correspondence chess

Correspondence chess involves playing chess by exchanging moves through various communication methods, rather than in person. Historically, this began with messengers and evolved to include postal services, telegraphs, and even radio. The introduction of low-cost mail in the 19th century led to a boom in postal chess, with notable matches played between clubs and even across the Atlantic via cable.

In the modern era, the internet has revolutionized correspondence chess, allowing players worldwide to compete instantly through email or online platforms. This accessibility has made it easier to find opponents of all skill levels at any time. However, the rise of powerful chess computers presents challenges, as their use in analysis blurs the line between correspondence and computer chess, making it difficult to control and maintain the integrity of the game.12