A Beginner-level observations for beginners … Part 1

I see any number of threads by discouraged players who are seriously considering giving up on the game.  Many of these souls are just beaten down in the spirit, and I have wondered what I could say to make things any better.  I will add new points in the future, maybe, but here is what I have to say on this subject, thus far (which is worth what you paid for it [$0]).

1. Please do not give up.  Take some time away if it helps clear your mind or calm your soul, but please do not give up.

2. Consider playing unrated games for awhile.  Playing without consideration to a number rating makes the game a “simply for enjoyment” endeavor.  All too often players focus on their rating number as “I am a dummy,” “I am no good,” or other, inaccurate and untrue beliefs that are harmful for their well-being.  Your options include:

A. Logging in but playing unrated.  Good but you’ll still play high end/skill players and there is a win/loss record.

B. Playing the computer.  Good at exposing your mistakes (it reveals mine,) but the bots do things a player would never do.  Not always the ideal learning tool.

C. Playing in Guest Mode.  This is all that I ever do, unless a friend is on when I am and we can play a rated game.  Guest Mode allows you to play only the games you want to, and to ditch games that you don’t.  The upside is that when you find someone matching your skill level, it is very, very rewarding, and can (and often does,) lead to many hours of enjoyable rematches.  The downside is that all too often, Intermediate and Advanced players crowd into Beginner Level, and beat up on the noobs.  It is a sad fact of all online gaming today, everywhere, and does not reflect on chess as a game or on this site.  It’s just the way things are, unfortunately.  However, the beauty of Guest Mode is that if you find yourself unwittingly playing someone north of 1200 (I have), you can just log out/start over.  Literally no big deal at all.

I have more to say but this post is already too long, and I am sorry for that.  But I wanted to provide an encouraging word and some thoughts of my own, in case it is of any benefit to anyone.

Cheers and have a wonderful day …

Well said