STANLEY RANDOM CHESS MONTHLY
GM Topov answers the Frequently Asked Questions about Stanley Random Chess.
Stanley Random Chess (commonly designated as SR Chess) is an alternative form of chess that predates regular chess, and offers greater complexity and creativity.
Technically speaking, SR Chess is not a chess variant, since purists allege that modern chess is merely a simplified form and development from SR Chess. With documented historical evidence dating back to the early English monarchy, SR Chess claims to be one of the original sources of "Common Chess", which SR Chess enthusiasts refer to somewhat contemptuously as Simplified SR Chess.
Even those who contest its historical claim to primacy must concede that Stanley Random Chess appears to be a more complex and challenging game, with much more scope for creativity and imagination. Despite its name, SR Chess is certainly not random, but is carefully regulated by a well-established and internationally-adopted set of rules which function alongside the rules for Simplified SR (Common) Chess. Consequently SR Chess has less legal moves than Common Chess, but is also less burdened by the need to memorize opening theory, with a genuine focus on creative and imaginative play. Sadly, despite its alleged antiquity, for centuries it has suffered under a cloak of secrecy. Now that SR Chess is being rediscovered and regaining popularity, it may well also be the future of chess.
The rules are the same as Simplified SR (Common) Chess, with the addition of some rules governing move sequences and board patterns. These rules are too complex to summarize, and are subject to local variations, but new players will notice two main differences from Simplified SR (Common) Chess:
SchemingMind.com is currently the only correspondence chess server where SR Chess can be played. Although a good grasp of the rules can take time to master, the correspondence chess server SchemingMind.com has obtained a XML SRC rule parser from the ISRCA (International Stanley Random Chess Association) which is interfaced with the official ISRCA database, and uses a special algorithm to automatically replace any illegal moves with the nearest equivalent legal move. The apparent "randomness" of these transposed moves can be initially perplexing to novices, but it enables new players to enjoy playing SR Chess without requiring a complete mastery of the rules.
The best method for learning SR Chess is to observe experienced players playing the game, or to play it online with the benefit of the innovative technology provided by the SchemingMind.com chess server that corrects illegal moves. SR Chess is not for everyone, but it certainly recommends itself on account of its historical claim and its creative play. But don't take my word for it, to understand the secrets and attractions of SR Chess, you must really see and play it for yourself.
Novices should first read Stanley Random Chess Introduced & Explained for Beginners, and consider examining an annotated Exhibition Game. Studies have been published about the Historical Origins of Stanley Random Chess. Of historical interest are some articles on famous players like Lord Humberton-Snapf, Antonio Pancris of Baden-Baden, Otto Bolshnaut, and Victor Seignovich (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3).
SR Chess GM Gregory Topov
GM Topov is former world champion in SR Chess, and since his retirement from active play remains a respected authority and expert on the subject.
Posted Thursday - 2004-12-07 - 11:02:27 EST
by Staff Reporter Verdra H. Ciretop in Toronto
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