The pieces are the same, but everything else has changed

A long time ago, longer ago than I'd care to admit, I used to play competitive chess. I never was very good, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. My rating, when I stopped playing, was 1245. Which, I guess, means that's still my rating. ("Once rated, always rated!" is the USCF motto.)

I put the books and game away, and moved on to other things. Role playing games, collectible card games, miniatures games, eurogames, and wargames have all graced my table at various times. The game-playing itch is a persistent part of my life, but I've certainly scratched it in a variety of ways.

After I became a father, I hoped I'd be able to pass on this love of gaming to my kids. I think the sorts of games I play are great for improving the way you think about things, solve problems, etc. Plus, they're great social devices, and teach a good sense of fair play.

So far, so good. The kids (ages 8 and 5.5 at the time I write this) have taken to games quite well, and frequently want to play something. It's been a very good thing to see.

Last year, we picked up a copy of "No Stress Chess." This is a standard (cheap) chess set with a deck of cards included. They claim this is an easier way to introduce the game of chess to kids, as they're not overwhelmed by choice - you can only move a piece matching what's on the card you drew. Yeah, it's pretty random, but the kids loved it. Soon, my daughter (the older of the two) was asking to play without the cards. And doing rather well, given her age. Both kids are very enthusiastic about the game. If you've got kids interested in learning the game, you could do a lot worse than picking up a copy.

This experience has triggered my re-interest. Of all the games I'd played over the years, I'd avoided abstract board games (things like the Gipf series, etc.) as I could feel myself starting to head down the analysis thought patterns I used when I played chess. And, for whatever reason, I just didn't want to go there.

Now, I think, it's time. I've gotten a bit frustrated with the poor shape wargame rules writing has fallen into, and I'm just ready for a switch. So, my kids and I are embarking back into the world of chess together.

I'm currently holding the role of coach for them, and we're using the Step-by-Step method used by the Dutch Chess Federation. The kids are really liking it so far. It's a bit of a challenge as there's a large difference in cognitive ability between ages 8 and 5.5, but my boy (the younger) is doing quite well for his age.

What has happened, though, is it's triggered my tendency to obsess with things. I've pulled out my old chess books (which have been in storage for years) and am re-teaching myself the game.

And, can I say, the entire chess world has completely changed in 20 years. The internet and computerized databases have revolutionized the way things work. It's a bit disorienting in many ways, but exciting. The amount of material available electronically is staggering. And, of course, it's changed the way you study as well. Servers like the Internet Chess Club can get you games at the drop of a hat, and you can sit in on GM-level tournament games an exhibitions.

It doesn't hurt that the US Open Championship is being held this year in my backyard. Gives me a target to shoot at.

I'll be using this blog as a diary chronicling our family's journey over the chessboard. How I go about re-teaching myself the game at age 46, and how I help my kids enjoy the game the way I know they can. Hopefully you can find something here to keep you coming back for more.