. Despite that I personally think the current format is fine. I generated a significant advantage in 2 games – in addition to game 95512, I believe game 87337 offered real chances if I had not forgotten to play 25.Nb4 as intended (I could barely look at a chess board for a month after screwing that game up, but that is another story). If people keep trying they may eventually beat Eros. The bigger issue to my mind is Eros’s own statement of boredom with defending the championship. So time for a change when the current cycles are finished?
Peter W. Anderson (2017-04-19 16:03:14)
WCh and other ramblings
To my mind big hardware only helps a little bit at FICGS speeds. Yes if you space bar everything then it might make a lot of difference but if you are prepared to work hard analysing variations properly then I think much less so - working hard is far more important than having a big computer.
For me it is more a question of how often whilst analysing those variations I can see a mis-evaluation or come up with an idea that the engines miss. It still happens but less often now than 5 years ago.
But I take your point about poker. And at faster chess speeds big comps are essential. The ideal configuration for the Infinity chess tour? - a strong human player who is experienced at advanced chess and 6 (or more) big comps running :)
Aniruddha Duttagupta (2017-05-06 19:55:27)
adjudication of FICGS Games
Can any game of FICGS send for adjudication? If so, to whom the game will be send? Who is thw adjudicator? If my opponent wants to continue a dead drawn game with opposite color Bishops and one pawn in the board only, can I send the game for adjudication ?
Tano-Urayoan Russi Roman (2017-05-07 01:42:15)
adjudication of FICGS Games
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#adjudications+
Daniel Parmet (2017-07-01 07:48:12)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I know this thread is old but I feel Garvin made an amazing point that got lost:
"It was to give players who were in the 2100 to 2200 and below more opportunities against players rated 2300 and above, whilst still also giving the top players something to play for ie the tournament win."
I haven't played actively since 2010 for exactly this reason. I did play over 470 games though but found that I was permanently locked into this rating band despite being far beyond the skill level of this rating band solely because I was never allowed to play stronger players. So I moved on to ICCF where I easily was able to compete against 2370+ players all the time.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-07-01 22:35:35)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Well, one fact is that we do not have players rated over 2300+ enough anymore... I don't know how important is this "band" effect as I know players who went through but I guess it would be worth to make statistics.
Garvin Gray (2017-07-02 04:33:16)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I have wondered for a long while whether:
1) The 2300 rated players or higher who started on this site, were not really 2300 in comparison to quite a few 2200 or so players
2) That deflation in the rating system at the top end has occurred in the system over time
Daniel Parmet (2017-07-05 21:00:10)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
It doesn't help that there are so many massively underrated players. I haven't played here in 4 years. My rating here is 2135 while I am 2379 on ICCF.
I will imminently draw an 1852 rated player here which seems like a big upset and my rating will take a big hit. But on ICCF this IM player is 2352. I would lose about 1 rating point. So here I out rate him by 283 points while on ICCF I outrate him by 27 points.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-07-08 19:26:50)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Rules asked by players do not converge all the time, that's the least to say. Many prefer that games lost on time be punished by massive losses of elo points to prevent games lost on time, while many prefer that ratings stay coherent, whatever the losses (mainly on time)... And of course, games played at FICGS are not as important as games played at ICCF for most strong players. Conclusion is easy. But maybe there should be a change in the rating calculation to create some inflation... This could be worth a discussion.
Daniel Parmet (2017-07-10 00:28:19)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Well, I think there needs to be something less in the sense of rating inflation but perhaps floors added for players with high ratings for ICCF. There is no way you can tell me an IM 2350+ player should be allowed to have a sub 2100 rating here. In general, I am not a fan of the concept of flooring... but in this case there are many such underrated players that bring down the entire rating average here.
Garvin Gray (2017-07-13 17:09:00)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
A better question to ask is: How did that player get that rating so low?
Thibault de Vassal (2017-07-20 16:31:47)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Ok, I finally slightly changed the rating calculation in this way... let's see how the whole thing will evolve (it will take time anyway).
Herbert Kruse (2017-09-07 11:47:10)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
the problem is, that computer helps any player and so its slowly doing down
so in consequence not playing holds your rating high
but there should be a strong motivation for playing
Herbert Kruse (2017-09-07 11:49:18)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
rating slowly going down i meant
Garvin Gray (2017-10-01 06:36:44)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Quick observation from beginning of final round. Players are not stuffing around and taking forever with their opening moves.
Knowing they have 16 games to play and a time control of 30 days plus 1 day per move, players seem to be getting through the opening phase quickly, to get as much extra time on their clock in all their games as possible.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-01 13:40:40)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Herbert: Yes it was, now it should be less the case (about ratings). Let's see in a few months.
Garvin: About CUP final, yes looks like reasonable to play the opening as fast as possible (just like in WCH)... 16 games is really tough to manage in the middle game, that's why I was more favourable to a longer time control for this cycle, but obviously many players are faster than me :)
Sergey Zemlyanov (2017-10-09 00:29:29)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Dear admin! I just played the second pair of games with GM Riccio, Eros.
All the 4 games ended with a draw result. So, my entry fee was 100 euros for this match. That’s a great money for me!
When I bought e-points for euro I didn’t know about how can I refund my money in future.
I have read the forum thread by Nick Burrows, so I have a question to you:
Could you refund my money to my credit card (by Paypal, for example)?
Or are there any troubles with this?
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-09 02:21:20)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Hello Sergey,
First of all, my congratulations for this score in such a tough match. I understand your concern, but FICGS cannot be a bank and/or a casino, there's no refund or "epoint conversion/cashout"... FICGS organizes chess games with entry fee & money prizes, but players have to win a tournament/match to justify and get a money prize.
My suggestion is to find an advanced chess opponent so that the games do not last days/weeks/months. Surely a few ones would play you!
Sergey Zemlyanov (2017-10-09 08:11:36)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Hello, Thibault,
Well. I hear you. This is a real scam ("lohotron")! However, from a legal point of view, you are right. Because the text of the rules was written in a small font somewhere on the site. And still, such important moments should be in a visible place, so that beginners can immediately familiarize themselves with the site rules. From the point of view of morality it is a fraud. Similarly, I will give an example: often, when a person, which is a pensioner or disabled (by health), comes to the Bank, then the Bank offer to him to make a loan at high interest rates. Then the bank's employers give him a document in which you can see (only having good eyesight!) a rule written in a very small font and in future that document will eventually bankrupt this poor person! Very unpleasant incident, Thibault! 100 euros is a big money for me! I am disabled for health reasons and my pension is about 250 euros, most of this money goes to expensive medications. When I agreed to the match with Eros, I didn’t know all the tricks and traps on you site.
Okay, I'm ready to agree with you if you spend my money on charity. There are so many unfortunate people in the world now!
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-09 21:29:57)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Well, I understand and I'm very sorry about that... if it can avoid such problems, be sure that I'll copy this part of the terms in the page "My account" where it is specified:
"Before to buy any ticket for tournaments with entry fee and money prizes, please read the terms and conditions, and more particularly entry fees, money prizes and money transfer sections."
And as you may guess, FICGS is much much more a pleasure to run for me than a money thing... Actually, the money prize part represent about nothing here and has always been a problem more than a solution at the end.
Your proposal is very generous anyway, otherwise many Epoints are free prizes so it may help to add ones, but you may also play other nice games and why not get this money prize at the end.
Sergey Zemlyanov (2017-10-09 21:55:57)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Hi, Thibault
A few words about the match with Riccio Eros. It seemed to me that Eros played too reliably, with a reserve of durability! However, now top-ranking OTB chess grandmasters, like Karjakin or Caruana, often play reliably too. The drawish tendencies are now visible in correspondence chess, unfortunately. To win Eros was very difficult, because of his debut choice and a power of the game, of course. Top grandmasters ICCF usually lose when they risk playing, for example, the Old Indian defense for Black.
Okay, then I donate e-points to the site and the question will be closed.
Sorry for my bad English. I do not have enough communication with foreigners.
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-09 22:08:13)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
I have added the following text on the "My account" page, let's hope it will avoid such problems in the future:
"First of all, please note that FICGS does not work like a bank or a casino, you have to win tournaments to get a money prize, otherwise it is not possible to "cashout" or convert Epoints into money. If you didn't do it yet, have a look at the rules (textlink) on this specific point."
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-09 22:14:10)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Well, if Eros did not take so many risks, he probably found good reasons to do this :) After all, your real playing level was and is obviously still over 2400.
Sergey Zemlyanov (2017-10-09 22:16:24)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Dear Thib,
Thank you very much!
I donated e-points to the site. Also, I will focus on my games on ICCF. I do not have only 5 points of the rating to get into the tournament with a grandmaster's norm. I need to put pressure on it!)
Thibault de Vassal (2017-10-09 22:33:01)
Ficgs is a money trap * BEWARE *
Dear Sergey, thank you and also for your understanding... And I must say I'll regret not seeing more nice "gold" games like these ones. Best of luck in your GM title seeking!
John Liang (2017-11-09 08:11:01)
WCh and other ramblings
Congratulations to Eros for retaining his FICGS world title
Thibault de Vassal (2017-12-29 23:07:05)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Finally... finally, FICGS Android applications are here:
http://www.ficgs.com/chess-online_gbr.html
Basically, the 4 versions are quite the same: only the name & icon change.
I tested it in many ways and it looks like it works fine and display seems ok, so feel free to try it, any feedback would be much appreciated!
I will publish it in APP stores soon, let's hope it will help to attract many new players (most probably Go players & chess players without engines IMO) and bring back a few ones :)
Paul Campanella (2017-12-31 19:02:22)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Hopefully iPhone app will come soon! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-01 22:22:35)
FICGS Android APP beta version
I still have to find a way to do it properly, but I started to look at it ;)
By the way, many thanks to the few players who tried it already!
Zack Stephen (2018-01-06 13:08:56)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Is it too late to join the World Championship tournament? If not when will the first round begin?
Thibault de Vassal (2022-10-12 02:57:51)
Rating System.....
FICGS has its own rating system, it looks like ELO but it slightly differs to take account of what might provoke a global deflation due to rules about forfeits & the constantly increasing level.
All calculation details are in terms & conditions :
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-06 20:43:12)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Hi Zack,
The waiting lists will be open in a few weeks, all tournaments should start on March 1st, 2018.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-06 20:46:05)
My New Chess Rule
Seems to be a reasonable one :) By the way, it could end in the FICGS quotes file ^^
Is there one game to illustrate it?
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-06 20:48:58)
FICGS Android APP beta version
All FICGS apps are now in the Google Play Store... if you have an Android phone, just click Play Store, then search FICGS and install the app with your favourite icon, you're done.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-09 00:10:13)
FICGS Android APP beta version
The apps are now a bit different from each other:
- The Go app allows to easily replay the best games played at FICGS when there's no game to play (or when logged as guest)
- The other apps allow to play against a chess program (not too bad) when there's no game to play (or when logged as guest)
Hope it brings some more fun... To be continued.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-10 22:29:48)
1st King Supertournament
Dear chessfriends, FICGS Android apps are now bringing a really different playing experience!
All 4 apps are now dedicated to either chess, Go or Poker Holdem (or all games) with specific features that make it easier and compliant with laws in more countries, that's why it is now useful to install them all and use it according to your taste at the moment.
Of course, it is more dedicated to "chess for fun", that's why it's a good time to start the very 1st FICGS chess King Supertournament:
- No engines or databases allowed
- Unrated thematic tournament: King's gambit
- Marathon tournament : unlimited number of players / games
- Flash deadline: The tournament will start on January 17th, 2018
Will you dare to enter this much fun and challenging waiting list? :)
Finally, these apps are very good news for FICGS as new players are coming again... It was really time, particularly after the last server crash! Now I'll make my possible to make FICGS great again, or even greater :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-13 18:31:04)
1st King Supertournament
And I agree with that too... but obviously, FICGS also needs to open itself more to no-engines players, hopefully to attract more centaur players (complex equation, Google related). Anyway, that's just one tournament category, things will not change for the WCH that will start in March.
Garvin Gray (2018-01-14 02:43:50)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Projections for the winning score are now being made. I thought I would bring these discussions to the thread.
Be careful about not actually discussing the games as so not to influence those games.
It seems like 9.5 or 10 out of 16 will be the winning score.
For any player to get a FEM norm, they had to score 12/16.
Now looking at this field and how the scores have panned out, does 75% seems rather unrealistic?
9.5/16 has already been recorded by Ortiz, so use a golfing analogy. Ortiz is in the clubhouse with 9.5 and everyone else is still on course playing out their last holes.
Anything less than 9.5 is no good.
Quite a few players still have so many games still going that making predictions is a rather forlorn exercise at this stage.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-14 02:48:25)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
I agree that many things can happen yet :)
Clodomiro Ortiz (2018-01-14 03:08:02)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
My observations are just based on a rapid view of the remaining games..i agree that a few players still have to many pending games to make an accurate prediction,so the last word has not been said yet...
Clodomiro Ortiz (2018-01-15 15:00:38)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
in my former comment shoud be read too many,not to many
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-16 16:43:40)
Conditional chess moves (again)
Hi all,
Before everything, let's make it clear: Absolute priority (for years actually, but particularly since the launch of the Android apps) right now is to increase the popularity of the server, that slowly went down for more than 5 years. Now it's going better for the first time since, but I'm still working on and have much to do there.
Well, let's say this would be the right thing to do after all (which is another debate, with questions like what if a player does not want his opponent to use this option that by the way he cannot or does not want to use himself because it goes too fast and/or gains time on clock - case that I saw at another server).
Don't misunderstand me: I already used conditional moves at other servers and I liked it too, but I did not find it essential. Also, we all know that all opinions are in nature. And as a reminder, one goal of this server was to offer the simpliest & lightest (HTML or HTML & few javascript) interface.
Kim, one question to think about the work to do in your step 1:
How do you imagine the communication between a Javascript interface & php server? Well, I know how to implement Ajax (which I chose not to use at FICGS), this is not the point here. But it is not enough that moves are verified by javascript - that is a big work if you do it from zero - , it must be validated by the server itself, then confirmed or not to the player, meaning casually one more step. Means more php jobs from the server (which is not a big deal) so new codes that would be compatible between that Javascript UI (that must fit to site's design) & FICGS (that is not obvious if you know the small possible differences in terms of PGN format), a new field in database, the way to handle it after few conditional moves & so on.
Once more, it is feasible, of course. But there are obvious difficulties: it is not possible to add such code without being completely in FICGS codes, that are not object-oriented.
Anyway, if the number of active players grows again, I'm quite sure we'll have a good occasion to discuss it (with some more pressure ^^).
Kym Farnik (2018-01-17 00:34:08)
Conditional chess moves (again)
Hi
First thanks for making your position clear.
Yes, JS talking Ajax to a PHP handler.
I have implemented this type of thing in the past.
Even if the main FICGS code is totally procedural, it is not uncommon to build a new feature using an OO module, and in time either run old and new code in parallel. Or... migrate all the code to a new OO framework over time.
The play move and add conditionals interface would need to be made JS and redesigned. The back end would I expect have a game/move/conditional validator function.
There are plenty of JS chess interfaces that could be used as design input.
I recognize this is a major project for a one man team. I'd say 4-6 weeks of full time effort, possibly longer if we have to design a OO framework for the back end. Hence my offer to help as I'm semi-retired and have time.
A good isolated dev and test environment is mandatory. This is not just a simple site hack.
I hope this helps!
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-17 02:04:09)
Conditional chess moves (again)
Many thanks for this nice proposal Kym! By the way, I have no doubt that you could do much better than me (and with more time).
Well, as you understood FICGS has become a big complex (& quite old) thing that is not easy to shake. Each time I think about conditional moves, the more problems I identify (chess 960, draw offers, messages & so on)
Let's give us a few weeks to think about it. Not a way to throw it away, but I really need time for now to work on apps popularity.
Clodomiro Ortiz (2018-01-18 10:55:56)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Dear chessfriends,as someone nicely said,I am now at the clubhouse.i like that..On that account,i think legitimate to extend my congratulations,in advance,to the winner or winners of this first CHESS CUP,no matter who might be,because they are not responsible that anything can happen..what a lesson..Thanks for letting me be part of this event..Yesterday i was only ringing the bells before DEATH KNOCKS AT THE DOOR..WAKE UP my family,WAKEUP LEGITIMACY,that is my wife name,GET VACATION if necessary those who may feel tired at the final stage,,,SPECIAL THANKS FROM MY HEART TO THIBAULT,for keeping on,although not everyone is always satisfied,chess is beautiful but men not so much..What a wonderful world anyway..finally,i want to point out that nobody gave me one single point.What is not too bad...GOOD LUCK..Now i go silent until the end...
Herbert Kruse (2018-01-18 16:41:35)
Spice up chess? More members
players who lose on time wouldnt play faster tournaments
my main theme in ficgs is waiting - more for poker, but for chess games too
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-18 18:09:44)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Cheers! :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-20 01:15:06)
New feature : picture of the game
As you may have seen in the "move_express" page or "viewer" page, it is now possible to generate a picture of a game (available for chess, big chess & Go, not poker holdem).
The picture is also "attached" to the public viewer page, eg. http://www.ficgs.com/game_98779.html when you share the url.
It is particularly convenient to share a game result or a position (just add the move number in the url) in your favourite social networks...
Any feedback is welcome, if you have any suggestion :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-21 17:06:34)
Conditional chess moves (again)
Now I'm to integrate chess.js & chessboard.js in some parts of the site to remove the flash chess board... one issue with conditional moves would be that FICGS rules are slightly different from FIDE rules: no 50/60 moves rule here. Anyway, to be continued.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-25 01:53:48)
Conditional chess moves (again)
As you may have noticed, chess.js & chessboard.js are now integrated as an option in the viewer page...
But strangely, it seems there are some bugs in the PGN processing, or at least this 24.R2e1 in WCH game 98780 (Kruse-Riccio) should be ok with the "sloppy" option.
You can see the new feature here:
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=98780&auto=1
Zack Stephen (2018-01-26 02:57:33)
FICGS Android APP beta version
I find that I have to frequently login to the site both via the browser and via your new app. Am I the only one who experiences this? This site should not require logins via the app.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-26 03:23:17)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Yes, of course that's just an option according to the way one want to play games. Nothing is required here :)
Zack Stephen (2018-01-26 12:06:04)
FICGS Android APP beta version
I dont understand, where do I set that option to stay logged into the app and not need to constantly log in? I don't see it as an option under 'my account'
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-26 14:54:44)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Did you check the box under your username/password when you login? Or maybe cookies are not activated?
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-26 20:12:35)
3D board in login page
Well, finally I moved it to another page, less used...
http://www.ficgs.com/about.html
Zack Stephen (2018-01-28 01:00:23)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Hi
Yes the "remember me" is checked, and the username/password is filled in, however I still have to press login. Other apps can skip this step if the credentials are already filled in.
Also would love to set the first scree to be the "my games" screen by default, instead of the home page.
Lastely you have to scroll to the bottom of the page to find links to the forum, and other pages. can you add navigation at the top of the page?
Thibault de Vassal (2018-01-28 02:00:36)
FICGS Android APP beta version
That's not what the app is supposed to do... it should be the "My games" pages actually. Is the login page's background blue or grey?
Navigation at the top may be a good idea, I'll try this (but I can't add the whole menu there, it would take too much place IMO, it wouldn't be easy to "click" with fingers on tactile screens).
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-11 00:38:48)
New FICGS app: beta test
Anyone to test this new chess trainer? Any feedback welcome :)
http://www.ficgs.com/scripts/chess_board/chess.php
This will be the next FICGS feature and app for Android!
Main question: is the elo scale realistic according to you?
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-13 20:07:32)
New FICGS app: beta test
After hundreds of bug fixes & improvements, it looks like a v1.0 now, compatible with most devices... Will be on the Play Store soon.
Any feedback welcome :)
Ilmars Cirulis (2018-02-14 11:27:28)
New FICGS app: beta test
Hmm, interesting. Going to test it on Android rectangle before the night sleep.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-14 16:14:53)
New FICGS app: beta test
Thanks Ilmars :)
Kym Farnik (2018-02-16 10:07:33)
FICGS Android APP beta version
I used the app for moves today. Simple and easy!
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-16 17:34:51)
FICGS Android APP beta version
Well, unfortunately I was not able to follow Zack's suggestion. Let's hope everyone will find the menu at the bottom.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-16 19:33:12)
New FICGS app: beta test
3 new FICGS applications based on the "Chess Trainer" app :
- Blindfold chess : same, but on en empty board... for experts, IM & GM.
- Chess 960 : the famous Fischer random chess version... much fun!
- Random : even more random, up to 7 knights, bishops, rooks or queens.
As for me, I quite like the "Random chess" app :)
Garvin Gray (2018-02-22 11:22:43)
Norm qualification criteria, incorrect?
In looking at the current group/event that I am playing in, which is Rapid SM 15, according to the current way FICGS sets the scores for norms, to get a FIM norm for that event, FEM is at 4 and FIM as at 4.5 for all players.
It has occurred to me that this is different to how fide works out norm opportunities in round robin and swiss events.
In those events, each players average rating of their opponents is worked out and then that is plugged into the system and then that expected score is used to work out what score they need to get a FEM or FIM norm or higher.
To explain further as that might be unclear.
In the group I am talking about, PoulErik Jorgensen has an equal chance of getting an FEM or FIM norm than someone who is rated lower than him, even though that other player is playing a field who is stronger.
So using the FIDE way and the percentages for FEM and FIM norm, I play and average rating field of 2337.8, round up to 2338. This means that in a category 4 event, I need to score 56 percent, or 3.5 for an FEM and 67 percent or 4 points, not 4.5 for a FIM norm.
Now also doing some further calculating, Alex Wosch is able to score a FSM norm as his average rating of opponents is 2,329 and would then need to score 4.5. Under the current arrangement, he is deprived of this opportunity.
Therefore, I could give a rundown of all players, but I am of the conclusion that the current method of calculating Norm qualifications is inadequate and needs to be refined.
My thoughts were triggered to this from the FICGS world cup when any player to reach a FEM norm needed to score 12/16, which was clearly an outlandish score given the field.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-25 22:44:25)
Norm qualification criteria, incorrect?
Hi Garvin! FIDE ? I'm not really surprised... As for ICCF, I don't know much the way it calculates norms but FICGS algorithm looks like the way IECG did it. Anyway I understand your point and that makes sense, of course. I guess that this rule was designed to be not too complex to display and understandable as well. I'm not sure yet about what to conclude on this, but anyway that's true, there is something to dig.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-25 22:46:22)
New FICGS app: beta test
9 days after, it looks like that the hundreds (!) of known bugs & compatibility issues are now fixed !
Now, the Chess Trainer is also on Facebook... if anyone want to test it:
https://apps.facebook.com/chess_trainer/
Thibault de Vassal (2018-02-27 20:06:27)
New FICGS app: beta test
After a few bug fixes again, all 4 apps are now available on Facebook... See also:
https://apps.facebook.com/blindfold_chess/
https://apps.facebook.com/fischer_random/
https://apps.facebook.com/random_chess/
Chess 960 & Random Chess are really tough ^^
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-14 23:12:38)
A few questions to Nelson Bernal Varela
Nelson Bernal Varela is an early FICGS correspondence chess player, now rated 2277 but also rated 2359 at ICCF (Correspondence Chess Master - CCM).
Last but not least, and as all poker holdem players here probably noticed, he is also our ranked #1 for years, who just reached an outstanding poker rating of 2382, while number two is now rated "only" 2212. A good occasion to ask him a few questions, that he kindly accepted to answer.
-----------------------
- Hello Nelson! You are the 2nd most active player at FICGS for years now. Everyone here probably noticed your incredible results in poker tournaments. "Correspondence poker holdem" was probably a strange idea as it is very unusual and very different from "Internet poker". What's your opinion on this and on the presence of a card game (played without money) at FICGS?
NBV: There are more important things than money and one of those is HONOR; It is honorable to be a chess master, international master, grandmaster, world chess champion at ICCF and at FICGS and to be number one in the ranking. It is honorable to be a FICGS world champion at Go and to be first in the ranking, it is honorable to be poker world champion at FICGS poker and in my case, it is an honor to be number one at poker here at FICGS during the last years, understanding that our general level of play has improved remarkably. None of these activities produces money, but to achieve any of the mentioned titles, it is necessary to have extraordinary abilities.
When I was about 18 years old, I had the opportunity to meet a person with immense material wealth, we spent whole evenings playing chess and then I told him my perceptions about each movement of the game. He thanked me for my chess explanations and paid me with good money. That wealthy man in his turn told me about life and recommended that I should always be proud of the gifts I had, since he knew, with all the money he had and being able to hire the best grandmasters in the world, that it could hardly come at the level of chess master. That person told me that the intellect can be turned into money whenever you want.
Now, by playing poker without money at FICGS, I understood that it was my extraordinary and wonderful opportunity to study-learn-perfect and test my poker theories without costing me a single dollar. In FICGS there is no money, but thanks to the knowledge I gained playing poker in FICGS, today I can go after the money in online poker rooms and probably in OTB poker tournaments. I am studying the possibility of becoming a professional poker player.
- The understanding of your opponent's behaviour is usually quite important at Poker. Do you manage to establish some profiles while playing so many simultaneous hands & games? Did you build any method?
NBV: Today I am sure that the most important thing to raise, and keep raising my level in poker, has been to build a psychological profile of mine, to get to know Nelson Bernal Varela in depth and above all to understand me, accept me, love me and be work every day eliminating my technical errors, strategic, psychological that make me play badly. I am aware that in poker I can play perfectly and still lose, what I can not forgive me is playing badly, which is why I work hard correcting my wrong decisions.
Of course, there is a space in my brain where I have built a psychological profile of each contender, that profile I have been able to elaborate with all the information that is provided to me in each hand we play. The way each of us plays, gives reliable information about our personality.
About my method I can write the following: A few years ago, I created a table in excel, where I had all the games with each contender, I identified them with the FICGS numeration and each movement in each hand (preflop, flop, turn, river ) it I was writing and studying; I started to add technical-psychological variables that seemed important to me, resulting in 20 variables that I had to qualify in each movement. With the passage of time and my effort, I no longer needed the excel table and I did not use it again (it was exhausting and time consuming) because I was assimilating things faster and with greater depth. Today I can say that I evaluate these 20 variables in a natural way, as if I was breathing and that when I am at a poker table, online or real, after a few minutes I get the psychological profile of the table and each of my opponents. In the pocket of my shirt I keep a small paper with the list of variables, periodically reread it and I wonder if I should modify, remove or add something.
- You won 1007 poker games, and lost only 380, with a ratio usually going from 57% to 80% according to your best opponents. Undoubtly you know the mathematics hidden behind poker but that may not explain everything. How did you learn to play?
NBV: Mathematics is an ingredient in poker, in the same way that my psychological aspects and of my opponents (I recommend reading-studying about four times the book “The Poker mindset†of Ian Taylor and Matthew Hilger), it is vital to understand the Law of Large Numbers. Next I make a list of topics that I consider important to raise the level of poker; compete with EV+ cards, you have to know the small ball theory of Negreanu (but not apply it, hahaha) you have to always look at the texture of the board, you have to evaluate your reality and your future, also that of your opponents (act and power), the position to talk is important, the stack, the personality of the table, know who has the panic button on. All these and other variables must be evaluated in the few seconds they have to make a move and the only important thing is to make the right decision according to the circumstances. There is a good list of poker books to read... it is mandatory to have read about 15 poker books.
- As for me, I may be wrong but I can't imagine that you reached such a rating without special techniques & maybe by optimizing it in some ways... Of course, "rating management" is not a problem, and it is only one thing with a limited impact, but maybe you have some other secrets? What about this "+1" technique that I noticed in many of our games, if this is not a secret? :)
NBV: In these years I have used different techniques that I had to read, study, learn, repeat, modify, invent and sometimes eliminate. Poker is a sport that seems easy, with time one manages to understand that it has an amazing complexity, today I consider poker to be as complex as chess and I study them in a "similar" way. As an example, I have tried to create "openings in poker"; based only on probabilities I invented something that I called mirror theory and another "opening" that I called opposite outs. I am fascinated by mathematics and from the mathematical perspective they are perfect "theories-openings", but I have lost tournaments and a lot of money for applying such theories in mistaken emotional moments. In poker it is important to never lose sight of the Law of Large Numbers and be aware that this LAW likes to make fun of each one of us... I am working on giving an emotional nuance to my theories "mirror" and "opposite outs". There are moments when perfect mathematics becomes an unforgivable psychological error...
For the last few months I have modified my way of playing and my results have improved; Today it must be much more difficult to win a game me, thanks to small and imperceptible adjustments that of course only I know, because I have followed my mistakes-successes-evolution in the game over several years.
- Isn't it too frustrating for you to play heads up only (here at least) ? Of course it is a way to improve this important technical case but we know that many complexities come with 3 to 8 players on the table, which is the most common case in professional poker tournaments.
NBV: Currently I spend little time every day playing heads-up in FICGS, thanks to the fact that I have the profile of each contender. The 4-5 hours that I study poker daily, include practice in micro limits in cash tables of 6 players and tournaments in tables of 8-9 players. I think I'm covering the whole range of possibilities, experiencing game situations between 1 and 8 contenders.
- What do you think about computer analysis in poker? Do you think it could make a difference here just like the way we play advanced chess?
NBV: I think the algorithms are ready to be written in machine language and the question is where are those algorithms? Well, in the brains of the best players in the world and in their games compiled in huge databases. But programming language can be accelerated with artificial intelligence brains, making A.I. studying databases of the best professionals, playing with itself millions of games and building an invincible TACTIC-STRATEGIC SYSTEM, similar to chess software and GO... I think preflop and flop play would be very similar between humans and artificial intelligence, but on the turn and on the river artificial intelligence would take considerable advantage, but in the short time the level of human poker would rise because artificial intelligence would teach us to play poker, this event that would diminish the profits of the professionals. It will always be said in favor of poker that because it is an incomplete game of information, to make computer algorithms are quite complicated, but despite that, I am sure that artificial intelligence will far surpass the best human poker player. It is possible that an artificial intelligence that plays a perfect poker already exists, but unlike GO and chess, poker does produce a lot of money. Due to the money factor, in today's world, it is very difficult that there is a Prometheus willing to steal fire from the gods and give it to mankind...
- How would you describe your relation to games in general?
NBV: I can summarize it in one of the first chess books I had the fortune to read, by the great Danish master Bent Larsen, "I play to win"
- When did you start to play chess & poker? Do you play other games?
NBV: My first contact with chess was at the age of nine, it was love at first sight and until death separates us; I must confess that for some years we have been separated, due to my stupidity and my erroneous decisions. I have always been self-taught in any subject, my method is to buy about 10 to 15 books of the subject that interests me and I read them thoroughly, sometimes 3 or 4 times; already with that information in my head and thanks to the constant practice, I build MY SYSTEM (Nimzowitch) according to my personality, my dreams, my desires, my anguish, my fears... I was youth champion of Bogotá, for 4 years , my OTB level was strong, but I had to abandon chess because I had to work and survive; Being an athlete in Colombia is an absolutely difficult thing, but being a chess player is extremely complicated since there is no support or respect from society and you can not live by chess, because it does not produce money.
I met poker in 2009 in FICGS, at that time I was in a terrible emotional situation, trying to get away from a relationship with a woman that I should never approach and where I wasted valuable time and energy. In that context, looking for my thoughts to be occupied, I ended up playing the FICGS C-24 poker tournament and tied the first place with three more players; I kept playing, without understanding what was happening with the cards and obviously, losing, until in 2010 I won the FICGS D-21 tournament with perfect score, 6 out of 6. I had already bought-read my first beginner book: Poker for Dummies of Harroch and Krieger, but my poker was coarse, wild, street, intuitive, amateur, without dedication or study. In the background of this paragraph, the affection and gratitude that I have for FICGS is condensed, a place where I have been able to build-practice-study-test MY SYSTEM in poker.
I play Backgammon, I do not care that it may sound pretentious-petulant, but I have a very strong level and I have not read my first book yet. Hahaha. Any year I register as a participant in the world championship and I will cause disgust to more than one professional. Hahaha. Unlike chess and poker, backgammon does not cause me stress, on the contrary, I feel a lot of joy and pleasure when I play backgammon. I feel something similar with math, reading and music. It's true and I'm proud, I've always been a NERD.
- We all know how difficult it is to reach a number 1 rank but it is even more difficult to keep it during a long time. What is your motivation? Do you have more goals to achieve (chess & other games included) ?
NBV: My motivation in any activity I undertake in my life is to do it with absolute passion (passion is everything you would do to get a breath of air, in the second before dying by drowning or suffocation).
I have several goals to accomplish before December 2021; In the ICCF correspondence chess I must reach the 2400 elo and get the titles of International Master, SIM and Grand Master, also perform outstanding performances in world championships. In FICGS Chess I must complete my Master and International Master titles and overcome the 2450 elo, also snatch the title from our eternal champion Eros Riccio. You're warned Eros, hahaha. On the LSS site where I also play, www.chess-server.net I want to be a world champion.
In POKER I find myself playing micro limits bets in several online sites; in June 2018 I hope I have built some bankroll. In July of 2018 I must be evaluating my poker to know if my immediate goal is to become a professional poker player, that would completely change my chess goals and I would have to dedicate myself to OTB poker. At the moment I study and practice poker every day, about 4-5 hours a day. At this moment my poker is full of errors that I am eliminating one by one. MY SYSTEM needs to win and raise money in the micro limits, so that it can succeed in professional poker.
In chess OTB I should become a great master, but that topic should be left as a goal for after 2021. I could achieve the record of being the oldest human in getting the title of Grand Master OTB. Hahaha.
In backgammon I would like to play some important tournaments in USA and Europe and maybe to be OTB world champion, but at the moment I do not have clarity on how to do it. I must mature that idea.
I hope they invent immortality before I die and that I have enough money to buy it, because time is what I need to realize all these and other dreams...
- Finally, playing so many games on several websites (obviously with serious ambitions in each game & place) may look quite inhuman and exhausting, does your body or brain say "stop" sometimes? Do you train by melting sports and brain games just like Kasparov did in the past?
NBV: It's true, it takes willpower and a lot of resistance to sustain the pace that I carry. To take care of my body, I am doing daily exercise for 60 to 90 minutes, including routines of strength, elasticity, speed and endurance. I also practice table tennis to preserve the agility of my body. I'm also divorced and I do not have a girlfriend... Hahaha
- By curiosity, do you consider playing Go in the future, even after... 2021? (which would surely be an enormous charge more, but the game is really interesting)
I have a kind of commitment with the best Colombian GO player, exchange of classes, he makes me a competitive player of GO and I turn him into a competitive player of backgammon. But the truth is that I do not have time... it could be after 2021...
- Do you confirm that you are not (entirely or partly) AlphaZero or any kind of A.I. (yet) ? :-)
NBV: Hahaha, of course I would like to be a real centaur, human with machine power, I do not care what physical form I should adopt. I offer myself publicly as a guinea pig in projects of technological singularity. Hahaha
- Many thanks for your detailed and instructive (impressive as well) answers! My best wishes of luck in all your games and future tournaments.
Ilmars Cirulis (2018-03-15 17:53:50)
A few questions to Nelson Bernal Varela
Offtopic question about poker (on FICGS):
Is it possible to make some faster time control, for example, +1 day after completed hand instead of single move?
Like in chess - Standard and Rapid.
Herbert Kruse (2018-03-18 08:19:31)
replaced player
who was replaced in FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_SM__000015
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-21 20:37:41)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
[a few posts before & after were edited or deleted]
As I just said in the game thread, that's why I always prefered the knockout format :/ Such suspicions are a cancer in round-robin championships and a pity as this was a real tough & interesting tournament (initiated by Garvin, for the memories).
Of course, this comment is not a judgement in any matter. Systems are the problem, not the problems caused by the systems.
Anyway, let's wait the end of the tournament, then I'll tell and explain my decision, that will eventually open a new debate to change the rules if necessary (I would be surprised though).
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-26 01:38:20)
Translations needed, new FICGS homepages
Dear chessfriends, any help to improve translations of the new FICGS responsive homepages (https only) will be very appreciated :)
https://ficgs.com/ajedrez.html (es)
https://ficgs.com/xadrez.html (pt)
https://ficgs.com/schach.html (de)
https://ficgs.com/scacchi.html (it)
https://ficgs.com/catur.html (id)
... also russian, ukrainian, chinese, korean, japanese, hindi, vietnamese.
If you have any suggestions, please write to web [at] ficgs.com
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-27 02:19:00)
Ratings inflation period
Dear chessfriends, in order to make FICGS correspondence chess ratings somewhat more coherent with other ones & with the real chess level (which is quite important in many points of view), we start an "inflation period".
During this time (that will last several months or maybe a few years according to the effects), the rating calculation will differ as explained in the rules: "During an inflation period, 10 points per game are added to the bonus, then any negative bonus is divided by 2. [Edited]"
As a side-effect, fortunately this may encourage even more games and more wins :)
Let's just wait and see the evolution in the next rating lists, then there may be adjustments.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-29 20:55:19)
A great book on Eros Riccio's games
How is it possible I found this only now? (when searching FICGS on Google)
It looks like there's a big (& nice) book on Eros Riccio's chess career (that will still need updates), you can read it partly on Google Books:
https://books.google.fr/books?id=bsRSDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA409
What a nice work!
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-30 20:19:27)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Hello Herbert,
I think you may misunderstand what Garvin said there: "The simple explanation is that I had the white rook on h3 instead of h2" ... probably meaning that the analysis was based on the wrong position at one time or another / since one or several moves.
Let's wait the end of the tournament. Of course, losses on time are always bad in such tournaments, but it can happen for many reasons.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-03-31 19:39:34)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
Well, in all cases I think that it shouldn't be allowed to designate anyone publicly as a (possible/probable) cheater. This would certainly lead to a terrible climate of suspicion and unfriendship. So, this has been added to the FICGS rules (11.1):
"To maintain a friendly community, any cheating complaint should be addressed to the referee and should not be made publicly in games comments or in the forum, otherwise with the same consequences."
Some comments in this thread will now be moderated this way.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-04-07 03:09:02)
Harold Moye, man of arts... and chess
I'm very sad to announce here that we just lost a chess friend, Harold Moye, who played chess with us while he was involved in a much more difficult battle. My condolences to his family.
Here is the first part of the obituary:
"Harold Anthony Moye, age 62, died on March 4, 2018, wife Linda (Polhemus) Moye at his side. They were devoted to each other for 17 years since vowing their love on a mountain in Wyoming. For 13 of those years, Harold endured bone marrow cancer (Multiple Myeloma) with grace, unusual resilience, and quiet courage.
He loved poetry, languages, art, music, history, philosophy, astronomy, cinema, flying airplanes (actually and with flight simulator) and coffee. Some of his favorites were Shelley, Blake, Rilke, Shakespeare, Norse sagas, VanGogh, Mahler, Bach, Beethoven, and Sumatran and Guatemalan beans. Harold said that Blake taught him the most about art; Shelley was his brother; VanGogh his first cousin; and coffee a major food group (along with pizza and cookies). Above all, he valued imagination, compassion, and generosity of spirit in others. He played Shogi and Chess with friends all over the world online and in person, reaching the distinction of Chess Master when he coordinated tournaments in Wyoming. (...)"
http://www.ficgs.com/moye_harold.htm
Thibault de Vassal (2018-04-09 03:55:44)
Real Poker Game
Hmm hmm, that's an interesting idea to dig! But there are many instant questions, starting with legality :) FICGS cannot organize any poker tournament with money prize, real or not. But there may be other ways.
And such a meeting wouldn't be easy for sure as we're quite far from each other (not speaking about me, out of the top 10 :))
About promotion, I just don't know if FICGS is kind of a "real" poker site but one thing is sure, it was time to come back to fundamentals (chess). Now that things are going better, I'll focus this way for the moment to attract more and more players, then the next goal will be to increase prizes (a lot).
Nelson Bernal Varela (2018-04-11 01:39:13)
Real Poker Game
Excellent idea, it would be a kind of world championship FICGS ... if it were possible
Thibault de Vassal (2018-05-01 23:43:20)
Ratings inflation period
Examples :
(1 game) 10 power 0.8 = 10^0.8 =~ 6.3 added to bonus
(10 games) 100 power 0.8 = 100^0.8 =~ 39.8 added to bonus
(30 games) 300 power 0.8 = 300^0.8 =~ 95.8 added to bonus
To see what "bonus" is, please read:
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#rating
Thibault de Vassal (2018-05-02 00:03:56)
1st King Supertournament
I think we all realize that this is not a "usual" FICGS tournament (also that this is just for fun)... and that most correspondence/advanced chess players will not enter it. But I think that FICGS needs such events from time to time, that can attract more "regular" chess players (at least by its announcements). At the end, it seems it makes the job :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-05-11 01:54:44)
New domain names for FICGS apps
Quite good news for FICGS !
As you may know, .app domains are available for a few days... I was not able to take the very best domain names (chess.app & ajedrez.app), but very good ones anyway. I hope more players will come from Google to the following:
playchess.app (english)
jugarajedrez.app (spanish)
xadrez.app (portuguese)
echecs.app (french)
These ones should be online with the Chess Trainer app within a few days... By the way I also bought:
pokerholdem.app
playgogames.app
It is really hard to find good keywords in english for the Go game... Maybe baduk.app & weiqi.app would have been better but not so sure.
William Taylor (2018-05-13 22:11:04)
New domain names for FICGS apps
You may be able to sell playchess.app on to ChessBase for a decent amount.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-05-13 23:58:43)
New domain names for FICGS apps
I have no idea but that is not the aim... by the way, if they did not buy it, most probably they don't care about it.
Peter W. Anderson (2018-05-15 11:29:42)
Leela Chess Zero
Hello everyone :)
I guess most people here will be aware of the Leela Chess Zero project.
I was interested in whether anyone here is already using Leela? I have run a few of my old FICGS games through it quickly and it gives very different evaluations to the standard engines in some positions - I am not sure if they are better or worse at a quick glance but they are different!
For those who aren't familiar with Leela it is an attempt to recreate something like Alpha Chess Zero for the PC. It is not yet as strong as Stockfish etc but is as strong as most grandmasters and some weaker engines and is gradually increasing in strength as it is trained. It comes in two versions: one to run on the CPU and one to run on a graphics card. A high end graphics card gives the best results, but it runs OK on CPUs.
Leela is nowhere near as tactically strong as the best engines (whether it ever will be on "normal" hardware is an open question). However, to my eyes, it generally exhibits pretty good positional judgement, and so I am figuring it could provide a useful alternative view for correspondence games.
You can contribute to this really interesting project by helping to train it by donating computer time. Helping with the training is pretty straightforward. A guide of how to help is at
https://github.com/glinscott/leela-chess/wiki/Getting-Started
A forum and progress chart is at
http://lczero.org/
I found getting it to run under GUI's as an analysis tool a little more fiddly as it not yet fully UCI compliant. However, I have got it to run OK under Chessbase, Shredder, and Arena OK for analysis. For running matches Arena or something like Cutechess may be best.
I would interested to know your thoughts on this.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-06-09 19:39:18)
FICGS chess cup : proposal
This 1st chess cup just ended, time to comment :)
First of all, congratulations to Herbert Kruse for this nice win! The opposition was strong and the final result not so easy to guess until a few weeks ago, obviously...
Second of all, to end the cheating suspicion topic, I can only say this: correspondence chess is not soccer, round-robin tournaments are not knockouts, when participating in such a championship on the internet, we have to accept the risk that a few players may (for any rare and obscure reason here IMO) intentionally lose to another one. BUT there is definitely no way to be sure about that, no way to adjudicate games 100% fairly on such suspicions, whatever happening in any game. Of course, it would always be very easy to cheat discreetly enough. And once again, I designed the FICGS WCH to avoid as much as possible what happened during this tournament, it is players choice to accept this and to choose the tournaments they will play in the future. Now let's see what the second edition will propose :)
Thibault de Vassal (2018-06-30 20:22:16)
Interview with 15th chess WCH finalist
For once, as Eros & I couldn't find much more to say after all his consecutive wins, I asked Ramil Germanes these few questions around his match & correspondence chess (with what may look like a quite surprising conclusion).
_______________________
- Hello Ramil, many thanks for answering those few questions! This is a first time with the WCH finalist, as the winner (Eros again) agreeded this could be an interesting experiment for a change, so we'll probably have a quite different point of view this time! You just finished your games to score 6-6 (12 draws), Eros retaining the title again. I guess this was the first time you played such a correspondence chess match, what are your impressions on this knockout format?
Yes this is the first time I've played a world championship match although I played before in earlier editions of this world championship but not reaching the challenger level. My impression? Its great playing for the world championship but I know its nearly impossible to beat the world champion.
- Let's rewind a few months backward, would you make other choices, in openings or anything?
I don't know. Tbh, I'm not very good on chess theory and not very updated as well. So I'm just playing basic moves hoping for opportunities to come up.
- So, is Eros beatable in this final match according to you? (please give us some hope) ^^
With how quickly you can search information and the strength of chess engines nowadays, its almost impossible to beat him unless you have access to alpha zero (haha). Though maybe Herbert Kruse can pull it off.
- What can you tell us about yourself and your relation to chess & correspondence chess?
I'm just an ordinary guy from the Philipines who happens to love playing chess. But my love of computers is what brought me to correspondence chess and to ficgs.
- Do you play other games, e.g. Go, Shogi, cards games?
No I don't know how to play those games.
- Could you tell us how these 12 games went from your own point of view?
For me, the games went through their normal course. Both of us didn't made any major mistakes so all games were drawn. That's just how it went. Though there were new moves on some the games it doesn't really changes result of the older games played before.
- Would you share a few tips to play good correspondence chess in 2018, or at least to beat the best chess engines? :)
Sorry but i dont know. I will be the new world champion by now if i know, hehehe.
- You told me that your computer configuration was basically a quad-core i5 3570 / 4gb on Fritz GUI (about 10,500 kn/s) / Windows 10, and we know that many of us (Eros included) still use such configs or even dual-core, would an octa-core have brought a significant advantage to you to win this match according to you?
Oh I don't know they still have those configurations. But I've already encountered opponents in Infinity Chess with 18-22 cores configs. Anyways, an octa-core or faster cpu would definitely be going to speed up my analysis and will let me analyze more lines and variations which may improves my overall play.
Honestly, I don't have that much time these days for correspondence chess. In my match against Eros, I had only about 1 hour of analysis time before work and about another 1 hour after work. Since I already have a family and 2 kids, they have to be my priority first. And I think somebody also can relate to this. So a faster cpu would be very helpful in the match and maybe will give a better chance than a slower cpu.
- As far as I know, you love to build computers, did you use or think about using several ones at the same time for analysis?
No. I only used one computer in my match against Eros. I have 2 other computers but both are slower.
- How much time you've been playing correspondence chess & how do you feel the way the game changed over the years?
I've been playing correspondence chess since 2010 and I have observed that its easier to win games in the past when chess engines were still weaker. Because you notice some players depend only on engine moves and engines still commit mistakes and you can exploit those mistakes if you "investigate" further.
Unlike now, engines are very strong that even players who rely solely on engines moves will be very hard to beat. It lessens the gap of players that know how to "use" the engines and the ones who do not.
- Finally, what makes you love correspondence chess in 2018?
I will always love chess and correspondence chess but what makes it exciting now is the rise of the new kind of engines.
Engines like Leela chess zero that has a different approach in playing chess. Maybe more of these kind of chess engines will be seen in the future. Because of its use of monte carlo analysis and neural networks, we are starting to see moves that we have never seen before. Very aggressive attacks and moves defying opening principles can now be seen. Correspondence chess is getting exciting again!
Thibault de Vassal (2018-08-21 00:15:26)
poker reflection time
First of all, games that last 5 years are quite rare, fortunately :) And believe me, any intermediate time control playable in less than one day would be a nightmare for the players, it is way too long, it could last 12 hours or more! (the dead man defence could find its place)
Also, the reason why the most do not play bullet/blitz games here is mainly that this is a correspondence chess website first, and most players always have a few moves to play... On the contrary, the FICGS chess trainer app is quite successful on Facebook because most users of this app do not play at FICGS.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-09-07 16:57:06)
Netiquette reinforcement
Hi all,
Following a few problems of provocation and repeated draw offers, I propose to reinforce and specify the netiquette to help players finding the right things to do according to the situation...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
Particularly this paragraph:
"It is possible to leave public comments for your games and to send private messages to other members. No player may post in forums or send to another member any voluntary message that contains abusive, insulting, provocating, advertising, vulgar, foul, racist, sexist or other discriminatory or politically sensitive content. Also, no player will make draw offers repeatedly, particularly serveral times in a row. Doing so may lead to instantly lose the game, and/or being immediately and permanently banned.
If a player receives such a message, he may use the "report" link and accepts to use the "block" link that appears then (when playing a move) rather than replying to it. Responding to a provocative message is strictly forbidden and may lead to get a limited access to the server during a few weeks, at the moderator's discretion. In this case, please just warn the moderator or webmaster in private.
To maintain a friendly community, any cheating complaint should be addressed to the referee and should not be made publicly in games comments or in the forum, otherwise with the same consequences. Please note that no time will be added to any clock in any case, the game will continue in all cases, in example arguing to wait for the referee's decision will not be accepted. Finally, you agree that the webmaster, administrator and moderators have the right to remove, edit, move or close any topic, comment or message at any time should they see fit.
Publication of a private message without the authors expressed permission is strictly forbidden."
A big difference (I hope) is in the small add "Doing so may lead to instantly lose the game (...)". Better or worst? Any opinions or ideas?
Garvin Gray (2018-09-08 02:29:41)
Netiquette reinforcement
I have a couple of revisions to the rules that I would like to see. Some of these do come from otb practices, but they also apply here.
In otb, when a player wants to make a claim to the arbiter, or wants to make a complaint to the arbiter about their opponent (for any reason), they stop the clock and call for the arbiter (or find the arbiter themselves in a large hall).
Then the arbiter will rule on the claim, make any decisions about the game, adjust the times on the clocks if necessary, and then start the clocks again.
So for FICGS, I think there should be a change here. When a player presses call referee, the clocks should be stopped/frozen. Currently, the clocks keep running.
This is wrong. The player has called for the arbiter, but the clocks keep running.
If the arbiter (Thibault in this case) rules that the player had no grounds to call the referee, then he can apply a time penalty and take time off the clocks of the person who stopped the clocks.
Garvin Gray (2018-09-09 02:43:30)
Netiquette reinforcement
4, 5 and 6 need to be read together.
4 and 5 are where the arbiter declared the game lost for the player who breached the rules. The arbiter then needs to decide what score to award the opponent.
So 4 is to increase the points scored in the game to the maximum available for that game. This usually is 1 point.
5 is reducing the offenders score to zero.
What these two provisions also cover is where an offence is found out later in the tournament. So for here on ficgs, the arbiter found out that late in a tournament that one player had been abusing opponents regularly.
4 and 5 allows you to adjusts the scores of those completed games.
6 declares lost the game by the offending player. But the reason for the provision of 'deciding the opponents score' is that a position on the board might arise where the non-offender might not be able to construct a checkmate position with the material they have (lets say just a bare king). Then the score would be (0 - 0.5). The offender scores zero and the non offender, who can not win the game because they can not checkmate their opponent, receives 0.5
7 and 8 should be 'self explanatory'.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-09-24 00:15:43)
Some questions to H. Kruse, WCH finalist
After that the last FICGS chess WCH final match finished, the choice was made again to ask a few questions to Eros Riccio's challenger: Herbert Kruse, for the 2nd time. He kindly accepted to answer it so let's learn a bit more on our top-ranked correspondence chess player.
______________________________
Hello Herbert, you're not really a player to introduce as you're very active here and at several chess websites for years, with outstanding ratings in each one (as far as I know), you're the 1st FICGS CUP winner & several times FICGS WCH challenger, each time facing "the wall" Eros Riccio, what could you tell us about yourself particularly as a chess & correspondence chess player?
- i began late with 16 to play my first tournament game, but with 18 i already was kicked out of a night club in company with tony miles ;) (dresscode) had vlastimil hort as trainer for a short time and played in teams with gutman, michalchisin, klovans, gipslis and some other GMs. corr chess i began, because i love to find the truth and because of freestyle, where i began to build very strong computers
What kind of computers do you build? Is it all dedicated to chess?
- i have several dual xeon e5 computers with 64gb ddr3 and 16 to 20 real cores and they all play chess ;)
Once again, GM Eros Riccio managed to draw the 12 games of the match. What are your feelings on these games? How did you estimate your chances to destabilize your opponent in the openings and to create complications enough with White (or Black)?
- this time my feelings were neutral. 1% chances to win, but i hoped he would lose his concentration if i began more games with him (we played 6 other games at the same time)
Doesn't "1% chances to win (the match)" mean about 0.17% to win only one game with White, even when losing one with Black? Isn't it a bit pessimistic after all, or is it the new so called Riccio-effect? :)
- if the strongest players face each other there is no win possible, except some has a mouse slep or forgot something during human interfacing
When did you start playing correspondence chess and what changed since that time? What attracted you most in the game?
- 2004 and evaluation of the position is the key point of improvement since then. attractive was to be better than actual world class players :)
Could you tell us anything on the way you work chess and play your correspondence games? Any tip or secret? (nothing to lose to ask :))
- with black i play for fastest way to 0.00 and with white i try every promising way to make a game for a longer time complicated
Do you use several ones at the same time when analyzing a game? (still grabbing some tips)
- i only use the newest stockfish versions of brainfish and corchess because the other engines are not so good. because i have many games i decide which one gets the most cores and time and let them run in infinity mode until i am happy that can be after 1 week or more sometimes.
You're not far to rank 2nd as a poker player at FICGS, you obviously started to take on Big Chess as well. What other games do you play? Did you consider to play Go already?
- i played go against the german champion and lost so i quit :)) played backgammon money game and internet (in fibs with kit woolsey i played over 100 matches) in bridge i was best bidder in germany 1994 to 1995, but dont play much nowadays
Do you have specific goals to achieve as a player?
- 2 goals, since a long time: be ficgs world champion and win one german bridge championship
How do you imagine correspondence chess evolution within a decade? What kind of engines/computers do you expect to use and what will look like centaur chess according to you? (in other words, what part will remain to the human player in the decision?)
- i think the engines today are already unbeatable, so in 20 years the would still not lose and chess is dead since about 4 years
What did you think about Google Deepmind's Alpha Zero performance vs. Stockfish?
- it was a joke because they let a bad version of stockfish play. i would not have lost one game against az0 and maybe won 2 til 5 out of 100
Conditions of this AlphaZero vs. Stockfish match were very specific (opening books, unbalanced hardware...) What weaknesses did you detect in AlphaZero play?
- it was the lack of precision, what would let it lose against stockfish in its tuned newest version but i look from a view of a player who is used to play with deep 60 :)
It seems that computers did not completely take on Bridge yet, what do you expect within a decade?
- i have not seen bridge programms, but the game is so easy that it must be already mastered by computers
William Taylor (2018-10-27 12:03:10)
World Championship Tie-breaks
For many years, the reigning classical world chess champion had draw odds. The chess world eventually realised this was both unfair to the challenger and uninteresting for the spectators, and introduced a rapid and blitz playoff match for use in the event that the players remained tied after the classical portion of the match. There have always been, and will continue to be grumbles about this system (mostly that the classical WC should be decided by classical games), but overall it is popular (as I imagine can be seen from online viewing figures from the Carlsen-Karjakin match, for example) and, to my mind at least, fairer than the alternative. I propose something similar for the FICGS WC match: an advanced chess tie-break match. Granted, there is the same objection as for the classical WC match - advanced chess is not the same as correspondence chess. However, the combatants will already have had ample opportunity (12 games) to decide matters in that format. An advanced chess tie-break would provide much more sporting interest, as the current system is becoming a bit predictable (this is not in any way a dig at the incumbent, Eros Riccio, who is just doing what he has to do, and doing it very well). I think the match would also be great for promoting FICGS - you could stream it live on Twitch, for example, perhaps with commentary. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
William Taylor (2018-10-28 23:09:11)
World Championship Tie-breaks
I'm not sure that's appropriate for a chess event, but it has given me another idea: a mixed game tournament for the overall FICGS WC title.
Thibault de Vassal (2018-10-31 03:04:21)
World Championship Tie-breaks
Well, the 1 day per move rule has several reasons to remain (including avoiding more forfeits/losses on time), and coherence is really important IMO. I do not agree that Eros cannot be beaten (I couldn't do it by myself though ^^), I trust Murphy's law :) I see several reasons to all these consecutive victories, Eros explained many by himself, and I don't think it's enough to change the format, by the way we now have the CUP format for all players who prefer other parameters (thanks Garvin!).
As for Twitch & other good ideas like this, truth is that there should have been many Freestyle tournaments these last years but I couldn't organize it anymore and still can't at the moment :/ But most important is that despite of computers supremacy in correspondence chess, now Go & poker holdem, I'm convinced that the best years of FICGS are to come, and it will bring more competition, new champions & good things. Let's wait & see!
Paul Larwinski (2018-11-14 21:44:07)
World Championship Tie-breaks
no , there should be nothing changed , the ficgs.com chess Champion must be beaten to by new champion.
when you look at last match , they have played mostly same openings, not even taking openings chances is it
Herbert Kruse (2018-11-19 19:41:33)
World Championship Tie-breaks
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=97242&flip=1
u lost already, and in real life even quicker
Paul Larwinski (2018-11-19 21:04:26)
World Championship Tie-breaks
http://www.ficgs.com/player_5438.html
kruse lost 12 games somehow
no matter this
Thibault de Vassal (2018-11-19 21:48:45)
World Championship Tie-breaks
This discussion is clearly provocation... That's not the first time (this week). Please read the netiquette, rules may apply.
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#general
My role is not to delete such posts each time it appears, particularly several times in a week, so if one of the authors really wants me to do it, rules will apply instantly and he'll go to the silent mode.
Paul Larwinski (2018-11-19 22:21:46)
World Championship Tie-breaks
and of discussion with you all
you seems to be on one side , this let me think of you
and i hope next ficgs.com is a french, this is a french site not german one
Paul Larwinski (2018-11-19 22:22:44)
World Championship Tie-breaks
end of discussion with you all
you seems to be on one side , this let me think of you
and i hope next ficgs.com is a french, this is a french site not german one
Thibault de Vassal (2018-12-26 02:05:53)
poker: not enough chips to pay BB
In many ways, FICGS built its own rules (sometimes intentionally but not always), in this case I cannot remember well but I may have thought that it is a bit unfair to lose the last chips without any fight, after all the situation is hard enough there :) But you're right & maybe I could have moved the chips in the next round, most probably I did not think about that.
Garvin Gray (2019-01-24 08:14:14)
James Romig
Fred Delaforet expressed concern regarding James Romig's health or otherwise after James lost on time in seven of their games.
Doing a google search, I was able to find a James Romig from USA (same location as listed here on ficgs) and that person is 48 years old and is a high class musician.
No death or funeral notices mentioned that I could see.
Jukka Joutsi (2019-02-26 11:40:40)
delete my account
Please, delete my account - I can't find any information of how to do it. I will not continue my chess in FICGS so DELETE my account - "Jukka Joutsi".
Thibault de Vassal (2019-04-01 16:19:38)
April fool jokes at FICGS
I announce here that there won't be april fool jokes anymore at FICGS. Sorry about that for those who liked it (sometimes at least), but it it definitely too confusing on sensible points and it is quite hard to find good ones.
Anyway, have a nice spring everyone!
Steven DuCharme (2019-04-01 22:13:30)
April fool jokes at FICGS
sensible points on the internet?
save that **** for the offline world
Thibault de Vassal (2019-04-02 00:28:35)
April fool jokes at FICGS
Heheh, for sure :) This was an april fool joke... of course nothing reasonable could prevent this to happen again & again!
^_^
Herbert Kruse (2019-04-14 08:51:49)
What is the longest game of Big Chess?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=110827
here i did and 4 days no result
John Hadden (2019-06-22 21:12:53)
Android App not working
Hi, Not sure if this is your problem - or samsung's but I noticed just recently after the samsung internet browser on my phone updated the ficgs app stopped working. When I open it it comes up with a blank screen and 'fatal error'.
John Hadden (2019-06-25 13:44:49)
Android App not working
There is an app called 'lookout' and another called smart manager installed on the phone - but I've never noticed them do anything blocking websites or anything. I don't normally use the samsung browser - I use chrome instead - so not sure if there is anything antivirus in there - but I think the ficgs app uses it as the default browser (or at least it looks like it does).
Thibault de Vassal (2019-06-25 15:23:47)
Android App not working
Well, maybe that changing the default browser solves the problem for FICGS apps, but that's not a clean solution...
https://www.google.com/search?q=android+change+default+browser
I'm inquiring on a better way.
Thibault de Vassal (2019-06-27 00:16:57)
Android App not working
The FICGS website did not change, but the apps were updated (maybe something wrong there). Do you know what browser is used by default when you open the app? A browser by Xiaomi or Chrome/Firefox?
Thibault de Vassal (2019-08-21 00:40:19)
Where is my finished go game?
Hi,
If you do not have any running game, you should be able to reach it by clicking "My tournaments", then "Display all tournaments"
https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=tournaments&nofilter=1
Thibault de Vassal (2019-12-05 21:32:38)
IECG chess-server.net
Does anyone know how things are going at (IECG) chess-server.net ?
For those who don't know, this correspondence chess server was born at about the same time as FICGS (for about the same reasons) as an evolution for IECG where I used to play correspondence chess by email until 2006, so it's kind of "big brother" by history and "little brother" by chronology... and quite different on many points AFAIK.
As far as I know many of the IECG players continued to play there, after that many joined us here (FICGS started maybe few weeks before). As for me of course I concentrated to play at FICGS all these years so I'm not really aware about Ortwin's server. Now I can see that its traffic recently went badly down (like many chess servers actually and even very impressive ones)... that's the reason for this post: any news about it?
Steven DuCharme (2019-12-23 20:45:38)
IECG chess-server.net
FICGS is #72
Zeljko Cirovic (2020-01-16 12:36:22)
IECG chess-server.net
STILL NOT START...FICGS__CHESS__KING_SUPERTOURNAMENT__000006
(type : unrated round-robin, time : 30 days, increment : 1 day / move)
Deadline : 2019 september 1st
Thematic chess, first moves : e4 e5 f4
Thibault de Vassal (2020-01-30 21:10:34)
Vacation suggestion
Ah, I remember that was the first version of the vacation system I tried to make... but there were massive difficulties for different reasons. I must say that building FICGS piece after piece brought problems unlike if it was globally thought for all those options from the start :/ The mystery was in my head 14 years ago ^^
Thibault de Vassal (2020-02-20 18:45:53)
Rated Chess960 matches on the serveur
There are other ways than Facebook to play chess 960... on Android or on your browser, e.g.
https://ficgs.com/scripts/chess_board/chess.php?frc=960
Thibault de Vassal (2020-02-21 23:05:43)
Game decided by tablebase
Access is always possible, but it is not so easy for all players, particularly when playing on mobile phones. FICGS shouldn't be a place for centaur players (usually meaning playing on a computer) only IMO, correspondence chess is played for fun as well. ICCF rules are great in its specific way, but FICGS can be different.
I'm not so sure that those cases would be so rare, many (most?) players don't even know FICGS specific rules :)
Charles Bovary (2020-02-22 09:44:28)
Game decided by tablebase
I aggree.FICGS is just fine by me, even if missing a rated Chess960 feature I like FICGS as it is!
Herbert Kruse (2021-06-26 22:13:03)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Is it too late to join the World Championship tournament? If not when will the first round begin?
Zbigniew Szczepanski (2020-04-10 08:03:33)
Wch groups, less than 7 players
In the "Tournaments" tab under "CHESS RAPID TOURNAMENTS" I miss "FICGS_CHESS_RAPID_GM".
Steven DuCharme (2020-04-11 00:11:12)
FICGS.COM ...
has risen 217,153 places in alexa.com global traffic rankings since Feb 15,2020
Thibault de Vassal (2020-04-12 17:15:43)
FICGS.COM ...
Yes... I saw that (well, it topped at about rank 37.000 more than 10 years ago but that was another story). I'm not sure about the reasons, but one FICGS chess app is going better and better. Maybe forums help too...
Thibault de Vassal (2020-05-22 23:26:59)
Pointless To Play The Kings Gambit ?
Hello Tim,
From FICGS start, I always had the same politics for "no engines" tournaments:
- It is possible to punish obvious cheating, but it will not be possible to prevent intelligent cheating... There's always a way to round the system.
- There are no prizes or "titles" in these tournaments, only the dishonor that other players think that one can play with engines.
Knowing that, I think that honest players can play for fun anyway, I tried it and enjoyed to lose :)
As a conclusion and to make it clearer, no action is taken in any case of using an engine in no engines tournaments. Allowing obvious cheating will help players to make their opinion on their opponents.
Roberto Battaglia (2020-06-04 09:55:29)
chess archives in pgn
A few days ago, in the chat, I put some questions regarding the existence or not of archives of chess games and their organization. The chat doesn't allow many words so I take advantage of the forum for explaining the matter.
For example on the ICCF website I find for each player a file with all his chess games, I also find archives of all the games played year by year. This allows me to create excellent databases, using for example SCID.
I also would like to add the games played on FICS but, perhaps for my limit, I was able to find only one way to access the pgn. that is: I type the name of a player in the search box and press go. If, for example, I write Fric (Fric Lubos is a friend of mine who attends both ICCF and FICGS) I find all his PNGs but there are mixed games of poker and chess and this creates a problem because I have to separate them by looking at them one by one.
I hope I was clear. Obviously it is possible that I have not seen some functions of the site that allow to access to archives where could be stored games divided by year, by player and by type of game. I thank all those who want to answer me and wish everyone good and winning games.
Roberto
Miroslav Gazi (2020-06-09 12:13:50)
chess archives in pgn
Hello Roberto,
I could provide you e.g. PGN file games for Lubos Fric (or any other ICCF or FICGS player) as FRIC_595Games from our database
on
https://windchess.com/
if you are interested.
Best regards
Miro
https://chesswind.eu/
https://windchess.com/
Miroslav Gazi (2020-06-09 15:34:02)
Chess DB
Hi Thibault,
thank you for your feedback.
Would you be interested in some sponsoring of FICGS tournaments by our DBs for some promo here?
Best regards
Miro
Herbert Kruse (2020-07-25 20:11:24)
What is the longest game of Big Chess?
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=123135.html
I played a2-a2q, but the Queen is not on the Board
Daniel Parmet (2020-12-03 19:09:01)
What happened to all the players?
What happened to all the players? I see we used to have dozens of GMs and SIMs not to mention just a huge quantity of players here in years past. How do we get them back? It has become so hard to play on ICCF. Online chess is seeing this huge surge and even now more FIDE IMs and GMs seem to be trying correspondence for lack of other places to play. Why hasn't FICGS enjoyed some of this uptick as well as DMD, rating deflation and lack of events hurt ICCF.
Wilhelm Schuett (2021-01-05 11:52:51)
K+B vs. K
ficgs.com as a learning platform for absolute beginners? :-)
Thibault de Vassal (2021-03-19 23:53:22)
Berlin Defense
Hmmm, it could be a nice thematic tournament soon :)
You're right actually! I searched games at FICGS, when white elo & black elo > 2300 there is no win for White since 2012 ! (and Black won regularly since then)
That's a good score for Berlin defense. To be continued.
Herbert Kruse (2021-03-28 15:11:55)
Poker Rating
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=129651
Thibault de Vassal (2021-04-18 22:39:47)
Wch 22 Stage 2 ended
With all my respect Garvin, you couldn't be more wrong on that one... To me, FICGS is everything but perfect. Actually it is so heavy (mainly because it was coded very very fast - way too fast - with the [bad] idea to make it simple and to save as much processor & memory as possible) that some changes are very difficult to make. In this way, some good ideas could be very hard to bring to life.
But these 2 changes asked in the 2 running threads would be very easy to make! So it is only a question of time (it is most often bad to make a change fastly). For now, I have no clear opinion in this discussion and we could easily add a rule that states that any stage could start as fast as possible. And in the other discussion, the 10 moves rule could disappear even if I think it wouldn't be a good idea. Or it could evolve as it has been mentioned.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-04-28 00:56:13)
Players ratings
Hello Misha,
"My messages" page specifies : Dear chessfriends, the correspondence chess ratings and FICGS chess database have been updated on March 02, 2021 (next update around May 01, 2021).
Advanced chess ratings, big chess ratings, Go ratings & poker ratings are updated after each game.
Garvin Gray (2021-05-04 12:14:16)
Wch 22 Stage 2 ended
I decided to leave this discussion for a while for two reasons. 1) I genuinely believed that whatever would be agreed to in this discussions would be unwound at a later date and
2) That my involvement in the discussions was not a helpful factor for others to become involved in the discussions
I will now explain what issues made me go public with my frustrations with this site and with the site owner in particular.
Over a long period of time, I had a to beg, plead and convince that the FICGS World Cup was an event that would be supported, despite Thibault's regular protests to the contrary.
Once the event and the format was finally decided to 'give it a go', the numbers was huge for this site and the general format had two primary goals:
1) No preferential treatment for high rated players. Everyone started from round one and the groups for round one would be divided up to make sure that each group would be of roughly equal strength
2) In previous discussions with the WCH, I had regularly protested that when there were groups of 5, that these groups should be double round robin, ensuring that all players got eight games and that colour allocation for the top two seeds would not play a role in the final results.
Then the latest groupings for the World Cup were released and everything that had been previously agreed had been violated:
1) Groups of 5 were used and all groups were only single round robin (breaking of a previous agreement)
2) The entire purpose of the World Cup was to have large first round groups and a small number of groups, ensuring that only about 9 or so players made it through to the final round. As it stands now, about 19 players will make it to the final round. The entire format has been advertised as a two round event. Therefore, there can not be a third stage. This is a clear condition of entry and it can not be violated. (breaking of another previous agreement).
I can go on and on, but I think this is sufficient as to highlight why I come to the conclusion that the site owner has no issue at all with breaking previous agreements.
I busted my ass for a number of years to convince everyone that the World Cup was a good event worth supporting. And when it was first run, it was well supported.
To now see it so corrupted makes me just think, why bother. Another deal broken. Time to move on from this site.
Garvin Gray (2021-05-10 11:44:13)
Wch 22 Stage 2 ended
Groups with less than 7 players: https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=forum_read&id=13002
FICGS__CHESS__CUP_CHAMPIONSHIP__000004
FICGS chess cup championship is a 2 stages round-robin tournament.
My wording: The two stage tournament is the basic design of the event and is hard wired into the event. The whole event was designed to be a two stage event, with large groups in the first stage, to ensure that the first round groups are competitive and also that no players received byes through to a second round based on rating.
I had to plead for years for this format and garner support from other players before you would agree to even run it as a trial in it's first year. And then in its first year, it received over 100 entries, a lot of top players entered and was a complete success.
So, I believe I have every right to be pissed off at you directly that it really does seem like you are attempting to unwind the format of this event.
The format is clearly described in the published rules, so for the site owner to so flagrantly ignore them can only be described as one of two actions:
1) Negligent
2) Deliberant
Thibault de Vassal (2021-05-17 23:24:20)
Wch 22 Stage 2 ended
Garvin, that thread (13002) was about FICGS Wch, not FICGS Cup... I added the possibility only of double round robin in Wch because I was not sure it was necessary in every stages (obviously it finds more sense in a round robin final than in stage 1), but anyway I could make it more accurate.
But indeed I just saw it was specified in FICGS Cup rules: "There will be double round-robin tournaments in case of groups of less than 7 players." ... fact is I can't remember when it was added but I guess I could have forgotten to apply it. Usually I read the rules again & again while making pairings, so I may have been negligent here. My apologies to all participants...
Thanks Garvin for pointing it out.
I'll come back on changes soon, it is a pity not to be able to gather more opinions so I'll have to make a move anyway.
Garvin Gray (2021-06-13 11:22:28)
Wch 22 Stage 2 ended
Now that my ficgs cup group has finished, I feel I can reply without feeling like I am pushing my own barrow.
When I highlighting the issue of when there is a group of 5, I was not intending it to be related to either championship.
This is because, in my view, the issue is the same, regardless of whether the group of view occurs in the WCH, the ficgs cup or a general group game.
I am aware that some people probably have read my replies as being rather strong on this topic, and in some cases, unhelpful, but if you look at it from the viewpoint of having engaged in genuine dialogue, exchanged viewpoints, debated back and forth, and gone over many topics again and again and finally after all that time, have gotten in writing and published rules that changes will be made, and then as soon as the situations come up again, the old rules are enforced again and nothing changes, then it becomes quite a bit more understandable why a negative tone and suspicion is underlaid in the discussions.
And as for why not walk away?
Had I been told that the entire format for the FICGS cup was going to be disbanded, that groups of 5 were going to be used and only single round robin was going to be used and three or four stages were going to be used, then YES, I probably would not have entered, and I would have made my feelings known as to why I was not entering.
And, I would have been looking to not enter any further World Championships as well. I have a Round Robin group coming up, as well as a Stage 2. These I will complete and do my best to advance, but if the old rules are maintained, then I will not be entering any future cycles.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-06-15 15:36:44)
What is the longest game of Big Chess?
The checkmated player should resign to end the game (and to see it deleted from his list, that is more convenient anyway)
All FIDE chess rules apply at FICGS when there is no FICGS rule. Many rules here are different from FIDE (starting from 50 moves rule)... that is even more true about Big Chess.
Herbert Kruse (2021-06-16 18:53:22)
What is the longest game of Big Chess?
b) When a player wins a tournament with an entry fee (not null) and prize, he can choose after the game(s) to keep E-Points (by default) instantly added in his FICGS account or, if he has E-Points enough in his account, a money prize. Entry fees and prizes in E-Points are published on the tournament page in "Waiting lists". If games in such a tournament have not been really played for a win, for example if a participant obviously lost quickly one or several games, these tournaments will not be considered as wins and the player showing this behaviour will lose his E-points involved in the tournament, that will be taken from the winner's account if necessary.
If you ask for a money prize, the tournament prize in E-Points will be taken from your account, then you'll be paid 70 % of the total entry fees in Euros, divided according to the number of winners in the tournament, ie. if you win your game(s) in a Gold 2-players tournament : 70 % of 200 = 140 Euros. This ratio may evolve anytime. (!!!)
is the last you are waiting for?
its 11 days since the first checkmate and my opponnet did not resign
Thibault de Vassal (2021-06-19 11:19:01)
What is the longest game of Big Chess?
Yes, checkmate is the goal (in some way) of the game, but it doesn't say it automatically ends the game. Of course I can specify it.
Finally your opponent did resign... new players do not always get immediately how the site works.
And yes, the ratio may evolve, it happened once only since FICGS started.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-06-27 00:19:49)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Copy-paste? Is it a mistake? (anyway, you're in already)
Thibault de Vassal (2021-06-27 00:36:12)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Damn, it was 8 months ago already... thanks for the reminder! Waiting lists are open...
Garvin Gray (2021-07-03 18:06:08)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
What is the situation for Groups of less than 7 players for this event?
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-04 00:50:58)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
"Round-robin tournaments are groups of 5, 7, 9, 11 or 13 players, there may be double round-robin tournaments in case of groups of less than 7 players."
Garvin Gray (2021-07-04 03:40:06)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
So despite all the debates and assurances, nothing has changed for this rule. You are not changing from 'may be' to 'will be'.
As in - "Round-robin tournaments are groups of 5, 7, 9, 11 or 13 players, there will be double round-robin tournaments in case of groups of less than 7 players."
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-04 13:31:17)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
In the other discussion I specified: "Garvin, that thread (13002) was about FICGS Wch, not FICGS Cup... I added the possibility only of double round robin in Wch because I was not sure it was necessary in every stages (obviously it finds more sense in a round robin final than in stage 1), but anyway I could make it more accurate."
So, in all ways, it sounds like I didn't specify that all 5 players groups in WCH should be double round robin.
Garvin Gray (2021-07-05 08:37:02)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
I added the possibility only of double round robin in Wch because I was not sure it was necessary in every stages (obviously it finds more sense in a round robin final than in stage 1), but anyway I could make it more accurate."
So, in all ways, it sounds like I didn't specify that all 5 players groups in WCH should be double round robin.
Garvin - Are you now specifying that ALL 5 player groups will now be double round robins?
As for the first part, I think actually a DRR (double round robin) in stage 1 is just as important, if not more so.
Here is why.
Players are seeded from 1 to the last player across the groups, going back and forth across the groups to seed the second seeds, third seeds and so forth.
This then can produce large differences in ratings between the players in some groups, and in others, very small differences between the top two seeds.
And it is for this fact, and then that players 3, 4 and 5 are then going to be very far rated below seeds 1 and 2, that a double round robin is necessary.
Otherwise, the number 1 seed gains a rather large advantage by being white against the number two seed.
A double round robin in all groups that are 5 player avoids all these issues. It is only 8 games total.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-09 01:59:50)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Of course you make a point there, but it also questions 7 players groups (after all, rating difference between seed 1 & seed 2 is not much lower in average, and 12 games is still feasible in regular groups).
When groups should be double RR or not? Well, I agree that simple RR is not the most fair way, but as I explained about a decade ago, the idea of this championship was not to be the most fair, it was to multiply occurences without loading a too large number of games (and keeping rules as simple as possible, which was not a great success there by the way ^^).
Anyway, I won't say you're wrong, I think it was just a choice like another one.
But we can give it a try (maybe it will be a way to get some impressions & comments), so we'll have 5 players double RR tomorrow if it has to happen.
Herbert Kruse (2021-07-10 13:23:16)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
when will the first round begin?
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-11 01:21:11)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Sorry for the delay, I had to update a tie rule in the chess WCH (if tournament entry ratings are equal) to avoid to make the universe collapse ^^ More seriously, a special case occured and it was not ok with the former rule. The WCH will start on July 11th.
Don Groves (2021-07-11 02:25:26)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
In my opinion, the first tie breaker should be the result of the head-to-head match between the tied olayers. This is how it's done in all major sports.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-11 12:58:27)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Sure, result decides first, but when it cannot, then ratings have a role to play, finally there must be a clear algorithm to decide in all cases.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-11 17:49:37)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Here we are, for the first time in the FICGS chess championship, we have 5 players double round robin groups (regular groups, not M / SM groups)... Of course, players are invited to share their impressions on this matter.
Herbert Kruse (2021-07-18 11:23:11)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
when will the first round of poker and big chess begin?
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-18 12:14:42)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Big chess championship just started... We'll have to wait a few more days/weeks for the poker championship.
@ DonGroves: hi Don, did you receive my messages?
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-27 13:47:40)
Ukrainian players clocks during war
This topic to discuss what should be done about ukrainian players clocks... Probably they do have other matter to think than to take vacation on FICGS while their country is under attack.
Garvin told me that ICCF decided to stop their clocks. What do you think?
Don Groves (2021-07-19 21:40:45)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
My new email is dgrovespdxATgmail.com
Garvin Gray (2021-07-20 01:10:16)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Thibault,
Are you able to give a start date for all the second stage and third stage chess events?
ie Semi Finals, Stage 2's and Ko's/Round Robin Finals
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-20 15:17:19)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
No, we always have to wait for the end of all deciding games in previous rounds. This time, Ko's final & semi finals started just after the next cycle, but the candidates final is still to start.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-07-20 15:18:36)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
By the way, chess WCH rules have been updated: all 5 players groups will be double round robin from now.
Herbert Kruse (2021-08-14 06:33:57)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
when will the first round of poker begin?
Thibault de Vassal (2021-08-15 13:00:22)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
I still don't know but we cannot start with 13 players... we'll have to wait some more.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-09-07 23:01:01)
ICCF ratings
Hello Juri,
No, FICGS ratings have no incidence on ICCF or FIDE ELO ratings.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-09-20 02:16:26)
Chess Cup final #4
The 4th FICGS chess cup just started with 28 players... that is much more than the previous ones, and too many players most probably, but it should not happen again as 5 players groups will be double round robin from now (decreasing chances to see 4 or 5 players obtaining the same score).
Good luck everyone!
Juri Eintalu (2021-09-27 16:29:57)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
I am new on FICGS and I do not understand how to accept a draw offering in chess. I accepted a draw, but after about 12 hours, my clock is still running and the draw is not fixed. I do not want to accept a draw together with making a move, as in the OTB game making a move means rejecting the draw.
Juri Eintalu (2021-09-28 04:26:24)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
Eintalu - Osipov
https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=132155
I really do not know whether it was a bug. I found from the Forum some old remarks that make a move to accept a draw. Also, I had programs working in my computer.
Juri Eintalu (2021-10-04 17:37:27)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
Now, I am pretty sure that to accept a draw on FICGS correspondence chess, one has to make a move, accept a draw, and then send the move together with the acceptance. Only then the system recognizes that the draw has been accepted. The last move is not shown in the final record, it is fictive. It is weird and confusing for the beginners on FICGS. Unfortunately, in the rules, this feature has not been explained.
Juri Eintalu (2021-10-05 21:38:49)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
Dear Thibault de Vassal, the other possibility is to add some informative remarks to the Rules or FAQ. This is a problem for the beginners on FICGS. There is also some probability of making a fictive and stupid move but somehow failing to accept a draw.
Stanislas Gounant (2023-07-23 14:23:08)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Hi Thibault, When start poker championship
Juri Eintalu (2021-10-06 18:54:56)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
Now, as a new user on FICGS, I have a new problem. I do not know how to block another user whose aggressive comments I really do not want to read or respond to.
The system of accepting a draw can be tested, of course, if 2 staff members of FICGS play 4 unrated games with each other, proposing a draw on the 4. move. First, whether checking the "Accept" box is sufficient; Second, whether my claim is true that it is possible to check the "Accept", make a move and send it - to achieve acceptance of a draw.
Possibly, there are some time-out problems with the promised pop-up window.
I really do not respond ever again to GG-s empty etc comments.
Juri Eintalu (2021-10-07 04:56:34)
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
Ilmars Cirulis
How to Accept a Draw in Chess
"JE, you can always skip reading forum. :D
About the topic - I don't have any problems with offering or accepting draw here."
- Unfortunately, I am unable to understand what you are trying to say. I am new here and I asked a question. Now, I have heard two "answers": that the others do not have that problem. - Then my "answer" is that I have had no such problems e.g., on Lichess. And I have always imagined that if someone asks help on the forum, then the decent answer would not be like GG-s "answer" mentioning some "box for the idiots". And I can always skip using that platform FICGS as well.
Herbert Kruse (2021-10-19 09:53:24)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
the next world championship can not be played because two players in the Round Robin 20 are playing on forever a completely draw Position
Herbert Kruse (2021-10-19 09:54:22)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Round Robin 21
Ilmars Cirulis (2021-10-20 17:40:28)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Wow, indeed. Imho, that game could be adjudicated.
Thibault de Vassal (2021-10-21 00:25:35)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Yes, I follow this game. Well, it had to happen :) But don't forget that there is no 50 moves rule at FICGS, the game can continue some longer... if there is a forced mate in (e.g.) 157 moves at some point, then it can go on. If the defender has a clear plan to ask for a draw, then he can call the referee to explain it. To be continued.
Juri Eintalu (2021-11-29 18:54:29)
Repeated draw offers
Thibault, I have made some general strategic remarks, but I am not going to study the details of the proposition. I am incompetent to say anything detailed about FICGS rules.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-27 14:00:58)
FICGS support to Ukraine
I must say I'm not used at all to merge politics &/or war to chess... I'm not sure if FICGS should display a ukrainian flag during these obviously very sad times. But I'll do it if the most think it's a good idea. Personally I do support civil people under bombs, probably in all cases.
Also it is quite tough to understand what happens there from 2014 & Minsk agreements... I discussed about it with russians, ukrainians, read many news & fake news, much complexity. I do not think this is the place to discuss about it though, so let's just decide about a way to support or if we should stop players clocks only.
Ilmars Cirulis (2022-02-27 14:03:18)
FICGS support to Ukraine
I'm for supporting Ukraine with some message or at least a flag.
Anything else/more is for anyone to choose personally, but a support message is a must, imho.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-27 14:08:41)
FICGS support to Ukraine
As one ukrainian player registered for the FICGS chess championship, I wrote to him to know his views on his own situation. We may also have to decide what to do about this championship in this very particular case (particularly if I do not receive any news).
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2022-02-27 14:31:00)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Maybe it is possible to organize a beneficiary tournament with entrance fee for Ukraine.
Bahadir Ozen (2022-02-27 16:34:37)
FICGS support to Ukraine
-1 Messages of love, hope and light can be shared for people in Ukraine. Although the situation seems political, what is happening is happening to humanity...
-2 During this period, the "Special Leave" feature can be given to Ukrainian - resident players.
-3 During this process, the Russian flag may be suspended. (Of course, it is not the fault of the Russian players, but the flag does not comply with the rules of "Gens una Sumus", as it is to represent.
-4 A special tournament can be organized on behalf of Ukraine.
We are going through difficult times. No to war for humanity.
Best regards,
Bahadir
Jan Talek (2022-02-27 17:00:59)
FICGS support to Ukraine
I fully agree with Bahadir's ideas.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-28 01:18:10)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Bahadir's point 3 may be tough to me... I have to think about it. More opinions are welcome.
Point 4 may be a nice idea but I'm not sure if it would be significatively efficient. We can do this anyway if players enough ask for it.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-28 01:44:32)
FICGS support to Ukraine
"Support to all people under attack", followed by ukrainian flag on the right side displayed about everywhere on the website. Of course, not only ukrainians can be victims in Ukraine, so it may be more appropriate.
Feel free to suggest any other message...
Piotr Wiaderek (2022-02-28 06:24:31)
FICGS support to Ukraine
on LSS server flags of all players were changed on United Nations flag. Even russian players have this flag. Gens una Sumus. Maybe it is a good solution for these difficult times.
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2022-02-28 12:29:24)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Let me explain about the idea of a beneficiary tournament: the entrance fee, will ensure immediate money for refugees. While there could be no prize.
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2022-02-28 12:32:22)
FICGS support to Ukraine
About the flag issue. A united flag would be too soft. Just change everyone's flag to the Ukraine one for one day/week to show our sympathies.
Garvin Gray (2022-02-28 13:06:22)
Ukrainian players clocks during war
I think this issue is one of those higher order issues where the responsibility is on us, or more in particular, the site owner, to protect the interests of the players who country is under attack from war.
I believe the only responsible option is for their clocks to be stopped.
The players should not have to appeal for their clocks to be stopped. Those players may not be aware of this option. And quite frankly, given what is occurring in Ukraine, they should not have to think about, 'oh, I have to contact ficgs to get my clocks stopped'.
Just stop their clocks immediately and then if a Ukrainian player contacts Thibault and says 'I do not live in Ukraine and can continue playing' then their clock can be restarted.
Jan Talek (2022-02-28 19:01:04)
FICGS support to Ukraine
I see there are many different opinions regarding flags. If it is such problematic issue let's remove flags on the website for the time of war.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-02-28 21:33:03)
FICGS support to Ukraine
That is a nice idea from LSS server. Though I'm still not sure about what to do on this point.
The idea of a beneficiary tournament remains interesting but is it time for chess games during these trouble times (that might extend to Europe) while there may be other ways to help... I'll think about it further.
I'm also thinking about postponing WCH tournaments, any opinion is welcome.
Clodomiro Ortiz (2022-02-28 22:22:15)
FICGS support to Ukraine
war is continuation of politics so it must be kept out of sport
Daniel Parmet (2022-03-01 18:29:14)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Definitely stop the clocks. ICCF Stopped them to April 29th which I think is absolutely the right move.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-02 00:55:20)
Russian flag replaced
Dear chessfriends, I think that FICGS should walk the way followed by several federations (tennis, soccer...). The russian flag does not represent russian players anymore. Of course, russian people has nothing to do with the sad events in Ukraine.
Garvin Gray (2022-03-02 08:18:43)
Russian flag replaced
The situation between ficgs and National sports is very different.
With National Sports, they receive funding and are playing under the name Russia. Therefore, when that team wins, the Russian Government receives a benefit.
On here, whilst players are from Russia, we are all playing as individuals.
And as been clearly noted in a lot of news articles, most Russian people do not support the actions of the Russian Government.
I think this is case in ficgs where if a Russian player wanted to change their flag to a neutral flag, they should be given that opportunity, but it should not be forced on them.
Herbert Kruse (2022-03-02 09:14:03)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
i am ready, why delay?
Patrick DeBonis (2022-03-02 14:19:18)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Of course, I support the Ukrainian people, but I don't hold any of this against the Russian players on this site. I'm not for removing there flags. We are all adults' here and can discern the difference between governments and ordinary people.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-02 19:54:37)
FICGS support to Ukraine
Clocks for ukrainian players in activity have been stopped yesterday (45 days of special "vacation", can be renewed if necessary).
I don't hold any of this against russian players as well. As I said in the other post:
"(...) At tennis, in example, Elina Svitolina (UKR) didn't want to play Anastasia Potapova (RUS) yesterday, but federation of tennis "removed" russian flag for individual players... the match finally happened (Svitolina won 6-2 6-1 by the way). All russians I know do not support this war, so I think it is a good sign of support from them to join this idea, kind of support for peace.
If any russian player is pro-Poutine or supports this war, of course he can talk to me and ask for his flag (not meaning he'll get it)."
Patrick DeBonis (2022-03-03 02:54:02)
FICGS support to Ukraine
This reminds me of the 1939 Chess Olympiad in Buenos Aries. In the middle of the tournament, World War II broke out. The participants on both sides managed to put their differences aside and finished the tournament. After the tournament was over, many players from both sides chose to stay in Agrentina and sit out the war. I wish things were that simple today.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-03 22:45:26)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Now 20 of your next games started already :)
Clodomiro Ortiz (2022-03-05 15:03:10)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
as i rememner i lost my last participation in past cch stage i championship,i didnot participate in the waiting list this year yet,then i ask why i was included in stage2 group1
Clodomiro Ortiz (2022-03-05 15:04:34)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
remember
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-06 00:46:16)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Clodomiro, you qualified from SM group stage 1. Only one player from this group does not qualify for stage 2 (or stage 3)... Please read chess WCH rules for full explanation.
Clodomiro Ortiz (2022-03-06 12:51:04)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
thank you,nice to remind me
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-07 21:08:28)
HTTPS not available on March 7th
There was a huge issue on FICGS server today, I'm glad to have been able to fix this as it was really tough and unlikely ^^ This is what happens when running an old system with recent modules...
No time was added to clocks as it lasted less than 24 hours (sorry :)), and a few players connect to HTTP (not really secure, particularly if you used the right login field).
I started to work with the most recent Linux system a few weeks ago so I should be ready to migrate FICGS to this new server at some time... There is no urge though, it will be a long and difficult operation.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-11 02:34:40)
FICGS support to Ukraine
After a few days of observation, the whole situation in Europe may not evolve much, so WCH tournaments should start very soon.
Steven DuCharme (2022-03-13 23:11:52)
FICGS support to Ukraine
please join the peace open at iccf.com asap tyvm
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2022-03-15 10:27:03)
withdraw from waiting list
Dear chess friends,
I'd like to withdraw from a waiting list, but I don't know the procedure.
It's FICGS__CHESS__RAPID_M__000129.
The reason is that the second round of last WCC has started and I need some time of the board as well.
Juri Eintalu (2022-03-21 21:28:38)
FICGS support to Ukraine
I am also against wars, particularly against unjustified wars, and absolutely against war crimes.
Concerning the Ukraine war, I have noticed that the sports regulators, including chess regulators, are inconsistent.
When did they protest against the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, sanctioned the sportsmen from the occupying countries?
I suggest punishing those who explicitly approve the war crimes or make hate speeches.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-03-22 21:28:29)
FICGS support to Ukraine
It seems such punishment just happened to GM Sergey Karjakin (after supporting Poutine & Russia in Ukraine's invasion)...
https://twitter.com/SergeyKaryakin/status/1497950920029704195
All I have to say about Iraq war is that France did not participate. That was definitely a good decision from french government, but I guess it was not obvious to make an opinion at this time on US government's statements. It cannot be compared to what happens today.
Juri Eintalu (2022-03-22 22:02:44)
FICGS support to Ukraine
What happens today is a greater conflict than occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan only because some great forces are vehemently supporting the invaded Ukraine.
Herbert Kruse (2022-04-26 19:46:24)
Ukrainian players clocks during war
http://www.ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=126437
really?
Thibault de Vassal (2022-05-15 16:39:20)
19th Go championship final match
Hello everyone,
The 19th Go championship final match just started... late, really late. It did not start before because the challenger obviously stopped to play at FICGS and lost games without making a move (cancelling his qualification), but when reading the rules again, I realized that nothing prevented to make a replacement by the 2nd best score.
Consequently Paul Dao (CAN) is the challenger in 19th & 20th Go championships. Of course he will not have to play the 20th final match if he wins the 19th...
(better late than never, sorry for the delay)
Misha Allport (2023-07-04 14:47:58)
allport_misha: Withdrawal from 2023 CWC
......for health reasons. I informed FICGS 3 hours ago by e-mail that I wouldn't be able to participate in the FICGS 2023 Chess World Championship.
User Name: allport_misha(Brasil)
Thibault de Vassal (2022-08-08 01:16:17)
poker reflection time
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_01__000016 :
2 years and 10 months
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_02__000016 :
2 years and 4 months
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_03__000016 :
2 years and 5 months
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_01__000015 :
2 years and 11 months
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_02__000015 :
2 years and 9 months
FICGS__POKER_HOLDEM__WCH_TOURNAMENT_03__000015 :
2 years and 5 months
Well, as the final stage will be statistically shorter than stage 1, a complete cycle should take about 5 years, or almost 6 years.
I still agree that it is very long but I never found or read a solution that does not create a bigger problem... tough :/
Frey Rafferty (2022-08-15 01:10:41)
FICGS Titles
Hi!
Is there somewhere I can find the full requirements for all of the FICGS titles? Thanks
Yeturu Aahlad (2022-08-16 21:32:54)
respectful legacy
Today, an esteemed opponent, Aleksey Payzansky, a Ukrainian player, resigned all his Poker games against me. I've been wanting to start a discussion here on a FICGS policy of respectful legacy for some time now. What follows is a straw-man to start the discussion.
1. It is reasonable to require a minimum degree of prior participation before this policy applies.
2. Under appropriate circumstances, this policy may be applied retroactively.
3. If we know that a participant has died, it will trigger this policy.
4. If a participant announces that they will no longer participate or suspend their participation for an unknown length of time, it will trigger this policy. (Controversial - this is regardless of their reasons for doing so.)
5. If a participant stops participating for a prescribed length of time without any announcement, it will trigger this policy retroactively from the time the participation stopped. (Controversial - the intent is to give the participant the benefit of doubt.)
When the policy applies,
1. All of the participant's pending games (retroactively if applicable) will be adjudged. A player with a clear lead will be declared the winner. Games which are too close will be either declared a tie or removed from the record with no adjustment of ELO. (Controversial - time on the clock will not be a consideration in the adjudication.)
2. Returning participants will be welcomed. They will retain their ELO, and their degree of prior participation will be reset to zero.
I would be happy to see this policy applied retroactively to Aleksey if that is appropriate.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-08-19 00:40:38)
FICGS Titles
Hello Frey,
You can find all details about FICGS titles and norms here:
https://ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
...or...
http://www.ficgs.com/membership.html#titles
Frey Rafferty (2022-08-21 19:07:58)
FICGS Titles
Thank you!
Thibault de Vassal (2022-10-07 02:58:17)
Threefold repetition
Hello Patrycja,
Sorry for the delay, I just saw the email indeed... As Scott says, you have to play the move anyway before to claim a draw (if the site does not recognize it automatically). It seems to me that's how work most chess websites.
1. Why is there no automatic arbiter which processes draw claims? If I am not mistaken, this site exists more than 15 years already, and yet the Laws of Chess are not yet fully implemented.
> The only way to claim a draw after a threefold repetition is to play the move.
2. Why can't I stop my clock when I make such a claim? See art. 9.5 of FIDE's Laws of Chess.
> FICGS offers (mainly) correspondence chess, that is not OTB chess, and some FIDE laws do not apply here.
3. Why doesn't the arbiter or the referee stop my clock? Without this, a player making a claim can timeout, or, when she is short on time, may be reluctant to make a draw claim.
> FICGS is an automatic place, mainly. Games continue even if the referee has to take action later.
4. Why doesn't the referee take action? Is there a referee at all?
> There is one. But he may take some time... the forum & chat are good alternatives to get answers to any question.
Patrycja Zerowska (2022-10-08 00:56:47)
Threefold repetition
Mr. Thbault de Vassal, you say that this case is treated the same way on most chess websites. This is not true. At the ICCF website, which is the standard for correspondence chess, the draw must be claimed (this in agreement with the Laws of Chess):
" ICCF:
9.2.1 The game is drawn, upon a correct claim by a player having the move, when the same position for at least the third time (not necessarily by a repetition of moves):
9.2.1.1 is about to appear, declares to the tournament director (or the server) the intention to make this move, or
9.2.1.2 has just appeared, and the player claiming the draw has the move.
At other websites, the rule is also correctly applied:
chess-mail.com
"8. To check the draw ( threefold repetition ; the fifty-move rule ) : Click on "Send and offer the draw". "
Gameknot:
"To declare the draw in a game due to the threefold repetition rule, please use "Declare draw" link located directly below the game board."
None of these sites violates the correct rule.
The FICGS way of handling this case involves several violations of the rules. First of all, the draw must be claimed. This rule exists for more than 100 years, and the advent of server chess hasn't changed it. Secondly, you require me to make a move, thereby taking back my claim and my intended move. Every beginner is told that it is forbidden to take back a move, a draw claim or a draw offer. Thirdly, you refuse to stop the clocks, allowing a player to lose on time by your inaction. This "inaction" constitutes interference in the course of the game by a third party, which is forbidden. Fourthly, your bot wants to automatically end the game when there is threefold repetition (or 50-move rule). Again this is forbidden by the rules! A bot can only act upon a claim, and never when there is no claim. With all these violations, we are no longer talking about chess, but about an undesirable chess variant.
It would be so easy to add a button under the chess board, where a player can make a draw claim. Why isn't this done?
You or your referee still hasn't taken action, and a whole week has passed since my claim.
I have always - since 1972 - played according to the rules and I refuse to violate the rules here and now. Therefore I won't make a move; it is forbidden.
Thibault de Vassal (2022-10-09 01:55:57)
Threefold repetition
Oh ok then... Anyway there are indeed several violations of FIDE rules at FICGS. The first one (the 50 moves rule does not apply) because I found it interesting to try it & to make it different when I created the website. It is specified in the terms & conditions (if you read it).
The other ones exist probably because either I didn't care or know, either because it was technically convenient.
Consequently, I agree with you on this point but it works like this for more than 16 years now and I don't aim to change it until FICGS goes into other hands (that will probably happen one day) for many technical reasons.
About your game, you will have to play that move, just like any other player has to do in such situation. This will prove you agreeded the draw.
Misha Allport (2022-10-11 01:48:33)
Rating System.....
.....which rating system(i.e Elo, Glicko, URS etc. etc.) is used by FICGS?
Yeturu Aahlad (2022-10-25 03:45:09)
respectful legacy
Luis is another esteemed opponent and very dear friend from a different troubled region of our world. Once again, should death be the only consideration for the restoration of a player's legacy?
https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=viewer&game=135663
Scott Ligon (2022-11-22 16:00:33)
I did not win a game since 3 years
Even the idea of having preset pools of starting positions isn't necessary. Going off my previous post, the first player selects any starting position they like (has to be a position that can be reached in an actual game of chess, so let's say the first player gives a sequence of opening moves that results in the position). First player wants to pick a position right on the border between win and draw, but they don't even need to stipulate which side is playing for the win, because a chess engine can run a quick search and determine that automatically. So the first player submits an opening sequence of moves, the FICGS server runs a quick evaluation with Stockfish or whatever just to decide which side has advantage, and the second player chooses between playing the advantaged side for a win or the disadvantaged side for a draw.
Scott Ligon (2022-11-22 16:25:45)
I did not win a game since 3 years
Yet another amendment. From the previous post, we can eliminate the FICGS server evaluation and let the first player stipulate which side is playing for the win. If they assign the advantage incorrectly, this only helps their opponent, so the first player has no reason to lie. Example: First player picks the King's Bishop Gambit as the starting position (1. e4 e5 2. f4 exf4 3. Bc4) but erroneously claims that white has the advantage, so the second player has to choose between playing white for the win or black for the draw. Second player happily chooses to play black for the draw and should have no trouble holding the draw.
Stanislas Gounant (2022-11-30 19:55:08)
I did not win a game since 3 years
In my openning tree of 11 700 000 games with games of big database 2023 + correspondence database 2022 + games play on FICGS in 2022 :
Bishop's Gambit : 6123 Games
Traxler Counterattack : 4293 Games
Stanislas Gounant (2022-11-30 20:00:22)
I did not win a game since 3 years
In my openning tree of 200 000 games with games played since 2019 and players rated 2400 and more in big datatbase 2023 + games played since 2019 and players rated 2300 and more in correspondence datatbase 2022 + games played in 2022 and players rated 2300 and more on FICGS :
Bishop's Gambit : 27 Games
Traxler Counterattack : 29 Games
Garvin Gray (2023-03-21 00:47:12)
Chess Cup-1st Stage
All 5th Ficgs Cup 1st Stage games are now complete. We can now progress onto the Final Stage.
Ilmars Cirulis (2023-06-03 02:21:04)
GUI for Big Chess?
Also, Winboard is not going to accept Big Chess games copied from FICGS because it only knows stadard notation (for example, Nj4 etc.).
When I tried doing some analysis, I just copied FEN of Big Chess starting position (but FEN of some other position also works) and then I was free to move pieces around.
Herbert Kruse (2023-07-06 09:44:07)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
all tournament started only the half
final didn't
Herbert Kruse (2023-07-06 11:57:47)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
FICGS__CHESS__WCH_SEMI_FINAL_1+2__000026
i meant
Thibault de Vassal (2023-07-06 18:10:05)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
It will start today, but not all stage 2 tournaments can start yet.
Stanislas Gounant (2023-07-23 15:53:11)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
18 players now. 3 groups of 6 players ?
Thibault de Vassal (2023-07-27 18:47:42)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Poker WCH : 19 players in the list... 2 missing
Go WCH : 8 players in the list... 1 missing
Let's be patient, it shouldn't last much.
Stanislas Gounant (2023-07-29 04:30:46)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Il faut refaire des annonces sur le chat sinon personne ne va s'inscrire. Et ne pas oublier de fermer la waiting list une fois que le tournoi aura démaré
Stanislas Gounant (2023-08-09 00:42:36)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
I try to ask the players of my chess club to join FICGS and the poker championship
Juri Eintalu (2023-08-09 22:29:42)
FIDE BANS KARJAKIN
I have not made any political posts on the Forum.
Quite to the contrary: I have criticized politicizing sports.
I am shocked by the answers I received from Garvin Gray and Thibault de Vassal. I do not think their comments exemplify a civilized discussion. The problem is that they are not arbitrary chess players but chess organizers. I conclude that rational discussion with those who support politicizing chess is impossible.
I had already forgotten the FICGS server, but now I have received a notification that someone has commented on my old post.
Bogoljub Teverovski announces on 09 August 2023:
"A self-ban of karjakin continues"
No hints have been made about what event he is talking about—no references, links, or explanations.
I can only understand that Bogoljub regards the FIDE ban on Karjakin as a Karjakin's SELF-ban.
Let me add that 1 e2-e4 is the initial move of the Queen's gambit, and 1 Ng1-f3 is the most popular opening in checkers.
I am logging out from the FICGS not to receive any notifications anymore.
Garvin Gray (2023-08-10 15:20:00)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
When will Round Robin 25 be starting, and which 8 players be playing in it?
Looking at the three groups from Stage 2 25, what a mess.
I can see arguments for about 12 qualifying from those 3 groups.
Thibault de Vassal (2023-08-13 02:11:55)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
The 25th round-robin final just started... 7, 9, 11 or at most 13 players should qualify (2 from stage 1 SM group, 1 from each stage 1 M groups, so 4 in total from stage 1, added to the winners of stage 2 groups, 3 in total).
According to the stage 2 results, I added one co-winner (best TER) from each stage 2 groups + the next best TER cowinner (3rd in his group).
Total : 11 players (good luck everyone!)
Garvin Gray (2023-08-16 14:17:48)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Thank you for starting RR 25. I think for future Wch RR's, that the RR section should be 9 players instead of 8 to ensure that each player gets 4 whites and 4 blacks.
Thibault de Vassal (2023-08-17 03:52:00)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Did it ever start with 8 players? I think I always make the necessary in this way (and to follow rules that specify groups of 5, 7, 9, 11 or 13 players).
Herbert Kruse (2023-09-02 06:59:44)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
2 Month later ...
Thibault de Vassal (2023-09-05 02:33:30)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
It started, finally.
A. T. S. Broekhuizen (2023-09-10 13:00:12)
Looking for opponent in 1v1 match
see: https://ficgs.com/user_page.php?page=entry_tournament&tournament=ficgs_chess_rapid_silver
Juri Eintalu (2023-11-25 22:00:10)
A Public Appeal to Chess Organisations
Thibault de Vassal:
"Juri, you probably spread fake news:..."
"In doubt, such news (probably fake news) have no place here... Thanks in advance."
I have NOT shared that video here, on the Forum, neither a link to it. And I have NOT mentioned that video here, on the Forum.
You are a sick slanderer, Mr. Thibault de Vassal.
Don't worry, I will not play a single chess game on the platform FICGS anymore. I decided so already half a year ago.
Thibault de Vassal (2023-11-25 23:15:04)
Referee Adjudication
The later is best :)
Do not forget that 50 moves rule does NOT apply at FICGS.
If there is a checkmate to come, according to the rules: after you ask, your opponent still gets 30 days to play a few moves more. Not everyone uses tablebases and some may want to see how it ends...
Garvin Gray (2024-02-09 07:25:21)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
The 2023 Version of this started July 1st. That is the starting date I have gone off for 2024
Thibault de Vassal (2024-02-13 02:26:33)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
Next FICGS WCH will start on March 15th, 2024 (initial date was March 1st). Waiting lists are now open!
Reason for this is that FICGS apps encounter technical problems on Play Store. I hope I'll be able to solve it before these next WCH tournaments start.
Herbert Kruse (2024-04-22 12:44:57)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
World Championship Poker 16 and 17 could go in next stage
Herbert Kruse (2024-04-22 12:46:07)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
i meant 15 and 16, 17 is one game not finished
Herbert Kruse (2024-04-22 12:49:02)
Next Ficgs World Championship Tournament
but the last game in 17 doesnt matter, first place in that is also clear
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