I just went through Topalov vs Anand, Round 2 of Mtel 2006. I was
curious to see how there could be a win in a short Ruy game at the top
level. You'd think all possible games with the closed Ruy Lopez had been
played by now. I'm a mid range USCF expert, an insect compared to these
guys, so I used CM9k to see where somebody went wrong.

At what point do you start talking about who's winning? I think Topa's
loss started with 25. Nb3. The moves from there to 28...Nxh3+! are all
correct according to the computer, and 28...Nxh3+ is simply a winner.
CM9k has it that 25.Bf4 gives pretty much of an equal game. 25.Nb3 is
the loser.

But then I wondered how black got such a good game to begin with in such
a standard old opening between super GMs. CM9k's mentor analysis leads
me to think that 8.h3 took the game from about equal to where you'd say
black has an advantage. But even before that, 6.Re1 allowed quick
equality. 6.Nc3 keeps a whitelike advantage. None of these variations
make any difference to players at my level, and even at levels
considerably higher than mine, including most GMs. At the 2800 level,
they may make a difference.

The game, by the way, follows Topalov vs Adams, Linares 1999 until Topa
departs from it with 14 b4, an improvement over the Nh4 he played
against Adams. Another tidbit I wouldn't have known without CM9k.

For several years, I've thought Anand would be the best in the world if
Kasparov weren't in the picture. Now with both Kasparov and Kramnic out
of the picture, my belief is even stronger that he is.

Games between players at the level these guys play are, I think,
generally uninstructive to folks like me. It's the computer that makes
it possible for me to enjoy their play unless there are flashy
fireworks. It's the computer that lets me see the finer points of great
play. GM games are simply too sophisticated for me to get much enjoyment
out of without a program that enables me to follow lines not taken and
see why they're worse or better.

Conclusion: It's just one more reason to say that computer programs have
contributed wonderfully to chess and have robbed it of nothing.

Wilma

Hey, thanks! I'm not used to getting rewarded for a post. heh.
Wilma


(SAT W-7) wrote in news:7441-4467489E-85@storefull-
3333.bay.webtv.net:

Wow i thought that was interesting ...Thanks.

You should do that for a few more games..

You want to play your computer vs my computer called IVAN ?
we can do it n real time over the e mail or even better messenger or in
a chat room....

Mine lost to FRITZ last time it played...