Artificial Intelligence in Chess: Ally or Adversary? Champion Bhagyashree Thipsay Weighs In

Artificial intelligence can be both ally and adversary on the chess board, says champion Bhagyashree Thipsay

Chess, a game known for its strategic depth and intellectual challenges, has seen a significant evolution with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Champion chess player Bhagyashree Thipsay, a five-time winner of the Indian Women’s Championship and Woman International Master (WIM), believes that AI can play a dual role as both an ally and an adversary on the chess board.

Thipsay reflects on the historic match between Garry Kasparov and IBM’s supercomputer Deep Blue in the late 1990s, which resulted in the first defeat of a reigning world chess champion by a computer. This event marked a turning point in the world of chess, sparking discussions about the role of AI in the game.

While AI has become a common tool in chess practice, with engines like Stock Fish, Houdini, and Komodo aiding players in analyzing games and improving their skills, Thipsay emphasizes the importance of human touch in the game. She highlights the psychological strategies and mind games that human players bring to the table, elements that AI cannot replicate.

Looking towards the future, Thipsay acknowledges the potential of AI to enhance the game of chess but asserts that human players will always be essential for the game’s vibrancy and excitement. She dismisses the idea of two machines playing against each other, emphasizing the unique qualities that human players bring to the game.

Ultimately, Thipsay believes that AI can be both an ally and a formidable adversary on the chess board, adding fascinating dimensions to the game. However, she maintains that human players, with their intellect, personality, and strategic prowess, will always be the heart and soul of chess, ensuring its enduring appeal and excitement.