why play chess?

There is an Indian saying: Chess is a sea in which a gnat may drink or an elephant may bathe which encapsulates one of the particular attractions of the game: It can be played at all levels. It takes less than an hour to learn how to play, but a lifetime to master. It is effectively inexhaustible.

It is an international game that transcends difference of language or culture. It may be played essentially anytime and anywhere. It has a system of notation that means you can replay your own games or those of the masters from the past.

You can play your friends or your computer, or play people across the world by the internet, email, telephone or post. Whatever your level of experience there will be others you can match your skill against.

Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be highly intelligent or good at math if you are to play well. Although there are endless arguments about whether it is more science or art, it is perhaps best to think of if in terms of language. You start with the alphabet, then simple words and sentences and eventually you can discuss ideas and develop abstract themes. Games at the highest level are like sophisticated debates.

The game offers the excitement of battle without bloodshed. It offers drama ant wit, and a simple classical beauty. It teaches discipline. It will test your courage and endurance. It has history. It has class. Every detail of the battle lies before you. There is no place to hide, no one else to blame, no fall of the dice to curse. It is down to you: your strategy, your tactics, and your vision. Can you handle defeat as well as victory? Are you man (woman\boy\girl) enough?

Many console or PC games may be attractive, but their beauty is often only skin deep. Strip away the graphics and the game play may well offer limited scope. They often become stale or played out. A gnat may well drink, but an elephant is unlikely to bathe, Chess is an accomplishment that will last a lifetime.

http://www.bcmchess.co.uk/