I can't really agree with this statement. My customers tell me they would much rather play a challenging even game against an opponent of their level, than a challenging handicap game against a much stronger or much weaker opponent. This is why version 12 of Many Faces has levels that are calibrated to be about 3 stones apart, so there is always a level that does not require a handicap, unless you are weaker than 20 kyu or stronger than 1 dan.
Until computer programs rise to the level of even play against pros, human-computer matches will be handicap games. It makes sense to develop the ability to play handicap games well. It would be sad if a program with a seven stone handicap frittered away its advantage instead of hoarding it jealously. Terry McIntyre <[email protected]>
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