Unleashing Your Inner Octopus: A New Way to Play Chess
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Chapter 1: The Octopus Mindset
In his insightful work, Other Minds: The Octopus, the Sea, and the Deep Origins of Consciousness, philosopher Peter Godfrey-Smith explores a captivating contrast between human and cephalopod intelligence.
While humans predominantly concentrate their neurons within the brain, which coordinates precise movements of our limbs, octopuses distribute their neurons throughout their bodies, including their arms. This decentralization allows their tentacles a measure of independence from the brain, leading to the intriguing notion that “for an octopus, its arms are partly self.”
This concept is playfully examined by science fiction writer Adrian Tchaikovsky in Children of Ruin, the sequel to his Children of Time trilogy. The narrative reveals a world inhabited by advanced octopuses, showcasing their consciousness split between what Tchaikovsky refers to as “the Crown” and “the Reach.” This perspective prompts one to ponder the experience of being an octopus.
Interestingly, there exists a chess variant that emulates this decentralized cognitive style, providing an engaging way to improve both tactical and strategic skills.
Section 1.1: Hand and Brain Mechanics
The "hand and brain" variant involves four players, split into two teams. Each team designates a "brain" and a "hand." When the white team initiates the game, the brain calls out a type of piece, such as "pawn" or "knight" (the only legal options for the first move). The hand must then select and move a piece of that type.
For instance, if the brain states “pawn,” the hand can choose any pawn, typically opting for d4 or e4, the most popular opening moves. However, the hand is free to play a4 or f3, or any other legal pawn move. The black team follows suit.
As the game unfolds, the hand initially may feel uncertain about the brain's intentions. The broader the options, the more flexibility the hand has to shape the game's trajectory. Over time, though, elements like pawn structure and square strength will clarify the brain's strategy for the hand.
Yet, even in later stages, the hand retains the freedom to diverge from the brain's planned moves. This dynamic makes the hand and brain variant both enjoyable and educational.
Subsection 1.1.1: A Fresh Perspective on Tactics
In a previous article, I suggested that players often overlook tactical chances—both theirs and their opponents’—because they become overly focused on their strategic ideas. However, when playing as the hand, you’re almost compelled to view the board from a new angle.
For instance, you might feel that moving a rook to an open file is the best option. Yet, when the brain calls out “bishop,” you are jolted from your routine thinking.
As you analyze the board, you suddenly spot a skewer leading to an exchange victory. This moment wouldn’t have arisen without the brain's prompt, teaching a valuable lesson about alternating between positional and tactical thinking.
Section 1.2: The Benefits of Octopus Chess for Young Players
I believe that this hand and brain format, which we might call "octopus chess," could be especially beneficial for children learning the game. Unlike adults, kids often rush their moves without adequate contemplation. By considering the brain's choice of piece, they are encouraged to pause and reflect.
So, I invite you to try octopus chess. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Which role do you prefer: the Crown or the Reach? How does your choice influence your playing style?
Chapter 2: Enhancing Your Game with Video Insights
This video titled "Improve Your Chess Middlegame Strategy #1 - The Octopus Knight" delves into effective strategies that can elevate your chess skills, making it an excellent resource for players looking to enhance their understanding of the game.
In the video "What is an octopus knight in Chess?", viewers are introduced to this unique piece and its tactical applications, further enriching their chess knowledge.