The Chess Variant Pages Menu



This page is written by the game's inventor, Rich Hutnik.

IAGO Chess System

Introduction

The IAGO Chess System is a system for managing the evolution of chess, a
method of classifying the varieties of chess played in the International
Abstract Games Organization (IAGO), and a specific version of chess
connected to IAGO, that is reflective of the evolutionary nature of Chess. 


The IAGO Chess System is unique in its nature. The best way to view the
IAGO Chess System is a system used to manage the wide range of interests on
the part of people who like to play, and an approach to acclimate new
players to the system. Because of this, you won't find one set of codified
rules, as you would with other chess games. The IAGO Chess System
accomplishes its objectives by the use of classes of the game that
represent the fullness of the chess experience. These versions build upon
one another, to allow a person to get fully familiar with the game. There
are six versions (classes) of the game. These versions are: A-Class,
B-Class, C-Class, M-Class, V-Class, and X-Class.

This System has multiple layers and is robust enough to change over time. 
Its mission is to be a forever evolving version of chess that will provide
a migration path for changes.  The system is meant as a framework for
playing all versions of chess relating to the International Abstract Games
Organization.

Setup

Initial set-up for the rules to B-Class IAGO Chess game rules are identical
to FIDE Chess.  The C-Class version of IAGO Chess rules allows players to
start with a Queen, Marshall (Chancellor) or Cardinal (Archbishop) in the
space the Queen starts, and the other two pieces remain in reserve.

Pieces

The B-Class and C-Class game rules add the Capablanca pieces, Marshall
(Chancellor) and Cardinal (Archbishop) into reserve, and they may come onto
the board later.  The standard chess pieces are added.  In the M-Class, an
Empress/Amazon added.  The V-Class and X-Class versions of the IAGO Chess
System feature a wide range of rules.

Rules

In order to obtain the latest rules,
including the rules to the M, V and X-Class versions, click: HERE

The Six Classes of the IAGO Chess System
To fully reflect and capture the world of chess and chess-like games, the
IAGO Chess System divides chess games up into different classes. No one
class is superior to another, and each class serves a purpose and function.
The Classes of the IAGO Chess System are describe here. In the IAGO Chess
System, there are 6 classes of rules (5+1).  Note that the System also
contains a specific set of the specific game rules for playing Chess, and
the System can function independent of the game specific rules.  

These classes are described below:
1. A-Class (Alpha. Alpha as in starting point): This Class represents FIDE
Chess, or what people consider standard chess. A-Class is the starting
point for B-Class, C-Class and M-Class forms of IAGO Chess. (One set of
rules)

These 5 classes below are additional classes added by IAGO to be able to
fully reflect the world of chess and chess-like games. The B, C and
M-Classes of the IAGO Chess System refers to a particular variant of chess,
in its multiple game types, that is unique to IAGO.  Chess variants, which
already exist, are tested and proven, are are placed under the V-Class. 
What is seen in the B, C and M-Classes is an approach that can be taken
with any Chess variant, to have it adopt and chance over time.  What is
seen in the rules documented in the B, C and M-Classes of the IAGO Chess
System is what is considered the best approach by IAGO.  

2. B-Class (Basic/Base/Beginner/Bridge): This Class is the basic version is
the minimal framework for the IAGO Chess game.  It is based off FIDE Chess,
using the IAGO Framework transformation rules, and is used to introduce
people to the world of IAGO Chess. This is the starting point also for the
B and M classes of IAGO chess, and represents a minimal step off standard
FIDE chess. As currently written, these rules are used to introduce the
Capablanca pieces and gating and drop concepts. This Class currently
represents represents the IAGO mission of getting Capablanca pieces on an
8x8 board and is based off FIDE Chess, and the foundation for evolutionary
development and growth. These rules also provide a way of integrating the
Capablanca, and other fantasy pieces, into a wide range of chess variants.
(One set of rules)

3. C-Class (Classic/Standard/Stable): This Class has additional rules and
adjustments to B-Class IAGO Chess, which is used for the optimal and most
stable version of the game. This version is meant to introduce people to
the full foundation of IAGO Chess. These rules may be change if flaws in
design becomes apparent. This version builds upon B-Class. (One set of
rules)

4. M-Class (Modern/Evolving): This Class is intended to evolve over time,
and includes the latest set of rules, and adjustments to make the game play
better. This version is out on the edge for standard players, is intended
to keep play new and remain on edge, not memorizing line of play. One of
the purposes of this version is to test what can eventually become part of
the standard version. However, there may be rules in the evolving version
that are never adapted into the C-Class over time. This Class builds on, or
possibly modifies, the C-Class. Rule changes to this version could happen
between every 2-5 years. A guideline to frequency of change is, once the
community starts to create books on specific tactics for this game, it is
time to change the rules. (One set of rules)

5. V-Class (Variant/Fantasy): This Class is where codified sets of
recognized and proven variants of IAGO Chess, and mutators, are found. The
mutators here have guidelines governing the context they can be used, and
how they may be combined with other rules. Mutators in this context can
affect things such as the board used, pieces used, modification to
foundational rules, time control, number of players, and win conditions.
For example, Misere' is a standard mutator that reverses the win conditions
for a variant. This Class relates to the X-Class in that it is a codified,
tested and approved version of the X-Class games and rules. This version
may build up or modify either the B-Class and M-Class. Anything equipment
that deviates from the equipment in A-Class games would be also here. There
would possible a specific sub-class of V-Class called AV or VA, which is
are established variants of current A-Class games, using their current
equipment (and possible rules governing piece movement and function). 
Using the current set of B-Class set of IAGO Chess rules, Bughouse and
Chess960 would be AV/VA. Capablanca school is just a V. In addition to
games, established and tested mutators would be V-Class. All V-Class games
and mutators utilize standardized names. (Multiple sets of rules)

6. X-Class (Extreme/Experimental): The Class a collection of experimental
rules, unproven variants, and also includes a FRAMEWORK for development of
such rules and integrating them into V-Class. Also included here are
potential guidelines for players deciding which rules to use upon which
players are able to play against each other. In these guidelines may
methods for compatible ranking across games. The framework is meant to
enable designers and players to try different things and and get wild. This
is unstable by nature, due to it being experimental, and therefore,
extreme. Things found in this version may end up severely modifying what is
found in all the other versions of IAGO Chess. X-Class is home for people
to do their own "roll your own" varieties of chess. (Multiple sets of
rules)


The Specific Rules for B and C-Class(es) of IAGO Chess:
These specific rules are based off the framework of the IAGO Chess System. 
Also note that the A, V and X-Classes can be connected to every chess type
game.  B, C and M classes represent a specific migration path for specific
version of Chess connected to IAGO directly.  

For A-Class Chess, consult FIDE Chess (regular chess) rules.

B-Class Chess  (Basic/Base/Beginner)
These rules are the core to IAGO Chess (the game). These rules provide an
introduction to the C and M-Classes of Chess (IAGO specific or in general).
These rules serve as a foundation, and a way to acclimate people to the
fullness of chess in IAGO, in all classes.  These rules also provide a way
of integrating the Capablanca, and other fantasy pieces, into a wide range
of chess variants.

In order for rules to be B-Class, they need to comply with one rule. This
rule states that the equipment used to play the game must match to the
rules provided. There must be no condition in which players playing a game
run into a situation where they are unable to have the necessary equipment
to play game. An example of a violation of this rule in A-Class chess, is
the case involving pawn promotion. A-Class chess sets provide individuals
16 pieces a side. In the event that someone would want to promote a pawn to
a second queen, or a third knight, the pieces provided are insufficient to
meet this ability laid out by the rules. In order to be B-Class compliant,
the equipment for the game must provide sufficient amount pieces to meet
these requirements. This could be done by either officially declaring a
flipped over chess rooks as a new special piece type (allowing for a
maximum of 3 queens in a game simultaneously for a player in a game), or by
limiting the pieces a pawn may promote to, to be whatever was captured
during the game. In no circumstance may a player be required to make
undocumented ad-hoc pieces in order to play. This rule is justified in
cases where there is more than one queen-level power piece on because there
is enough queen level pieces in game, and a promotion should be used
exclusively to bring pieces lost back in the game. It also saves players
from needing to create impromptu equipment during play.

These rules below, as constructed represent the current form of B-Class
IAGO Chess (the game). Variants of these rules is permitted (as they are of
the C and M-Class rules), provided the above rule for regarding pieces and
equipment matching is followed.

Note: [Mutable] means rule may be changed by other rules. Mutable used to
describe what may be changed, and suggests in what ways, in order to have
the changes still be B-Class compliant.

The rules to B-Class IAGO Chess (the Game):
These rules follow standard A-Class Chess except for the changes below. In
addition two new pieces are added, and in reserve (aka, pocket). These
pieces are the Marshall (moves like a Rook and Knight) and Cardinal (moves
like a Bishop and Knight). These pieces, one Marshall and one Cardinal,
start off the board (in reserve/pocket). The other changes to standard
chess rules are as follows:
1. Repeating what was stated above. Queen starts on the queen space. The
Marshall and Cardinals are in reserve (pocket) to either be brought in via
promotion or gated in. [Mutable to which pieces are in reserve, how and if
they are brought in, and by what method]
2. New pieces introduced into a game, such as the Marshall and Cardinal,
enter the game by two methods [Mutable to either one or none]. Only one
piece entering game per turn by these methods [Mutable to more than one].
The methods uses:
(a) Gating: These pieces may enter the game via gating (piece in reserve
comes in and takes start space of piece that started in back row, as that
piece vacates its start space).
(b) Drop: The pieces are dropped (placed) a vacant space in the back row of
where their pieces start. This is a distinct move that takes an entire turn
and doesn't involve any other pieces. [Mutable to a different definition,
or multiple definitions, or to not be included]
Note: During a game, AT MOST, there is allows as many drops or gatings per
game as pieces in reserve at the start of the game (in). Only one piece may
enter a game per turn by means of gating or a drop. [Mutable to quantity
that may be brought in during a turn]
3. A pawn can only promote to either a piece that has been capture, or
still in the pocket (reserve). Once a piece is capture, it may not be gated
back in. [Mutable in how how reserves relate to captured pieces]
4. Gating is a distinct move type. Gating may not be combined with another
move type, such as castling. [Mutable in whether it may be combined]

C-Class Chess (Classic/Standard. These rules amend or add to the B-Class
rules)
The basic rules here for a classic way to play in fullness is here. This is
the full foundation of play and acceptable as a stable game to play in its
own right. These rules build upon B-Class IAGO Chess (the game).
1. You start with the queen space empty and have a queen, chancellor and
archbishop in reserve (pocket). Players start the game by putting one of
these three on the board. (This replaces rule 1 in B-Class)


Additional Rules, Suggestions and Guidelines for the IAGO Chess System

1. Time control and point structure for tournament play. This should be
done to encourage spectators and cause draws to still advance the outcome
of a multi-game match. I would go with a version of a Bronstein clock that
gives an opponent a point if the player takes longer than the max amount
time to make a move. Also a player can lose the game if they don't make a
move after so many of these delays, unless they call time out. In event
game ends as a draw, the player with the most points with the draw. For
points scoring in an IAGO Chess match, draw advantage is given to the
person who has the most points, scoring them half a point. A full point is
given for a win. In the case the bare king rule is used, then a checkmate
win is worth 2 points, and a bared king win is worth one point.

2. Standards in names of pieces and appearance for IAGO Chess pieces.
Some ideas for for Impromptu (Poor man's) pieces:
- Marshall: An upside down rook. or A six side die. Any black and white
rectangle or cube, square shapes.
- Cardinal: An upside down rook with pawn in it. Black and white pyramids
(like Icehouse pieces). Any unique duplicate pieces. Any black and white
triangle shapes.
- Amazon/Empress: A checker (or black and white round disk). Any black and
white circular shapes also work.

3. Notation for drop and gate moves. Propose, use & or @ symbols:
Gating: Bc1-e3&C (This means Bishop moves from c1 to e3 and gates in a
Cardinal at c1)
Drop: &Me1 (This means Marshall is dropped at e1)
Replace & with @ if preferred. Seirawan chess uses a /. Players may choose
to use this if they prefer. Another option would be ^

Notes

IAGO Chess is a framework and system for evolving chess, and not just a
single variant.  It is meant to be similar to the fullness of FIDE Chess,
into manage the fullness of the chess experience.  

 Terms and Conditions for Usage of the Rules  (Sorry to do legalese,
but this is important to insure IAGO Chess remains viable).

These are the terms and conditions regarding usage of the IAGO Chess rules.
It is meant to be flexible for people, and seeks to be a useful resource.
It is also meant to grow and sustain chess as a game, and coordinate
efforts, instead of fragmenting it. To accomplish these ends, these terms
and conditions apply. 

The terms:
1. This document may be copied and distributed, at no costs, provided that
that the copy of this document informs users where they may get ahold of
the latest versions of this document. This document may also be modified,
and abridged, provided the same conditions may be met. Portions may be
quoted out of fair use, but in those case, a reference to this document,
and where the latest version can be found, are sited. In addition, this
document is free to be modified in distribution, provided that reference to
where to obtain the latest version of this document is provided. Works
derived from this work should not be construed as approved or endorsed by
IAGO World Tour Enterprises, unless said approval and endorsement is given.
Said works are considered distinct documents from this, and may be subject
to their own terms and conditions for use. Users creating their own derived
work off this document, maintain full legal ownership of their document, in
light of the prior conditions.
2. Others may copy and distribute this document, commercially (for a fee),
provided that IAGO World Tour Enterprises, or the document creator, is
contacted in writing of this intention. This notification may take an
electronic or physical form. In the case of profits being made from the
distribution of this document, the creator would like to know for what use,
and have such effort further the cause of abstract strategy gaming.
Distributed for a fee includes references to parts or whole of this
document in any material that is sold. Reference to this document's
existence, where the latest version may be obtained, and a description of
its purpose, is excluded from this restriction. In event of whether there
are questions about whether such use applies to this condition, contact the
document creator for more information. There is no guarantee, explicit or
implied, that such written permission and the consideration required to
obtain, will be consistent between individuals who wish to distribute this
document for a fee.
3. Said distribution of this work, shall be done in accordance with the
laws regions where said distribution exists. IAGO World Tour Enterprises
assumes no liability for distribution of this work by individuals not part
of IAGO or IAGO World Tour Enterprises, by illegal methods. IAGO World Tour
Enterprises also assumes no legal liability for distribution of works
derived from this.
4. This document may be used as the basis of other frameworks, provided
that reference to this work is made, individuals are informed of how they
can readily obtain to obtain a copy of the latest version of this document.
Individuals who use this document as the basis for other frameworks are
encouraged to provide feedback on making this framework better.
5. Feedback on this document is recommended and encourage. Information of
the extent of the distribution of this document is likewise encouraged.

These terms and conditions are in effect as of April 8, 2008. These may be
subject to change, as governed by potential changes in laws, and also the
needs relating to the purpose of this document. Please always consult the
latest version of these rules, and the terms and conditions, before using
them for commercial purposes. 

Copyright 2008 IAGO World Tour Enterprises (Written by Rich Hutnik)

This 'user submitted' page is a collaboration between the posting user and the Chess Variant Pages. Registered contributors to the Chess Variant Pages have the ability to post their own works, subject to review and editing by the Chess Variant Pages Editorial Staff.

If you are the author of this page, you may edit index information or edit the contents of this page. You may also, if your page uses graphics, upload files.

By Rich Hutnik.
Web page created: 2008-03-25. Web page last updated: 2008-03-25