When I became a member of RHP, my first idea was to play at RHP for a year or so to sharpen my skills then play only in ICCF events because the ICCF seemed more "legitmate". Now I'm having second thoughts on this. RHP is a much larger, and better organized group than I first thought it was, and I'm happy here. Can anyone give me a reason the ICCF would be better organization to play in? Right now, I can't think of any.🙂
- Joined
- 31 Dec 05
- Moves
- 96969
I've played on ICCF some, and while I understand the "legitimacy" appeal, I have found RHP to be much more satisfying. For one, the RHP interface and analysis functions are a lot better (the last time I was on the ICCF site, in fact, I don't think they had an analysis feature).
Probably the major issue, though, is that ICCF allows the use of computers for helping with moves, I believe. Someone correct me if I'm wrong -- but if that's indeed the case, it would be enough by itself to make the decision for many folks.
I play in the ICCF tourneys and I I think RHP has some features that would be quite nice to have with the ICCF.
It is true that the ICCF allow the use of engines but we are getting quite good in beating computer engines. Especially Gert and I are getting better and better in beating the computers.
One other main difference is that is it allowed to use the endgame databases from Namilov. Put the endgame position in the database and the computer tells you i.e. mate in 45. You send this to your opponent and he/she resigns most of the time straight away.
There lots of pros and cons for playing here and there but in the end you have to make a dicision for yourself. If you play for serious ranking points than the ICCF is definately the better option.
I play here just for fun, where with the ICCF I prepare my games better. That sounds a little bit arrogant, but I use RHP only for new openings, which I wouldn’t play in ICCF tourneys.
In the end it is just a game and winning or losing a game on RHP site doesn’t bother me too much. If I lose a game on the ICCF site THAT really does bother me a lot!!!
Just enjoy the game!!!!