Having played this person a few times I must say I never suspected a thing.
Without accusing the moderators of anything would it be possible to see some evidence?
Its not that I think they have got it wrong but as someone who plays regular OTB and RHP chess I can't see anything in any of my games (and I have gone back to look) that might make me think "wow this guy is cheating!!"
Originally posted by Sicilian SmaugThose are the games of a beginner (and my favorite a Grob but he can't play it correctly).
Have a look at a few of his early games on the site:
Game 470644
Game 464816
Game 491449
His graph only shows last 300 games, if it showed the whole history the 'improvement' would be shown as the dodge fest it really is.
Of course this is not proof in itself but I'm sure the game moderators will have used the usual method o the time this has taken. People have been raising there suspicions about him since 2004.
But beginners can improve rapidly so it would be interesting to see his progression from this elementary chess to his "current" level. I would expect to see a gradual improvement as he climbed the rankings. Of course his opening could improve dramatically, quickly as he started using books and databases but you would not expect a quantum leap in performance on middle game tactics and end game.
He did lose a lot of games including one to our top player Game 2252287 mind you his exchange of his rooks for queen looks like a typical computer move as the strength of the 2 rooks down that open b file looks decisive and I would have expected most strong players to avoid
Originally posted by Sicilian SmaugLooked at those games. He was a Queen-out merchant! Always a bad sign.
Have a look at a few of his early games on the site:
Game 470644
Game 464816
Game 491449
His graph only shows last 300 games, if it showed the whole history the 'improvement' would be shown as the dodge fest it really is.
Of course this is not proof in itself but I'm sure the game moderators will have used the usual method o ...[text shortened]... the time this has taken. People have been raising there suspicions about him since 2004.
I've played him, found him rude and unhelpful so good riddance I say
I see your points!
BUT
I joined the site having not played chess for 15 years. Literally. Now being employed and having cash I have bought a lot of books (eg amateurs mind) that I never would have been able to buy as a junior.
As such I would hate for people to look at my early games on the side and assume I'm cheating just because I studied and improved.
Thats why I think, perhaps, the publication of a little bit of evidence would be a good idea. I suppose it would "demystify" the whole process.
I think also one thing that does make me a little suspicious is that he rarely posted in the forums.
I dont want people assuming that im suggesting anyone who doesnt is automatically a cheat but to be THAT good and not the slightest bit interested in imparting advice, responses etc...makes me wonder!
I just cant help myself i suppose. I have to open my big gob!!!
Originally posted by Dragon FireThe complete beginner games were from early 2004. I doubt if anyone could have improved that much in 2 1/2 years. His game against Scott is a weird one!
Those are the games of a beginner (and my favorite a Grob but he can't play it correctly).
But beginners can improve rapidly so it would be interesting to see his progression from this elementary chess to his "current" level. [/i][/b]
Originally posted by Fat LadyIt is isn't it? Some very strange moves that Scott capitalised on that just don't seem right. I will ask Scott about it.
The complete beginner games were from early 2004. I doubt if anyone could have improved that much in 2 1/2 years. His game against Scott is a weird one!
Originally posted by TenguNo I agree. I think genuinely good players or even moderate club players in the 1800-2000 category do try and help, not just in the forums but in the games as well. There is no harm once the damage is done imparting a little friendly advice which most of us appreciate.
I think also one thing that does make me a little suspicious is that he rarely posted in the forums.
I dont want people assuming that im suggesting anyone who doesnt is automatically a cheat but to be THAT good and not the slightest bit interested in imparting advice, responses etc...makes me wonder!
I just cant help myself i suppose. I have to open my big gob!!!
Even 1500 rated players here can often discuss games sensibly so to be rated 2000+ and not willing or able is unusual.