Chess.com: A New Addition of Bots and the Reenactment of the ‘Immortal Game’
On June 21st, 1851, Adolf Anderssen and Lionel Kieseritzky faced off against each other in one of the most iconic chess matches of all time, often referred to as “The Immortal Game” or “King's Gambit”.[0] This match quickly became famous for its daring plays, creative strategies, and dramatic showstopping moves. It has become the epitome of the classic “romantic” chess of its time.[1]
Since then, a reenactment of this game has taken place between Bull and Solas on Chess.com, and the newest addition to the website is a unique bot with the avatar of a cuddly, big-eyed kitten known as Mittens.[1] Its popularity has been nothing short of astonishing, and it has caused the website to crash due to the sheer amount of people playing it. The January slot also includes some other bots, such as Scaredy Cat, Angry Cat, Mr. Grumpers, and Catspurrov – a Garry Kasparov play-alike.[2]
Chess.com has also incorporated online bots into their website, which are used for training and instruction as well as to play in the styles of chess celebrities.[2] It is believed that these bots can help teach players how to properly handle any challenges or adversity they may face.
In addition to its tactical and strategic aspects, chess is also a great way to learn how to think creatively and strategically.[3] It can provide a great way to pass the time, but also to build problem-solving and critical thinking skills. With the help of robots and bots, it can be used to sharpen these skills as well as to challenge players from around the world.
0. “Opening Master: Chess Database” www.openingmaster.com, 8 Feb. 2023, https://www.openingmaster.com/
1. “Solas, Bull, and the King's Gambit (a Little Game of Mind-Chess …” www.thefandomentals.com, 8 Feb. 2023, https://www.thefandomentals.com/dragonage-analysis-solas-bull-mind-chess/
2. “Chess.com's Mittens is one brutal chess bot.” slate.com, 8 Feb. 2023, https://slate.com/technology/2023/01/chess-dot-com-mittens-bot.html
3. “The game of life – Chess keeps the mind sharp, says Cuban-born …” www.annistonstar.com, 8 Feb. 2023, https://www.annistonstar.com/the_st_clair_times/the-game-of-life—chess-keeps-the-mind-sharp-says-cuban-born-local/article_fea01af8-a4aa-11ed-bd9c-a7b6948598f2.html
