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BGonline.org Forums
Why use clocks? I'll give you reasons not to!
Posted By: Phil Simborg In Response To: Why use clocks? (Stick)
Date: Wednesday, 19 January 2011, at 4:37 p.m.
Sorry Stick, but while you make many excellent arguments for the use of clocks, you didn't truly present the other side--Why NOT use Clocks?
Here are some reasons that I believe are valid:
1. Clocks raise the odds for better players, as they are generally the players who can calculate the odds faster, have more reference positions, know the take points and match equities in their head, and are more likely to make better decisions quickly. Obviously, this is a major negative for those of who are not amongst the better players. In a game where the better players already have a big edge, clocks give them even a greater edge.
2. Clocks keep the games going at a reasonable pace. This clearly works against those of us who like to stall as long as possible and drag out plays as much as possible in order to irritate our opponents and cause them to become upset and lose concentration. You have taken away one of my major strategies.
3. Clocks assure that tournaments run on time and people get to bed at a reasonable hour. Again, this works against those of us who have no life outside of backgammon and don't care if we get to sight see, spend time with our families, or make a flight home the next day.
4. Clocks, and the single set of dice, do reduce cheating, but have you considered how unfair this is to those of us who cheat?
5. Clocks are complicated and difficult to learn to use. Until you've used a clock once or twice, it can be very intimidating.
6. Clocks have driven away some players who simply don't like them and refuse to use them. My good friend, Larry Liebster told me that if they require clocks we'll never see him at another tournament. By the way, I was very happy to see Larry in Florida last weekend at the US Open where clocks were required. (I guess if it's the only game in town, people will come.)
7. Clocks add a significant expense to impose on the players. I must tell you that it really pained me to have to spend $ .99 for the Chess Clock Ap on my $600 iPhone. When you add that to the $750.00 entry fee and the cost of flying to Florida, renting a car, adding a hotel bill, and losing in the chouette, it can really add up.
C'mon Stick, from now on, when you're going to argue about something, at least present both sides fairly.
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