Is Classical Chess Dying? A Debate on the Shift Toward Rapid & Blitz in Top Events

The question of whether classical chess is dying has become a central debate as top events increasingly shift toward rapid and blitz formats. Supporters of this change argue that faster time controls create more exciting games, attract broader audiences, and better reflect the energy of modern competitive chess. Critics, however, worry that the reduced emphasis on classical play undermines the profound depth, accuracy, and long-form storytelling that have defined the game for centuries. This tension highlights a broader struggle between tradition and modern entertainment, leaving the future balance of chess formats still very much in question.

Time causes things to change. Sometimes for better and sometimes for worse. Classical chess will always be around.

I'm happy with events of any format. I just don't enjoy seeing famous, popular classical chess tournaments being altered. Create new events with the faster time controls and if they are well-liked they will become popular, maybe as much as the classical chess tournaments already are.

Humour has definitely gotten worse A LOT worse

well then people who think classical chess is so superior can just throw money at it then.

really it's all about the money, blitz is just easier to monetize to a very large online crowd over classical.

Unless it's a high stakes game, 99% of people don't want to watch an hours long classical game