Chess 960

Would the modern greats have an edge over the old masters? Could a guy like Svidler crush Morphy?

I just started up my time machine, I'll go get Morphy and we'll settle this once and for all!

I just got back and Morphy said "G.F.Y"

That would probably be the best way to compare everyone's skill! I think the modern players would have an edge in the endings, but Morphy would win it out of the opening!

Originally posted by Maxacre42
That would probably be the best way to compare everyone's skill! I think the modern players would have an edge in the endings, but Morphy would win it out of the opening!

I doubt it. Opening theory isn't the only thing that has evolved since Morphy's time. Every aspect of Svidler's game is probably stronger but Morphy had more natural talent.

Yes Svidler would certainly beat Morphy even without opening theory.
The lack of strong opposition prevented Morphy to get to the level of today's elite.

Maybe at chess 960 he would equal player around 2600? hard to tell
But of course if he had the opportunity to get the training of modern masters, it would be a different matter.

First off, Svidler is one of the big natural talents of the last 20 years..
Endings and defensive skills are much higher now, but I am not even sure how much that would matter in 960.


and Morphy would say "get away from my shoe collection!"

Morphy would take one look at the set up and say;

"What games is this? It's not Chess."

He would then kick over board and demand to be taken back to the 1800's.