Imperfect Information in Chess Variants and Changes in Player Strategies and Perceptions

Abstract: This study explores the way imperfect information affects chess gameplay in players with different skill levels. To explore the effects of removing information from a perfect system we used both chess and a variant of chess known as dark chess or fog of war chess. With a sample size of eight players organised into four pairs, we gathered both quantitative data from the moves made in the chess matches and qualitative data from interviews with the participants. The findings of this research may be useful to chess enthusiasts and players who wish to study perfect and imperfect information systems in games, as well as game designers and game researchers who are studying the effects of hidden information on gameplay and strategy. Our findings show no relation between ratings and performance in dark chess but instead show a relation between strategies chosen by players and the outcome of dark chess games.