From: Larry Kaufman <lkaufman <at> WIZARD <dot> NET>
Date: 17 feb 1999
Subject: Re: shuffle chess(or shogi)

-----Original Message-----
From: The Shogi Discussion List
[mailto:SHOGI-L <at> techunix <dot> technion <dot> ac <dot> il]On Behalf Of teruko
Sent: Thursday, February 18, 1999 4:31 AM
To: SHOGI-L <at> techunix <dot> technion <dot> ac <dot> il
Subject: Re: shuffle chess(or shogi)


This recent discussion about shuffle shogi suggests there's a fairly
widespread dissatisfaction with shogi in it's present form. Although
Larry Kaufman has remarked that the study of openings is almost as
important in shogi as it is in chess, I find it difficult to imagine
that this is in fact the case for the majority of the subscribers to
this list. Shogi is primarily a game and as such it's function is to
provide enjoyment. Personally I don't enjoy studying and accordingly
avoid indulging in it, I can play amusing shogi at 4th dan level without
the inconvenience of studying openings. I can also derive enjoyment from
the play of professionals (who do need to study in order to succeed in
their work) without having any desire to join their ranks, either in
standard of play or in nature of employment. Alternatively if it's a
question of introducing a new variant why not try whatever springs to
mind at the time?
Mike Sandeman.


     For the most part, I would agree with Mike.  In both chess and shogi,
it is only at the higher levels that the study of opening theory is really
important, as at lower levels one can play dubious or obsolete openings with
little risk of the opponent knowing exactly how to punish you.  The level at
which opening theory becomes important is probably somewhat higher in shogi
than in chess.  However, even at the amateur 4 dan level and perhaps below,
one will sometimes lose games due to an opponent playing a variation that
you are unfamiliar with but which he is an expert on.  Also, unlike Mike, I
and some other players do have the desire, but not the expectation, to see
our standard of play reach professional level, and so we feel obligated to
study.
     I don't think the discussion of shuffle shogi means that we are
terribly dissatisfied with normal shogi; it arose because although most of
us feel that shogi is the best game in the world today, it does have some
flaws and could conceivably be made even better.


Regards, Larry Kaufman