UON May-Aug 2009 Issue 24 - Asigc

UON 24
What are the main characteristics of R.O.T. if we compare it to traditional chess theory
Both ROT and conventional theory recognize that it is important to control central squares, that
pieces should be developed and that the safety of the king is also important.
However there is a difference in the method employed by ROT to achieve these aims.
In general, conventional theory is biased towards a rapid development of pieces, moving few pawns
and castling relatively early.
In contrast ROT develops both pawns and pieces. In some cases all the pawns are developed before
a piece is moved. There is a consequent delay in the full deployment of pieces and castling. In fact
castling is less likely to occur in ROT.
The logic behind the ROT method is:--
a) pawns are best at controlling squares, being more expendable, and it follows that a centre of
pawns supported by pawns is stronger than a centre consisting of
pawns supported by pieces.
b)the pawns can be used to halt the advance or block the action of enemy pieces.
c)as the pawns are advanced they gain control of more space and allow more activity for friendly
pieces. In fact many of these pieces are considered to be developed
without moving and also relatively safer on the back rank.
d) when the pieces are fully developed the delay often results in finding better positions.
e) the king also has more options to escape attack by castling either side or to help defend weak
central squares or pawns. It could also be well placed in the centre
for some endings.
f) surprisingly it may be possible to attack with pawns without piece development, driving enemy
pieces to inferior squares or opening up an enemy king position..
- Have there been any forerunners of R.O.T. before you or have there been any players who have inspired you to
explore R.O.T.
I do not know of any fore-runners of ROT. Steinitz sometimes retreated his pieces to the back rank
after development and achieved playable positions and in some other games his king got chased
around after accepting a sacrifice and he still won many of these games.
- How are your R.O.T. games treated by your opponents Are there any juicy anecdotes you can tell us
When I play ROT on the internet some players think I might be a beginner at first and cannot
understand how they can end up with bad positions. I have had players even refuse to play me.
However many are pleased or surprised to see something different. There are even players who can
quickly see the potential of ROT and have played it themselves, though not usually very well.
- When are you planning to publish your e-book on R.O.T. openings
I intend to publish a book on ROT in two parts and hope to finish part 1 at the end of this year. I
have almost worked out all of the main lines of my own openings.
UON 24 May – Aug 31