Archive for May 11th, 2009

The closed Sicilian usually starts slowly – the first real clash of pieces may come in the middlegame. That is why understanding of strategies and knowledge of motifs is essential here. Nigel Davies’ “Closed Sicilian” DVD
proves by means of games by Spassky, Karpov, Smyslov etc. that this is a real fighting opening with lots of space for creativity.
Buy his DVD now or read more.

The discussions regarding the K-factor – the rate at
which ratings go up or down when they are calculated – reaches its climax
with a wrap-up article by Dr John Nunn, grandmaster and mathematician, who evaluates
the arguments that have been presented by the different parties. After this
it is up to FIDE, which has already initiated positive steps settle the matter.
Final installment.

For more than twenty years Slovak grandmaster Lubomir Ftacnik has collaborated
with ChessBase – with over 4700 (!) annotated games, but also as the most
important editor of the player encyclopaedia and in the standardising of game
references. Now Ftacnik (pronounced ff-tach-nick) has recorded his first DVD
– both German and English. Video, interview and annotated game
on our CBM
blog.