Candidates Format

Hey @blitzbullet , would you like to play a few games of 1/2+0 crazyhouse with me?

I'm not too concerned about time control but I can understand FischyVishy's decision which is largely based on not changing the time control during the event.

Regardless of whether time was changed to something like 3 2, 5 0 or even 1 0, ultimately it's about fairness on all players who have participated and those that remain. Perhaps a different set of 8 players would have qualified had they had the opportunity to play with a different time control. Perhaps it would benefit some players more than others if a change was applied now.

So I can see why such a decision makes sense. Let's not forget that we're continuing to play 10 games per match and it's already great to have such a group of players engaged in an event like this.

It's an inaugural event, so we'll learn from it. There's a good chance we'll have another one in future.

Currently I'm more concerned about the disruptions and deliberation that are holding back progress of the event. Seems like we're about to get back on track and the format is largely unchanged in terms of time control, games per match and frequency of play.

Good point, @JannLee

As much as I agree that 3+2 would be a better time control than 3+0 for an event like this, I also agree with JannLee that it would throw a wrench into the proceedings. It's difficult enough getting all eight players' schedules coordinated, much less agreeing on something integral like this with less than a day's notice before the first match begins.

That said, I totally would have crushed JannLee if only the time control had been 3+2.

Also, we need these matches to get scheduled ASAP so they can be properly publicized.

Fair points, JannLee.

Hey guys, sorry for the inactivity. I'll update some things in the coming hours.

Yes, the point Jann raised is the one that made me hesitant to change the TC: perhaps a different set of 8 players might have qualified had the TC been 3+2. Also, with the first match starting in just 9 and a half hours, I don't want to suddenly throw everything off balance...

@crosky Totally :P hahahaa.

Just wanted to extend a few words of thanks...

I'm a middle aged guy and a lifelong chess fan who has only come to zh within the last year. In the past I have followed most major traditional chess tournaments but what I am currently most looking forward to is the conclusion of the CWC.

I want to commend the players for their sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and fantastic play.

Tournament organizing is always a lot more work than it looks like and I am grateful for FischyVishy dedicating the time to put this together.

Lastly, I want to thank the commentators for their work in making the games more intelligible and enjoyable for an old, slow, lower-rated player like myself. It really makes all the difference.

Best of luck to all the players. I can't wait for the next round to begin!

We need more confirmations! Current sched: http://i.imgur.com/czi0IJY.png

I don't think I'll be able to make the early bb/eekarf match tomorrow, and Atro won't be able to either. It'd be a real shame if this isn't covered. Can you make it @JannLee or maybe peng?

@Oblio19 +1. Major props to Vishy! It's been a fun tourney to play/follow and I'm excited for the Candidates.

@penguingim any interest in streaming some of the Candidates matches? We're a bit short on coverage and it would be great to get your perspective on these matches.

@Oblio19 Thanks a lot for your kind words. You aren't old and slow!

@crosky Confirmation by whom? The streamers?

Yes, it'd be great if Andrew could cover it, but I think he'd be at school at that time.

nah i mean confirmed match times from the rest of the candidates