From: Pieter Stouten <stouten <at> SHOGI <dot> NET>
Date: 12 apr 2000
Subject: Re: Checkmate and other rules. Re: Illegal moves.

On 00/04/12 at 13:55 -0400, J. Andrew Lipscomb wrote:

>I agree that the Renmei is *the* authority on the rules of the game
>itself. However, there are conditions in the West that may require
>certain circumstances to be handled differently.
>
That's why in an earlier mail, I made the distinction between Shogi
rules and tournament practices. Unfortunately, there may be a grey
area where they overlap.

>Illegal moves are a case
>in point. What constitutes a valid proof that an illegal move has been
>made? Without an observer, and presuming that the position itself does
>not prove the case (as it does for the two-pawn rule--that is what nifu
>means, right?--or a piece dropped/nonpromoted where it can never again
>move), a written record seems to be the only way to prove it. Memories
>can deceive either or both players.
>
I think Fred Meyer raised a similar issue. The problem is that many
amateur games are not written down; many weak and strong, Japanese
and non-Japanese players don't keep score. Should it be made
mandatory? I personally would not do it, not even as a last resort,
but maybe it will prove unavoidable.

>I would like to get a copy of the Renmei's rules booklet (if it's
>available in English or French).
>
I think the crux of the matter is that as of yet we have not obtained
a comprehensive, written set of rules from NSR. For that reason,
several people have asked NSR about rules and regulations that cover
specific situations. Ultimately, that can lead to a complete picture.
Simultaneously, USSF and FESA may write up the rules as they think
they are, and request feedback from NSR.

Ciao,

Pieter