Why Should You Play Chess?

People who are just starting out with chess or are considering getting their foot into this game may be faced with the following question: “Why should I play chess?”

That’s a very good question, as chess is not an easy game: To compete, you have to think very hard, exhaust your brain, face terrible defeats, study, and work very, very hard. Hours of sweat and blood will be spent on this endeavor, and there’s got to be a good reason for it.

You’ve Got to be a Little Crazy

Anyone who plays chess has to be a bit crazy, because of all the downsides, and completely normal people usually wouldn’t put themselves through all of that trauma just in order to manipulate pieces on the board. But for intellectual people who enjoy challenging their mind, it can be a very good choice to play this game

• It’s Fascinating

Chess is very fascinating. You have 64 squares, 16 pieces for each side, and the goal is to checkmate the enemy king. There is a ton of strategy behind it, and the possibilites are almost unlimited. In fact, it is believed there are many more possible chess combinations than atoms on the planet. To anyone who can understand the game (and you don’t have to be a genius (although it does helps)), it’s amazing.

• It Stimulates Your Mind

A lot of smart people aren’t challenged enough. Chess is one of the most challenging tasks on the planet, and while you may normally be in contact with less smart people, depending on how smart you are, chances are good you’ll find several people at least as smart, if not even smarter, than you.

• It’s a Great Way to Meet New People

Meeting new people is something that most of us want to do; especially friends.

In chess, your fellow competitors can be like-minded people who make great companions. Some of my good friends have come from playing chess. But be prepared for nut-cases, because there are many!

• Ascetics

Chess is a truly beautiful game. The combinations and moves in it are unmatched for chess players by any other sport; my opinion. Once you understand the game and it’s patterns, the beauty of certain moves is truly staggering.

• Getting Away

A chess board is a great place to get away from the daily struggle of your life. No matter how bad your finances or your relationships are, it is all erased when you sit down and play. The game is truly engrossing, and if you’re really into and serious about the game, you’ll surely forget about the troubles.

The only time when it may not be good is when you are playing badly, but that’s something else 

• Competition

Most humans love to compete, and chess is the ultimate competition. You face people whom you don’t know, and there will be a winner and a loser, or a draw from both parties. One of the great things about chess is that there will always be someone lower than you; someone you can beat. Winning is a great feeling.

For the reasons above, I strongly recommend playing chess. For all of the great things, the downside is that it’s hard, but chess is fun (if it isn’t for you–then stop playing), and that makes it very tolerable. The upside far outweighs the downside. So what are you waiting for: Learn the game!