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Two Types of Chess Players – And What I’ve Learned as a Coach and Player
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4 days ago
0
#4
I enjoyed your article. For me, it's a delicate balancing act, to have fun, progress, and not stress over ratings.
Beautiful way to describe the people who play chess!
3 days ago
0
#6
I play just for fun. I do, however, get annoyed losing elo to players who cheat. I do use elo trends as a gentle guide/reminder to concentrate more, but that's it.
Peace.
Um
i play to excape reality
wat
Title: Two Types of Chess Players – And What I’ve Learned as a Coach and Player
Hi everyone,
I’ve been thinking lately about the different ways people approach chess, both from my own experience and from working with students. I’ve come to see that most players fall into two general categories:
♟️ 1. The Competitive Player
This type is goal-oriented. They want to improve, study openings, solve tactics, analyze games, and measure progress by rating gains. These players thrive on challenge and often set targets (like reaching 1500, 1800, or achieving norms).
😊 2. The Casual/Just-for-Fun Player
These players simply love the game. They enjoy playing unrated or friendly games, don’t stress about ratings, and find joy in cool tactics, fun blunders, or just relaxing with a few games after work or school. No pressure — just pure enjoyment.
As a coach, I’ve learned that both types are valid, and one isn’t “better” than the other. The important thing is to know which type you are, or which one you want to be — and enjoy chess in a way that fits you.
As a player, I’ve personally shifted between the two over the years. There are seasons where I grind ratings and study seriously, and times when I just want to play and have fun. And both have value.
🧠 My Takeaway:
Whether you’re playing to improve or playing for joy, you’re still a chess player. The beauty of this game is that it welcomes both competition and creativity, seriousness and fun.
How about you — do you see yourself as one type more than the other? Have you ever shifted between the two?
Would love to hear your thoughts!
– CoachNad