Chess has a rather undeserved reputation as being a game played only by eggheads, a game so far out of the reach of the normal human being that it can only be truly comprehended by intellectual giants. While intellectual giants do indeed play the game, savant status is not a prerequisite. In fact, chess is a surprisingly simple game, and most adults can learn the rules in one sitting.
In Europe and in many Latin American countries, chess is not viewed as an unapproachable pastime of the elite. Rather, it is a hobby and passion for the masses. The reason for the popularity of chess is easy to see--you can learn to play the game in a single day but you can spend a lifetime trying to master it. Chess games are like snowflakes; they never repeat. Except for games that feature a few well known opening traps, each and every chess game is unique. It has been estimated that there are more possible chess games than there are particles in the entire universe.
For those who take the time to delve into the art of chess, they soon discover that improvement comes quickly in the beginning. Mastering a few basic techniques and strategies makes the difference between a novice and a competent player. No extraordinary mental facilities are needed to play a great game of chess and have a good time doing so.
That being said, playing chess well does involve exercising your brain. Chess involves attack and defense, tactics and strategy, skill, insight, and patience. You try to implement your plan while discerning and foiling your opponent's strategy. You know your opponent is doing the same, so you try to fool him. A feint on the wing disguises your real plan of a center thrust, or vice versa. For these reasons, it is said that General Douglas Macarthur advocated making chess a required subject for military officers in training.
Chess is a simple yet deceptively deep game. It can be enjoyed by anyone. Those who choose to delve more deeply into the secrets of chess are rewarded with a mentally stimulating and rewarding lifelong hobby.
