From: teruko <teruko <at> PO2 <dot> NSKNET <dot> OR <dot> JP>
Date: 18 feb 1999
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.