Real Time Chess is a physical chessboard that eliminates the traditional turn-based structure. Pieces can be moved at any time, introducing a new layer of strategic complexity involving quick reactions, interruptions, and anticipating your opponent's moves in real-time. The board uses RFID tags in the pieces and Hall effect sensors under the board squares to track piece positions and movement, updating a digital display with the current game state. This allows for a dynamic and fast-paced chess experience where planning and execution happen concurrently.
Hannah Ilea built a physical rendition of Steve Reich's "Clapping Music" using two flip-disc displays. These displays, commonly found in old train station departure boards, create a visual and auditory representation of the piece. One display plays a steady, repeating 12-beat pattern while the other shifts by one beat after every 12 cycles. The clicking sounds of the flipping discs, combined with the visual pattern changes, mimic the rhythmic structure of the original composition. The project showcases a unique intersection of music, visual art, and vintage technology.
HN commenters generally enjoyed the project, praising the creator's ingenuity and the pleasing visual/auditory result. Several noted the clever use of readily available hardware and appreciated the clear explanation of the build process. Some discussed the potential for extending the project, suggesting using more complex rhythms or different types of displays. One commenter linked to a similar project using split-flap displays, while another pointed out the similarity to a "flip clock" art piece they had encountered. A few users expressed interest in the code and hardware specifics, leading to a brief discussion of microcontroller choices and potential improvements to the driving circuitry.
Summary of Comments ( 10 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43514695
HN commenters were generally impressed with the project, praising the technical execution and innovative concept of real-time chess. Some debated the strategic depth compared to traditional turn-based chess, with some suggesting it might devolve into a speed contest. Others discussed potential rule modifications, like piece capture delays or move cooldowns, to add more strategic elements. The creator's responsiveness to comments and willingness to incorporate feedback was also positively received, with several users offering specific suggestions for improvements and future development. A few commenters expressed skepticism about its long-term appeal, but the overall sentiment was one of enthusiastic curiosity and appreciation for the project's novelty.
The Hacker News post about Real Time Chess, a physical chess board without turns, generated a moderate amount of discussion, with several commenters intrigued by the concept and its potential implications.
Several users explored the strategic ramifications of such a system. One commenter highlighted the importance of quick thinking and reaction time, suggesting that it would favor players with faster reflexes and potentially de-emphasize deep strategic planning. They pondered whether this would lead to more aggressive play and different opening strategies.
Another user questioned how the game would handle simultaneous moves, particularly scenarios where pieces might collide or occupy the same square. They wondered about the rules governing such instances, and whether there was a mechanism for resolving conflicts or prioritizing certain moves. This raised the question of whether software played a role in adjudicating such scenarios.
The speed and frenetic nature of real-time chess was also a topic of discussion. One comment suggested it could resemble a "blitz brawl" and questioned its suitability for serious chess play. Another user raised the issue of physical limitations, wondering if the constant movement and potential for collisions would damage the pieces or the board itself.
Several commenters were curious about the technical implementation of the project, asking about the use of magnets, sensors, and other technologies used to track the pieces and enforce the rules. There was also interest in the responsiveness of the system and how it handled near-simultaneous moves.
While some expressed skepticism about the viability or appeal of real-time chess, many were intrigued by the novel approach and the potential for a different kind of chess experience. The discussion highlighted both the potential benefits and the challenges of removing the traditional turn-based structure of the game. There was no widespread agreement on whether the change was a positive one, but the concept sparked a healthy debate about the fundamental nature of chess and the possibility of reinventing classic games.