diff options
| author | Markus Uhlin <markus@nifty-networks.net> | 2023-12-07 21:31:49 +0100 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | Markus Uhlin <markus@nifty-networks.net> | 2023-12-07 21:31:49 +0100 |
| commit | 79b59f9b30fb6a1fdf8c3efb446271f7cb00d434 (patch) | |
| tree | f6ade4ccbc3af20d825edacfd12b5da8ded8d240 /data/help | |
FICS 1.6.2
Diffstat (limited to 'data/help')
188 files changed, 7081 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/data/help/_help b/data/help/_help new file mode 100644 index 0000000..90bcf65 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/_help @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +_help + +Type ... In Order To ... +------------------ -------------------------------------------------- +help chan_1 learn how to ask someone for help +help commands list all commands +help help learn how to read help files +help intro_basics list some basic commands for new users +help intro_general get basic information about the chess server +help intro_welcome get basic information about the introductory files +help register learn how to register on this server +index print a list of categories of help files +index all list all help files, by categories +info to list all informational (non-command) help files +quit exit the chess server and end your session +set shout off reduce information on your screen + diff --git a/data/help/abort b/data/help/abort new file mode 100644 index 0000000..679c70b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/abort @@ -0,0 +1,27 @@ + +abort + +Usage: abort + + The "abort" request is used in two situations during a chess game. + + (1) You wish to abort the game for some reason. "Abort" sends a request to +your opponent that your game be aborted. Your opponent can accept or decline +your offer. If a proposal to abort has been sent to you, then typing "abort" +(or "accept") will accept the offer. + + (2) Your opponent has run out of time and you believe that a problem has +occured with the connection to the chess server. Rather than "flag" your +opponent and claim a win on time, you can "abort" the game. (This function is +the old "courtesyabort" command just made easier to use.) If you are both out +of time, however, (a) the abort command will be sent as a request, but (b) you +can "flag" and the result will be a draw. + + An aborted game is canceled; no changes in ratings occur, the game is not +stored, and it is not listed in history or counted as a completed game in your +statistics. + +See Also: accept decline flag lag pending + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/abuser b/data/help/abuser new file mode 100644 index 0000000..96545cd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/abuser @@ -0,0 +1,31 @@ + +abuser + + The admins maintain a private list of individuals who have abused the chess +server. There are various kinds of abuse that can result in someone being +placed on the abuser list (... or worse). + + Sometimes there is an individual who intentionally disconnects in lost +positions, thus ruining the spirit of competition. If you suspect that +someone disconnected intentionally, please contact an admin. The admin will +review the situation. If you are unable to connect with your opponent in +order to resume your game, you may also want to seek an adjudication. + + If a user has too many stored games, the user may also be placed on the +abuser list until more of the adjourned games are completed or adjudicated. + +CONSEQUENCES + + Being on the abuser list has these consequences: (a) abusers may have match +requests automatically declined if the opponent has "!abuser" in the formula, +and (b) abusers who disconnect while playing a game forfeit the game +automatically. + + Other kinds of poor conduct can result in different sanctions. See the +"etiquette" and "shout_abuse" help files for details. + +See Also: adjudication etiquette formula shout_abuse showlist stored +variables + +[Last modified: October 10, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/accept b/data/help/accept new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ca0eaff --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/accept @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +accept + +Usage: accept [1-n, all, abort, adjourn, draw, match, pause, player, simul, +switch, takeback] + + Accepts an offer that has been made to you. If no parameter is given and +there is only one offer, you accept it. If there is more than one offer +pending (for example, multiple match offers) you will shown a list of pening +offers and asked which one to accept. Then you must specify which offer to +accept. You can either choose the offer by number, or by type (such as draw, +adjourn, abort, or takeback). "All" accepts all pending offers. + +See Also: decline pending match draw adjourn abort takeback + +[Last modified: October 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/addlist b/data/help/addlist new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bbc4be8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/addlist @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +addlist + +Usage: addlist list information + + Adds information to the list in question. There are several kinds of lists +on the server. Some can only be modified by admins; others can be modified by +all users. "Sublist" command removes information from a list. + + The standard alias for "addlist" is "+". For example, "addlist notify +Stravinsky" could be typed as "+notify Stravinsky" instead. + +See Also: admins alias showlists sublist + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/addresses b/data/help/addresses new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a228b8d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/addresses @@ -0,0 +1,70 @@ + +addresses + + The Internet Chess Servers are services providing you a means for playing +chess with a wide range of players, both human and machine, from around the +world. The following lists give both the server names and telnet IP numbers +for the sites for chess servers. + +Chess servers using a version of FICS +------------------------------------- + +Main sites: + + AICS: ics.onenet.net 5000 (164.58.253.10 5000) Main US server + EICS: eics.daimi.aau.dk 5000 (130.225.18.157 5000) Main EURO server + DICS: dds.dds.nl 5000 (194.109.20.24 5000) Dutch server + BICS: holly.csv.warwick.ac.uk 5000 (137.205.192.12 5000) British server + GICS: chess.unix-ag.uni-kl.de 5000 (131.246.89.3 5000) German server + HEICS: violin.wisdom.weizmann.ac.il 5000 Wild-only server + MICS: wisdom.weizmann.ac.il 5000 (132.76.80.77 5000) Mid-east server + OICS: w0.infosys.tuwien.ac.at (128.130.172.40 5000) Austrian server + SICS: chess.mds.mdh.se 5000 (130.238.251.208 5000) Swedish server +UCHICS: cipres.cec.uchile.cl 5000 (146.83.5.130 5000) Chilean server + ZICS: ics.interdomain.net.au 5000 (203.17.167.4 5000) Australian + +Alternative sites: + + chess.pitt.edu 5000 (136.142.81.40 5000) Pittsburgh, PA, US + rogue.coe.ohio-state.edu 5000 (128.146.144.12 5000) Columbus, OH, US + getnet.com 4000 (204.157.9.29 4000) Phoenix, AZ, US + coot.lcs.mit.edu 5000 (18.52.0.70 5000) Test server only + +Internet Chess Club (commercial chess server): + + chess.lm.com 5000 (192.231.221.16 5000) Pittsburgh, PA, US + + +Other useful locations +---------------------- + +WWW-servers + + URL: http://chess.onenet.net/chess/ + URL: http://titan.enst-bretagne.fr/~wallez/fics.html + +FTP-servers: + + ftp.onenet.net (164.58.253.11) + ftp.math.uni-hamburg.de (134.100.220.2) + ftp.daimi.aau.dk [for timeseal files for use on EICS] + + +Connection information +---------------------- + +To connect to a chess server: + telnet <server_address> 5000 + +To connect to an anonymous ftp server: + ftp <ftp_address> (at LOGIN type: ftp [or anonymous] + at PASSWORD type: your_email_address) + +To connect to a www location: + use your web browser (such as lynx or netscape) and go to the URL address + + +See Also: ftp_hints inetchesslib timeseal + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/adjourn b/data/help/adjourn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..415d3af --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/adjourn @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +adjourn + +Usage: adjourn + + Sends a request to your opponent that a game be discontinued and saved for +later play. If a proposal to adjourn is pending for you, then typing adjourn +(or accept) will accept the offer. If your opponent is out of time, the +adjourn request is accepted automatically (a courtesy adjournment). + + Games that are adjourned can be resumed later by using the match command +when your opponent is logged on. They can be resigned even when your opponent +is not logged on. They can also be adjudicated by an admin (see +"adjudication" help file). For more information on these options, see the +"adjournments" help file. Use "stored" to view the list of your adjourned +games. If you log on and a user with whom you have an adjourned game is also +on, you will be notified automatically that he/she is logged on. + +See Also: accept adjudication adjournments decline match pending resign +stored + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/adjournments b/data/help/adjournments new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bf6ea96 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/adjournments @@ -0,0 +1,45 @@ + +adjournments + + Adjourned games are stored by the server until one of three things occurs: +(a) the game is later resumed and completed, (b) one player resigns, or (c) +the game is adjudicated. Adjourned games can also be examined for purposes of +analysis. Typed "stored" to view the list of your adjourned games. Games are +adjourned either by agreement of both players or if a player disconnects +suddenly; games are not adjourned if the server crashes, however. + + +RESUMING AN ADJOURNED GAME + + Your game can be resumed when your opponent is logged on to the server. +Type "match opponent_name" to request that you and your opponent continue your +game. Your opponent can either accept or decline this request. + + +RESIGNING AN ADJOURNED GAME + + Your game can be resigned even when your opponent is not logged on. Type +"resign opponent_name" to do this. Your opponent will be notified of your +decision. + + +ADJUDICATION OF AN ADJOURNED GAME + + If you have difficulty resuming your game with your opponent after repeated +attempts, you can have your game adjudicated by an admin. The "adjudication" +help file outlines the procedure to follow for requesting an adjudication. + + +EXAMINING AN ADJOURNED GAME + + You can examine an adjourned game using the "examine" command. You will be +able to analyze possible continuations of the game. For the most part, this +analysis has the same restrictions as adjournments for over-the-board chess +games: consultation is permitted. However, when your game resumes, you must +play without consultation or notes of any kind. + + +See Also: adjourn adjudication examine match resign stored + +[Last modified: July 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/adjudication b/data/help/adjudication new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5fcc33f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/adjudication @@ -0,0 +1,46 @@ + +adjudication + + Whenever possible, please finish games that have been adjourned. You should +attempt to complete the game by messaging your opponents, trying to find times +to complete the games, and giving them ample opportunity to do so. Users are +on different time schedules, so patience should be practiced. + + If -- after repeated attempts -- an opponent will not resume his/her game +with you, you may request an adjudication. You can ask for a game to be +adjudicated as a win, a draw or to be aborted (you do not need an adjudication +in order to resign a game; see the "resign" help file). Adjudications are +made by admins who are skilled at chess. The admin will look at the position +and decide on a result. Please note that the admin's decision is final. If a +genuine mistake has been made, the adjudicator would probably like feedback, +although at that stage nothing may change the result and the changes in +ratings that may have occurred. Adjudications take time and effort, +especially on a server with many users, so only ask for an adjudication when +you absolutely need one. + + To request an adjucation, "message adjudicate <request>", that is, send a +message to the special Adjudicate account ("Adjudicate" is not the handle of a +user). In your message for adjudication you should gove the name of your +opponent and what you think the result should be -- win, draw or abort. For +example: + + message adjudicate l want my game with DAV to be a draw; neither of us + can make progress or gain an advantage. + +If you have a certain line of play you will follow in order to preserve the +win or draw, please mention it. + + An admin will check the account regularly and decide the game. You and your +opponent will be messaged concerning the result. + + +REMINDERS: + +(a) The command "stored" gives a list of your stored (adjourned) games. + +(b) "Match [opponent]" is used to continue resumed games. + +See also: abuser adjournments match stored + +[Last modified: October 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/adm_info b/data/help/adm_info new file mode 100644 index 0000000..954d604 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/adm_info @@ -0,0 +1,31 @@ + +adm_info + +Information about server administrators (admins) + + This chess server is coordinated by several administrators ("admins") who +ensure that the server is working properly and deal with problem situations +and cases of abuse (see etiquette and abuser). Certain commands that regulate +the server can only be used by admins. + + The group of admins is small in order to keep things fair and uniform. +For the moment, the server has a sufficient number of admins for its needs, so +new admins are not being added (see adm_new). + + If you have a question, problem situation or concern as a user of this +server, feel free to contact an admin. For the most part, they are designated +by (*) on "who" lists. They are also on channel 0 (the admin channel). Type +"in 0" to see which admins are logged on. To see a current list of all +admins, type "=admin". The "admins" help file indicates the role each admin +plays on the server. + + Admins tend to listen to channel 1. To contact several admins at once, you +can "tell" to channel 1. You can also "message" an admin, especially if you +need to relay detailed information. Special accounts have been set aside for +feedback from users; these are listed in the "admins" help file. + +See Also: abuser adm_new admins channel etiquette inchannel +intro_welcome message tell who + +[Last modified: September 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/adm_new b/data/help/adm_new new file mode 100644 index 0000000..03bf04a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/adm_new @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ + +adm_new + +About becoming an FICS administrator + + Thank you for asking about how someone becomes an FICS administrator +("admin"). As the "adm_info" help file notes, the number of FICS admins is +kept small for several reasons. At the moment, we are not accepting +applications from anyone to be an admin. If additional admins are needed, we +will contact you. + + In the meantime, the best way for you to help with FICS needs is to monitor +messages on the various FICS channels and help users who have questions, let +us know about bugs you find (message to "bug"), and make suggestions about +improvements you would like to see implemented (message to "suggestion" or to +"helpfiles"). If you have code you'd like to contribute, contact one of the +programming admins (see "admins" help file for a listing). Typing "=admin" +lists the current admins. Typing "in 0" will give a list of admins currently +logged on. + +See Also: admins adm_info + +[Last modified: September 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/admins b/data/help/admins new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c837220 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/admins @@ -0,0 +1,39 @@ + +admins + + Admins on this server have various functions. Many are here solely for +programming reasons; when they are logged on, they are often busy and working +with the server code. Other admins are here for general assistance to users. +There are also special accounts that make it easy for users to give the admins +feedback, suggestions and special requests. Here is a breakdown.... + +Programming admins: connex cranium Cthulhu DAV foxbat grimm* Hawk + [server code] hersco loon mann Marsalis Ramius Shane Shaughn + sms Sparky + +General admins: Clovis cyee equiLibre Friar Len McKeork + [server help] Rattlesnake river schert Shaughn sms Solid + sveshi Sparky Thanatos TheDane TheViking + +Special admin accounts: adjudicate Bug filter helpfiles RatingsTransfer + Sparkysdrone Suggestion + +* No longer an admin but he deserves his share of the credit. + +Note: Admins have been chosen based on some simple but important criteria. + Programmer admins obviously are chosen for ability and willingness + to volunteer much time and energy toward the GNU-ICS project. In + general, however, a good working knowledge of the game itself along + with some practical tournamant experience is quite valuable. Even + more valuable is Tournamant directorship experience either on the club + or national level. Also of great value is a knowledge of different + computers and operating systems and the ability to help new players + with setting up interfaces and getting started toward their first + game. :-) + + Sparky + +[Minor edits: October 1, 1995 -- Friar] + +See Also: adjudication adm_info adm_new + diff --git a/data/help/alias b/data/help/alias new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b10fc0c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/alias @@ -0,0 +1,107 @@ + +alias + +Usage: alias [word [string]] + + Sets up a command alias so that "word" is equivalent to typing "string". If +"string" is omitted then the current value of "word" is displayed. If both +parameters are omitted, then all of your aliases are displayed. + + "alias" -- lists all of your aliases + "alias word" -- gives your alias for "word" + "alias word string" -- creates/updates an alias for you so that typing + "word" is equivalent to typing "string" + + Use the "unalias" command to remove an alias. + + +EXAMPLES + + Here are some sample aliases that may be useful to you. They are listed +here in order to give you some idea of what is possible. Get ideas from other +users as well. + + fun say Fun game! + gg say Good game! + gm say Good move! + idle set busy is busy. Please 'message' to contact him. + mb match @ 5 12 + mood1 set formula f2 & f4 + ms match @ 10 10 + ps who as + pw who aw + ty say Thank you for the game. + w4 match @ 10 10 0 0 wild 4 + wave it waves to @ + + +SYSTEM ALIASES + + There are many system aliases that everyone has by default; you do not need +to set them up, they are already there. Here is the list: + + a accept . tell . + bye quit , tell , + cls help cls ! shout + exit quit : it + f finger ? help + go goboard * kibitz + goto goboard + addlist + hi history - sublist + logout quit # whisper + m match + more next + p who a + players who a + re refresh + saa simallabort + sab simabort + sadj simadjourn + saadj simalladjourn + sh shout + sn simnext + sp simprev + t tell + v variables + vars variables + w who + znotl znotify + + Other system aliases are added from time to time. The help files for the +different commands will have the most updated information. + +WARNING: + + Becareful to avoid using an alias that can also stand for another command on +the server. For example, "fg" could be a chess move (for f-pawn X g-pawn), so +don't have "fg" be an alias. For similar reasons, don't use "t" as an alias +since it is already assigned as an alias for "tell". For example, avoid using +"hi" to mean not "history" but something else, like "tell @ Hello there. How +are you?" If you later "unalias" your "hi" alias, the "hi" system alias for +"history" may not come back automatically. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + + (1) Aliases can use the "@" wildcard symbol and thus save you a lot of +typing for routine statements or requests. For example, using the "mb" alias, +you would type "mb Shane" and have the same request sent as if you had typed +"match Shane 5 12". + + (2) Aliases are not transitive. This sequence of commands ... + + alias foo bar + alias bar baz + +... will NOT result in "foo" being equivalent to "baz". + + (3) Because of #3, use the full spelling of a command, not an abbreviation, +when creating an alias. This procedure also ensures that the alias will work +properly. + + (4) You may not create an alias for the quit command. + + +See Also: unalias [and the various commands themselves, of course] + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/allobservers b/data/help/allobservers new file mode 100644 index 0000000..469ac3e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/allobservers @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ + +allobservers + +Usage: allobservers [game,user] + + If a game is specified then all users observing or examining that game are +displayed. However, if there are no observers for that game, nothing will be +displayed. + + If no game is specified, then all users observing or examining games in +progress are displayed. However, if there are no observers or examining for +ANY game, nothing will be displayed. + + The display will have this format: Game #, Players, Observers. For example: + + Observing 18 [DAV vs. friar]: Thumper, Charity, Shane + Examining 29 (scratch): #Friar, loon + +For examined games, there are examiners (people changing the position, noted +by #) and observers. + +See Also: examine observe + +[Last modified: June 29, 1995 -- Friar] diff --git a/data/help/analysis b/data/help/analysis new file mode 100644 index 0000000..df8ea55 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/analysis @@ -0,0 +1,6 @@ + +ChessT is a well-experienced annotator using top chess programs and self- +written software (stressing on the human-side). He is willing to perform +thorough analysis on openings, middle-games, endgames & combinations. User's +games & details can be sent to: danymozs@NetVision.net.il Or send as a +MESSAGE to ChessT. Analysis given on the spot when ChessT is here. diff --git a/data/help/assess b/data/help/assess new file mode 100644 index 0000000..924d981 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/assess @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +assess + +Usage: assess [user1 [user2]] + + Displays how ratings will be affected by the possible outcomes of a chess +match between two users. If both parameters are omitted ("assess") and you +are playing a game, then the command will display the possible ratings changes +from your game with your current opponent (if you are not playing a game, you +will be told that). If only user1 is given ("assess user1"), then the command +will display the possible ratings changes from a game you would have with +user1. If both parameters are given ("assess user1 user2"), then the command +will display possible ratings results of a game between user1 and user2. + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/backward b/data/help/backward new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bcccd55 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/backward @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +backward + +Usage: backward [#] + + This command is used by a person examining a game in order to move backward +in the sequence of the game's moves. If # is not specified, 1 will be used. + + In the case of a stored game, you may move forward again using the "forward" +command, but in the case of a new game you will need to move the pieces again. + +SPECIAL NOTE: The "revert" command is a way to move backward to the branch +from the main variation being examined. + +See Also: examine forward revert + +[Last modified: June 29, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/bell b/data/help/bell new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bb09fa7 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/bell @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +bell + +Usage: bell + + Toggles your 'bell' variable. Equivalent to "set bell". Having bell on +affects beeps you may receive from the server or your interface. + +See Also: variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/best b/data/help/best new file mode 100644 index 0000000..707caea --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/best @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ + +best + +Usage: best [b|s|w] + + Displays the 20 highest-rated players in the three different ratings +categories: Blitz, Standard and Wild. Computers are in the listing. Use +"hbest" to see the top 20 humans. + + Using "best" alone will give all three lists. Using one or more of the +arguments b, s or w is a request to give only the blitz, standard and/or wild +best lists, respectively. For example, "best bw" will show the top 20 players +in blitz and wild chess; the top standard players will not be listed. + + Use "rank" and "hrank" in order to see where a given player is ranked. + +See Also: hbest hrank rank + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/blindfold b/data/help/blindfold new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8fece94 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/blindfold @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +blindfold + + Blindfold accounts are special accounts for users who wish to play without +a board. Users playing blindfold chess must use style 9 while playing since +this style displays only the last few moves, not the board position. Since +style 9 does not list the times on the chess clocks, you may wish to use the +"time" command in order to list clock times. + + Users on the "blind" list will have the notation "(B)" displayed behind +their handles on who displays and will have their handles displayed when a +user types "=blind" (to show the contents of the list of players having +blindfold accounts chess). Users who have blindfold accounts must use style 9 +when playing. Not using style 9 to play will be considered abuse and make you +subject to sanctions. + + In order to be included on the blindfold list or to have an additional +account for blindfold chess, please contact an admin. + +See Also: admins lists showlists style who + +[Last modified: October 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/blitz b/data/help/blitz new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6fb9efc --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/blitz @@ -0,0 +1,57 @@ + +blitz + + There are four types of regular (not wild or bughouse) chess played on this +chess server: Untimed, Lightning, Blitz and Standard. + + A game is "Blitz" if the expected duration of the game is between 3 and 15 +minutes per player. "Expected duration" is determined by a formula that takes +into account both the Start time and the Increment (Inc) value. Here is the +formula: + + Expected duration = (Start + Inc*2/3) + +Thus, a Blitz game is one that is expected to last between 3 and 15 minutes +for each player (or from 10 to 30 minutes combined). Lightning games are +those with expected durations less than 3 minutes per player, while Standard +games are those with expected durations more than 15 minutes per player. + + The following table shows the dividing lines between Blitz and Lightning on +the one hand and Blitz and Standard on the other hand. those two types of +matches. [Thanks to schwartzeer for the original calculations between Blitz +and Standard. :) ] + + Slowest Lightning Fastest Blitz Slowest Blitz Fastest Standard + ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ + Mins Incr Mins Incr Mins Incr Mins Incr + ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ + 0 4 0 5 0 22 0 23 + 1 2 1 3 1 20 1 21 + 2 1 2 2 2 19 2 20 + -------- 3 0 3 17 3 18 + 4 16 4 17 + 5 14 5 15 + 6 13 6 14 + 7 11 7 12 + 8 10 8 11 + 9 8 9 9 + 10 7 10 8 + 11 5 11 6 + 12 4 12 5 + 13 2 13 3 + 14 1 14 2 + -------- 15 0 + + For example, a game with a Start of 2 minutes will be Blitz if the Increment +is from 2 to 19; but it will be Lightning with an Inc of 0 or 1 and Standard +if the Inc is 20 or higher. + + You can list logged on users according to their Blitz ratings by typing "who +b" (by default, ratings in 'who' listings will be blitz unless you specifiy +otherwise). "Blitz" is also a variable that can be used in formulas in order +to screen match requests. + +See Also: formula lightning match standard untimed who + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/boards b/data/help/boards new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a44a2c2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/boards @@ -0,0 +1,40 @@ + +boards + +Usage: boards [category] + + If category is given then this lists all available boards for that +category. If the parameter is omitted, then this lists all available +categories. The current board categories are: + + standard + openings + wild + chessercizes + test + material-odds + misc + + In order to find out what is loaded for one of these categories, type +"boards <category>". For example, "boards openings" will list the various +openings you can start a game from. + + In order to start a game from one of these positions, you need to use all of +the arguments in the match command and also include the board category and the +specific board you want. For example: + + match red 2 12 0 0 openings ruy-lopez + +would request a blitz match with user "red" starting with the "ruy-lopez" +opening position. + + +SPECIAL NOTE + + At the moment, you cannot access these boards through the examine feature, +only match. + +See Also: match wild + +[Last modified: September 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/bughouse b/data/help/bughouse new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7ce44e1 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/bughouse @@ -0,0 +1,126 @@ +bughouse + + Bughouse (or siamese chess) is a "wild" variant of chess played between two +player teams on two separate boards. The special feature of the game is that +pieces you capture are transferred to your partner, who is playing with the +opposite color pieces from yourself. He may "drop" such a piece on an empty +square as a subsequent move in his game. + + +STARTING A BUGHOUSE MATCH + + First, use the "partner" command to select a partner. Next, find an +opponent team. You may use the Team channel for this purpose (channel 25), +and the command "who B" lists players who are members of a current bughouse +team. + + Then, one of your team challenges his desired opponent on the other team to +a "wild bughouse" match. (A useful alias for this is "alias bug match @ 2 12 +bughouse" where "bug user_name" is all you would need to type in order to +match user_name to a bughouse game.) + + When the match is accepted and all four players are present, then two games +are initiated simultaneously: one between the challenger and the challengee +with the desired colors, and one between the other partners, with colors +opposite from their partners. The same time control applies to both boards, +though "moretime" can be used independently on each board. Each player is +notified of the game number of their partner's game, so he may observe it as +well as playing in his own game. + + To help you form bughouse partnerships and bughouse matches, two channels +have been established: channels 24 and 25. Channel 24 is for matches and +channel 25 is for partnerships. + + +PLAYING BUGHOUSE + + As you play, you will be periodically notified when your partner passes you +captured pieces. You will be told the piece that was passed, and the set of +pieces that you are currently holding. You are also notified when your +opponent's holdings change. Both player's holdings are displayed whenever +your board position is refreshed. + + A new move notation is needed to drop one of your held pieces onto the +board. The notation for making a drop is "P@fr", where P is a piece you are +holding [PNBRQ] and "fr" is the empty destination square. + + You may talk to your partner. It is recommended to set up convenient +aliases for common messages, such as "I need a knight!!", "Don't give him a +bishop!", and "Are you out of your mind?!". The "ptell" command is used for +this purpose; only your partner will hear it. + + The match is finished when one player is checkmated, resigns, or is flagged. +At that point the wild ratings of *all* match players are adjusted, whether or +not the team result was because of their game. A draw request should be made +and accepted at *both* boards before the match is ended as a draw [a near +impossibility]. + + Note that checkmate is defined differently: there must be no *possibility* +of avoiding checkmate by a drop interposition. Even if your opponent is +holding no pieces that he can drop, he may later get a piece to interpose from +his partner. Thus, only contact and knight checks can give a "decisive" +checkmate. + + +RESTRICTIONS + + Pawns cannot be dropped onto your first or eighth rank, although they may be +dropped onto the seventh rank and promoted on the next move. + + Pieces that had been promoted revert to pawns when captured and passed to +your partner. + + Your partner variable is not saved between logins. You should set it prior +to starting your first bughouse match in a server session and when you want to +change partners. + + Observers should observe both games to see the full match. Kibitzes and +whispers, however, go to observers (and players) of *both* games. Observers +will also be notified of pieces transferred to each player's reserves. (Note +that kibitz can be used as a shortcut to tell your partner something if you +don't mind your opponents hearing it. It also makes the game more exciting +for the observers.) + + Strength assessment takes held pieces into account. + + This mode of play may break client interfaces. Contact the author of your +client to determine if you can play bughouse with it. If a client relies on +the board position rather than moves, things should work OK. No new styles +have been added to support bughouse. + + Because this is such a nonstandard type of play, there are a number of +commands that are not applicable to a bughouse game: + + 1. The move record is not saved. Adjournments and disconnections end both +games and the match cannot be resumed. (This leaves a lot of room for abuse, +but hey, bughouse is just for fun, guys!) Disabled commands are: adjourn, +sposition, mailstored, examine, mexamine, unexamine, backward, forward, +revert. + + 2. Simul commands cannot be used for bughouse games. [FDA regulation to +avoid frying the brains of the participants. :) ] + + 3. Takeback is disabled (for now). At best, takeback would work only on non- + +capture moves (including drops) to avoid having to take held pieces away from +the other game. + + 4. Switch is disabled (for now). + + 5. Moves, oldmoves, mailmoves and mailoldmoves do work during a game, but +they now break the PGN format, which doesn't allow drops. Moves are shown as +"P/@@-fr" and "P@fr" in the old and PGN formats. Only moves and drops are +recorded, not changes to a player's holdings. Theoretically, knowing the +duration of each move in both games allows you to reconstruct the holdings as +well. (But who'd want to analyze or store a bughouse game??) + + 6. Except for commands which terminate a game, commands affect only one of +the two games in a bughouse match. + + For notes on strategy in bughouse chess, see the "bughouse_strat" help file. + + +See Also: bughouse_strat match partner ptell set variables wild + +[Last Modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/bughouse_not b/data/help/bughouse_not new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d90ade7 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/bughouse_not @@ -0,0 +1,5 @@ + +Bughouse chess is currently being tested. Thank you for your patience. + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/bughouse_strat b/data/help/bughouse_strat new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7d2ce24 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/bughouse_strat @@ -0,0 +1,214 @@ + +BUGHOUSE STRATEGY + + Bughouse games are extremely dynamic. The position never simplifies since +captured pieces are constantly being recycled. Draws are unheard of. Many of +the strategies used in the japanese form of chess, shogi, apply: + + 1. King safety is paramount, so don't leave weak squares next to your king. +This applies in particular to KB2. Diagonal weaknesses are prey to dropped +pieces. + + 2. Contact checks and knight checks are best, so your opponent cannot drop a +piece to interpose. This makes the knight a very powerful piece, often worth +more than a rook. + + 3. Drop pawns near the back rank, so they can promote quickly. Pawns are +quite useful for dropping in, to attack and to defend. It is illegal, +however, to drop pawns directly on the first or last rank. + + 4. Always keep some pieces held in reserve, rather than dropping them in for +no reason. "A knight in the hand is worth two on the board." + + 5. Be on the lookout for sacrifices to create weakness. The game ending +combination often starts with a blitz of sacrifice drops to lure the king out +of hiding, and ends with a mating net. + +Bughouse chess is known by many names and has many of its own "special" terms +and strategies, just as regular chess does. Before attempting to play +bughouse, you should attempt to learn a fair bit of both. Just like real +chess, it is better to learn through study than by experience! + +Terminology +----------- + +Please note that some of this may not be especially common in real life, but +is used quite often here on FICS. + +Inject: Placing pieces into your opponents position on squares that cause him +or her untold discomfort; used as "You got injected!" + +Noodle/Spoon: Traditional FICS bughouse battle cries; one partner shouts +"spooooon!!" and his partner replies "nooooooooodle" + +Themed: Placing two pawns side by side on the seventh rank and promoting them; +used as "I themed you!" + +Rock: Used to express confidence in the defensive resources of your position; +used as "I'm rock here" + +Parachute, DoubleBlitz, Doublespeed, Siamese, Chok, Tjak, Choke chess: all +synonyms for bughouse chess in various parts of the world. + +Annoy: attempting to bother your opponent by projected a painful stream of +babble across his or her screen; as in "I'm being annoyified!" + +The above should at least ensure that you aren't completely confused when you +start bughouse and your opponents start kibitzing at you. Now we move on to +general strategy, followed by opening theory. + +Advanced Strategy +----------------- + + The above tips will get you started. Here are some advanced tips on +bughouse strategy. + +Holes: + + AVOID leaving any holes in your position. In real chess, it may take a while +for your opponent to maneuver a good piece to occupy a hole. In bughouse, any +hole can be occupied immediately. This rule basically makes fianchettoing out +of the question for either side, as fianchettos can be easily occupied with +pawns. For example after 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Nf6 white can place a pawn on h6 +already, followed by another on g7 and then white can start shouting "Inject!" + The main difference regarding holes in bughouse is that you also have to +avoid leaving holes on your SECOND rank. The main effect of this is to +eliminate the Sicilian and Queens Gambit from bughouse, as both openings leave +holes on the c-file. For example, after 1.e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Nb5 a6 white +can place a pawn on c7 and win blacks queen already! This applies to the f- +file as well. A sample game once went 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 Ne4 3.h4 d5 4.f3?? and +black placed a pawn on f2 with mate! + Reinfeld said it best: in bughouse, never move any pawns except the e and d +pawns. (Well, maybe he didn't say it about bughouse!) + +Initiative: + + This is the key concept of bughouse. A common saying is "As long as he's in +check, I'm winning". Often, new bughouse players are lured by the prospect of +winning material instead of continuing attack. While this may help your +partner in the short run, you and your partner will both be more comfortable +if you are attacking. The best way to attack is through checks that have to +be met with a King move. To accomplish this, checks should either be done +with knights (which cant be blocked) or with "contact" checks (placing a piece +within one square of the king). + Once attacking, communication with your partner becomes crucial. You must +tell him which pieces you need to finish your opponent off, and often, it is a +good idea to warn your partner that you are about to begin sacrificing pieces +to ensure that he is not under attack first. On occasion, your attack leads +to your partner getting mated! + +Teamwork: + + This is one you dont see in real chess. However in bughouse, without +teamwork you will be cooked. Use the FICS command "ptell" to tell your partner +details of your position. Even if you have nothing specific to say, letting +your partner know if you are rock or injected can help him or her make +decisions about what to do. Clock information is also quite good to tell your +partner. This is as a result of another key bughouse technique: the stall. + +The Stall: + + In bughouse, you often need a certain piece to mate with. It is perfectly +acceptable to wait and hope your partner gets it to you. However, stalling +occurs more commonly when you are being mated by force. You realize that if +you move, you are mated in one. Therefore, you simply decide not to move and +let your partner try to win the game. Naturally, for this to work, you must +have more time than your partner's opponent, or he will also refuse to move +and you will flag first. + Another element of stalling is if you know your opponent needs a certain +piece to mate you, and your partner tells you that it will come to your +opponent next move. It is good strategy to tell your partner not to move +until your opponent moves, so that your opponent will be forced to move +without that piece. Again, unless your partner has more time than your +opponent, this will not work, as your partner will flag. + Please note that there is currently a bug in timeseal that affects bughouse: +you cannot flag someone with timeseal until they move, so theoretically, they +can stall forever and not be flagged. "Sealsitting" is unethical and +frustrating. If you have timeseal and are trying to stall, once you are out +of time, the accepted practice is to move or resign. Not doing so will cause +a great deal of ill will. However, it is not currently considered abuse. + +Piece Values: + + Most serious chess players are familiar with the Piece Value Table: Q=9, +R=5, B and N=3, P=1. In bughouse however, the values are completely different. +While there is no general consensus on bughouse values, here is an +approximation. + + Q=10, N=7, R=4, B=2, P=1 + +The knight and queen rule the bughouse chessboard. The queen often can be +placed into a position with mate. The knight is useful as well because it can +check from a distance and not be blocked. Many bughouse mating attacks begin +with a sacrifice on KB7 followed by a knight check. For example, after 1.e4 +e5 2.d4 exd4 3.Nf3 Nc6 4.Bc4 Bc5 5.Bxf7+ Kxf7 6.Ng5+ all white needs is a +queen for f7 and black will get mated. The bishops value is seriously +diminished, as it often performs no better than a pawn, and sometimes not even +as well. The pawns promotion abilities may in some positions be worth +significantly more than a bishop. + +White/Black: + + The general strategy of bughouse is for the partner with white to go for +mate, and the partner with black to try to hold it together. Black attempts +to exchange pieces to reduce his opponents attack, while strengthening his +partner's. White therefore, attempts to keep pieces on the board to ensure +attacking chances. Often in bughouse, space advantages built on pawns can +reach epic proportions for white, so black would rather have fewer pieces to +try and rearrange in the face of oncoming pawns. + +These rules are obviously meant to be general. However, understanding and +utilizing them will help you play much better bughouse chess! + +Opening Theory: + + Yes, sadly bughouse has some opening theory. However, most of it is very +short, as new pieces appearing on the board begin to mess up opening +plans! Mainly, there are two or three defenses black can try, and white +generally attacks in one or two ways in response. + + White -- White generally positions his pieces to attack the kingside, and +especially the square f7. This may involve Bc4, Ng5, Ne5 or any similar +methods. A common development scheme used is e4, d4, Bc4, Be3, Nf3, Nbd2, +Qe2, known by some as the "Mongolian Attack". Please notice that white does +not castle in this line. In fact, castling is generally bad in bughouse. It +restrains your king to one side of the board, thus restricting it's ability to +escape from enemy pieces. This rule also applies to black. White may also +play for massive central pawn advances, attempting black to either open the +position so that white can attack, or force black to lock the pawn chain in +the center so that white can build a long pawn chain into the center and into +blacks position. This would work best against a fianchetto. For example, 1.e4 +g6 2.d4 Bg7 3.e5 and white attempts to place pawns on f6, g7 and inject black +badly. + + Black -- I have seen several defenses for black. I will list them by the +names I have seen them referred to on FICS, although serious bughouse +players may know them by other names in real life. + + Federkevic defense: 1.e4 e6 2.d4 b6 -- Black attempts to keep his pieces out +of the center, where they may be rolled back by white pawns. He also leaves +the dpawn on d7, where it may support e6, preventing sacrifices. The drawback +is that black may get injected along the queenside light squares. + + Barbeau Counter Attack: 1.e4 e6 2.d4 Qh4 -- Black pressures e4 and attempts +to force white to adopt an awkward development to protect the e4 pawn. For +example, after 2.Nc3, 2...Bb4! exchanges a bishop for a knight. The drawback +is that white often munches blacks queen in the opening. + + Fortress Defense: 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d6 - Black attempts to simply huddle in the +center behind a wall of pieces and pawns. By far the most common bughouse +opening. The drawback is that black will be cramped, but black is always +cramped in bughouse, so this is probably your best bet! + +Conclusion +---------- + + Bughouse is much more informal than regular chess and all four players +generally kibitz about both games while they are on. Oftentimes, observers +watch and kibitz along with the games. However, come into channel 24 and see +for yourself. A good way to see some of the principles above put into action +is to ask in channel 24 if anyone is playing, and then watch their games. +Only then will you get a sense of what fun bughouse is! Happy bugging! + +[Strategy written by IanO; Advanced strategy written by dogdog; editted by +Friar -- December 17, 1995] diff --git a/data/help/busy b/data/help/busy new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7f5ecd5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/busy @@ -0,0 +1,27 @@ + +busy + +Usage: set busy string + + Sets your "busy" string. When your busy string is set and people "tell" +something to you, they will get your busy string as a response. Your busy +string (if on) will also be displayed right below your name when someone +"fingers" you. NOTE: Your busy string can be no longer that 45 characters. + +Examples of busy strings you might use are: + set busy is really busy right now. + set busy will be back in 5 minutes. + set busy will be idle for a while... + + Typing any command cancels your "busy" status; you don't have to clear it +yourself. + + It is useful to use an alias for your busy string, if you intend to use it +frequently. For example: + alias idle set busy is away from the keyboard right now +would set your busy string to "is away from the keyboard right now". + +See also: alias finger set tell + +[Last modified: October 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/censor b/data/help/censor new file mode 100644 index 0000000..af758b0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/censor @@ -0,0 +1,21 @@ + +censor + +Usage: +|-|= censor [user] + + When a player is on your censor list, you will not hear anything from +him/her when he/she tells, shouts, matches, kibitzes, whispers and says. When +users on your censor list send you a direct message using "tell", they will be +notified of their being on your censor list. Here are the variations of the +command possible: + + +censor user Add "user" to censor list + -censor user Remove "user" from censor list + =censor Display your censor list + + Note that "noplay" only filters match requests, not other communications. + +See Also: addlist kibitz noplay say shout tell whisper + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/chan_1 b/data/help/chan_1 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..58de222 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/chan_1 @@ -0,0 +1,35 @@ + +chan_1 + + Channel 1 is the server help channel. Admins and other helpful, +knowledgeable users monitor channel 1 and are ready to assist you. (Use chan +2 for a discussion about server issues.) + + If you need assistance about something but don't know whom to contact, ask +your question on channel 1. Here's the procedure: + +(1) Type the following lines: + + +chan 1 [this will turn channel 1 on for you] + tell 1 Can someone help me? [this sends the message to channel 1] + +(2) Watch your screen for someone asking you what help you need. You may be +contacted directly (in a personal tell) or through channel 1 itself (so +everyone can listen to to the discussion and help out). + +(3) If you want to continue talking on channel 1, type: + + tell 1 <message> [everyone on channel 1 will hear you] + +(4) When you are done, you can either stay on channel 1, in order to help +others and/or learn from their questions, or turn off channel 1 by typing: + + -chan 1 [this will set channel 1 to off for you] + +To see who is listening to channel 1 at any given moment, type "inch 1". A +list will appear. + +See Also: adm_info channel channel_list inchannel intro_talking tell + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/channel b/data/help/channel new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c80e7c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/channel @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ + +channel + +Usage: +|-|= channel [#] + + This command refers to your list of channels. When a channel is on your +list, you will receive messages (tells) sent to that channel. Here are the +forms of the command: + + +channel # Add channel # to your channel list + -channel # Remove channel # from your channel list + =channel Display your channel list + + In order too see which channels another user has on his/her list, use the +"inchannel" command. + + Some channels are designated for specific purposes and/or topics. Channel 1 +is the general help channel and of special importance to users. The "chan_1" +help file has more details about the use of channel 1 and gives the general +procedure for using a channel. Other designated channels are listed in the +"channel_list" help file. + +See Also: chan_1 channel_list inchannel say tell + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/channel_list b/data/help/channel_list new file mode 100644 index 0000000..142b31d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/channel_list @@ -0,0 +1,41 @@ + +channel_list + + Here is the listing of currently defined channels on the server: + + 0 Admins Only 2 Chess server discussion + 1 General Help 3 FICS Programmers' Channel + + 8 Youth Channel 18 The Gambit Channel + 20 Forming Team games 21,22 Playing team games + 23 Forming Simuls 46 Forming tournaments (Tomato) + 24 Forming Bughouse games 47 Tomato managers + 25 Finding bughouse partners 49 Mamer tournament channel + + 32 Movies 35 Music + 33 Quacking & Other Duck Topics 36 Mathematics & Physics + 34 Sports 37 Philosophy + + 50 General Unlimited Gab 51 The Hormone Channel + + 60 Chess Theory 64 Computer Chess + 65 World Chess Championship + + 69 Latin 75 Russian + 70 Danish 76 Dutch + 71 Scandinavian 77 French + 72 German 78 Greek + 73 Spanish 79 Icelandic + 74 Italian 80 Chinese + + 84 Macintosh Channel + + 90 The STC BUNCH (Players who like 30- to 120-minute Time Controls.) + 97 Politics Channel + 98 Zippy the Pinhead's Own Channel + 99 `The Street Corner Where Nothing Happens' + +See Also: chan_1 channel inchannel say tell + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/clearmessages b/data/help/clearmessages new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f05ee24 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/clearmessages @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ + +clearmessages + +Usage: clearmessages [user,#] + + Clears any message(s) previously messaged to you. You can clear all +messages from a user, clear a single message by its number, or clear all +messages. Examples: + + (i) clearmessages Bach --- will clear all messages from user Bach + + (ii) clear 11 --- will clear message # 11 + + (iii) clear --- will clear all messages + +NOTE: If you clear one or more messages, the messages will be renumbered, so +becareful using "clear #" consecutively. + +See Also: messages + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/cls b/data/help/cls new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2ff59e6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/cls @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +[H[2J diff --git a/data/help/cls_info b/data/help/cls_info new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dca471d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/cls_info @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +cls_info + + Typing "help cls" will clear your screen and set the cursor at the top. The +alias for "help cls" is now "cls". This command may be useful if you need to +clear your screen suddenly for some reason (like the boss walking in on you +unexpectedly). Server messages will soon appear again, however. + +See Also: + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/commands b/data/help/commands new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5e8df80 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/commands @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ +abort examine mailmess quit stored +accept finger mailmoves rank style +addlist flag mailoldmoves refresh sublist +adjourn flip mailsource resign switch +alias forward mailstored revert takeback +allobservers games match say tell +assess goboard messages set time +backward gonum mexamine shout unalias +bell handles moretime simabort uncensor +best hbest moves simadjourn unexamine +boards help news simallabort unobserve +censor history next simalladjourn unpause +channel hrank notify simgames uptime +clearmessages inchannel observe simmatch variables +cls_info index oldmoves simnext whisper +cshout it open simopen who +date kibitz password simpass withdraw +decline llogons pause smoves xtell +draw logons pending sposition znotify +eco mailhelp promote statistics diff --git a/data/help/computers b/data/help/computers new file mode 100644 index 0000000..39c5802 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/computers @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +computers + + Computers may register and play chess matches. However, computers are +required to be registered so that users can know whether they are playing +against humans or computers. (Using an unregistered computer is considered to +be abusive behavior; see etiquette). In order to register a computer, +contact an admin or use the correct format in the email registration +procedure. To see a list of computers registered on the server, type +"=computer". Computers are designated on "who" lists by (C). + +See Also: admin etiquette register who + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/convert_bcf b/data/help/convert_bcf new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c067c1a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/convert_bcf @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ + +convert_bcf + +Usage: convert_bcf # + + This command will convert a BCF rating into ELO and USCF ratings. All three +values will be displayed to you. The conversion formulas are: + USCF = ELO + 100 + BCF = (ELO - 600)/8 + + BCF ratings are the official ratings of the British Chess Federation. USCF +ratings are the official ratings of the United States Chess Federation. ELO +ratings often used in international competition. + + Server ratings are, of course, something entirely different. There is no +exact way at present to convert server ratings into equivalent official +ratings. For server rating information, see "rating" and "glicko". + +See Also: convert_elo convert_uscf glicko rating + +[Last modified: October 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/convert_elo b/data/help/convert_elo new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b08168a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/convert_elo @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ + +convert_elo + +Usage: convert_elo # + + This command will convert a ELO rating into BCF and USCF ratings. All three +values will be displayed to you. The conversion formulas are: + USCF = ELO + 100 + BCF = (ELO - 600)/8 + + BCF ratings are the official ratings of the British Chess Federation. USCF +ratings are the official ratings of the United States Chess Federation. ELO +ratings often used in international competition. + + Server ratings are, of course, something entirely different. There is no +exact way at present to convert server ratings into equivalent official +ratings. For server rating information, see "rating" and "glicko". + +See Also: convert_bcf convert_uscf glicko rating + +[Last modified: October 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/convert_uscf b/data/help/convert_uscf new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b393858 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/convert_uscf @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ + +convert_uscf + +Usage: convert_uscf # + + This command will convert a USCF rating into BCF and ELO ratings. All three +values will be displayed to you. The conversion formulas are: + USCF = ELO + 100 + BCF = (ELO - 600)/8 + + BCF ratings are the official ratings of the British Chess Federation. USCF +ratings are the official ratings of the United States Chess Federation. ELO +ratings often used in international competition. + + Server ratings are, of course, something entirely different. There is no +exact way at present to convert server ratings into equivalent official +ratings. For server rating information, see "rating" and "glicko". + +See Also: convert_bcf convert_elo glicko rating + +[Last modified: October 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/courtesyabort b/data/help/courtesyabort new file mode 100644 index 0000000..42b4071 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/courtesyabort @@ -0,0 +1,10 @@ +Usage: courtesyabort
+
+ If your opponent's flag has hit zero, this is a one-sided abort
+command. It is intended to abort the game if your opponent has gone
+net-dead or has terrible lag. It is considered good sportsmanship
+to do this rather than claim a win on time when your opponent doesn't
+have a fighting chance.
+
+See Also: flag
+
\ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/help/credit b/data/help/credit new file mode 100644 index 0000000..21dfe5b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/credit @@ -0,0 +1,10 @@ +Credit: + + Michael Moore - Progenitor of the chess server idea and author of + the original server. Without him, the chess server + might not exist. + + Richard Nash - Original author of FICS. + + Daniel Sleator - Author of much of original ICS and responsible for many + ideas that make this chess server as popular as it is. diff --git a/data/help/cshout b/data/help/cshout new file mode 100644 index 0000000..276db82 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/cshout @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +cshout + +Usage: cshout message +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + This command send a message to all users who are open to hear cshouts. You, +as the sender, will see displayed the number of users who heard your message. + + NOTE: "Cshout" should be used ONLY for chess-related messages, such as +questions about chess or announcing being open for certain kinds of chess +matches. Use "shout" for non-chess messages. + +See Also: censor it shout tell variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/date b/data/help/date new file mode 100644 index 0000000..826ff5b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/date @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +date + +Usage: date + + Shows the date and time at the server location as well as Greenwich, England +(GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, a benchmark for converting times from one +time zone to another). + +See Also: + +[Last modified: September 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/decline b/data/help/decline new file mode 100644 index 0000000..82bbd45 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/decline @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ + +decline + +Usage: decline [1-n, all, abort, adjourn, draw, match, pause, player, simul, +switch, takeback] + + Decline an offer that has been made to you. If no parameter is given and +there is only one offer, you decline it. If there is more than one offer (for +example multiple match offers), then you must specify which offer you want to +decline. You can decline offers in several ways: by number, by type, all +offers, or by the player's name making the offer. For example, the command +"decline match" will decline all pending match offers you have been given. +The command "decline Shane" will decline the offer made by Shane. + +See Also: abort accept adjourn draw match pause pending simul switch +takeback + +[Last modified: June 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/draw b/data/help/draw new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0974e0b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/draw @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ + +draw + +Usage: draw + + Requests a draw from your opponent. A draw means that you neither win nor +lose your chess match -- the game will be a tie. Ratings are affected, +however, unless it was an unrated match. + + If your opponent had offered you a draw, then the command draw (or accept) +would accept the draw offer. To decline a draw offer, either use the decline +command or make a move instead. + + This command also claims a draw in the case of the 50 move rule or +3 times repetition. In the case of a draw being requested, the chess server +will check for these conditions. If one of them is present, the game will be +drawn even without the opponent accepting the draw. + +See also: accept decline + +[Last modified: June 11, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/eco b/data/help/eco new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dd6f37a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/eco @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ + +eco + +Usage: eco [game, name] + + This command displays the category of the opening being played in the game +requested, whether a game being played or examined. + + eco gives information about the game you are playing + eco 2 gives information about game 2 + eco hawk gives information about the game hawk is playing + + The display includes several kinds of information about the opening being +played in the game: + + ECO[ ##] Encyclopedia of Chess Openings classification + NIC[ ##] New In Chess classification + LONG[ ##] Name of opening + +The number in the [] is the ## halfmoves used for classifying this game's +opening according to the data base being used. + + ECO information is also given in a user's "history" display. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) If a game was 'private' (meaning that no one could observe it), the eco +category is not given in the history table. + +See Also: history private + +[Last modified: October 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/eggo b/data/help/eggo new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1e99cc5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/eggo @@ -0,0 +1,139 @@ + +EGGO + + EGGO stands for "Examine Great Games Online". EGGO is an online database +program that facilitates examining and analyzing great games from players such +as Fischer, Kasparov, and Karpov. Basically, EGGO allows you to examine a +game except that the moves come from EGGO's database, not the chess server. +Currently, EGGO's database contains about 15000 to 20000 games. Type "finger +EGGO" for more information. + + In order to use EGGO, send EGGO a command; EGGO then processes the command +and returns the output to you. See below for a list of commands and their +descriptions. + + EGGO can have only one primary user at a time, meaning only one person at a +time can select the games to be examined. However, once a game has been +loaded for examination, other users can paticipate in examining and analyzing +the game using the "mexamine" and "observe" features of the chess server. + + +STARTING EGGO + + First step, type "observe EGGO". Second step, type "xtell EGGO begin". If +no other game is being examined, EGGO will make you the examiner -- you will +then be able to examine a game from EGGO's library. Otherwise, someone else +is listed as EGGO's main examiner and you will only be able to examine that +game for the moment. If you want someone else to help examine a game with +you, use the "mexamine" command. When you are finished examining one game and +want to examine another, simply use the examine command. Lastly, use the +unexamine command in order to leave EGGO. + + +EGGO'S COMMANDS (list): +----------------------- + + about examine help revert status + begin forward more search who + + +EGGO'S COMMANDS (descriptions): +------------------------------- + + ABOUT + + Usage: xtell eggo about + + If someone is already examining an EGGO's game, this command will display + information about the game being examined. This command is also useful + for knowing EGGO's status. Anyone can use this command. + + BEGIN + + Usage: xtell eggo begin + + If EGGO is not busy, this command starts an EGGO session. If EGGO was + already in use, this command will have no effect. + + EXAMINE + + Usage: xtell eggo examine # + + You may use this command after a successful "xtell eggo search" command. + For example, "xtell eggo examine 1" will begin examination of game #1 from + the search output. You can repeat this command for other games from the + search output when you are finished examining your current game. That is, + you can type "xtell eggo examine #" for the next game; you do not need to + "unexamine" the other game first. (Please do not confuse this use of + examine with the normal "examine" command.) + + FORWARD + + Usage: xtell eggo forward [n] + + When you are already examining an EGGO's game, you can go forward 1 or + more moves using "xtell EGGO forward [n]". The default value for 'n' + is 1. Currently, you cannot go forward more than 20 moves at one time. + + MORE + + Usage: xtell eggo more + + This command allows you view the results of your search command. It will + list the next 20 games in the list (if there are any). You must be EGGO's + current user to use this command. + + REVERT + + Usage: xtell eggo revert + + After making your own moves when examining an EGGO's game, you can go back + to your game's mainline by "xtell eggo revert". (Please do not confuse + this command with the normal "revert" command.) + + SEARCH + + Usage: xtell eggo search [player1 {player2} {draw|nodraw}] + + You may use this command after a successful "xtell EGGO begin". The + purpose of this command is to search the EGGO game database for games by + particular players. "Player1" must be one of the names EGGO recognizes; + use the "xtell EGGO who" command to see which names EGGO knows. You can + use "draw" and "nodraw" to select a game with a particular result; they + are optional. + + "Search" alone without arguments will list the results of your previous + search. Here are other examples: + xtell eggo search Capablanca + xtell eggo search Fischer nodraw + xtell eggo search Fischer Spassky + xtell eggo search Kasparov Karpov nodraw + You can view the results of the search with "xtell EGGO more". + + STATUS + + Usage: xtell eggo status + + This command will display information about EGGO's current status, such as + whether EGGO is open or closed, and which game (if any) is being examined. + + WHO + + Usage: xtell eggo who + + This command will list all of the "primary" players known to EGGO. These + primary players are used in EGGO's search command. Anyone can use this + command whether they are EGGO's current user or not. + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Since many of the EGGO commands are long, you might want to consider +creating aliases for the commands you will use a lot (such as "xtell EGGO +forward"). Suitable aliases will save you a lot of time as you play through +these games from famous players. + +See Also: alias examine mexamine + +[Written by Warrior August 18, 1995; last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/etiquette b/data/help/etiquette new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c0619cc --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/etiquette @@ -0,0 +1,71 @@ + +etiquette + + The goal of FICS is to provide a friendly means for chess enthusiasts to +play chess games and discuss topics of interest. In order to promote a +friendly atmosphere, FICS follows simple guidelines and rules of etiquette. +FICS admins have the authority to warn and (if necessary) sanction users who +do not follow these guidelines. + + +COMMUNICATIONS + + Please use the various ways of communicating on this server for their +intended purpose: to foster chess fellowship and companionship. + + Users should refrain from making any statements or engaging in any conduct +that could be considered abusive, harrassing, offensive or obscene, especially +with regard to nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation. + + Please avoid having differences of opinion escalate into personal +confrontations and attacks. Refrain from namecalling and disparaging a user's +character. + + It is good etiquette to have lengthy discussions about a topic or issue +using channels rather than shouts. Special topics channels have been created +for this purpose (the "channel_list" help file lists them). There may be +times when you are asked to move your discussion to a channel. + + Further examples of abusive communication are given in the "shout_abuse" +help file. + + +CHESS COMPETITION + + Users should refrain from conduct that ruins the spirit of competition on +the server. Such misconduct includes: + + (a) intentionally disconnecting in order to avoid losing a chess match + -or- to analyze the game and resume playing it later; + (b) intentionally losing a chess match in order to inflate another user's + rating; + (c) using a chess computer to play a match without having the account + registered as a computer; + (d) registering as a "blindfold" account but using a board while playing + (blindfold accounts must use style 9, by the way); + (e) letting other people play rated matches using your registered account; + (f) giving assistance to a player while he/she is playing a match; + (g) receiving assistance from a person, book or computer while you are + playing a match; + (h) engaging in conduct that interferes with a chess match or a player's + being able to concentrate on his/her chess match; + (i) intentionally letting your clock run out of time during a chess match + rather than resigning or moving in a lost position. + + +PROBLEM SITUATIONS + + Many users have finger notes that explain how they will handle certain +situations, such as lag and takeback. The issue of transmission lag often +comes up for discussion. As noted in the "lag" help file, it is not unethical +to flag your opponent when he/she runs out of time. + + If you suspect that a user is abusing his/her communication privileges +and/or not following the spirit of competition, feel free to contact an admin +with details concerning the situation. + +See Also: abuser admins blindfold channel channel_list computers handle +intro_playing intro_talking lag shout_abuse + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/examine b/data/help/examine new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0b6a289 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/examine @@ -0,0 +1,94 @@ + +examine + +Usage: examine [player1 [player2, game_number] + + This command starts a game in the examine mode where you, as the examiner, +can move the pieces for both white and black, take moves back and analyze side +variations. You can examine a new game from scratch, a stored (adjourned) +game, a finished game from "history" or a game in someone's "journal". + + +STARTING EXAMINE MODE + + There are four ways to begin an examine session: + + 1) New Game from Scratch -- "Examine" used alone without any player names + begins examine mode for a new game and, in essence, you will be playing + yourself. Typing "match your_handle" is also a way to enter examine mode + for a new game. + + 2) Stored Games (adjourned) -- "Examine player1" will examine your stored + game against player1 (if one exists). "Examine white_player + black_player" will examine the stored game (adjourned) between the two + players. Example: "examine dav thedane". + + 3) Completed Game from History -- "Examine player1 game_number" will examine + that game from player1's "history". Example: "examine theviking 45". + + 4) Game from a Journal -- "Examine player1 game_slot" will examine that game + from player1's "journal" (unless the journal is private, namely + "jprivate" variable has been set to non-zero). Example: "examine sms B". + + +EXAMINE MODE + + No matter how you start the examine functions, the game will be played from +the starting position, not the last, stored position. + + While in examine mode, you can move the pieces in order to set up a position +and/or analyze side variations. There are three special commands you can use +when examining a stored game: + + forward [#] goes forward # moves (default n=1) + + backward [#] goes backward # moves (default n=1) + + revert goes back to the main variation (the last branch) + +For new games, only "backward" works; the other commands have no affect since +there is no main line stored. Therefore, once you go backward, you will need +to move the pieces again in order to move forward. + + Lastly, the command "unexamine" leaves the examine mode and ends your +analysis of the game. + + +GROUP EXAMINE + + Other users can also examine the game you are reviewing. But must you +decide who these other examiners are. Here are the steps involved: + + (1) The other examiner must first "observe" your game. + + (2) You, as the main examiner, must type "mexamine <user>" in order to give + "user" access to the examine mode. + + As long as there is at least one designated examiner of a game, the analysis +can continue even when the first examiner who started the examine session +leaves. + + In order to communicate with another examiner of the game, it is best to use +the "kibitz" command. If you use "whisper", the game's observers but not +examiners will hear your message. + + +SPECIAL NOTES + +(1) Players examining games have a # next to their handles in the (short) +"who" display, and examined games are listed in both the "games" and +"allobservers" displays. + +(2) "Unexamine" stops your participation in the analysis, and also stops your +observer status. Other examiners of the game may continue, however, even if +you started the examine session initially. + +(3) Clock times displayed are unimportant, of course, since time is not a +factor when analyzing games. + + +See Also: allobservers backward forward games history kibitz journal +match mexamine observe stored unexamine variables whisper who + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/fics_lingo b/data/help/fics_lingo new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5cca039 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/fics_lingo @@ -0,0 +1,66 @@ + +fics_lingo + + Many users on this server use special words and phrases (slang, jargon, +lingo). Here is an explanation of the more common terms and abbreviations. + + +Admin -- Server administrator or sys-op (systems operator). + +ATM -- At the moment. + +BIAS -- Back in a second. (similar to brb) + +BRB -- I'll be right back. Person is about to go idle or log off for a few + minutes or so. + +Censor -- Whoever is censored by you can't talk to or match you. You won't + see their shouts either. + +Filter -- Sites that are filtered cannot have unreg logins from them. + +Finger (someone) -- A command used to learn about another user. Also refers + to one's notes or "plan". Thus, "finger me" is not meant + to be rude. :) + +Handle -- Your server name (nickname). + +IAM -- In a minute. + +IMHO -- In my humble opinion. + +IMO -- In my opinion. + +Isbjoern -- Polar bear. A weird concept invented by that master of + creativity, TheDane. If someone says this, everyone is meant to + repeat it. (It is used to mean greetings.) However don't take + this literaly, else the server would really slow down. :) + +Lag -- Transmission delay, when either the server or the internet slows down. + +Match (someone) -- Start a game with someone. + +Muzzle -- Loss of shouting privileges. You also can't kibitz. + +Notes -- Same as "plan" or "finger" notes. + +Plan -- The notes you get when you type "finger". + +ROTFL -- Rolls on the floor laughing. + +Thumpa -- Greetings! + +wrok -- Work [work is a forbidden word :) ] + +Wuah -- Greetings! The word muah can also be used with it, e.g., wuah muah! + +Unreg -- Unregistered user (doesn't have an account here ... yet). + +:) :) :) :) :) :)'s at the wonderful wonderful world :) -- This shout dates +back to the 'Court of Queen Eyre' on the old ICS. We think it meant "hi +everyone". + +See Also: [the individual commands and help files] + +[Last modified: September 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/ficsfaq b/data/help/ficsfaq new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fafb2cd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/ficsfaq @@ -0,0 +1,170 @@ + +FICSFAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) + + The admins at this site can be very busy so, if you find a bug or have +questions, read this file first: + +1> How do I register? + Read the "register" help file -- "help register". + +2> What is network vs local? + It has to do with distributed ratings -- contact an admin if you get this + one. + +3> Can I have more than one account? + Only if for blindfold/computer/admin/team reasons. + +4> Can I register more than one computer? + Yes. + +5> Can I have more than one person using my email? + Yes. + +6> Can more than one person share an account for team games? + Yes, WEENIES is an example. + +7> Can I be an admin? + Read the "admin_new" help file -- "help admin_new". + +8> Can I help with programming? + Ask Sparky or one of the senior programmers. + +9> Who's programming? + See the listing in the "adm_info" help file -- "help adm_info". Or also + read the current listing in the "=programmer" file. + +10> Where else can I play FREE chess? + There are many sites. See the "addresses" help file -- "help addresses". + +11> Where do I get an interface from? + You need to ftp to ics.onenet.net using anonymous ftp, and look for the + pub/chess directory. There are several interefaces based on your + operating system. Read the help files for "interfaces" and "ftp_hints". + +12> Where can I get the latest code from? + pub/chess/Unix on ftp ics.onenet.net (use anonynous ftp) + help files are in the oldest version FICS.tar.gz + +13> I don't like admin x. Admin y is treating me badly. + Contact Sparky. + +14> Some ICC admins have come for a peek. What gives? + a) Sometimes people pretend to be them. + b) Do not abuse them if they log on. + c) Our code is GNU - they can use our ideas and code on ICC if they + want. Remember who wrote it first. + +15> What is ICC? + Don't ask -- no free advertising -- you pay $49 for chess there. :) + +16> Can I shout about ICC? + Yes, sure. Given a choice to pay $49 or $0. I'd take the $0. + +17> Should I advertise FICS? + Yes do so. Watch you don't get nuked on ICC, though. Do help ads there. + Remember, Burger King burgers are free. :) + +18> I can't shout! + Are you unreg or have you been muzzled? + +19> I can't play rated. + Have both of you set rated 1? + Have you got the network vs local bug? + +20> How do I use the -->name thing I see displayed? + Use "it" "i" or ":" followed by a message. See the "intro_talking" help + file -- "help intro_talking". + +21> The Hormone channel(51) has been reinstated I notice. + Yes, but cleanish language only. This is a family server. Don't say + something you wouldn't say in front of someone's kids. But maybe you + would :) + +22> The board is the wrong way up: + Problem "flip" in style 12 -- old ZIICS and SLICS are affected. + +23> Can't promote (xboard). + Try e7e8 for a queen. + +24> How do I continue a game that was adjourned? + Simply "match" the player again, and it will resume the game if the + player accepts. Adjourned games are completed with that player before + new ones can begin. + +25> I can't castle after king takeback. + We know. + +26> I can castle through check. + This has been observed once. + +27> Takeback gives wrong lastmove info. + A bug. + +28> Simuls don't work. + They were broken once; they should be okay now. + +29> My rating is over/under inflated + There may be a bug somewhere. + +30> +alias/+censor etc. don't work. + Try alias/unalias and censor/uncensor for now. + +31> I've got an old account here, I can't remember my password. + Ask an admin for help -- be ready to verify your email address and real + human name. + +34> Stats gives silly information. + We know. + +35> Is there any wild? + Yes ... and rated, too. Read the "wild" help file -- "help wild". + +36> Zippy won't shut up, too many shouts. + Use censor [name]. + +37> How many channels can I be in? + Type "limits" for the current limits. You cannot have unlimited channels + because of the space in the user files. Type "help channel" for + predefined channels. + +39> The "who" listing appears staggered. + Fixed soon. Also, make sure you have the correct "highlight" thaat you + want. + +40> How do I withdraw a match request? + Type "withdraw". + +41> I'm getting lag -- what can I do? + Either Ctrl C to escape or use adjourn. + Otherwise get your opponent to do "moretime #" where # <= 600 seconds. + Or try a version of timeseal. + +42> I suddenly got a Connection closed message. + There are several possibilities: 1) System shutdown. 2) Server crash -- + please bear with us as we add new code. 3) The server dumped you for + some reason -- contact an admin and/or report a bug. 4) You got nuked -- + disconnected by an admin (there should be a message to you in this case). + +43> How long do shutdowns last and why? + About 30 seconds. + Sometimes we need to add new code or fix bugs -- please bear with us. + +44> I get unprintable characters / delete don't work. + Being fixed. + +45> How do I get further help? + Follow these steps: + (a) Type "+chan 1" + (b) Type "tell 1 help me please!" + (c) Type " tell 1 <other messages>". + When you are done, you can type "-chan 1" to exit this channel. + +46> How do I pause a long file from scrolling? + Use ctrl q and ctrl s -- or use your scroll bar. + Also, "set height ##" fixes how many lines will be displayed at a time. + + +See Also: [the various help files] + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/finger b/data/help/finger new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0e06ec7 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/finger @@ -0,0 +1,54 @@ + +finger + +Usage: finger [user] + + Displays information about the given user. If no user is given, then +your information is displayed. Here is a sample display: + +|----------------------------------------------------------------------| + Statistics for Aquinas On for: 55 Idle: 0 + (examining game 9: Plato vs. Aristotle) + + rating RD win loss draw total best + Blitz 1910 75.3 28 10 2 40 1936 (01-Jun-95) + Standard 1838 92.3 13 6 1 20 1838 (03-Jun-95) + Lightning ---- 350.0 0 0 0 0 + Wild 1876 94.3 15 10 0 25 1903 (05-Jun-95) + + Timeseal: ON + + 1: <text> + 2: <text> +|----------------------------------------------------------------------| + + The user's ratings for each type of chess are displayed, along with the +Glicko RD (or index of ratings variability), the total results from games +played, and the best or highest rating for each type. You can also tell (1) +whether the user is (1) currently logged on and, if so, for how long and +whether his/she is idle, (2) playing, observing or examining a game and, if +so, which game it is, and (3) currently running a version of timeseal or not. +Beneath the ratings are note lines (a user's "plan" or "notes") the user can +add using the set command. + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Your e-mail address is automatically displayed to you beneath your ratings +table; it is NOT displayed to other users -- unless of course you include your +address as part of your finger notes. + +(b) Best ratings and dates are only given *after* you have played 20 games of +a given type. + +(c) If a user has not played rated games of a given type, the rating will be +indicated as ---- and the RD will be 350.0. + +(d) If a user is not logged on, the display will indicate when he/she last +disconnected and the timeseal section will not appear. + +See Also: busy examine glicko notes observe ratings set timeseal +variables + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/fixes b/data/help/fixes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3da06ee --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/fixes @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ +Things I've worked on: (foxbat) + +ratings.c 3.10.95 - if 2 0 rated players play a rated game, Rb_S can go + negative, which is bad for the sqrt function. added + a filter to stop this. Also the pow(x,y) funtion + expects floating point args, so changed 10 to 10.0 + +ratings.c 3.11.95 - added code to increment the number of games played and + Rb_total/Rs_total's in the rating_update function. + +comproc.c 3.11.95 - in com_match, added filters so the 'rated' variables + must match before a match request is issued. + +gamedb.c 3.12.95 - if a rated game was drawn, the 'Winner' column in hist + and was showing whoever was white, so I changed these 2 +gameproc.c files to show that it was 'Drawn'. also limited the + character length of names in history to 9. + diff --git a/data/help/flag b/data/help/flag new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b74fd0e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/flag @@ -0,0 +1,40 @@ + +flag + +Usage: flag + + This command asks the chess server to check the clock time for you and your +opponent. The effect of the command depends upon whether one or both of you +are out of time (chess clock reads zero or negative). + + (i) If your opponent has run out of time but you have time, then "flag" +will claim the win for you. + + (ii) If both you and your opponent are out of time, then "flag" will claim a +draw. + + (iii) If your opponent has time left, you will be given an error message by +the server when you use "flag". + + If your opponent appears to have lost his/her connection or hasn't responded +in a reasonable amount of time, he/she probably has a systems lag. Use the +command "abort" to end the game like a good sport and not have your opponent +lose the game through no fault of his/her own. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Some users have interface programs that automatically flag you when you +have run out of time. This practice is legal. If you find yourself losing +many games from being flagged when you have system lags or take longer to +think about moves, then consider using longer time controls. + +(b) If your opponent's clock reads zero (0:00) on your screen, it does not +*always* mean that your opponent has no time left for the game. The server +keeps the official times for both players. These times are re-sent after each +move. Transmission lag or using timeseal may cause the official time to be +different than the times shown on your screen. + +See Also: abort draw lag timeseal + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/flip b/data/help/flip new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eced6c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/flip @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +flip + +Usage: flip + + "Flip" toggles the 'flip' variable on and off. When 'flip' is on it causes +the board display to be reversed -- either from White at bottom to Black at +bottom, or vice versa. Changing your flip setting may be especially useful +when observing games or playing team games. Using this command is equivalent +to "set flip on"/"set flip off". Because the 'flip' variable is affected, +changes in 'flip' are permanent until you re-set it. + +See Also: variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/formula b/data/help/formula new file mode 100644 index 0000000..815cac4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/formula @@ -0,0 +1,179 @@ + +formula + +Usage: set formula <formula-expression> + + +SUMMARY + + The formula variable filters out match requests. If you have a formula set, +then any match request not satisfying your formula is automatically declined; +you will be notified that the offer was made and rejected by your formula. If +you make an offer that fails a player's formula, you will be given this +feedback. A user's formula and f-variable settings are displayed using the +"variables" command. You disable (turn off) your formula by typing "set +formula". This will, in essence, erase your current formula setting. + + Here are some simple examples, with descriptions in [] brackets: + + blitz [match must be blitz] + !wild [match must be non-wild] + inc >= 10 [match must have an increment of 10 or higher] + + Create or modify a formula by using the "set" command. For example, "set +formula blitz". Special variables (f1-f9) can also be established using the +"set" command; these variables make it easier to modify your formula depending +upon your mood. + + +CREATING A FORMULA + + (1) Decide whether you will be changing your formula often. If so, think +about using f-variables to make these changes easier. + + (2) Decide exactly what kinds of filters you want to have, such as type of +game, time controls, and kinds of opponents. + + (3) Review the available formula operators and pre-defined variables (listed +below) to see which ones fit your needs. + + (4) Write out your formula and f-variables on paper to make sure that their +"logic" works. + + (5) Enter the logical expressions for the f-variables and formula using the +"set" command. + + Changing your f-variables and formula follows the same procedures. + + +FORMULA VARIABLES + + Several variables are allowed in formula settings. Some of these variables +hold numerical information while others are Boolean (true/false, 1/0). Here +is a list of allowed variables, where Boolean variables are denoted by "(B)": + + The following variables are allowed in formulas: + + Variable Description + ------------ --------------------------------------------------- + abuser 1 if opponent is on the abuser list; 0 otherwise (B) + assessdraw How many rating points you will gain/lose by drawing a + chess match + assessloss How many rating points you will lose by losing a chess + match + assesswin How many rating points you will gain by winning a chess + match + blitz 1 if match is blitz in type; 0 otherwise (B) + computer 1 if opponent is a computer; 0 otherwise (B) + inc Increment time for each player + lightning 1 if match is lightning in type; 0 otherwise (B) + maxtime(n) The maximum time n moves will take for BOTH players + (in seconds) [you must supply the 'n' value] + mymaxtime(n) The maximum time n moves will take YOU (in seconds) + [you must supply the 'n' value] + myrating Your rating + nonstandard 1 if the game will have different time controls for the + two players; 0 otherwise (B) + private 1 if game will be private; 0 otherwise (B) + rated 1 if game will be rated; 0 otherwise (B) + rating Opponent's rating + ratingdiff The difference between opponent's rating and your + rating [rating - myrating] + registered 1 if opponent is a registered user; 0 otherwise (B) + standard 1 if game will be standard in type; 0 otherwise (B) + timeseal 1 if opponent has timeseal; 0 otherwise (B) + time Start time for each player + untimed 1 if game will not involve the clock; 0 otherwise (B) + wild 1 if game will be wild in type; 0 otherwise (B) + + Also, the word "minutes" is allowed after a number that is not enclosed in +parentheses (but right now, you must use "1 minutes"; the singular is not +recognized). The word has the effect of multiplying the previous number by +60, thus turning minute-values into seconds-values -- important for the +maxtime and mymaxtime variables. For example, "2 minutes" would yield the +value of "120". + + +FORMULA OPERATORS + + The following formula operators are allowed; their order of precedence in +the calculations and evaluations is listed. Sometimes more than one set of +symbols leads to the same result. When functions in the formula have equal +precedence, the precedence is from left to right. + + Symbol Function Precedence + ------ ------------------------------- ---------- + ! not; negation 1 + - minus [as in -20 or -variable] 1 + * multiplication 2 + / division 2 + + addition 3 + - subtraction 3 + < less than 4 + <= less than or equal to [ =< also works] 4 + > greater than 4 + >= greater than or equal to [ => also works] 4 + = equals [ == also works] 5 + != not equals [ <> also works] 6 + & and [ && also works as does 'and'] 7 + | or [ || also works as does 'or'] 8 + + Parentheses () are allowed in formulas and function as they do in numerical +equations: expressions within parentheses are evaluated first. You can use +the pound sign '#' after your settings to provide comments and reminders to +yourself. NOTE: The program divides by a fudge factor of .001 instead of +dividing by 0. + + +USER-DEFINED FORMULA VARIABLES (f-variables) + + F1 through f9 are user-defined formula variables changed by using the "set" +command. These variables can return either numerical or Boolean results. +They make it easy to change one part of your formula without retying the whole +thing, or to adjust your formula depending on your mood. For example, if your +various f-variables were ... + + f1 rated & time=5 & inc=0 # rated 5 minute games + f2 ratingdiff + f3 maxtime(40) >= 2*8minutes # at least 8 mins each for 40 moves + f4 f2>400 # I want a REAL fight + f5 !abuser + f6 standard | (ratingdiff<200 & blitz) + +... then, depending on your mood, you could type one of the following: + + set formula f1 & f5 # rated 5 min. games only + set formula f2 > -100 # long games, decent competition + set formula f1 & !f4 +-or- set formula f2 >= 0 | blitz + + You define an f-variable using the "set" command. With respect to the above +examples, you would type such lines as ... + + set f2 ratingdiff + set f4 f2>400 # I want a REAL fight + set f5 !abuser + +*** Special Note *** +Be careful how you write the f-variables. Make sure they have the proper +sequence. For example, f5 can refer to f2 but f5 cannot refer to f8. + + +MAXTIME EXAMPLE + + Using maxtime sets the expected total time for the game. If your formula +(or f-variable) included the following expression ... + + maxtime(30) <= 10 minutes + +... this would allow no more than 10 minutes total time for the first 30 moves +of the game (5 minutes for each player, or any other combination). + + +CREDITS: Formula program for FICS written by Dave Herscovici (hersco) + + +See Also: assess blitz lightning match timeseal variables + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/forward b/data/help/forward new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a363cab --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/forward @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +forward + +Usage: forward [#] + + This command is used by a person examining a game in order to move forward +in the sequence of the game's moves. The # is half_moves. Example: "forward +40" -- game will go forward 40 half-moves (20 for White and 20 for Black). +If # is not specified, 1 will be used. If you type "forward 999" the game's +final position will be displayed. + +SPECIAL NOTES + +(1) This command does not work for new games, only stored games. + +(2) This command works only on the mainline of stored games, not variations +branching off from the main line or moves continuing a game from a stored +position. + +See Also: backward examine + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/ftp_hints b/data/help/ftp_hints new file mode 100644 index 0000000..18d039b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/ftp_hints @@ -0,0 +1,121 @@ + +ftp_hints + +There are many kinds of files for the chess server you may wish to access and +download to your system. The Internet Chess Library (ftp.onenet.net) is an +anonymous FTP archive containing a large amount of chess information and +programs (~200MB). (See the "inetchesslib" help file.) Many users of the +chess server download a graphical interface and timeseal (read the +"interfaces" and "timeseal" help files). + +There are several ways to access and download these files. But first, you +need to connect to where the files are located. There are two main ways to +connect: World Wide Web (www) and file transfer protocol (ftp). + +WWW access would be best and most intuitive. You can get there using your +favorite Web browser, like Netscape or Mosaic. The URL address is: + + http://chess.onenet.net/chess + +But ftp access is also easy. This file is about ftp procedures for the chess +server files. + + +FTP FILE TRANSFER + +The most standard command to initiate an ftp connection to the files would be +to initiate a session from your system (not from within the chess server +itself) and at your host's prompt type: + + ftp ftp.onenet.net + or ftp 164.58.253.11 + +If the ftp command seems to be garbage to your system, you will need to +contact your local systems administrator. + +If you connect to the file server, you will see this message on your screen: + + Connected to ftp.onenet.net. + 220 caissa.onenet.net FTP server (Version wu-2.4(1) Tue Oct 11 11:29:11 + 1994) + ready + Name (your-host.your-domain:your-username): + +Type: + + anonymous [you can also type 'ftp'] + +You will then see this message: + + 331 Guest login ok, send your complete e-mail address as password. + Password: + +For your password, type your email address. + +You will now be logged on to the ftp site and should see the ftp prompt: + + ftp> + + +LOCATING THE FILES YOU NEED + +Typing "help" will give you a list of available commands in ftp, but here are +some basics. All files and directories in the current directory can be seen +with "dir". Typing "cd" changes directories. A "/" separates directory names +when specifying directories within directories. + +In this example, we will go to the DOS directory. Type: + + cd /pub/chess/DOS + +or cd DOS + + (NOTE: users of DELPHI may need to type: cd "DOS") + +If you type "dir" you will see all the files and directories in that location. +There are quite a few. + + +TRANSFERRING A FILE + +In order to transfer a file properly from the ftp site to your computer host, +you need to set the correct transfer mode and use the right commands. The +files you need for an interface and timeseal need to be transferred using the +"binary" mode. The "binary" command sets the transfer mode to binary type (8 +bit, for true binary/executable data). Then you need to have the file sent to +you. The "get" command transfers a file from the ftp site to you. + +In this example we will now transfer the software for ZIICS, a graphical +interface that runs under DOS on PC's. The file name for ZIICS is +"ziics121.exe". Here is what you would need to type: + + binary + get ziics121.exe + +If you are done and do not wish to transfer any other files, type "quit" and +you will exit from ftp. + + quit + +If you have a direct internet connection using PPP/SLIP, the file should now +be in your computer directory and you are ready to work on it. + +If yuo do not have a direct connection, what you need to do is transfer the +file from your computer host to your local PC or workstation. This is done +most commonly with "kermit" or "zmodem". Check around locally for what is +available and works best on your system. After using kermit or zmodem, the +file should then be in your directory for you to work on. + + +FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE + +Channel 1 is a great place to get help from people on-line at this chess +server. They can help you work through each of these steps. You should also +read the special help files for interfaces and timeseal; they have further +details specific to those kinds of files. And you can also contact the server +admins for help. + +See also: admins addresses chan_1 inetchesslib interfaces timeseal + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/games b/data/help/games new file mode 100644 index 0000000..484679f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/games @@ -0,0 +1,58 @@ + +games + +Usage: games [#, word] + + If no parameters are given, "games" lists all the games currently being +played on the server. The games are listed in order of the ratings of the +players involved. If a number is supplied as a parameter, only the game +matching that number is displayed. If a word (or even a single letter) is +supplied, only games involving players whose handles begin with that word are +displayed. For example, "games gr" will show all games involving players +whose handles begin with "gr". + + Here is a sample games display and what the symbols mean: +------------------------------------------------------------------------------ +25 (Exam. 0 Friar 0 Friar ) [ uu 0 0] W: 1 +28 ++++ TryMe 1737 Jack [ su 30 20] 22:27 - 23:17 (29-30) W: 16 + 2 2274 OldManII ++++ Peshkin [ bu 2 12] 2:34 - 1:47 (39-39) B: 3 +29 1622 Vman 1609 PopKid [ sr 10 10] 1:14 - 5:10 (21-22) B: 18 +32 1880 Raskapov 1859 RoboDweeb [ br 2 12] 1:04 - 1:26 ( 9-10) B: 34 + 1 1878 Roberto 1881 baraka [psr 45 30] 30:35 - 34:24 (22-22) W: 21 + + 6 games displayed (of 23 in progress) +------------------------------------------------------------------------------ + + Reading from left to right: (i) game number; (ii) rating of user playing +White; (iii) handle of White, (iv) rating of user playing Black; (v) handle of +Black; (vi) type of match and time controls, (vii) current clock times for +both players; (viii) current material strength for both players, (ix) who is +on move and what move number it will be, and, lastly (x) the number of games +listed in the display and how many in progress. Ratings are ++++ for +unregistered players and ---- for registered players who do not have a rating +in this category. Lastly, any games being examined are displayed. + + +TYPE OF MATCH -- The format will be [Private] | [Category] | [Rated]. + + Private -- If a "p" is given, the game is private and not open for +observation. If not private, the space will be blank. (See the "variables" +help file.) + + Category -- The possibilities are: + b blitz + d bughouse + l lightning + n nonstandard game, such as different time controls for the players + s standard + u untimed (including simul-matches, simuls) + w wild + + Rated -- The possibilities are "r" for rated and "u" for unrated. + + +See Also: blitz examine lightning match simuls standard variables +untimed + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/glicko b/data/help/glicko new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d4614b2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/glicko @@ -0,0 +1,219 @@ + + +-------------------------------------------------+ + | Vek-splanation of the Glicko Ratings System | + +-------------------------------------------------+ + +As you may have noticed, each FICS player now has a rating and an RD. + +RD stands for "ratings deviation". + +Why a new system +---------------- + +The new system with the RD improves upon the binary categorization that was +used before on fics and elsewhere, where players with fewer than 20 games were +labeled"provisional" and others were labeled "established". Instead of two +separate ratings formulas for the two categories, there is now a single +formula incorporating the two ratings and the two RD's to find the ratings +changes for you and your opponent after a game. + +What RD represents +------------------ + +The Ratings Deviation is used to measure how much a player's current rating +should be trusted. A high RD indicates that the player may not be competing +frequently or that the player has not played very many games yet at the +current rating level. A low RD indicates that the player's rating is fairly +well established. This is described in more detail below under "RD +Interpretation". + +How RD Affects Ratings Changes +------------------------------ + +In general, if your RD is high, then your rating will change a lot each time +you play. As it gets smaller, the ratings change per game will go down. +However, your opponent's RD will have the opposite effect, to a smaller +extent: if his RD is high, then your ratings change will be somewhat smaller +than it would be otherwise. + +A further use of RD's: +---------------------- + +Vek asked Mark Glickman the following: + +> Given player one with rating r1, error s1, +> and player two with r2 and s2, do you have a formula for the probability +> that player 1's "true" rating is greater than player 2's ? + +Mark said: + + Yes - it's: + + 1/(1 + 10^(-(r1-r2)f(sqrt(s1^2 + s2^2))/400) ) + + where f(s) is [the function applied to RD in Step 2 below]. + +How RD is Updated +----------------- + +In this system, the RD will decrease somewhat each time you play a game, +because when you play more games there is a stronger basis for concluding what +your rating should be. However, if you go for a long time without playing any +games, your RD will increase to reflect the increased uncertainty in your +rating due to the passage of time. Also, your RD will decrease more if your +opponent's rating is similar to yours, and decrease less your opponent's +rating is much different. + +Why Ratings Changes Aren't Balanced +----------------------------------- + +In the other system, except for provisional games, the ratings changes for the +two players in a game would balance each other out - if A wins 16 points, B +loses 16 points. That is not the case with this system. Here is the +explanation I received from Mark Glickman: + + The system does not conserve rating points - and with good + reason! Suppose two players both have ratings of 1700, + except one has not played in awhile and the other playing + constantly. In the former case, the player's rating is not + a reliable measure while in the latter case the rating is a fairly + reliable measure. Let's say the player with the uncertain rating + defeats the player with the precisely measured rating. + Then I would claim that the player with the imprecisely + measured rating should have his rating increase a fair + amount (because we have learned something informative from + defeating a player with a precisely measured ability) and + the player with the precise rating should have his rating + decrease by a very small amount (because losing to a player + with an imprecise rating contains little information). + That's the intuitive gist of my extension to the Elo system. + + On average, the system will stay roughly constant (by the + law of large numbers). In other words, the above scenario + in the long run should occur just as often with the + imprecisely rated player losing. + +Mathematical Interpretation of RD +--------------------------------- + +Direct from Mark Glickman: + +Each player can be characterized as having a true (but unknown) rating that +may be thought of as the player's average ability. We never get to know that +value, partly because we only observe a finite number of games, but also +because that true rating changes over time as a player's ability changes. But +we can *estimate* the unknown rating. Rather than restrict oneself to a +single estimate of the true rating, we can describe our estimate as an +*interval* of plausible values. The interval is wider if we are less sure +about the player's unknown true rating, and the interval is narrower if we are +more sure about the unknown rating. The RD quantifies the uncertainty in +terms of probability: + +The interval formed by Current rating +/- RD contains your true rating with +probability of about 0.67. + +The interval formed by Current rating +/- 2 * RD contains your true rating +with probability of about 0.95. + +The interval formed by Current rating +/- 3 * RD contains your true rating +with probability of about 0.997. + +For those of you who know something about statistics, these are not confidence +intervals, but are called "central posterior intervals" because the derivation +came from a "Bayesian" analysis of the problem. + +These numbers are found from the cumulative distribution function of the +normal distribution with mean = current rating, and standard deviation = RD. +For example, CDF[ N[1600,50], 1550 ] = .159 approximately (that's shorthand +Mathematica notation.) + +The Formulas +------------ + +Algorithm to calculate ratings change for a game against a given opponent: + +Step 1. Before a game, calculate initial rating and RD for each player. + + a) If no games yet, initial rating assumed to be 1720. + Otherwise, use existing rating. + (The 1720 is not printed out, however.) + + b) If no RD yet, initial RD assumed to be 350 if you have no games, + or 70 if your rating is carried over from ICC. + Otherwise, calculate new RD, based on the RD that was obtained + after the most recent game played, and on the amount of time (t) that + has passed since that game, as follows: + + RD' = Sqrt(RD^2 + c log(1+t)) + + where c is a numerical constant chosen so that predictions made + according to the ratings from this system will be approximately + optimal. + +Step 2. Calculate the "attenuating factor" due to your OPPONENT's RD, + for use in later steps. + + f = 1/Sqrt(1 + p RD^2) + + Here p is the mathematical constant 3 (ln 10)^2 + ------------- + Pi^2 400^2 . + + Note that this is between 0 and 1 - if RD is very big, + then f will be closer to 0. + +Step 3. r1 <- your rating, + r2 <- opponent's rating, + + 1 + E <- ---------------------- + -(r1-r2)*f/400 <- it has f(RD) in it! + 1 + 10 + + This quantity E seems to be treated kind of like a probability. + +Step 4. K = q*f + -------------------------------------- + 1/(RD)^2 + q^2 * f^2 * E * (1-E) + + where q is a mathematical constant: q = (ln 10)/400. + +Step 5. This is the K factor for the game, so + + Your new rating = (pregame rating) + K * (w - E) + + where w is 1 for a win, .5 for a draw, and 0 for a loss. + +Step 6. Your new RD is calculated as + + RD' = 1 + ------------------------------------------------- + Sqrt( 1/(RD)^2 + q^2 * f^2 * E * (1-E) ) . + +The same steps are done for your opponent. + +Further information +------------------- + +A PostScript file containing Mark Glickman's paper discussing this ratings +system may be obtained via ftp. The ftp site is hustat.harvard.edu, the +directory is /pub/glickman, and the file is called "glicko.ps". It is +available at http://hustat.harvard.edu/pub/glickman/glicko.ps. + +Credits +------- + +The Glicko Ratings System was invented by Mark Glickman, Ph.D. who is +currently at the Harvard Statistics Department, and who is bound for Boston +University. + +Vek and Hawk programmed and debugged the new ratings calculations (we may +still be debugging it). Helpful assistance was given by Surf, and Shane fixed +a heinous bug that Vek invented. + +Vek wrote this helpfile and Mark Glickman made some essential +corrections and additions. + + Last major update: April 19, 1995. + Minor revisions: August 28, 1995 by Friar. + diff --git a/data/help/gm_game b/data/help/gm_game new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5165593 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/gm_game @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +[Event "ICS game"] +[Site "krypton"] +[Date "1995.07.06"] +[Round "-"] +[White "GMSeirawan"] +[Black "GMLarsen"] +[Result "1/2-1/2"] +[TimeControl "7200"] + +1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 b6 4. Nc3 Bb7 5. Bg5 Be7 6. e3 c5 7. dxc5 bxc5 8. +Be2 O-O 9. Qc2 Nc6 10. Rd1 a6 11. O-O Qc7 12. Rd2 Rfd8 13. Rfd1 d6 14. h3 +Rd7 15. Qb1 Rad8 16. Bf4 h6 17. Bg3 Qb6 18. e4 e5 19. Nd5 Nxd5 20. cxd5 Nd4 +21. Nxd4 cxd4 22. Rc2 Rc7 23. Rxc7 Qxc7 24. Rc1 Qb6 25. Bd3 h5 26. f3 Bg5 +27. Rc4 Rc8 28. b3 Be3 29. Kf1 Rxc4 30. bxc4 Qxb1 31. Bxb1 Kf8 32. Bc2 Bc1 +33. Ke2 Ba3 34. f4 f6 35. Ba4 Bc8 36. f5 Kf7 37. Be1 g6 38. fxg6 Kxg6 39. +Be8 Kg5 40. Bd2 Kh4 41. Be1 1/2-1/2 + diff --git a/data/help/gnotify b/data/help/gnotify new file mode 100644 index 0000000..58faad3 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/gnotify @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +gnotify + +Usage: +|-|= gnotify [user] + + When a player is on your gnotify list, you will be notified when that player +begins a game on the server. Here are the possible variations of the command: + + +gnotify user Add "user" to gnotify list + -gnotify user Remove "user" from gnotify list + =gnotify Display your gnotify list + + Use "gin" variable to be notified regarding all games and when they begin. + +See Also: addlist gin variables + +[Last modified: October 18, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/goboard b/data/help/goboard new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eef5292 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/goboard @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +goboard + +Usage: goboard player + + This command is used by a person holding a simul match. Play moves to the +board for the specified player in a simul match. Standard aliases are "go +player" and "goto player". + +See Also: gonum simnext simprev simuls + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/gonum b/data/help/gonum new file mode 100644 index 0000000..69fcd4b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/gonum @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +gonum + +Usage: gonum # + + This command is used by a person holding a simul match. Play will move to +board number # in the simul match. + +See Also: goboard simnext simprev simuls + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/handle b/data/help/handle new file mode 100644 index 0000000..209fcef --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/handle @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ + +handle + + Your server account name is known as your "handle." It is your identity on +the server. Some users prefer to have handles similar to their real names; +others do not. The choice is up to you. But whatever you decide to have as +your handle, please be aware that handles for registered users are permanent. +Admins do not change handles for registered users except in extreme cases +(very rare). So please select a handle that you will feel comfortable with +for a long time. + + No two users can have the same handle, of course. To see which handles have +already been taken, use the "handles" command. + + Lastly, admins reserve the right to deny your using a particular handle. If +the handle you want is offensive or might lead to too much confusion among +users (such as various reserved words or commands), you may be asked to change +it. Profane and crude handles are not permitted. Unregistered users who +logon with profane and/or crude handles may be disconnected from the server, +even without warning. Unregistered users who persist in adopting +inappropriate handles may be prevented from accessing the server. + +See Also: handles register + +[Last modified: July 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/handles b/data/help/handles new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f680235 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/handles @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +handles + +Usage: handles [string] + + Displays a list of registered players who have handles matching "string". +For example, the command "handles e" would display all handles beginning with +"e". "Handles" can also be used to determine if the player [string] has an +account on the server. The "handle" help file explains aspects of a server +handle. + +See Also: handle who + +[Last modified: October 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/hbest b/data/help/hbest new file mode 100644 index 0000000..20b5e85 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/hbest @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ + +hbest + +Usage: hbest [b|s|w] + + Displays the 20 highest-rated human players in the three different ratings +categories: Blitz, Standard and Wild. Computers are excluded from the +listing. Use "best" to see the top 20 users, both humans and computers. + + Using "hbest" alone will give all three lists. Using one or more of the +arguments b, s or w is a request to give only the blitz, standard and/or wild +best lists, respectively. For example, "best bw" will show the top 20 humans +in the blitz and wild chess; the top standard players will not be listed. + + Use "hrank" and "rank" to see where a given player is ranked. + +See Also: best hrank rank + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/help b/data/help/help new file mode 100644 index 0000000..632afe3 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/help @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ + +help + +Usage: help [topic] + + Prints information on the given topic. If topic is omitted, then "help" +will provide instructions for displaying several, useful help files. Also, +typing "help commands" will list all commands, typing "info" will list the +help files for non-commands, and typing "index" will display the general +categories of help files.. + + When you request information about a command, the help file will describe +the format for the command ("Usage"). Words in square brackets [] designate +optional variables; including them affects the way your command will be +processed. + + Some help files are longer than one screen. To continue reading the file, +type "next" (or its alias "more"). + + If you need help while on the server, use channel 1 to contact people who +can help you (see chan_1 help file). + +See Also: chan_1 index intro_information intro_welcome next + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/highlight b/data/help/highlight new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7f3e8ec --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/highlight @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ + +highlight + +Usage: set highlight [0-15] + + Highlight is one of the variables you can change with the "set" command. +When highlight is non-zero and you receive a personal tell, the sender's +handle will be displayed in a different style thus making the tell more +obvious on your screen. Other information, such as your location in a ranking +list or who list, will also be displayed to you in a different style thus +making it easier to read. + + There are 15 possible styles. However, the way they appear on your screen +will depend on many factors. Try they out to see which style works best for +you. "Set highlight 0" turns the highlight to neutral (off). + +See Also: rank set tell variables who + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/history b/data/help/history new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bb8a32c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/history @@ -0,0 +1,58 @@ + +history + +Usage: history [user] + + Shows the results of the last 10 or so games that 'user' played. If no +user handle is specified, your history will be displayed to you. There are +columns in the history display for the players and their ratings (as +adjusted by the result of the match), the winner, the type of match +(blitz/standard, rated/unrated), the type of opening and the date. + + +EXAMPLE + + Here is the history header, a sample line from User 1's history file, and an +explanation of this line: + + Opponent Type ECO End Date +23: + 1681 W 1521 User 2 [ br 2 12] A84 Res Fri Apr 21 06:29:12 1995 + + Explanation + -------------------------------------------------------------------------- + 23 -- Game number in User 1's history + + -- User 1's result; '+' means Won; '-' means Lost; '=' means Draw. + 1681 -- User 1's revised rating given the result + W -- User 1's color in the match + 1521 -- User 2's revised rating given the result + br -- Category of game -- 'b' Blitz; 'd' bughouse; 'l' Lightning; + 'n' Nonstandard times; 's' Standard; 'u' Untimed; 'w' Wild + Rated/unrated --'r' Rated; 'u' Unrated + a 'p' in fron of these codes would mean a Private match + 2 12 -- The time controls for the match + ECO -- The ECO (Encyclopedia of Chess Openings) classification of the + opening moves of the match + Res -- How the match ended; 'Res' for Resignation; 'Mat' for Mate; 'Fla' + for Flag, or time forfeit; 'Agr' for Agreed to a draw; 'Rep' for + three-time Repetiion of position (same player to move); 'NM' for + Neither player has Material for delivering mate; 'Adj' for result + was adjudicated. + The date and time of the match are also given. + + Here is how to read this example: User1 (playing White; blitz rating now +1681) Won (+) against User2 (blitz rating now 1521) in a rated (r) blitz (b) +match using the time controls of 2 minutes to start and 12 second increments +on Friday April 21, 1995, at 06:29 hours when User 2 resigned (Res); the type +of opening (ECO) was A84. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) ECO will not be given for games that are "private" (see the variables help + file). + +(b) Games in history can now be examined. + +See Also: adjudication eco examine games match variables + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/hrank b/data/help/hrank new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9d021f8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/hrank @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ + +hrank + +Usage: hrank [user [b][s][w]] + hrank m-n [b][s][w] + + The first usage shows the ranking of the given user and all human users with +nearby rankings -- computers will be excluded from the rankings. A second +argument with one or more of the letters b, s, and/or w asks to show only +blitz, standard, and/or wild ratings respectively. If no second argument is +given, rankings for all three types are shown. For example, "rank foo bw" +shows the blitz and wild ranking of the player whose handle is "foo". If +'user' is omitted, your rankings will be displayed. + + The second usage shows all human users ranked between the rankings of M and +N. The optional third argument again limits which ratings are shown. For +example, "rank 1-30 sw" lists the human users with the highest 30 standard and +wild ratings. "hbest" lists the top 20 human users in a category. + + The columns are always sorted by blitz, then standard, then wild. + + Currently, all players with at least 20 games of a particular rating type +are ranked. If you ask for a player's rank and they do not yet have the 20 +games needed to be an active player, the player's current rating will be +displayed in the table but a line (----) will precede the handle to indicate a +provisional ranking. + + To include computers in the list, use "rank". + +See Also: best hbest rank + +[Last modified: June 13, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/inchannel b/data/help/inchannel new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f6a8de4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/inchannel @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +inchannel + +Usage: inchannel name + + This command will list the channels for user 'name' so you can determine +which channels he/she is receiving (namely tells to channels). A user's name +(handle) must be given. Channels with specific purposes for the server are +listed in the "channel_list" help file. To add a channel to your channel +list, type "+chan #". More information is in the "channel" help file. + +See Also: channel channel_list handle lists tell + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/index b/data/help/index new file mode 100644 index 0000000..037647d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/index @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ + +index + +Usage: index [topic] + + Prints information on the given topic. If topic is omitted, then "index" +will list the various topics in the index. + + When you request information about a topic, you will be given a list of +various commands that relate to that topic as well as information files of +interest. You can access files on the various commands and information files +using the "help" command. + + If you need help while on the server, use channel 1 to contact people who +can help you (see chan_1 help file). + +See Also: chan_1 help intro_information intro_welcome + +[Last modified: July 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/inetchesslib b/data/help/inetchesslib new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c44c8ca --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/inetchesslib @@ -0,0 +1,184 @@ +The Internet Chess Library -- An anonymous ftp archive at chess.onenet.net +(this file may be somewhat out of date! :-) ) + +The chess archive consists of the content of the directory tree contained +in /pub/chess. At the top level of this tree are a few informational files +which are briefly described below (the contents of these files will be +updated from time to time): + + ICS.getting-started + This is an old introduction to the ICS (internet chess server). + The information will apply somewhat to the current server, but it + has changed a great deal since this was written. + README + This is a file containing a welcome message and a statement of the + general purpose and intent of the archive. + README.archive-structure + This file. + README-pictures-of-netchessplayers + This tells how you might donate a digitized picture of yourself or + a chessplayer you know into the archive. + README-where_is_ICS.info + This is a 'link' to the file containing the current Internet + locations of the main ICS's (currently, one in USA and one in + Europe.) + README.too + This is an informational note related to finding recently uploaded + data. + chess-FAQ + This is the Chess FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions, and answers). + gnu-chess-FAQ + This is a FAQ for GnuChess, a public domain chess playing program + from the GNU (Gnu's Not Unix) project -- part of the Free Software + Foundation. + ls-lR + This is a complete listing of the current contents of the archive, + without descriptions. Filenames only. A Index with descriptions + is probably not a possibility at this time because of the limited + resources of the current maintainer. (Any help on this would be + greatly appreciated) + where_is_ICS.info + This is the info file for the locations of the ICS's. + README-where_is_ICS.info is linked to this file. + + + +The rest of the archive is divided into a number of subdirectories which +attempt to classify the data somewhat. Below is a listing of directories +in this archive and what one might expect to find there. + + +/pub/chess/ + Amiga/ Software and data for/related to Amiga computers. + Atari/ Software and data for/related to Atari computers. + CBUFF/ Files and data for the CBUFF (ChessBase Utilities + File Format) project. + Atari/ + DOS/ + Macintosh/ + Unix/ + data/ + doc/ + src/ + DOS/ Software and data for/related to IBM PC compatible + computers running DOS/Windows. + Bookup/ Bookup data files. This is a link to the + directory: + Game-Databases/Bookup/ + ChessAssistent/ ChessAssistent data files. This is a link to the + directory: + Game-Databases/ChessAssistent/ + ChessBase/ ChessBase data files. This is a link to the + directory: + Game-Databases/ChessBase/ + NicBase/ NicBase data files. this is a link to the + directory: + Game-Databases/NicBase/ + Tools/ Utility programs for DOS. Archiving and + compression utilities needed to unpack most of + the data in this archive may be found here for + DOS. + Game-Databases/ This is a directory tree dedicated to Chess game + databases in varying formats. Utilities to + convert from one format to another may be found + in the Tools directory. + Bookup/ Bookup database files. + ChessAssistent/ ChessAssistent database files. + Tools/ Utilities for manipulating/converting ChessAssistent + data files. This is a link to the directory: + Game-Databases/Tools/ChessAssistent/ + ChessBase/ ChessBase database files. + Tools/ Utilities for manipulating/converting ChessBase + data files. This is a link to the directory: + Game-Databases/Tools/ChessBase/ + ChessBase_CBUFF/ ChessBase database files from the CBUFF project. + This is a link to the directory: CBUFF/data/ + NicBase/ NicBase database files. + Tools/ Utility programs for manipulating/converting + NicBase files. This is a link to the directory: + Game-Databases/Tools/NicBase/ + PGN/ This is the PGN (Portable Game Notation) project + directory tree. It contains utilities for the + PGN format (including tools for converting + between other formats) and game databases in + the format. A DOS program for viewing these + databases is available. + Events/ PGN format data files of events in specific years. + 1990/ + 1993/ + 1994/ + MGR/ The MASTER GAME REPOSITORY directory. contains + (or soon will) thousands of games in PGN format. + Players/ PGN data file of games for specific players: + Kasparov, Tal, Fischer, Karpov, Polgar, and + others! + Tools/ Utilities for PGN data files. Conversion tools + and a reader. + Tools/ Utility programs for all Databasse formats in the + Game-Databases area. + ChessAssistent/ + ChessBase/ + NicBase/ + PGN/ This is a link to the directory: + Game-Databases/PGN/Tools/ + HTML/ Hypertext files. For use with Mosaic (WWW) + clients. If you don't know what this is, don't + worry. It's specific to distributed + information over the Internet. + ICS_help/ All the help files for the ICS. + Macintosh/ Software and data for/related to Macintosh's. + NeXT/ Software and data for/related to NeXT computers. + PGN/ This is the PGN (Portable Game Notation) project + directory tree. It contains utilities for the + PGN format (including tools for converting + between other formats) and game databases in + the format. A DOS program for viewing these + databases is available. This is a link to the + directory: Game-Databases/PGN/ + SAN_testsuites/ This is a collection of test positions for testing + the problem solving capabilities of chess + software. These files are related to the SAN + (Standard Algebraic Notation) project, the + distribution of which may be obtained in the + Unix/ directory. SAN utilities and datafiles + use PGN. + Unix/ Software and data for/related to Unix OS. + X/ Software and data for/related to X-Windows. + chessbits/ Archives of the Chessbits Electronic magazine + which will probably not come back to life, + although an occasional ICS-Newsletter seems to + have picked up the slack. These are found in + texts/ + dropoff/ A place to drop things off where no-one but the + archive maintainer can get to them. Please + accompany anything with a brief note. + ics-tourn/ Data and games related to tournaments held on the + ICS's. + masters/ Collections of games for masters and tournaments + in ascii format primarily (some are PGN + compatible) + matches/ + WCC_1993/ Games of the World Chess Championships in 1993. + Fide men's and women's and the PCA match as well. + pictures/ digitized pictures of chess related art and/or + chess players both famous and not so famous. + projects/ A directory tree for software projects donated to + the archive. Not necessarily chess related. + metagame/ + morph/ + texts/ General texts of materials, analysis and some game + scores. A grab-bag of chess related materials. + PCA_Qualifiers_1993/ + uploads/ A directory containing lots of subdirectories for + donating materials to the archive. Pick an + appropriate directory here for your upload. + windows/ Here is where new applications for MSwindows or + other brands of windows for the IBM PC reside. + This area is new, so many windows applications + still are in th DOS directory. + xchange/ A place for data/software you want to make + available to everyone but which you might not + want to place in a 'permanent' area do to it's + developmental/experimental nature. + + diff --git a/data/help/interfaces b/data/help/interfaces new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3175913 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/interfaces @@ -0,0 +1,216 @@ + +interfaces + + It is possible to play chess matches on the server by typing your moves and +having board positions displayed in a simple style. However, it is also +possible to use a graphics interface for making moves and displaying board +positions. A graphics interface is a software program designed to decode the +information sent to you by FICS and display board information using stylized +graphics. It also allows you to make moves by moving pieces on its board +using a mouse. + + Which graphics interface will work best for you will depend upon the kind +of computer you are using, and the way you are being connected to the server. +Many graphics interfaces are available at the main chess ftp site +(ics.onenet.net). Feel free to ask FICS users about what is working best for +them, and feel free to examine the files at ics.onenet.net. + + If you use a graphics interface, you will need to select the board style +that is most appropriate for your software. + +See Also: set style variables + + +List of interfaces +------------------ + + Listed in this helpfile are details of graphical interfaces. Often it is +difficult to play chess using the 'ASCII' boards the server generates. They +aren't easy to see, and are affected by other information such as shouts. The +graphical ones give you a proper chess board on which to view your pieces, +making your chess easier to play. + +Here's a summary: + +============================================================================= +Graphical Required Computer Operating Interface Location +Interface System and Software Program at ICL +Program Author +============================================================================== +ZIICS # DOS, modem Zek pub/chess/DOS +GIICS DOS, modem LLama pub/chess/DOS +Monarc DOS, modem *Kevster pub/chess/DOS +JIICS DOS, VGA, modem, mouse Peluri pub/chess/DOS +NGIICS DOS, TCP/IP LLama pub/chess/DOS +Raja # MS Win3, modem and SLIP/PPP Christian pub/chess/Win3 +Gilchess MS Win3, modem Bloodrake pub/chess/Win3 +bludrake MS Win3, modem Bloodrake pub/chess/Win3 +SLICS # MS Win3, TCP/IP dfong pub/chess/Win3 +Toolkit ## MS Win3, TCP/IP and/or modem MaDHaTteR pub/chess/Win3 +WinBoard WinNT or W95, TCP/IP and/or modem mann pub/chess/Win3 +PMICS OS/2, TCP/IP and/or modem woof pub/chess/DOS +XBoard # Unix, X11R4, TCP/IP and/or modem mann pub/chess/X +xics Unix, X11R3 , TCP/IP *observer pub/chess/X +cics TCP/IP and C, ASCII terminal *observer pub/chess/Unix +NeXTICS NeXT, TCP/IP and/or modem red pub/chess/NeXT +MacICS Mac *douglas pub/chess/Macintosh +E-ICS Mac, Modem *douglas pub/chess/Macintosh +MacICS-TCP Mac, TCP/IP eew pub/chess/Macintosh +Aics Amiga, TCP/IP and/or modem Christian pub/chess/Amiga +AmyBoard Amiga, TCP/IP and/or modem JochenW pub/chess/Amiga +============================================================================== + +# Recommended and popular. +## Not yet working well on FICS. +* No account on FICS yet. + +Note: The handles of the authors may refer to the handles of people at the + old Aics. Certain ones may be different people here or non-existent. + Most interfaces should work; both the authors and the FICS programmers + would like feedback if you have problems with one here. + + + The listing will explain which interfaces will run on your particular +set-up and in which directory to find it. It may have comments from the +users/authors of the interfaces to help you choose. + + If you have any further questions or trouble please contact an admin. + +Instructions for getting an interface +------------------------------------- + + The above graphical interfaces can be found at the anonymous ftp site +chess.onenet.net (URL: ftp://ftp.onenet.net/) Most come with some +instructions. :-) + + Pick one, use ftp (read the "ftp_hints" help file for assistance), Netscape +or some similar software to access it over the Internet, transfer it to your +local PC system or workstation via your preferred method (zmodem, kermit for +most non tcp/ip dialup connections), unpack it (most use standard archival +software or are self-extracting), and set it up. :-) + +Comments on interfaces +---------------------- + + This listing will explain the interfaces in a little more detail. Many have +comments from the users/authors of the interfaces. Also indicated are the +directories at onenet.net that hold the interfaces. + + If you have any further questions or trouble please contact an admin. + + +PC and compatibles (Using DOS and modem): pub/chess/DOS +----------------------------------------- + + ZIICS by Zek: + A very popular interface for the PC. ZIICS requires a regular modem + connection and a graphics adapter (VGA, EGA, CGA or Hercules). In VGA + there are several styles of sets from 32 pixels per square to 56 pixels + per square (almost fills the screen vertically). You can configure the + colors and the functions of the buttons by editing a text file. + [comment by Zek] + + GIICS by LLama: + + JIICS by Peluri: + You will need VGA and a mouse to use this. + + Monarc by Kevster: + + +PC and compatibles (Using DOS and TCP/IP): pub/chess/DOS +------------------------------------------ + + NGIICS by LLama: + + +PC and compatibles (Using Windows and modem): pub/chess/Win3 +--------------------------------------------- + + Raja (elephant) by Christian: + Works well with Win95. Noticable speed increase (and its not even 32 bit + yet!). Tested with 486-DX4-100. [note from Christian] + + Gilchess by Azorduldu: + + bludrake by Bloodrake: + + +PC and compatibles (Using Windows and TCP/IP): pub/chess/Win3 +---------------------------------------------- + + SLICS by dfong: + + Toolkit by MaDHaTteR: + Should work here soon. + + +PC and compatibles (Using Windows NT(or 95) and TCP/IP): pub/chess/Win3 +-------------------------------------------------------- + + WinBoard by mann: + finger mann for the latest details. + + +PC and compatibles (OS/2 PM ): pub/chess/DOS +------------------------------ + + PMICS by woof: + + +Unix (Xwindows): pub/chess/X +---------------- + + XBoard by mann: + Certainly the best of the Unix interfaces and still is being supported to + work better at FICS. Owners of Unix machines are well advised to get this + interface. It is also suitable for use with GNUchess. [comment by DAV] + Finger mann for the latest details. + + xics by observer: + + +Unix (vt100 terminal): pub/chess/Unix +---------------------- + + cics by observer: + + +NeXT: pub/chess/NeXT +----- + + NeXTICS by red: + + +MAC: pub/chess/Macintosh +---- + + MacICS by douglas: + + +MAC (Modem): pub/chess/Macintosh +------------ + + E-ICS by douglas: + + +MAC (TCP\IP): pub/chess/Macintosh +------------- + + MacTCP by eew: + + +Amiga: pub/chess/Amiga: +------ + + Aics by Christian: + Will work with 2.04 Kickstart and should be compatible with newer + versions. + + AmyBoard by JochenW: + + +See also: ftp_hints + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_basics b/data/help/intro_basics new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ee698ca --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_basics @@ -0,0 +1,21 @@ + +intro_basics + + Here is a summary chart for new users of the server with basic commands you +may want to use as you start to play chess live on the internet. + +In order to ... Type ... +~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ +Get assistance or an answer to a question [Step 1] +chan 1 + [Step 2] tell 1 <text> +Turn shouts off set shout 0 +Read a help file help file_name +Select an appropriate graphics interface help interfaces +Download a graphics interface help ftp_hints +Talk to just one individual tell user_name <text> +Challenge a user to a chess match match user_name + +See Also (these other help files): help index intro_welcome intro_talking + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_general b/data/help/intro_general new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ef73393 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_general @@ -0,0 +1,41 @@ + +intro_general + +GENERAL INFORMATION + + The internet has great capabilities for connecting people from all over the +world. This chess server is one way for networking individuals who enjoy +chess. Other chess servers (at least those we know about) are listed in the +"addresses" file. Among other things, a chess server allows users to play +chess matches against each other, as well as communicate with each other. The +chess server (computer) is programmed to send players' chess moves and +messages to the right users. It also keeps track of various information. + + In order to use the features, you need to type various commands. In +general, commands do one of four things: (a) help you play a chess match (see +intro_playing), (b) send a message to one or more users (see intro_talking), +(c) display information to you (see intro_information), (d) modify one of your +settings, variables or notes (see intro_settings), or (e) have the server +perform a special function (see intro_special). + + Certain commands are restricted to server administrators ("admins") and +cannot be used by regular users. Some features are only available for +registered users. Only registered users can have rated chess games, have +games stored after adjournment, have "finger" notes, and communicate using +"shout", "kibitz" and "message" (see "intro_talking" help file). If you +intend to visit the server often, you will enjoy your visit more as a +registered user. Registration on this server is by email; type "help +register" to learn the procedure. + + New users might want to start off with simple features and gradually learn +about the other functions as they go along. To get a description of a +particular command, type "help [command]" -- without the square brackets, of +course. For example, "help match" will give you information about the "match" +command. NOTE: you do not have to type the entire command in order to use it +or read its help file; typing the first few letters will work in most cases. + +See Also: addresses adm_info finger intro_basics intro_information +intro_settings intro_special intro_talking notes register + +[Last modified: September 28, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_information b/data/help/intro_information new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c65e5da --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_information @@ -0,0 +1,67 @@ + +intro_information + +DISPLAYING INFORMATION + + There are several types of information that are available about users, games +and the server. You can have this information displayed to you by using +various commands. + + +USER INFORMATION + + command information + ------- -------------------------------------------- + best Displays highest ratings achieved for different types of + chess matches (includes computers) + finger Displays general information about a user + handle Lists registered users with names beginning with a given + letter or letters + hbest Displays highest ratings achieved for different types of + chess matches (excludes computers) + history Displays information about a user's recent matches + hrank Lists users and ratings within the range of ranks specified + (rankings exclude computers) + inchannel Lists all users who are listening to a given communication + channel + rank Lists users and ratings within the range of ranks specified + (rankings include computers) + stored Lists a user's stored games + variables Displays a user's current preferences and settings + who Lists current users + + +GAME INFORMATION + + command information + ------- -------------------------------------------- + allobservers Lists all users observing a chess game (or games) + assess Displays how you and another user's ratings would change + if you were to play a rated chess match + eco Displays information about the opening used in the game + games Lists current games + + +SERVER INFORMATION + + command information + ------- -------------------------------------------- + date Current date + help Describes a command, displays useful information, or + lists all commands and their help file topics alphabetically + info Lists all "information" help files for non-commands + llogons Lists the last 30 or so logons/logoffs + logons Lists the last 10 or so logons for a user + news Lists recent news items about the server + statistics Displays information about server usage + time Displays current time at the server site + uptime Displays how long the server has been running since its last + startup, and various server statistics and parameters + + Also, the "totals" help file gives updated information about registered and +active users on the server. + +See Also: [the individual commands] + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_moving b/data/help/intro_moving new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b156bc8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_moving @@ -0,0 +1,83 @@ + +intro_moving + +MAKING MOVES IN A CHESS MATCH + + Once you have arranged for a match, you begin playing and moving the pieces +around. There are two ways to make chess moves during a match. Many user's +have a graphics interface. In this case, the user moves the piece on the +graphics board using the computer mouse, and the interface software translates +this move into chess notation and sends the move to the server for processing. +Read the interfaces information file for a few details about graphics +interfaces. + + If you don't have a graphics interface, you will need to enter your moves +using a keyboard. In order to do this, you have to know what kind of chess +notation the server uses. Chess players use one of two different notational +systems: descriptive and algebraic. The server understands algebraic. (The +server also understands a computer version of chess notation; see below.) + + In algebraic notation, each square has a unique label. Each rank is labeled +1 to 8, with the rank on White's side being 1. Each file is labeled a to h, +with the file on White's left side being a. So each square has a file label +and a rank label, with the file listed first. In algebraic notation, each +chess piece has its own symbol: k = king; q = queen; b = bishop; n = knight; r += rook; p = pawn (though the "p" is not really used). + + Here is a sample of a match position as displayed in the default style 1. +For this example, White is at the bottom of the board and Black is at the top. +Symbols are in capital letters; the * means the piece is Black's. + + --------------------------------- + 8 | | *R| | | *R| | *K| | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 7 | *P| | | *B| *P| *P| *B| *P| + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 6 | | | | | | *N| *P| | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 5 | *Q| | | *P| | | B | | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 4 | | | | | | P | | | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 3 | | | N | B | P | | | | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 2 | P | P | | | Q | | P | P | + |---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---| + 1 | | | R | | | R | K | | + --------------------------------- + a b c d e f g h + + Black's king (*K) is on the g8 square; White's king (K) is on the g1 +square, and so on. It is Black's move. Suppose Black wants to place the +knight (*N) on the e4 square. The move to enter in algebraic would be Ne4. +Moving pawns is simpler; you don't use the "p" for the piece and just give +the square the pawn is moving to. Suppose Black decides to move the pawn +(*P) on the h7 square to the h6 square. The move to enter would be h6. In +many board positions, more than one rook, knight or pawn could move to the +same square. In this case, you have to indicate which of the two pieces you +want to move. For example, suppose Black has knights on c2 and e2; they could +both move to d4. To move the knight on c2 to d4 you could type Ncd4, where +the "c" serves to tell the server which knight to move. + + In algebraic notation, captures are usually denoted by "x". Suppose Black +wants to capture White's b2 pawn (P) with the rook (R) on b8. Black would +enter the move Rxb2. However, the server would also understand the simple Rb2 +and know that a capture is implied. So, for this server, you can enter the +square the piece will capture on. To make a castle move, use O-O to castle on +the king's side and O-O-O to castle on the queen's side. + + Many computers want very explicit instructions on how to move pieces. +This "computer" notation has the following format: square_from-square_to + + For example, in the above board position, moving the Black rook from b8 to +b2 would be entered b8-b2. Piece symbols are never used; only the squares. +The server understands computer notation as well. + + In short, to move a piece during a chess match, enter the move. Each time +you and your opponent make a move, the server updates the board position and +sends the new position to both you and your opponent. It's that simple! + +See Also: interfaces style + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_playing b/data/help/intro_playing new file mode 100644 index 0000000..19af703 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_playing @@ -0,0 +1,66 @@ + +intro_playing + +PLAYING IN CHESS MATCHES + + This chess server's main purpose is to link users who want to play chess. +Among other things, the server allows you to contact other users about playing +chess matches, checks to make sure that your moves are legal, keeps track of +the board position while you play, and updates ratings of players after the +match. + + +STARTING A MATCH + + The basic way of contacting a user about playing a chess match is by using +the match command. There is a separate help file for the match command, so we +will not go into details here. But here is the simplest way to ask another +user for a match: + + match user_name + +The other user will be asked to accept or decline your match request. If the +user accepts, the server will determine who plays White and Black and will +notify you that a match has begun with that user. The starting position will +be sent to you, and play will begin. + + +PLAYING A GAME + + During a chess match, you and your opponent will moves the pieces on the +board and also issue various commands or requests. The help file +"intro_moving" explains how to move the pieces on the board. Here is a list +of other commands and requests you may need to use during a match (remember +that requests are sent to your opponent, not to the server, and must be +accepted by your opponent in order to occur): + + command function + ------- -------------------------------------------- + abort request that a game be canceled + adjourn request that the match be stopped, saved and continued at + another time + draw request that the chess match be declared a draw + flag end the match because your opponent is out of time + moves have FICS send you the moves to the match you are playing + pause request that the match be suspended temporarily, but not + adjourned + promote set the kind of piece a pawn will be promoted to when it + reaches the back rank + refresh display the current board position + resign give your opponent the win, and end the match + say communicate with your current (last) opponent + switch request that you and your opponent change sides (colors) + takeback request that one or move moves be taken back (canceled) + unpause request that a paused match be resumed + withdraw cancel a request you have made + + It is possible to play matches with more than one user simultaneously, much +like a simultaneous exhibition at many major chess tournaments. If you are +interested in playing more than one chess game at once, or interested in +playing against someone with simultaneous matches, read the "simuls" file. + +See Also: accept adjournments decline intro_moving match pending simuls +[and the individual commands] + +[Last modified: July 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_settings b/data/help/intro_settings new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f8695ef --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_settings @@ -0,0 +1,36 @@ + +intro_settings + +SETTING YOUR PREFERENCES + + Everyone starts out with certain default values and settings, but you may +change them if you wish. You change settings using the set command; you can +view your current settings (or those of another user) using the variables +command. + + Some settings concern what information the server will transmit to you, such +as communications from other players and notifications about games starting or +users logging on/off. Other settings concern chess matches, such as your +default time controls, whether you will hear a bell when a new board +position is sent to you, whether you will be sent a list of the moves for your +game automatically when the game is completed (or adjourned), even the format +used to send you the board position. + + By changing these settings, you can create the kind of atmosphere you would +like to have. You can change these settings at any time, even during a given +session. For the most part, changes you make to your settings will be saved +after you log off and you will not need to change the settings each time you +log on. + + Your password is also a special setting, although it is never displayed at +any point. When you register, you are given a logon password. You may change +your password at any point using the password command. + + Lastly, it is possible for you to create special aliases to save you from +typing phrases you use often. Instead of typing the whole phrase, all you +do is type your alias. + +See Also: alias password set variables + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_special b/data/help/intro_special new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cf76043 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_special @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ + +intro_special + +SPECIAL FUNCTIONS + + There are several commands that perform special functions beyond sending +messages to other users, displaying information, modifying your settings or +playing in a chess match. Here are some useful ones: + + command function + ------- -------------------------------------------- + alias to make typing frequently-used phrases easier + examine to analyze a game + mailmoves mails to you the moves of a user's game + mailoldmoves mails to you the moves of a user's last game + oldmoves allows you to view a user's last game + smoves displays moves of a stored game + sposition displays the last position of a stored game + +More functions will be added as time goes on. + +See Also: [the individual commands] + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_talking b/data/help/intro_talking new file mode 100644 index 0000000..32e003b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_talking @@ -0,0 +1,67 @@ + +intro_talking + +COMMUNICATING TO OTHER USERS + + There are several commands you could use for communicating with other users. +Here is a list, followed by some comparisons. + + command function + -------- -------------------------------------------- + +channel Listen to tells sent to a given channel (-channel to leave a + chanel) + cshout Talk to all users who are open to shouts; message must be + about chess + it Special kind of shout + kibitz Talk to all players and observers of a specific chess game + message Send a user a message to be stored, even if the user is not + logged on at that time + ptell Talk to your bughouse partner + say Talk to the user you are playing chess with (or have just + played a game with) + shout Talk to all users who are open to shouts + tell Talk to one user, or users on one channel + whisper Talk to all observers of a specific chess game + xtell Talk to one user, but allow for a continuing conversation + with another user + + In general, "message" works like an answering machine, " ptell", "tell" and +"say" are like normal one-to-one conversations, "shout", "cshout", "it" and +"tell <channel>" are for group talks, and "kibitz" and "whisper" are for +commenting on a chess match you are observing. Channel 1 is the server help +channel (see the chan_1 help file). + + +RECEIVING MESSAGES + + In general, you will receive every message sent to all users, to users on +channels you are listening to, and to you personally. However, you can decide +not to be open to certain kinds of communications. The "shout" and "tell" +variables can be set to limit what you will hear (read the intro_settings help +file). You can also decide not to hear anything from a given user (the +"censor" command). + + The "message" command is used to send a message to a user and have it +stored. This command can also be used to read (and re-read) old messages that +have been sent to you as well as old messages you have sent to other users. +The "clear" command is used to erase old messages you have received. + + +SPECIAL NOTES + +(a) At times, a lot of messages from various users will come across your +screen. To help you notice when a user has sent a message or request to you +personally (rather than to all users on the server), you can set the highlight +variable to to make them readily apparent (see highlight). + +(b) Unregistered users (guests) are limited to the "tell" and "xtell" +commands. + +(c) Please observe chess server etiquette guidelines when using these +commands. + +See Also: chan_1 etiquette highlight intro_playing intro_settings +shout_abuse [and the individual commands of course] + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/intro_welcome b/data/help/intro_welcome new file mode 100644 index 0000000..37ecfba --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/intro_welcome @@ -0,0 +1,49 @@ + +intro_welcome + + W E L C O M E + + to the + + F R E E I N T E R N E T C H E S S S E R V E R (FICS) + + *** If you are new here and would like to register, *** + *** type "help register" to learn about the process. *** + + + We have created several introductory files for users of this chess server. +The files describe different features of the server and give you some +suggestions on how these features can help you enjoy internet chess. Here is +a directory of the introductory files and what topics each file covers: + + Introductory File Topics Covered + ----------------- ------------------------------------- + intro_basics Basic commands; enough to get started + intro_general General information + intro_information Displaying information + intro_moving Making moves in a chess match + intro_playing Playing in chess matches + intro_settings Setting your preferences + intro_special Special functions + intro_talking Communicating to other users + register How to register on the server + + In order to read information from one of these files (or any other help +file), simply type "help file_name" using the appropriate file_name. + + If you have questions after reading a file, there are several things you can +do. (1) Read the help file for a command you have a question about; your +answer might be there. Also, help files usually suggest related files you may +want to read ("See Also"). (2) Contact users, especially administrators of +the server (known as "admins"); they are very helpful. Users on channel 1 are +also a great help (see the "chan_1" help file). in order to learn how to +communicate, type "help intro_talking". Registration on this server is by +email; type "help register" to learn the procedure. + + Your suggestions about the introductory files (and help files, too) are +welcome. Feel free to "message helpfiles" with your comments. + +See Also: adm_info chan_1 help intro_general intro_talking next +register + +[Last modified: September 22, 1995 -- Friar] diff --git a/data/help/it b/data/help/it new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2f62d00 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/it @@ -0,0 +1,46 @@ + +it + +Usage: it message + + This command sends a message to all persons open to hear shouts. "It" is +similar to "shout" in that regard. However, with "it" your chess server name +(or "handle") is always the first word of the message. Also, the "it" message +may be preceded by various symbols depending on the chess server being used. +The symbol string --> is typical. This command has two aliases: "i" and ":". + + Here is an example: if your handle is HANDEL and you type "it thinks FICS +is great!", users will see the following message displayed -- + + --> HANDEL thinks this server is great! + +You, as the sender, will see the following -- + + (##) HANDEL thinks this server is great! + +where ## is the number of users who received the message. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + + (a) Use "cshout" rather than "it" for chess-related messages. + + (b) To contact just one user, use "tell". + + (c) If you want to contact a specific group of users, "tell" to a channel. + + (d) "It" and "shout" are similar. Be familiar with their differences. + + (e) Persons who "it" too much, or in less than appropriate ways, may be +placed on the shout_abuse list. Users on this list may only "shout" a certain +number of times per minute. To see whether you are on the shout_abuse list, +or when you are permitted to "it" again, type "it" alone without a message. +Excessive abuse can lead to heavier restrictions. + + (f) You can decide whether or not to hear an "it" from other users; setting +the "shout" variable to 0 (zero) filters these from being sent to you. + +See Also: alias channel channel_list cshout intro_talking shout +shout_abuse shout_quota tell variables + +[Last modified: December 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/journal b/data/help/journal new file mode 100644 index 0000000..faf6e9d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/journal @@ -0,0 +1,54 @@ + +journal + + The journal feature is a way to save games as long as you want to. History +games, remember, get overwritten as you play more games; only the most recent +games are saved. The journal feature allows you to save games for a longer +period of time. + + The journal file for most players has 26 available slots. These slots are +denoted by the single letters from A to Z. Games in your journal are referred +to by their letters. + + There are two things you need to know in order to make this feature work for +you: (i) how to save a game to your journal, and (ii) how to review a game +from your journal. + + +SAVING A GAME TO A JOURNAL +-------------------------- + + The "jsave" command is used to save games to your journal. Please refer to +that help file for details + + +SHOWING THE CONTENTS OF A JOURNAL +--------------------------------- + + To read the contents of a journal, type: + + journal [user_name] + +If the user_name is omitted, then the contents of your journal will be +displayed. + + There are several commands you can use in order to display information about +an individual game: (a) examine; (b) smoves; and (c) mailstored. See those +help files for further details. + + +PRIVATE JOURNALS +---------------- + + It is possible to hide your journal from other users (except admins) by +using the 'jprivate' variable: + + set jprivate 1 --- hides your journal + + set jprivate 0 --- allows others to access your journal + + +See also: examine history jsave mailstored smoves variables + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/jsave b/data/help/jsave new file mode 100644 index 0000000..78623ff --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/jsave @@ -0,0 +1,43 @@ + +jsave + +Usage: jsave [slot] [user_name] [gamenumber] + + This command is used to save games to your journal (see the "journal" help +file). You can save games from a "history" file or from another journal. + +To save from a "history" file +----------------------------- + + The general format is: jsave slot user_name game_number. For example: + + jsave A Friar 3 + + where 'A' is your journal slot; 'Friar' is the handle of the player whose + game you want to save -- whether it is your handle or the handle of another + player; and '3' is the number of the game from that player's 'history' file. + +To save from another journal +---------------------------- + + The general format is: jsave slot user_name slot. For example: + + jsave B Rattlesnake A + + where 'B' is your journal slot, 'Rattlesnake' is the handle of the player + whose journal game you want to transfer to your journal; 'A' is that + player's journal slot for that game. + +Using this journal-transfer feature, you can also relabel your own journal +entries. For example: + + jsave A your_handle D + +will take the journal game in slot 'D' and copy it to journal slot 'A'. At +the moment, it is not possible to delete a slot (except by overwritting); that +capability will be added in the future. + +See also: history journal + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/kibitz b/data/help/kibitz new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3654d69 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/kibitz @@ -0,0 +1,36 @@ + +kibitz + +Usage: kibitz message +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Sends your message to all observers AND PLAYERS of a game, with these +exceptions: (a) users with their kibitz variables set to 0 (off), and (b) +users who have set a kiblevel. You must be observing or playing a game in +order to use this command. The standard alias for kibitz is "*". + + In order to listen to kibitzes, you must have your kibitz variable on ("set +kibitz 1"). If you want to listen to kibitzes only from players of a given +chess ability or higher, use the kiblevel variable. + + When a kibitz is displayed, the kibitzer's rating will be shown (the higher +of blitz and standard will be used). However, (a) if the kibitzer has a chess +master title (GM, IM, FM, NM), this title will be displayed instead of the +rating; (b) if the kibitzer is an admin on duty, a '*' will be displayed. + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) It is considered bad manners to discuss the game with other observers by +using kibitz because doing so might assist the players. Instead, use +"whisper" in order to discuss a game you and others are observing without +interfering with the play of the game. + +(b) If you are observing more than one game at once, using kibitz can be +tricky. It is possible for the kibitzed message to be sent to another game, +if the game being observed changes suddenly. + +See Also: intro_talking kiblevel observe set variable whisper + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/kiblevel b/data/help/kiblevel new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eb1ec49 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/kiblevel @@ -0,0 +1,46 @@ + +kiblevel + +Usage: set kiblevel rating + + When many users are observing and commenting on a game, the kibitzes and +whispers can be so numerous that following the commentary can be difficult. +This problem is especially true for special events, such as World Chess +Championship games. There was therefore a need to cut down on the amount of +kibitzes and whispers a person might want to receive. A kibitz filter, +"kiblevel", was created in answer to this problem. + + What the kiblevel variable does is limit the kibitzes and whispers you will +hear to only users with a certain ability (either a given chess server rating +or chess master title -- GM, IM, FM, NM). You establish the kiblevel filter +by using the kiblevel variable and the "set" command. Here are the +possibilities for kiblevel settings, and their results: + + SAMPLE COMMANDS RESULT + ------------------ ------------------------------------------------ + set kiblevel 9999 Hear kibitzes/whispers only from titled users + set kiblevel 2000 Hear kibitzes/whispers from titled users and users + with ratings of 2000 or higher + set kiblevel 0 Hear all kibitzes/whispers + +In terms of a user's rating, the highest rating of blitz/standard is chosen. + + If you want to filter ALL kibitzes, use the "kibitz" variable setting +instead and type "set kibitz 0". + + Because problems with kibitz/whisper volume only on certain occasions, your +kiblevel variable is reset back to 0 each time you log in. That way, regular +games will not be affected by your forgetting to set kiblevel back to a more +suitable level. + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Kibitzes made by server admins who are "on duty" (and have their admin +flag shown, namely a '*' in 'who' listings) are not filtered by this command +in order to allow for necessary communication in special circumstances. + +See Also: kibitz set variable whisper + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/lag b/data/help/lag new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cf67996 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/lag @@ -0,0 +1,37 @@ + +lag + + Games over the internet are affected by lag -- the time it takes for the +electronic transmission of moves and game positions. As a result, some of +your clock time in a chess match is used up by lag time rather than thinking +time. + + There are many ways for you to get around this problem with transmission +lag: + + (a) Play games with a higher increment per move and, in general, longer + time controls in general. + + (b) Play unrated games for a while until the lag problem seems to have + improved. + + (c) Tell your opponent about your lag. In response, your opponent might + do one of several things: + (i) Give you more time occasionally. + (ii) Turn autoflag off (if they have that feature), or at least + decide not to flag you as soon as your time hits 0:00. + (iii) Agree to abort your game, and cancel it. + (iv) Agree to adjourn your game, and continue it later. + (v) Ignore your information and play on as usual (your opponent is + under no obligation to give you a break because of lag). + + (d) Use the "timeseal" program if it works for your computer system and + configuration. Using timeseal, your clock is not deducted for lag + time, just thinking time. Read the "timeseal" help file for details. + +NOTE: It is not unethical for someone to flag you when you have lag. + +See Also: abort flag match moretime timeseal + +[Last modified: September 19, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/lecture1 b/data/help/lecture1 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8d1da85 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/lecture1 @@ -0,0 +1,260 @@ + The Modern Defence + + by GM Nigel Davies + + + It was in the late 1970s that I first made the + aquaintance of this provocative counter-attacking defence. + Under the influence of Raymond Keene, a great many British + players were playing it around that time and I decided to + jump on the bandwagon. Later on it proved quite difficult to + jump off again and play more classical openings, but then + that's another story. + With his first two moves, 1...g6 and 2...Bg7 Black makes + no attempt whatsoever to follow the tried and trusted + classical precept of occupying the center. Instead he calmly + fianchettoes a bishop and argues the he can attend to things + like development later in the game. + Some practitioners of the Modern (Colin McNab and David + Norwood for example) like to try and close the position up + with ...c6 and possible ...d5. But I have my own + interpretation involving a fierce counterattack against the + d4 square. + Above all I want that bishop on g7 to breathe fire, to + strike terror along the h8-a1 diagonal. Sometimes I play + ...c7-c5, sometimes ...e7-e5, but always something against + the d4 square and with that long diagonal in mind. + There isn't enough time to show all the ins and outs of + this defence, but the following games show my interpretation + in action against a variety of White set-ups and how this + opening has served me faithfully in some critical games. + Amongst my victims with this opening are the likes of Bent + Larsen and Viswanathan Anand, but on this occasion I'll show + you the real crushes! + The first game was played in the last round of the + student team Championships in Graz 1981 in which the England + team was going for the silver medal.... + + Polajzer-Davies + Student Team Ch., Graz (Austria), 1981 + + 1.d4 g6 2.c4 Bg7 3.Nc3 d6 4.e4 + + According to the late Mikhail Botvinnik, setting up the + pawns on d4, c4 and e4 is the strongest answer to the Modern + Defence. I have usually preferred my `stock' recipe; a + counterattack against the d4 square. + + 4...Nc6! 5.Be3 e5! 6.d5 Nce7 + + Reaching a kind of King's Indian Defence in which the + fact that Black's knight has not been developed on f6 yet + means that he can sometimes play ...f7-f5 before bringing it + out. White takes immediate measures against this. + + 7.g4 c5 8.h4 Nf6 9.g5 Nh5 10.Be2 Nf4 11.Bf3 0-0 12.Nge2 f5 + 13.Qd2 Qa5 14.0-0-0 Rb8!! + + One of the best moves I have ever played. The idea, + should White play quietly now, is to prise open the + queenside with ....b5 followed by ....a6. And there are + other points should White capture on f4. + + 15.Nxf4 exf4 16.Bxf4 fxe4 17.Bxd6 + + The line which most beautifully illustrates the power of + 14...Rb8 is 17.Bxe4 Bxc3 18.bxc3 Rxf4 19.Qxf4 Qxc3+ 20.Kb1 + (or 20.Bc2 Bf5 21.Rd2 Qa1+) and now 20...b5, opening up the + b-file. White, by the way, loses a piece after 17.Nxe4 + Qxd2+. + + 17...Rxf3! 18.Bxb8 Rxc3+! 19.Kb1 + + Or 19.bxc3 Bxc3 20.Qc2 Qa3+ 21.Kb1 Bf5 followed by + 22...e3. + + 19...e3 20.fxe3 Bf5+ 21.Ka1 Rc2! 0-1 + + White lost on time by he could equally have resigned. + 22.Qxa5 is met by 22...Bxb2+ 23.Kb1 Rd2+ followed by mate. + I still count this as my most artistic miniature. + + This next game was one of the wins which earned my first + Grandmaster norm in Oslo 1988. After a few careless moves in + the opening Black develops a murderous attack. White, by the + way, is not a patzer. These days he has a rating of around + 2500 and is on the verge of becoming a GM. + + Gausel,E-Davies,N + Oslo, 1988 + + 1.d4 d6 2.e4 g6 3.Nc3 Bg7 4.Bc4 Nc6 5.Be3 Nf6 6.h3 + + Preventing 6...Ng4 but losing time for development. + + 6...e5 7.dxe5 Nxe5 8.Bb3 0-0 9.Qd2 b5! + + White's neglect of development allows Black to take the + initiative. + + 10.f3 b4 11.Nd5 Nxd5 12.Bxd5 c6 13.Bb3 a5 14.a4 d5 + + Blasting open the center before White has got his cing + safe. If he had now tried to remedy this with 15.0-0-0 + there would follow 15...Qf6 and after 16.Bd4 there is + 16...c5!, distracting the bishop from the defence of b2. + + 15.exd5 Nc4! 16.Bxc4 Bxb2! + + Suddenly White is in desperate trouble; the threats + include 17...Bxa1 and 17...Bc3, not to mention 17...Qh4+. + + 17.Ne2 Qh4+ + + Even stronger than capturing the rook on a1, as that will + remain a threat. + + 18.Bf2 Qxc4 19.Rb1 Bc3 20.Nxc3 bxc3 21.Qd3 Re8+ 22.Kd1 Qa2! + 23.Rc1 Ba6 24.Qxc3 Qxd5+ 25.Qd2 Rad8! 0-1 + + The final position shows the true extent of White's + misery. + + Engedal,N-Davies N + Gausdal Peer-Gynt , 1990 + + 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Bg7 3.Nc3 d6 4.f4 Nc6 + + I was later to abandon this move after Dragan Velimirovic + answered it with 5.Bb5 in a tournament in Vrnjacka Banja in + 1991. Since then I have answered the Austrian Attack (4.f4) + with 4...e6 followed by ...Ne7, ...Nd7, ...b6 and ...Bb7, + obtaining a similar set-up to the game. + + 5.Be3 Nf6 6.Nf3 e6 7.Be2 0-0 8.0-0 Ne7 9.Nd2 b6 10.a4 a6 + 11.Qe1 c5 + + Black's usual way of challenging White's set-up from this + structure. Here it proves especially effective because White + has plalyed the rather artificial 9.Nd2. + + 12.Qf2 Bb7 13.Bf3 Qc7 14.a5 cxd4 15.Bxd4 b5 16.Bb6 Qc8 + 17.Rac1 Nd7 18.Bd4 + + 18.Be3 was better, as now Black rips apart what is left + of White's center. + + 18...e5 19.Be3 f5! + + The opening of the position proves good for Black as his + pieces are better placed. Note that White's king also proves + weak, a consequence of 4.f4! + + 20.g3 exf4 21.gxf4 b4 22.Nd1 Nf6 23.Qg2 fxe4 24.Nxe4 Nxe4 + 25.Bxe4 Bxe4 26.Qxe4 Qg4+ 27.Kh1 + + 27.Qg2 Qf5 would also have been unpleasant for White. + + 27...Nf5 28.Qxb4 + + A suicidal pawn snatch but it is already rather difficult + to give White good advice. + + 28...Ng3+! 29.Kg1 + + Taking the knight allows 29...Qh3+ followed by 30...Qg3+ + and 31...Rf5. + + 29...Nxf1+ 30.Kxf1 Qf3+ 31.Kg1 Rae8 32.Qd2 Rxf4! 0-1 + + White has had enough. 33.Bxf4 is answered by 33...Re2 + threatening both mate and the queen. + + For a period of about 10 years I played nothing but the + Modern, but in the late 1980s I started to branch out into + other openings. Even eating caviar every day can become + boring. + Yet faced with the prospect of having to win my last + round game for a GM norm in a tournament in Budapest, I + could hardly answer 1.e4 with 1...e5, after which I would + get a boring Four Knights or Ruy Lopez. The only chance was + the Modern Defence, and this was it's finest hour. + + Godena,M-Davies,N + First Saturday Tournament, Budapest, May 1993 + + 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Bg7 3.Nc3 d6 4.Nge2 + + The safe way of introducing the fianchetto line for + White, as after the immediate 4.g3 there is 4...Nc6 and if + 5.Nge2 then 5...Bg4. After the text move I either play the + immediate 4...Nc6, or sometimes 4...a6 5.a4 Nc6. + + 4...Nc6 5.Be3 Nf6 6.h3 e5 7.dxe5 Nxe5 8.Ng3 0-0 + + The safe way to play it would have been 8...Be6 9.Qd2 + Nc4, but given that I had to win this game I was not afraid + of danger. + + 9.Qd2 Re8 10.0-0-0 b5!? + + A pawn for an open file - not a bad deal with opposite + wing castling. If White doesn't capture Black gets the c4 + square for his knight on e5. + + 11.Bxb5 Bd7 12.Be2 + + After 12.f4 my opponent didn't like the look of 12...Bxb5 + 13.fxe5 Rxe5 14.Bd4 Qe7, which he felt gave me good + compensation for the sacrificed exchange. In the post mortem + we looked at 12.Ba6!? but then 12...Be6 wasn't clear. + + 12.... Qb8 13.f4 Nc6 14.Bf3 Qb4 + + Preparing to move a rook to b8 and threaten mate on b2. + + 15.a3 Qb7 16.e5 Rab8 17.b3 + + An alternative way to defend b2 was with 17.Na4, but + then Black has 17...dxe5 18.fxe5 Qb5! 19.exf6 Bxf6 20.b3 + Rxe3 21.Qxd7 Bg5 and if 22.Kb1 then 22...Rxb3+. + + 17...dxe5 18.fxe5 Rxe5 19.Nge4 Qa6! + + It is less good to play this move after a preliminary + exchange of knights on e4. Thus 19...Nxe4 20.Nxe4 Qa6 can by + met by 21.a4 after which White's defences hold. + + 20.a4? + + The decisive mistake. White should take this opportunity + to exchange on f6, as for the time being Black is forced to + recapture with the bishop. After Black's next move it + becomes possible to take back on f6 with the queen. + + 20...Na5! 21.Nxf6+ Qxf6! + + The point, after which the latent threats along the long + h8-a1 diagonal prove decisive. Perhaps White thought that + his next move made the capture with the queen impossible, + but a serious disappointment is waiting. + + 22.Bd4 Qd6! + + Ouch! Only now did he see that the intended capture of my + rook on e5 is met by 23...Qa3+ followed by 24...Nxb3. + + 23.Nb1 Rxb3! + + KAPOW! White must kiss his castled position goodbye. + + 24.Bxe5 Qb6! 0-1 + + White has had enough. The threat is 25...Rb1+, the rook + is immune to capture because of the knight fork picking up + White's queen and after 25.Nc3 there is either 25...Nc4 or + 25...Ra3, depending on Black's mood. + + This event was brought to you by Warwick chess club (England) + + diff --git a/data/help/lightning b/data/help/lightning new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f11dde6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/lightning @@ -0,0 +1,35 @@ + +lightning + + There are four types of regular (not wild or bughouse) chess played on this +chess server: Untimed, Lightning, Blitz and Standard. + + A game is "Lightning" if the expected duration of the game is 3 minutes or +less per player. "Expected duration" is determined by a formula that takes +into account both the Start time and the Increment (Inc) value. Here is the +formula: + + Expected duration = (Start + Inc*2/3) + + The following table shows the slowest Lightning and fastest Blitz time +controls, the dividing line if you will between those two types of matches. + + Slowest Lightning Fastest Blitz + ------------------------------------ + Mins Incr Mins Incr + ------------------------------------ + 0 4 0 5 + 1 2 1 3 + 2 1 2 2 + -------- 3 0 + + As you can see, Lightning chess is very quick! + + You can list logged on users according to their lightning ratings by typing +"who L". "Lightning" is also a variable that can be used in formulas in order +to screen match requests. + +See Also: blitz formula match standard untimed who + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/limits b/data/help/limits new file mode 100644 index 0000000..84ad700 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/limits @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +limits + +Usage: limits + + "Limits" displays the various server limits currently in effect. These +include MAXIMUM numbers of players, channels, channels you can be in, persons +on your notify list, your aliases, games you are observing, requests pending +for you, people on your censor list, persons in a simul game, size of your +journal, and messages you can retain. Also, the minimum number of games you +need in order to be considered active, and the shout quota. + +See Also: [the various commands and features] + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/lists b/data/help/lists new file mode 100644 index 0000000..77a411c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/lists @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ + +lists + + The server maintains several lists in order to conduct its business. You +can use +/-/= to change and view the various lists. + +Examples (using the aliases): + + +listname member (Add member to listname -- addlist) + + -listname member (Remove member from listname -- sublist) + + =listname (View the members of listname -- showlist) + + = (View the names of all lists and their status + -- showlist) + +Certain lists can only be modified by an admin. Other lists are for admin +viewing only. See showlist help file for details. + +See Also: addlist admin showlist sublist + +[Last modified: September 2, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/llogons b/data/help/llogons new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5d5eeba --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/llogons @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ + +llogons + +Usage: llogons + + Shows the last 30 or so logons and logoffs for the server. + +See Also: logons + +[Last modified: October 9, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/login b/data/help/login new file mode 120000 index 0000000..8c56b9b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/login @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +../messages/login
\ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/help/logons b/data/help/logons new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e96d9a2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/logons @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +logons + +Usage: logons [user] + + Shows the last 10 or so logons for the given user. Displayed will be the +date, time and IP address for your connection. Example: "logons Mozart". If +"user" is omitted then your last logons are displayed. + +See Also: llogons + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/logout b/data/help/logout new file mode 120000 index 0000000..a327338 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/logout @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +../messages/logout
\ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/help/mailhelp b/data/help/mailhelp new file mode 100644 index 0000000..387de6d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailhelp @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +mailhelp + +Usage: mailhelp [filename] +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Mails a specified helpfile to your e-mail address. If no filename is +specified, a list of available help files is given. + +See Also: register + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mailmess b/data/help/mailmess new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2966cfd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailmess @@ -0,0 +1,28 @@ + +mailmess +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + There are two ways to have your messages mailed to you: (a) all messages +currently stored for you sent as a group, and (b) automatically each time a +message arrives. The first method uses a command; the second method uses a +variable setting. REMINDER: only registered users can have stored messages. + + +STORED MESSAGES + + Use the "mailmess" command to send to you at your e-mail address the +messages currently being stored for you. In this way you can archive the +messages on your own computer and then clear the message buffer on the chess +server. A reduced message buffer makes new messages easier to identify and +read. (You may want to clear unwanted messages first, then mailmes.) + + +AUTOMATICALLY ONE-AT-A-TIME + + When the "mailmess" variable is set to 1, each message you receive from a +user will be automatically e-mailed to you at your email address. + +See Also: clearmessages messages register set variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mailmoves b/data/help/mailmoves new file mode 100644 index 0000000..79c506f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailmoves @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +mailmoves +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + +Usage: mailmoves + + Mails to you at to your email address the moves to the game you are playing +or examining. + +NOTE: This command concerns games in progress, not games that have been +completed. For completed games, use "mailstored". + +See Also: mailstored smoves + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mailoldmoves b/data/help/mailoldmoves new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f2f8d77 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailoldmoves @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +mailoldmoves +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + +SPECIAL NOTE: This command has been superceded by an enhanced "mailstored" +command. Please refer to that help file. + +Usage: mailoldmoves [user] + + Mails to you at to your email address the moves of the last game played +by "user" or, if "user" is omitted, of yourself. Here are the two cases: + + mailoldmoves -- mails the moves of the game you last played + mailoldmoves User -- mails the moves of the game last played by User + +NOTE: At present, both players of the game in question must be logged on in +order for the stored game to be access and mailed to you. We hope to expand +the mail feature in the future. + +See Also: mailstored smoves + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mailsource b/data/help/mailsource new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bfed3d2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailsource @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +mailsource + +Usage: mailsource [filename] +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Mails a specified sourcecode file to your e-mail address. If no filename is +specified, a list of available filenames is given. This command can only be +used by registered users. For ftp information, see the "sourcecode" help +file. + +See Also: register sourcecode + +[Last modified: November 6, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mailstored b/data/help/mailstored new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f66eb96 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mailstored @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +mailstored + +Usage: mailstored player1 {#, player2, journal_slot} +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Mails to you at your email address the moves of player1's game, either game +# from player1's "history" table, the "stored" (adjourned) game between +player1 and player2, or the game from the user's journal. + + Examples: + + mailstored Hawk 65 + mailstored Hawk DAV + mailstored Hawk K + + Other useful commands: "examine" helps you review the game; "smoves" +displays the moves; "sposition" displays current game position. + +See Also: examine history journal smoves sposition stored + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/match b/data/help/match new file mode 100644 index 0000000..575fed8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/match @@ -0,0 +1,123 @@ + +match + +Usage: match user [rated|unrated] [Start] [Inc] [Black_Start Black_Inc] +[White|Black] [board_category board] + + +SUMMARY +~~~~~~~ + This command allows you to challenge a given user to a game of chess. To +challenge USER to a match, type "match USER". The type of match being offered +depends on (a) your variable settings (preferences) and (b) information you +give in the match request. USER will need to accept or decline the challenge. +You can cancel a challenge you have made using the "withdraw" command. + + +MATCH VARIABLES +~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ + You can specify the parameters for the match. If no parameters are +specified, (a) the challenger's variable settings for "rated|unrated", "Start" +and "Inc" will be used (see "variables"), (b) the clock times will be the same +for both players, (c) the colors will be chosen by the server, and (d) the +board_category will be standard. Here are details about each variable of the +match command. + + +RATED|UNRATED -- Sets whether the match will be rated or unrated. If +undesignated, the challenger's variable setting for "Rated" will be used. If +designated, it will override the challenger's "Rated" setting. Example: +"match user rated". + +START and INC -- Determine the clock variables for the match, where Start is +in minutes and Inc is in seconds. If only 'Start' is given then 'Inc' is +assumed to be zero (example, "match user 5"). If values are given for Black +then the challenger will play the White side (example, "match user 5 0 5 0"); +otherwise the side will be chosen "fairly". + +WHITE|BLACK -- If a color is given, White or Black (w/b), that will be the +color of the challenger (example, "match user w"). + +BOARD_CATEGORY BOARD -- These two parameters must be used together. They +specify a particular starting position for the game. These parameters can +only be included when all of the other parameters have also been given. If a +particular starting position is not supplied, then "standard" and "standard" +are used (that is, the "regular" starting position for pieces will be used +with no particular opening). (See the "boards" help file for the categories.) + + +EXAMPLES OF MATCH REQUESTS (challenges): +~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ +match red + Challenges user "red" to a match using your default values for Rated, Start + and Inc. + +match red 5 + Challenges user "red" to a match with Start = 5 and Inc = 0 using your + default value for Rated. + +match red 30 30 u + Challenges user "red" to an unrated match using a 30 minute Start time and + 30 second Increments per move ("match red 30 30 0 0" would give the same + result.) + +match red 30 0 15 0 w + Challenges user "red" to a non-standard, time-odds match with the challenger + playing White and "red" playing Black. White will Start with 30 minutes on + the clock, and Black will Start with 15 minutes (note that all four values + for the time controls must be given for a match with time odds). + +match red 2 12 0 0 openings ruy-lopez + Challenges user "red" to a match using the ruy-lopez opening position. + (Note that to start from a given board, you must give all four time control + values; in this example, you may NOT omit the two zeros.) + +match red 2 12 0 0 wild 3 + Challenges user "red" to a match using the wild 3 starting position. + (Again, all four time control values must be given.) + +match red 5 12 bughouse + Challenges user "red" to a bughouse match, once the bughouse teams have been + arranged. The word "wild" does not need to be used. + + +SPECIAL NOTES +~~~~~~~~~~~~~ + +(a) COUNTER OFFERS: If you receive a match request from a user and you +request a match with different time controls, then in essence you (a) decline +the first request but (b) make a request of your own. If your counter request +has the same time controls, a game will begin. + +(b) RESUMING ADJOURNED GAMES: Use the "match" command to resume an adjourned +game. Resuming an adjourned game takes precedence over starting a new game. +The match request, of course, can be declined by your opponent. Adjudications +of adjourned games are possible. + +(c) USING FORMULAS TO FILTER OUT MATCH REQUESTS: Match requests from other +users can be filtered by using a formula. If a request fails to meet your +formula, it is declined automatically for you. Also, you will not receive +challenges from users on your "censor" list. + +(d) ALIASES: Using aliases can make it easier to challenge other players to +matches. + +(e) EXAMINE MODE: Matching yourself ("match your_handle") is a way to enter +examine mode. + +(f) MATCH TYPE: It is not possible to request a type of match directly, such +as "match user blitz". How a match is classified depends upon both the Start +time and the Inc time. An equation is used to determine whether a match will +be blitz or standard (see the "blitz" help file). You can, however, request a +bughouse match directly. + +(g) NOPLAY LIST: If you do not want to receive match requests from a +particular user, place that person on your "noplay" list. + + +See Also: accept adjourn adjudicate alias blitz boards bughouse censor +decline examine formula intro_playing noplay variables [rated, start, +inc, etc.] withdraw + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/messages b/data/help/messages new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1c19f17 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/messages @@ -0,0 +1,30 @@ + +messages + +Usage: messages [user [text]] +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + This command can do one of four things: + + 1) "Messages" used alone will display all of the stored messages that have + been sent to you. + + 2) "Messages user" will display all stored messages from you to that user + and from that user to you. + + 3) "Messages #" will display the message numbered # in your list. + + 4) "Messages user text" will send "text" to the user. When you "message" + another user, the text of your "message" will be displayed to you for + confirmation. If that user is on, he/she will see the message + displayed. If the user is not on, he/she will need to use "message" in + order to read it. + + Messages will be stored until they are cleared by the recipient. In +contrast, "tell"s are not stored. When users log on, they are notified if +they have any stored messages and (if so) how many they have. + +See Also: clearmessages tell + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/mexamine b/data/help/mexamine new file mode 100644 index 0000000..61d9266 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/mexamine @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +mexamine + +Usage: mexamine user + + This command is used by a person examining a game in order to allow other +users to move the pieces and execute commands in examine mode. The user must +first be observing the game in order for "mexamine" to work. Here are the +steps: (1) enter examine mode, (2) have another user "observe" that game, (3) +"mexamine that_user". + +NOTE: As long as there is at least one examiner, the game continues even if +the first examiner leaves that game. + +See Also: examine observe + +[Last modified: September 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/moretime b/data/help/moretime new file mode 100644 index 0000000..96088b0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/moretime @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ + +moretime + +Usage: moretime seconds + + Adds extra time (in seconds) to your opponent's clock when you are playing a +game. Maximum time you can add -- 600 seconds (if you try to add more than +600 seconds, only 600 will be added). + + In essence, using the moretime command means that you don't want your +opponent to worry so much about the time remaining on his/her clock, about +being flagged, and so on. It is a useful command to use when your opponent +mentions a problem with transmission lags and you are using an interface +with the autoflag feature on. You are under no obligation to give your +opponent more time, of course. + + If you need more time, you can always ask your opponent to add time to your +clock -- depending on the circumstances and their mood, they might grant your +request. But if you find that you frequently need more time when you play, +consider playing with longer time controls. + +See Also: abort flag match + +[Last modified: June 11, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/motd b/data/help/motd new file mode 120000 index 0000000..708b721 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/motd @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +../messages/motd
\ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/help/motd_help b/data/help/motd_help new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e59d6e2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/motd_help @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +motd_help + + The "motd" information help file -- Message Of The Day -- contains news +items and other announcements that are displayed when you logon. You can read +these by typing "help motd". Other news items are on the "news" bulletin +board. + +See Also: news + +[Last modified: June 12, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/moves b/data/help/moves new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7a7d287 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/moves @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +moves + +Usage: moves [game,user] + + Displays the moves to the specified game. If a game is not specified, moves +to the game you are playing will be displayed. Command applies only to games +in progress, not to stored games. + +See Also: mailstored smoves + +[Last modified: September 14, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/newrating b/data/help/newrating new file mode 100644 index 0000000..993742a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/newrating @@ -0,0 +1,41 @@ + NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! + + We are proud to introduce you to our completely new rating system! + + --> The Glicko system (developed by Mark E. Glickman) <-- + --> Assistance/corrections by Dmitry Dakhnovsky <-- + --> Implemented to FICS by Vek and Hawk <-- + + +As you all know, we had a seriously defective rating system, but that +is now changed after two weeks of hard work. + +The previous ratings were bogus and therefore we had to delete them, +and in order to treat all players equally - we have given them the +following two choices: + +(1) Transfer their ratings and/or stats from ICC. This can be done by + leaving me a message FROM ICC (NOTE: I'm called "HawkII" + there). This will disable any chance of cheating. Just mention your + FICS handle in your message to me. + +(2) Some may not want to have their rating transfered from ICC or + maybe they dont even have a rating there, then the option is simple: + the rating will be reset. + +This offer was first published around the 28th of March and will be +available until the 16th of April. (maybe longer) + + +Every request for ratings transfers must be emailed to me (Hawk) and +my address is "u940456@daimi.aau.dk". Please use subject line: +"Request for ratings transfer" and in the body of the message tell +me your handle on ICC and FICS. (also remember to message me from ICC +so that I can verify that you are the person you claim to be. NOTE: +My handle on ICC is "HawkII" ) + +-Hawk + +See Also: glicko, motd + + diff --git a/data/help/news b/data/help/news new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0021ad4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/news @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +news + +Usage: news [#,all] + + The command "news" alone will display the last 10 news items posted to the +chess server bulletin board, "news #" will display news item #, and "news all" +will display all news items in the news index. Also, news items and other +announcements that are part of the opening text when you logon are in the +"motd" help file (for an explanation of the "motd" information, read the +"motd_help" help file). + +See Also: motd_help + +[Last modified: August 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/newstuff b/data/help/newstuff new file mode 120000 index 0000000..6cfbd41 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/newstuff @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +/home/chess/FICS/5001/README.NEW
\ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/help/next b/data/help/next new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ddfeb95 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/next @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +next + +Usage: next + + This command is used to continue the display of a long text file. An alias +for "next" is "more". How many lines of text you receive at once is +determined by the "height" variable setting. + +See Also: help intro_welcome variables + +[Last modified: July 1, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/noplay b/data/help/noplay new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9ea0200 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/noplay @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ + +noplay + +Usage: +|-|= noplay [user] + + When a player is on your noplay list, all match requests from that player +will be declined automatically. Here are the variations of the command +possible: + + +noplay user Add "user" to noplay list + -noplay user Remove "user" from noplay list + =noplay Display your noplay list + + "Censor" will also filter a user's match requests. Use a formula to filter +match requests of particular types. + +See Also: addlist censor formula + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/notes b/data/help/notes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..808a499 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/notes @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +notes + + A registered user has up to 10 lines in their 'finger' display for posting +information. These lines are known as "finger notes", one's "plan" or just +"notes". Your 'notes' can be read by all users of the server, so be sure that +it is information you want to make public. The notes are numbered from 1 to +10. + + The lines are created, changed and deleted by using the 'set' command. For +example, "set 1 I love Wild 5!!!" will set your #1 finger note to: "I love +Wild 5!!!". + +See Also: finger set + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/notify b/data/help/notify new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2e68c74 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/notify @@ -0,0 +1,43 @@ + +notify + +Usage: +|-|= notify [user] +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + When a user is on your notification list, you will be notified each time +that user logs onto or leaves the server. Here are the variations of the +command possible: + + +notify user Add "user" to notify list + -notify user Remove "user" from notify list + =notify Display your notify list + + Also, when you are on another user's notification list, you will be sent a +message that your entering the server was noted by that user. If you want to +be notified each time *any* user logs on or off, use the "pin" variable. Use +the "znotify" command to see which users currently logged on are on your +notify list and which have you on their notify lists. + + The size of your notify list is limited (type "limits" to see current size). +Fortunately, there is a way you can maximize the use of your notify list. The +solution involves the "notifiedby" variable. If you are on another user's +notify list and have your "notifiedby" variable set to 1, you will be notified +by the server when that user logs on/off. It will work the same way as if you +had that user on your list: you will be *notified by* the other user's list! +Here's an example: + + Hawk's notify list includes DAV *and* DAV has "notifiedby" set to 1 + +will have the same effect as ... + + Hawk's notify list includes DAV *and* DAV's list includes Hawk + +... except that one notify list entry (namely, DAV on Hawk's list) is doing +the work of two entries. That is how you can save on the length of your +'notify' list. + + +See Also: addlist limits variables znotify + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/observe b/data/help/observe new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1b952fd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/observe @@ -0,0 +1,38 @@ + +observe + +Usage: observe [game,user] + + Puts a game on your observation list. You can give either the game number +or the user whose game you want to observe. For example, if game #34 is +KARPOV versus RETI, then "observe 34", "observe RETI" or "observe KARPOV" will +add this game to your observation list. You can observe more than one game at +once. + + When you are observing a game, you will receive an updated board position +and game information each time a move is made. When a game you are observing +ends, you will be given the result of the game. + + Use the "unobserve" command to remove a game (or even all games) from your +observation list. + + Use "allobservers" to see who is observing a game (or all games) in +progress). + + +SPECIAL NOTES + +(a) At one point "observe" used alone would remove all games from your +observation list. This function is now being phased out in favor of the +"unobserve" command. But be careful while both commands are still valid. + +(b) It is possible to observe all simul games being played by the simul +player by the command "observe simul_player". All of the simul games in +progress will be added to your observation list. When the last simul game is +finished, you will be given the result of the simul exhibition. + + +See Also: allobservers games simuls unobserve + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/oldmoves b/data/help/oldmoves new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dd45a7c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/oldmoves @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ + +oldmoves + +SPECIAL NOTE: This command has been superceded by an enhanced "smoves" +command. Please refer to that help file. + +Usage: oldmoves [user] + + Displays the moves of the most recent game of 'user', or of yourself if +'user' is omitted. + +NOTE: At present, both players of the game in question must be logged on in +order for the stored game to be access and mailed to you. We hope to expand +the mail feature in the future. + +See Also: mailstored smoves + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/open b/data/help/open new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d6460d8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/open @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +open + +Usage: open + + Toggles your 'open' variable open/not open [1/0]. When open is set to 1, +you are open to receive match requests from other users. When it is set to 0, +you will not receive match requests from others, but you will be notified that +such requests have been made to you and ignored automatically. + +See Also: match variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/partner b/data/help/partner new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e088b27 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/partner @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +partner + +Usage: partner user_name + + This command is used in order to ask another user to become your partner for +a bughouse match. The other user will need to accept or decline the offer. +If the other user accepts the partner offer, the two of you will then be able +to hold bughouse matches against other partnerships and the two of you can be +identified using the "who" command (namely by "who B") as being available for +bughouse matches. + +See Also: accept bughouse decline pending who + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/password b/data/help/password new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4832baf --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/password @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +password + +Usage: password oldpassword newpassword +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Changes your current password on the chess server ("oldpassword") to a new +password "newpassword". If "oldpassword" is incorrect, then no changes are +made. + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/pause b/data/help/pause new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f0a50a4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/pause @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ + +pause + +Usage: pause + + A "pause" request asks your opponent that the game you are playing be paused -- +though not adjourned. An accepted pause request has the effect of rolling +back the clocks to the time of the last move. If your opponent has given you +a pause request, using the pause command (or accept) will accept the request. +You may decline a pause request by using the decline command. To unpause a +game use "unpause". + + You might want to consider using pause rather than adjourn if, for example, +you want to consult with an admin about a problem with the match. + +See Also: accept decline pending unpause + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/pending b/data/help/pending new file mode 100644 index 0000000..59714d6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/pending @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +pending + +Usage: pending + + Displays all non-declined, pending offers from other players to you and +from you to other players. + +See also: abort accept adjourn decline draw match takeback + +[Last modified: June 11, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/policy b/data/help/policy new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0e86480 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/policy @@ -0,0 +1,8 @@ +FICS Policies + + Of course each local site will have its own set of policies, but in +general: + +1. I can't think of any!! + +See Also: localpolicy diff --git a/data/help/prefresh b/data/help/prefresh new file mode 100644 index 0000000..07867ca --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/prefresh @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +prefresh + +Usage: prefresh + + This command will display your partner's game during a bughouse match. In +essence, it is "refresh" for your bughouse partner's game. + +See Also: bughouse refresh + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/private b/data/help/private new file mode 100644 index 0000000..23cb32e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/private @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +private + +Usage: set private [n] + + "Private" is one of the variables you can set. When private is non-zero, +games you play cannot be observed by other users. If private is 0, other +users will be able to observe your game -- unless your opponent has private +non-zero. A private game is designated in "games" and "history" displays by +the letter "p". Also, if a game is private, the eco category is not displayed +in the history table. + +See Also: eco games history observe variables + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/promote b/data/help/promote new file mode 100644 index 0000000..84f5f00 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/promote @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +promote + +Usage: promote {q,r,b,[kn]} + + Designates the piece that a pawn will be promoted to when it reaches +the back rank. This is set automatically at the beginning of each game +to 'q'. The setting can be changed during the game at any point. + +SPECIAL NOTE: You must designate how a pawn will be promoted BEFORE it +reaches the back rank, not afterwards. The current setting will be used when +the pawn reaches the 8th rank. + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/ptell b/data/help/ptell new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7e43eb6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/ptell @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +ptell + +Usage: ptell string + + This form of communication is used during a bughouse match. "Ptell" will +send a message to your partner; no one else will receive it. + +See Also: bughouse tell + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/quit b/data/help/quit new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e45dd87 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/quit @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +quit + +Usage: quit + + This command exits you from the server. "Bye" and "exit" are default +aliases for "quit". + +SPECIAL NOTE: This command cannot be used if you are in the middle of a chess +match. If you need to leave during a match, first ask your opponent for an +adjournment and explain why. + +See Also: adjourn alias + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/rank b/data/help/rank new file mode 100644 index 0000000..cd66335 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/rank @@ -0,0 +1,32 @@ + +rank + +Usage: rank [user [b][s][w]] + rank m-n [b][s][w] + + The first usage shows the ranking of the given user and all users with +nearby rankings. A second argument with one or more of the letters b, s, +and/or w asks to show only blitz, standard, and/or wild ratings respectively. +If no second argument is given, rankings for all three types are shown. For +example, "rank foo bw" shows the blitz and wild ranking of the player whose +handle is "foo". If 'user' is omitted, your rankings will be displayed. + + The second usage shows all players ranked between the rankings of M and N. +The optional third argument again limits which ratings are shown. For +example, "rank 1-30 sw" lists the players with the highest 30 standard and +wild ratings. "Best" lists the top 20 players in a category. + + The columns are always sorted by blitz, then standard, then wild. + + Currently, all players with at least 20 games of a particular rating type +are ranked. If you ask for a player's rank and they do not yet have the 20 +games needed to be an active player, the player's current rating will be +displayed in the table but a line (----) will precede the handle to indicate a +provisional ranking. + + To omit computers from the list, use "hrank". + +See Also: best hbest hrank + +[Last modified: June 13, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/ratings b/data/help/ratings new file mode 100644 index 0000000..934759f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/ratings @@ -0,0 +1,54 @@ + +ratings + + Chess ratings serve two purposes: (a) they tell you your relative ability, +and (b) are useful means for identifying and playing opponents of roughly your +same ability. + + This server utilizes the Glicko rating system developed by Mark E. Glickman +(with assistance and corrections by Dmitry Dakhnovsky and server +implementation by Vek and Hawk). The full explanation of this system is given +in the "glicko" help file. + + In general, your rating will be adjusted by several factors: (a) the result +of your game (win, loss, draw), (b) your opponent's rating, (c) the stability +of your rating, and (d) the stability of your opponent's rating. If you want +to determine how your rating might change after a match with a given player, +use the "assess" command. + + At present, there are separate ratings for three kinds of chess: Standard, +Blitz and Wild. Your current rating is available on your "finger" file. Once +you have an established rating (20 or more games) in a given type, your +highest established rating to date will also be displayed. Players with +established ratings will also have their ratings listed on several ranking +lists (see the "best", "hbest", "rank" and "hrank" help files). + + By default, the "who" command lists logged on users in order of their +ratings. This way, you can identify and match players of certain ratings. +You can also use ratings in your "formula" for filtering out match requests +from other players. Ratings can also be used to filter out kibitzes and +whispers by the "kiblevel" variable. + + +TRANSFERRING RATINGS FROM ANOTHER CHESS SERVER + + It is possible to transfer your rating from another chess server to this +server. Contact an admin concerning which admin should process your request +since different admins are on different chess servers. In general, you will +need to email your request to that admin. Please use the subject line +"Request for ratings transfer" and in the body of the email tell the admin +your handle(s) on both chess servers. Also be sure to "message" the admin on +the other server so the admin can verify that you are the person you claim to +be. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) In the case of adjourned games that are resumed, ratings are adjusted by +the users' ratings at the time the match is resumed rather than the ratings +they had when the match was started. + +See Also: assess best finger formula glicko hbest hrank kiblevel +message rank who + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/refresh b/data/help/refresh new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e68adeb --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/refresh @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +refresh + +Usage: refresh [game] + + Redisplays the given game position and clock times. If 'game' is omitted, +then the current game you are playing or observing will be redisplayed. This +command is especially useful if you are using an ascii board style and it +scrolls off the screen, or if you want to confirm the current board position +and/or clock times. (Time can also be confirmed by the "time" command.) The +alias for "refresh" is "re". + +See Also: games style time + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/register b/data/help/register new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c819cf0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/register @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ +To get a registered account, send a message to AdminGuy: + +mess AdminGuy fics_addplayer <handle> "<First M. Last>" <email-address> + + NOTE1: quotes have to be around the name field. + NOTE2: do not include the <>'s in your mail. They only indicate + where you need to place information. + + An example would be like the following, which would register + AdminGuy with the correct name and email information. + + Ex: fics_addplayer AdminGuy "I. M. Admin" chris@onenet.net + + Please tell us if you will be playing with a computer (meaning + that a COMPUTER is deciding what moves to make), or if you are an + FM, IM or GM (master's titles for international competition). diff --git a/data/help/register.dist b/data/help/register.dist new file mode 100755 index 0000000..c819cf0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/register.dist @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ +To get a registered account, send a message to AdminGuy: + +mess AdminGuy fics_addplayer <handle> "<First M. Last>" <email-address> + + NOTE1: quotes have to be around the name field. + NOTE2: do not include the <>'s in your mail. They only indicate + where you need to place information. + + An example would be like the following, which would register + AdminGuy with the correct name and email information. + + Ex: fics_addplayer AdminGuy "I. M. Admin" chris@onenet.net + + Please tell us if you will be playing with a computer (meaning + that a COMPUTER is deciding what moves to make), or if you are an + FM, IM or GM (master's titles for international competition). diff --git a/data/help/resign b/data/help/resign new file mode 100644 index 0000000..aafe819 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/resign @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +resign + +Usage: resign [name] + + Resigns the game you are playing and gives your opponent the win. You will +then be available for another game. + + It is possible to resign an adjourned game by including your opponent's +name. For example, "resign Hawk" would resign your adjourned game with Hawk. +Before you do this, make sure that the game has been stored. When you resign +an adjourned game, a notification message will be sent to your opponent. + +See Also: adjourn intro_playing stored + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/revert b/data/help/revert new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e7d16aa --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/revert @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +revert + +Usage: revert + + This command is used by a person examining a game in order to return to the +main line of the game being examining. The analysis (subvariation line) is +cancelled. + +See Also: examine + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/say b/data/help/say new file mode 100644 index 0000000..189532e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/say @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +say + +Usage: say message + + Transmits your message to your current opponent if you are playing a +game. If you are not playing a game, the message is sent to the last +opponent you had in your current logon session. + + "Say" is an easy form of "tell" as you can see, because you do not need to +enter the user's name. "Say" differs from "kibitz": both commands send a +message to your opponent, but "kibitz" also sends the same message to any +observers of your game and kibitzes can be filtered in various ways. + +See Also: intro_talking kibitz kiblevel tell + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/servers b/data/help/servers new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f662832 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/servers @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +servers + +Usage: servers + + Lists all servers that are connected to and thus share ratings with the main +ratings server. + + Until this server is connected to other servers, a better way to locate +other chess servers is by typing "help addresses". + +See Also: addresses + +[Last modified: October 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/set b/data/help/set new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ba9dbc1 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/set @@ -0,0 +1,43 @@ + +set + +Usage: set variable_name [value] + + You have a number of predefined variables that control the behavior of your +account. This command allows you to control those variables and modify their +settings. Generally, if "value" is omitted, the variable is toggled ON/OFF +(0/1). + +Examples: + set shout 0 + set f4 !private & !computer !abuser + set time 10 + set inc 0 + set auto 1 + set style 12 + + To see the list of all of variables you can control, type "help variables". +There are also other special uses of the "set" command, as follows. + +BUSY MESSAGE + + If you will be idle for a while, you can have a brief message displayed to +users when they "tell" you something. Read the "busy" help file for details. + +FINGER NOTES + + You can have up to 10 information lines that can be displayed when someone +uses the "finger" command. These text lines are modified by typing "set n +<text>" where 'n' can be any integer from 1-10. You can erase one of your +lines by typing "set n" without any text. (See "notes" help file.) + +FORMULA + + You can filter out match requests by setting a formula. Your formula may +include certain variables you can also set. Read the "formula" help file for +details. + +See Also: busy finger formula notes variables + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/shout b/data/help/shout new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5d528c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/shout @@ -0,0 +1,47 @@ + +shout + +Usage: shout message +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Displays your message to all users who are open to hear shouts. Returns +the number of users who heard your shout. "Shout" has an alias of "!". + + Here is an example: if your handle is HANDEL and you type "shout This server +is great!", users will see the following message displayed -- + + HANDEL shouts: This server is great! + +You, as the sender, will see the following -- + + (##) HANDEL shouts: This server is great! + +where ## is the number of users who received the message. + + All users have a set shout quota, a limit on how many shouts can be made +within a given period of time. Further details are given in the "shout_quota" +help file. + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + + (a) Use "cshout" rather than "shout" for chess-related messages. + + (b) To contact just one user, use "tell". + + (c) If you want to contact a specific group of users, "tell" to a channel. + + (d) "It" and "shout" are similar. Be familiar with their differences. + + (e) Persons who "shout" in less than appropriate ways, may be placed on the +shout_abuse list or given other sanctions (such as "muzzle"). + + (f) You can decide whether or not to hear a "shout" from other users; +setting the "shout" variable to 0 (zero) filters these from being sent to you +("set shout off" or "set shout 0"). + +See Also: channel cshout intro_talking it shout_abuse shout_quota tell +variables + +[Last modified: October 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/shout_abuse b/data/help/shout_abuse new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8084536 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/shout_abuse @@ -0,0 +1,64 @@ + +shout_abuse + + This help file is to give some guidance on the accepted use of shouting. +Breaking these guidelines may result in sanctions, such as muzzling (your +shouting privileges revoked). REMEMBER: some people use text boards but still +have shout on, which means that unnecessary shouts scroll their screen +unnecessarily. + +THINGS THAT ANNOY OTHERS: + + Saying the same or similar things several times in a row. For example: + + --> DAV is here. + --> DAV is here. + --> DAV greets all. + --> DAV is here. + + Annoying others by imitating system messages. For example: + + --> DAV has left a message for you. + --> DAV tells you: hi how are you? + + Talking about something that should be in a channel -- after warnings. + The channel help file ("help channel") gives a list of all pre-defined + channels. + + Also too much hugging and kissing -- except for login/out greetings; use + channel 51 for that please -- but keep the language clean! + + Cursing and cussing others on shouts (including don't play xxx for yyy + reason). + + Shouting far too often, lengthy shouts (e.g., ASCII pictures) beyond about + five or so lines). + + Holding two person conversations on shout. + + Anything else an admin sees fit. + + + +THINGS THAT ARE FORBIDDEN: + + Swearing, in general or at others. + + Discriminatory remarks -- see help etiquette. + + Constant shout abuse. + + Anything else an admin sees fit. + + + NOTE: any sanctions that are made against you are likely to be recorded, +so punishment may be incremental for a second offence. A bad comment +file is also likely to get you barred from privileges that may occur +time to time, including the possibility of adminship. + + DAV 05/12/95 + +See Also: abuser etiquette handle shout_quota + +[Edits by Friar; last modified October 17, 1995] + diff --git a/data/help/shout_quota b/data/help/shout_quota new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d099645 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/shout_quota @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +shout_quota + + In order to encourage users to hold conversations in channels rather than +with "shouts" the server has a shout quota. A shout quota limits the +frequency of a user's shouts (including "it"-type shouts). For normal +purposes, the standard shout quota is not a limitation. + + If you type "shout" or "it" alone without any message, you will be informed +about your current shout status: either (a) you may shout now, or (b) the time +when you may next make a shout. + +See Also: channel etiquette intro_talking it shout shout_abuse + +[Last modified: October 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/showlist b/data/help/showlist new file mode 100644 index 0000000..45d1dbc --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/showlist @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +showlist + +Usage: showlist [list_name] + + This command lists the handles of users on a given list. The server +maintains various special lists, such as the handles of admins and +grandmasters on the server. To display the names of available lists, type +"showlist". Each list will either be READ ONLY, meaning you can display the +listing, or SECRET, meaning only admins can display the listing. The alias +for "showlist" is "=". For example, "=admin" will list the handles of the +server admins and "=computers" will list computers that have accounts on the +server. + +See Also: addlist admins lists sublist + +[Last modified: September 2, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simabort b/data/help/simabort new file mode 100644 index 0000000..771edf1 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simabort @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +simabort + +Usage: simabort + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Aborts the current +board. Use this command if the player you are playing is obnoxious or taking +too long to make the next move. Don't use it if you are losing, though. + + The standard alias for simabort is "sab". + +See Also: simadjourn simallabort simmatch simpass simuls + +[Last modified: October 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simadjourn b/data/help/simadjourn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9a86e57 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simadjourn @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +simadjourn + +Usage: simadjourn + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Adjourns the +current board. Use this command in special circumstances, such as your +opponent not being able to finish due to time constraints. Please don't use +this command if you are losing, of course. + + To continue your game, use the simmatch command. + + The standard alias for simadjourn is "sadj". + +See Also: simabort simadjourn simalladjourn simmatch simpass simuls + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simallabort b/data/help/simallabort new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c80589a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simallabort @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +simallabort + +Usage: simallabort + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Aborts all boards +still in progress. + + The standard alias for simallabort is "saa". + +See Also: simabort simadjourn simalladjourn simmatch simpass simuls + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simalladjourn b/data/help/simalladjourn new file mode 100644 index 0000000..27b6188 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simalladjourn @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +simalladjourn + +Usage: simalladjourn + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Adjourns all boards +in progress. Use this command in special circumstances, such as your not +being able to finish due to time constraints. Please don't use this command +if you are losing, of course. + + To continue your game(s), use the simmatch command. + + The standard alias for simalladjourn is "saadj". + +See Also: simabort simadjourn simallabort simmatch simpass simuls + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simgames b/data/help/simgames new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d688553 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simgames @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +simgames + +Usage: simgames [player] + + Shows the number of active boards the player is playing in a simul. If no +parameter is specified, the number of boards you are playing will be +displayed. + +See Also: simmatch simuls + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simmatch b/data/help/simmatch new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0be861d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simmatch @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +simmatch + +Usage: simmatch player + + Requests a simul match with the given player. That player must have +his/her "simopen" flag on in order to accept simul requests. Once a match +has started, you will be informed where in line you are. You will play +BLACK. + + Simmatch can also be used to restart an adjourned simul match, or untimed +games in simul form. + +See Also: simadjourn simalladjourn simopen simuls + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simnext b/data/help/simnext new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c79043b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simnext @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +simnext + +Usage: simnext + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Use simnext to +move to the next game in the rotation so that you can make your next move +in that game. An alias for "simnext" is "sn". + + To go to a specific board, use "goboard" or "gonum". + +See Also: goboard gonum simuls simmatch simprev + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simopen b/data/help/simopen new file mode 100644 index 0000000..74fe214 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simopen @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +simopen + +Usage: simopen + + Toggles your 'simopen' variable 0/1. Equivalent to "set simopen". If +simopen is 1, then you are open to play more than one chess game at a time: +have a simultaneous chess exhibition. More details are in the "simuls" help +file. + +See Also: simuls variables + +[Last modified: June 22, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simpass b/data/help/simpass new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8505e61 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simpass @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +simpass + +Usage: simpass + + This command is upen by an opponent of a simul player. Use this command if +you are not ready to move when the simul giver gets to your board and you wish +more time for considering yuor move. You have 3 passes per match, then you +must move or risk having your game be aborted. + +See Also: simabort simuls + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simprev b/data/help/simprev new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c0d6c6f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simprev @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +simprev + +Usage: simprev + + Used by a player engaged in simultaneous chess matches. Use simprev to +move to the previous game in the rotation so that you can make your next move +in that game. An alias for "simnext" is "sp". + + To go to a specific board, use "goboard" or "gonum". + +See Also: goboard gonum simnext simuls + +[Last modified: June 16, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/simuls b/data/help/simuls new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1f03ed2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/simuls @@ -0,0 +1,76 @@ + +simuls + + "Simuls" = simultaneous chess matches; playing more than one opponent at a +time. It is possible to play more than one opponent simultaneously on the +chess server. Below are sections for Starting a Simul and for Joining a +Simul. + + +STARTING A SIMUL + + In order to play more than one chess match simultaneously you need to do the +following: + +1. Turn on your simopen flag with "simopen". Announce your simul conditions + on shout and cshout enough to get the word out, but not so much as to annoy + users. + +2. Other users must then challenge you with "simmatch". + +3. Accept or reject the challenges as they come in. You play WHITE in all + games. + +4. When you are satisfied that you have started the number of games that you + can handle, turn off your simopen flag. You can see how many games you + are playing with "simgames". + +5. You can then start making moves on the board. The "simnext" command moves + you to the next board; "simprev" moves you to the previous board. You + will focus on one game at a time, going in a particular order. + +6. If you are bothered by how long a player is taking to make the next move, + you can abort that game with "simabort". You are in control of these + limits since the games are untimed. + +7. When all matches you are playing are complete, you will get your results. + +Various commands you can use while running a simul include: goboard, gonum, +simabort, simadjourn, simallabort, simalladjourn, simnext, simopen and +simprev. + + +JOINING A SIMUL + + In order to play against a user who is open for playing simultaneous +matches, here is what you do: + +1. Using the "simmatch" command, challenge the person you will be playing. + If the challenge is accepted, you will play BLACK. + +2. You will be informed when the simul player is coming to your board. You + should be prepared to move either before or shortly after that player + arrives at your board. If you do not move within a reasonable time + period, your game could be aborted. + +3. It is impolite to offer a draw unless that player is at your board. It + could very easily confuse the simul player if offers come in from + different users at once. + +4. If your game ends early, you may want to turn on your ginform flag so + that you can see the final result of the simul games. You can also + observe the games; when the last game is over, you get the results. + + +OBSERVING A SIMUL + + You can observe all games in a simul once they have started by typing +"observe simul_player". All of the simul_player's simul games will be added +to your observation list. As the simul_player moves from board to board, so +will you. When the last game has ended, you will see the final results from +the simul games. + +See Also: observe set simmatch simgames [and other commands given above] + +[Last modified: August 15, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/smoves b/data/help/smoves new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1dfbff3 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/smoves @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ + +smoves + +Usage: smoves player1 {#, player2, journal_slot} + + Displays the moves of player1's game. You must designate either game # from +player1's "history" table, player2 from player1's "stored" (adjourned) games, +or a game from the user's journal. + + Examples: + + smoves Hawk 65 [for a history game] + smoves Hawk DAV [for a stored game] + smoves Hawk K [for a journal game] + + Other useful commands: (a) "examine" helps you review the game; (b) +"mailstored" mails moves to you; (c) "sposition" displays current game +position. + +See Also: examine history journal mailstored sposition stored + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/soapbox b/data/help/soapbox new file mode 100644 index 0000000..21011d6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/soapbox @@ -0,0 +1,39 @@ + +Soapbox + + It is my hope that the source code to quality chess server software +will be available to the internet community for free. It could be the +FICS, the ICS, or some other new software, it doesn't matter. + + When Michael Moore started the chess server years ago, it was his +intention to provide free access to it to everyone. He distributed the +server code freely in the hope that server sites might spring up and +flourish. Unfortunately, the situation exists today where one small +group of people have hoarded the source code and refuse to allow +any alternate servers start. I hope that my efforts in re-writing +a public domain server has the effect to improve the server, both in +substance and in administration. + + If the FICS catches on and replaces the ICS (unlikely), then we win. If +the ICS is released as source code to the public and the FICS dies, then +we win. If the FICS and ICS go on coexisting perhaps someday sharing the +same ratings server, we win. + + The only way we lose is if the status-quo is maintained and the only +source of internet chess is controlled by a few individuals. + +Richard Nash + +SoapboxII (The revenge of soapbox! :) ) + + Since then, ICS went free and we all lived (almost) happily, however +ICS became ICC and wanted to charge $49 to play chess. + Now, I understand that the ICC code had lots of work put into it and its +writer deserves something. However in the spirit of how ICS was set up, I +and others feel asking for donations would be better and no pay or else +attitute. + So, a band of programmers and ex-admins of ICC got together to rewrite +the out of date FICS code and this is what you are using now. + FICS is free. Enjoy it. + + Dan,DAV,foxbat,friar,grimm,hawk,loon,mann,Shane,Sparky et al. diff --git a/data/help/sourcecode b/data/help/sourcecode new file mode 100644 index 0000000..25b9f54 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/sourcecode @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +sourcecode + + You can get a version of the code via anonymous ftp to 'ftp.onenet.net' in +the directory /pub/chess/Unix. You can also obtain files using the +"mailsource" command. + + We encourage you, the chess server community, to help improve and debug this +server. If you make any changes to the code that you would like to see +incorporated into future releases, please contact one of the senior +programming admins. + +See Also: admins mailsource + +[Last modified: December 15, 1995 -- Sparky] + diff --git a/data/help/sposition b/data/help/sposition new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f6e0dd8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/sposition @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +sposition + +Usage: sposition player1 player2 + + Displays the position of the stored game between player1 and player2. This +command only displays the game position; use "examine" for analysis. + +See Also: examine smoves stored + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/standard b/data/help/standard new file mode 100644 index 0000000..37be1f0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/standard @@ -0,0 +1,48 @@ + +standard + + There are four types of regular (not wild or bughouse) chess played on this +chess server: Untimed, Lightning, Blitz and Standard. + + A game is "Standard" if the expected duration of the game is 15 minutes or +more. "Expected duration" is determined by a formula that takes into account +both the Start time and the Increment (Inc) value. Here is the formula: + + Expected duration = (Start + Inc*2/3) + + The following table shows the slowest Blitz and fastest Standard time +controls, the dividing line if you will between those two types of matches. +[Thanks to schwartzeer for the calculations. :) ] + + Slowest Blitz Fastest Standard + ------------------------------------ + Mins Incr Mins Incr + ------------------------------------ + 0 22 0 23 + 1 20 1 21 + 2 19 2 20 + 3 17 3 18 + 4 16 4 17 + 5 14 5 15 + 6 13 6 14 + 7 11 7 12 + 8 10 8 11 + 9 8 9 9 + 10 7 10 8 + 11 5 11 6 + 12 4 12 5 + 13 2 13 3 + 14 1 14 2 + -------- 15 0 + + As you can see, not every game with more minutes to start is Standard and +not every game with few minutes to start is Blitz. + + You can list logged on users according to their Standard ratings by typing +"who s". "Standard" is also a variable that can be used in formulas in order +to screen match requests. + +See Also: blitz formula lightning match who + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/statistics b/data/help/statistics new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d91285e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/statistics @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +statistics + +Usage: statistics + + Displays some statistics on all the players together. For each type of +rated chess, the table gives (a) the average rating, (b) the standard +deviation (or variability) of the ratings, and (c) the number of rated players +(including provisional ratings). + +See Also: totals uptime + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/stored b/data/help/stored new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e56dfd0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/stored @@ -0,0 +1,32 @@ + +stored + +Usage: stored [user] + + Displays all of the stored games of 'user' or of yourself if 'user' is +omitted. Adjourned games are stored (but not games lost due to a server +crash). To resume an adjourned game, have both players logged on the server +and use the "match" command. + + Several other commands involve stored games. "Examine" allows you to review +and analyze a game. "Mailstored" mails the moves to you. "Sposition" will +display the last position of the game. "Smoves" will display the moves of +the game. You can also have an adjourned game adjudicated by an admin (see +the "adjudication" help file). + + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Users who have too many stored games may be placed on the abuser list. +Having up to 10 stored games is fine, but many more games beyond that will +raise concerns. Please complete your adjourned games in a reasonable time or +ask for an adjudication. + +(b) It is possible to resign one of your stored games, even when your +opponent is not logged on. + +See Also: abuser adjourn adjudication examine mailstored match resign +smoves sposition + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/style b/data/help/style new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2b9263a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/style @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ + +style + +Usage: style n + + Sets your 'style' variable to n. Equivalent to "set style n". This command +allows you to choose among the various board display options. + + 1. Standard ICS board in ascii format (default) + 2. USA-Today Sports Center-style board + 3. Experimental vt-100 ANSI board for dark backgrounds + 4. Experimental vt-100 ANSI board for light backgrounds + 5. Style suggested by ajpierce@med.unc.edu + 6. Email Board suggested by Thomas Fought (tlf@rsch.oclc.org) + 7. Miniature board + 8. ICS interface maker board -- raw data dump + 9. last 2 moves only (previous non-verbose mode) +10. Alternate raw dump +11. Same as 8, but with verbose moves ("P/e3-e4", instead of "e4") +12. Similar to style 10. +13. Displays board in color for SGI machines -- white versus purple pieces + with purple and black squares (for b/w monitors it would display as bold + and regular). + + Some graphics interfaces work only with specific board styles. Determine +which one is best for your set up. + + Suggestions on different styles are always welcome. + +See Also: interfaces variables + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/sublist b/data/help/sublist new file mode 100644 index 0000000..26ef80d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/sublist @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ + +sublist + +Usage: sublist list information + + Removes information from the list in question. There are several kinds of +lists on the server. Some can only be modified by admins; others can be +modified by all users. "Addlist" command adds information to a list. + + The standard alias for "sublist" is "-". For example, "sublist notify +Stravinsky" could be typed as "-notify Stravinsky" instead. + +See Also: addlist admins alias showlists + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/switch b/data/help/switch new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fafd0b2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/switch @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +switch + +Usage: switch + + Requests to switch sides with your opponent. Switching sides can only be +done before the first move of a rated game, or anytime during an unrated game. +Your opponent can "accept" or "decline". + +See Also: accept decline + +[Last modified: June 12, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/takeback b/data/help/takeback new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8efba19 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/takeback @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ + +takeback + +Usage: takeback [n] + + Requests a takeback of 'n' half-moves in the current game. If 'n' is +omitted then 1 is assumed. A "half-move" is defined as a move by one +player. To request that the last move made be changed (whether you were +the one to move last or your opponent moved last), you would request +"takeback". If you wanted to change the last move made as well as the move +prior to that, request "takeback 2". + + Here's an example: suppose you are playing White and your opponent has +just placed a piece on a square where it can be easily captured, and you +capture it. Your opponent might realize the weak move he/she made and +request "takeback 2" so that he/she doesn't lose material so easily. If +you wish, you can accept the "takeback 2" request and continue the game +from the previous position in the game. Both moves would be reversed, and +it would be Black's move to make. + +See Also: accept + +[Last modified: June 14, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/team b/data/help/team new file mode 100644 index 0000000..619c52c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/team @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +team + + It is possible to have a "team" account on the chess server. Team accounts +would be good for groups of players (whether human or computer) to play chess +matches against either individual players or other teams. These accounts are +designed for relatively stable groups of players, in contrast to teams formed +spontaneously for just one match (see "teamgames" help file). Good examples +would be chess clubs at schools or companies. + + If you represent a group of players who would like to form a team for a team +account, contact an admin. The team handle will be added to the "team" list +and will have the "(T)" designation appearing on who lists. + +See Also: admins lists showlists teamgames who + +[Last modified: October 10, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/teamgames b/data/help/teamgames new file mode 100644 index 0000000..734829f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/teamgames @@ -0,0 +1,61 @@ + +teamgames + + A team game is a game played between two teams, each consisting of more than +one player. It is also possible to have a team playing against one person or +a computer. The procedures are simple: (a) set up the teams, (b) appoint one +person from each team as captain, (c) have the two captains match each other +using very long time controls, usually unrated, (d) have two separate channels +for the teams to use for their consultations, (e) have team members observe +the game and consult about moves, (f) have the captain play the move for +his/her team ... and play continues along those lines. + + To start a team game, it is best to have the players use three channels. At +the moment Channels 20, 21 and 22 are primarily for this purpose. To start +with, all the participants turn on one channel (Channel 20) to enable +communication about team formation. The other two channels are for the two +teams. Players of one team turn on the their channel but not the other. Then +the players on each team select a captain. + + Actually, there are many ways to form teams. One way is to let the players +join a channel randomly, another is to agree to two captains first and let +them pick their teams in turn. There is no set rule that must be followed. + + A game is started by the two captains playing each other. Then every +participant observes that game. Players can suggest moves using the +appropriate channels. They can adopt a democracy and vote before making +moves, or they can opt for dictatorship where the captain can decide on the +move, taking advice from the think tank. Any form of decision making is +possible, provided the team has agreed to it beforehand. + + Typically, it takes much longer to play a team game than a game between +individuals, because a lot of discussion is going on. Hence a longer time +control and longer increment are recommended. Several minutes per move is not +uncommon -- and even that time can go quickly. + + +WHY TEAM GAMES? + + Playing team games is a good way to learn because you are involved in a +position and can hear different views on it. Some people play mainly +positionally and some prefer sharp combinations. It is enlightening to see +how widely different analyses can come out from the same position. Moreover, +you can learn more about openings with which you are unfamiliar. + + Team games are also fun. During the consultation, it is typical that +players talk and make jokes. It helps develop friendly relationships among +users. In fact, even the process of forming teams can be fun. + +REMEMBER: Chess on this server is for fun. So please don't flame. Sometimes +even a team can overlook something and play a bad move. In that case, just +take it easy. Try to work as a team and fight back from behind. Bitter words +do nobody any good. + + If you have a relatively stable team that wants to have its own handle and +rating, please read the "team" help file for details on these special +accounts. + +See also: channel observe team tell + +[Last modified: October 10, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/tell b/data/help/tell new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8a229dd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/tell @@ -0,0 +1,48 @@ + +tell + +Usage: tell user message + + "Tell" transmits your message to the user specified. The server gives you +some feedback that the message has been sent. You will also be told whether +the user is playing a game currently, or is not even logged on at the moment. +"t" is an alias for "tell". + + As a shortcut, you can use "." as an alias for "tell user" when you want to +send another message to the last person you told. That way you can keep +conversations going easily. + + When you receive a "tell" it will appear like this: + <User> tells you: <message> + + The 'user' can also be a channel number in order to send a message to a grou +of users having that channel activated. In this case, you as sender will see +the following display after sending your message: (# -> (##)) where # is the +channel number and ## is the number of people on that channel that received +your message. + + As a shortcut, you can use "," as an alias for "tell #" and your message +will be sent to the last channel you gave in a "tell" command. (Compare to +"xtell" command.) + + +SPECIAL NOTES + + (a) The server remembers both the last user to whom and the last channel to +which you have told something. For this reason, "." and "," are separate +aliases and do not interfere with each other. + + (b) A special command, "say", can be used for communicating with an opponent +during or directly following a chess game. + + (c) Another special command, "message", sends a message to a user so that it +can be stored for future use. + + (d) You can decide whether or not to hear a "tell" from unregistered users; +setting the "tell" variable to 0 (zero) filters these from being sent to you. + + +See Also: alias channel intro_talking message say variables xtell + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/time b/data/help/time new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dc6f5c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/time @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ + +time + +Usage: time [game,user] + + Shows the updated time remaining in the specific game for the players +involved. If no game is specified, the clock readings for your current game +will be shown. Revised clock times are also given as part of the "refresh" +command; however, "time" will always show negative times whereas "refresh" +will only list negative times if the interface handles them that way. + +See Also: refresh + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/timeseal b/data/help/timeseal new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6edbc86 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/timeseal @@ -0,0 +1,144 @@ + +timeseal + +WHAT IS TIMESEAL?! + + Timeseal is a program that has been developed to improve chess on internet. +Netlag often causes players to lose valuable seconds or even minutes on their +chess clocks. Transmission time is counted against you, unless the chess +server can tell exactly when information is transmitted. What timeseal does +is record your thinking time, so that transmission time is not counted against +you. Timeseal will not prevent netlag but it makes the games fairer when lag +occurs. + +HOW DO I USE TIMESEAL?! + + What you need to do is get a version of timeseal working on the computer +that connects you to the chess server. The timeseal program will work as a +relay station, and will keep track of transimission times. + + The following versions of timeseal are currently available (as of December +17, 1995): + + AIX-3.2-RISC-SOCKS + AIX-3.2-RISC + BSD386-1.0-i386 + BSDOS-2.0-i386 + HP-UX-A.09.05-9000.705 + HP-UX-B.09.03-9000.42E + IRIX-4.0.5H.IP12-mips + IRIX-5.3-IP22-mips + IRIX64.6.0.1.IP21.mips + Linux-1.2.9-SOCKS + Linux-1.2.9-i586 + OSF1-V3.0-alpha + SCO-3.2-i386 + SunOS-4.1.4-sun4c + SunOS-5.4-386 + SunOS-5.4-sun4d + TW-SunOS-TW2.0.1-twin2 + ULTRIX-4.3-RISC + Windows-Winsock (file is called tmsl11j.zip) + +To see if anyone of these may fit the hardware you are using, do "uname -a" in +your unix shell and see which unix system you have operating. Then, determine +whether you need one of the special Windows or SOCKS versions. + + +TO DOWNLOAD TIMESEAL + +Follow these directions: + +(1) Login to your unix/inet provider. (VAX/VMS not supported yet). Type + "uname -a" and remember the output. You will need this output to figure + out which version of timeseal will work on your system. + +(2) Type "ftp 164.58.253.10" which will get you to the onenet ftp site. When + you are asked for a login ID type: "ftp" or "anonymous". When you are + asked for a password, type your email address. + +(3) Type "cd pub/chess/timeseal" (in order to get to the correct + onenet directory) and type "dir" (in order to see which versions of + timeseal are currently available). Compare the available timeseal + versions to the type of unix operating system you have. + +(4) When you have found the timeseal version that will work on your system, + type "bin" (for "binary" transmission format) and then type "get + filename" (where "filename" is the name of the version from the + directory). + +(5) Wait for the ftp file transmission to complete, then type "quit". The + file should now be in your current directory -- probably the home dir. + +(6) Type "gunzip filename", "chmod 700 filename", and "mv filename timeseal". + These various commands make the timeseal program available on your + operating system. NOTE: There are times when using "chmod 700 filename" + does not work on your system. In this case, try "chmod 755 filename". + + Here is an example after you have ftp'd the version called + timeseal.ULTRIX-4.3-RISC.gz: + + gunzip timeseal.ULTRIX-4.3-RISC.gz + chmod 700 timeseal.ULTRIX-4.3-RISC + mv timeseal.ULTRIX-4.3-RISC timeseal + +Now you are ready ... to go to the next step. ;-) + + +TO RUN TIMESEAL WITH YOUR INTERFACE + + There are different procedures depending on which interface/system you are +using. If you use Xwindows +Xboard / xics, then go to A); if you have winsock, +then go to B); otherwise go to C). + +A) For Xwindows users, there are two methods (listed in order of preference). +Whichever approach you use, make sure that xboard and timeseal are in the same +directory. Use one or the other -- NOT BOTH! + + (1) Use this command (it is the more direct, simpler approach): + + ./xboard -ics -icshost 164.58.253.10 -telnet -telnetProgram timeseal + + (2) Executing "./timeseal 164.58.253.10 5000 -p xxxx &" causes timeseal + to bind itself to port xxxx and wait for a connection to the chess + server. Then you can start xboard / xics like this (remember to + exchange xxxx with a valid port number, like 5500, 5501, whatever you + like): + + ./xboard -ics -icshost localhost -icsport xxxx + ./xics localhost xxxx + + You MUST use the string "localhost". Do NOT write the chess server + host because then timeseal will not be on. "localhost" is a perfectly + valid address since it's aliased to 127.0.0.1 (loopback) which always + means the machine you are using. + +B) There are two steps: INSTALL and USE: + + INSTALL: Move the file tmseal.exe to the same directory as your client + program. Create a program manager icon for TMSEAL, using the normal + methods. (Select File|New from the program manager menu; click on New + Program Item, then in the dialog set the Directory field to the same + directory as above; set the command line to TMSEAL; you may check the Run + Minimized checkbox if you wish.) + + USE: Double-click on the TMSEAL icon before beginning your FICS session. + Then, in your client program, connect to "localhost" instead of the usual + "chess.onenet.net". Soon the usual logon messages will appear. Errors + if any will show up in the TMSEAL window. + +C) For other users (no xboard, no winsock) such as ziics, jiics, E-ICS, etc: + + Modify your interface configuration to replace the normal telnet command + with: "./timeseal 164.58.253.10 5000". + + +DONE! + +Questions? Ask channel 1 or an admin. + + +See Also: chan_1 ftp_hints interface lag + +[Written by Hawk, August 15, 1995; last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/totals b/data/help/totals new file mode 100644 index 0000000..67753e5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/totals @@ -0,0 +1,5 @@ +*** Total players: 10518 +Active in last week: 3109 +Active in last day: 1111 + +Counted at Sat Dec 30 07:00:00 CST 1995 [Updated hourly] diff --git a/data/help/unalias b/data/help/unalias new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8a83db0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/unalias @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ + +unalias + +Usage: unalias word + + Removes your personal alias for 'word'. This alias will no longer be in +use. This command will not, however, remove default aliases. + +See Also: alias + +[Last modified: June 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/unexamine b/data/help/unexamine new file mode 100644 index 0000000..856e24b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/unexamine @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +unexamine + +Usage: unexamine + + This command is used to stop examining a game. "Unexamine" stops your +participation in the analysis, and also stops your observer status. The other +examiners and observers may continue, however, even if you set up the examine +to begin with. + +See Also: allobservers examine observe + +[Last modified: June 29, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/unobserve b/data/help/unobserve new file mode 100644 index 0000000..78d21dd --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/unobserve @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ + +unobserve + +Usage: unobserve [game,user] + + Removes a game from your observation list. You can give either the game +number or the user whose game you want to unobserve. + + For example, if you are observing game #34, KARPOV versus RETI, then +"unobserve 34", "unobserve RETI" or "unobserve KARPOV" will remove this game +from your observation list. + + "Unobserve" used alone removes ALL GAMES from your observation list. + +See Also: allobservers games observe + +[Last modified: June 11, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/unpause b/data/help/unpause new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0970f18 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/unpause @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +unpause + +Usage: unpause + + Restarts the clocks on a paused game and resumes play. You do not need your +opponent's consent to restart the game clock. However, it would be good +etiquette to announce that the game is resuming, and ensure that your opponent +is ready. + +See Also: pause + +[Last modified: June 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/untimed b/data/help/untimed new file mode 100644 index 0000000..988e6b5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/untimed @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +untimed + + There are four types of regular (not wild or bughouse) chess played on this +chess server: Untimed, Lightning, Blitz and Standard. + + A game is "Untimed" if the clocks will not be used when playing the game. +In this case, both the Start and the Increment are 0. For example, "match +friar 0 0" would request an untimed game against Friar. The clocks in an +untimed game will not move (though interfaces may handle this in different +ways). Also, "flag" will not work since the times will never be below 0 +seconds. Lastly, Untimed games are always unrated. + +See Also: blitz lightning match standard + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/uptime b/data/help/uptime new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5b772a2 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/uptime @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +uptime + +Usage: uptime + + Displays some server statistics, such as how long the server has been in +continuous operation, the number of current players and games, the highest +number of players and games, and the maximum number of players who can be +logged on. + +See Also: games statistics totals who + +[Last modified: July 7, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/uscf_faq b/data/help/uscf_faq new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9d84bdc --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/uscf_faq @@ -0,0 +1,223 @@ + +USCF FAQ + +"Frequently Asked Questions About the United States Chess Federation" + +NOTE: FICS is not affiliated with USCF in any way. This help file is +intended solely as a public service to FICS users and to promote chess. The +text was written by FICS users and sanctioned by USCF. Neither USCF or FICS +take any responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained in this +file. + +____________________________________________________________________________ + +--> What is USCF? + + USCF stands for the United States Chess Federation. USCF is the national +chess organization for the United States. Its purpose is to promote chess +(see the USCF Mission Statement in another FICS help file, "uscf_mis"). USCF +sponsors various kinds of chess tournaments, promotes chess in public schools +and prisons, represents US interests in international chess organizations, and +offers discounts on chess books and equipment. USCF is composed of over +82,000 individual members and 2100 local and state organizations (known as +"affiliates"). + +--> Are there other national chess organizations? + + Yes. USCF is the main organization for over-the-board (OTB) play. They +also sponsor correspondence ("postal") chess and Quick Chess (games with +faster time controls) but other organizations have national importance in +these two areas as well. Information about these other organizations may be +placed on FICS at a later date. + +--> What are the benefits for joining USCF? + + Well, every member has a different reason for joining. The benefits of +membership include: + + * Chance to play in numerous chess tournaments and have national + ratings in OTB and postal chess + * Cash prizes in tournaments + * A monthly magazine, "Chess Life" ("SchoolMates" for younger + members). + * Discounts for chess equipment and books. + +--> Tell me about the tournaments. + + There are two main groups: Over-the-board (OTB) and Postal. In OTB +tournaments you play against other opponents face-to-face. In Postal +tournaments you play by mail and exchange moves, usually on postcards. +Membership is necessary to play in a USCF tournament (there are some +exceptions, but these are rare) and entry fees are charged. A complete +listing of upcoming OTB tournaments all across the United States should be +available on FICS sometime in July. + +--> What are OTB tournaments like? + + Most tournaments take one or two days over the weekend for maybe half a +dozen games, though major national tournaments may last a week or two and +involve many games. A tournament may have anywhere from a dozen to 600 or +even a thousand players. + Tournaments generally have different playing "sections" or groups of +players based on their national ratings. You only play opponents within your +own section. For example, a large tournament might have these five sections: +Open, U2000, U1600, U1200, and Scholastic. Any USCF member can play in the +Open section, only those with a USCF rating under 2000 can play in U2000, only +those below 1600 can play in the U1600 section, only those below 1200 can play +in U1200 and only high school or younger students can play in the Scholastic. +(A high school student with a USCF rating of 1300, for example, could choose +to play in the Open, U2000, U1600 or Scholastic sections, but not in U1200.) +The different sections allow players of similar strength to compete for +prizes. + Tournament games can last anywhere from one or two hours up to four or +five hours, depending on the time control of the tournament. There are some +Quick Chess tournaments with time controls of only 10 or 30 minutes per player +per game. Tournament time controls are very different than those used on +FICS, so learn the details before playing in a tournament. + Tournaments generally offer cash prizes (!!), with the exception being the +Scholastic tournaments which prefer to give out trophies instead. Most +tournaments offer prizes within each section (1st, 2nd and 3rd for example) as +well as other prizes by ratings categories (for example, the U2000 section may +have a prize for the best scoring U1800 player). + Chess tournaments, organized by the local USCF affiliates (especially +state organizations and clubs) are held weekly all across the United States. +Each tournament varies considerably in style, size, prize fund and difficulty. +Information about USCF sanctioned tournaments is printed monthly in "Chess +Life." We also hope to make such information available on FICS. We suggest +you visit a tournament in your local area and catch the excitement! + +--> What if I want to play in an OTB tournament but never have before? + + If you're unsure how tournaments run, it may be helpful to visit one or +two before playing. Almost all tournaments allow and encourage spectators. + You need to become aware of tournament rules and etiquette. If you are in +a tournament you will need to know when the rounds start, where the pairings +(lists of who plays who) are posted, how to find your opponent, where to mark +the result of your game, what the time controls are, how to use a chess clock, +how to take notation (it is usually required to record the moves of your +games), etc. + Most tournaments require that you bring your own equipment, but don't +worry if you don't have a regulation set and clock. Most of your opponents +will, and there should be unused sets you can borrow any given round. If you +decide to play in more tournaments, you really should acquire regulation +equipment. + All of this can seem very intimidating to a new player, but if you show up +early, you should have plenty of time to ask the tournament director, or other +players, to explain the whole process. It may be helpful to obtain a copy of +the US Chess Federation's "Official Rules of Chess" (4th ed) (available from +USCF). + For your first tournament, either mail your entry fee in advance or pay it +in person at the tournament site. In either case, get there early in order to +familiarize yourself with the rooms, the tournament organizers, and have a +chance to ask questions. + Lastly, remember to just have fun and play some good chess. Most people +do not score very well in their first tournament, but some do win prizes +(larger tournaments generally offer a few prizes for unrated players). + +--> What's postal chess all about? + + Basically, you play by mail. Your opponent could be from anywhere in the +United States, or even overseas. Generally, you play against opponents in a +small section (4-7 players) with roughly your same level of ability, though +there are also Open tournaments. Each player is required to make a certain +number of moves in a 30-day period (not including the time it takes for the +mail to get through). In examining your next move, you may consult with books +and articles and take notes, but you may not have computers or humans analyze +your games while they are in progress. + Each game may take as long as a year, sometimes longer, but you play +several games simultaneously. You can even have rated matches against +opponents of your own choosing. Some tournaments offer cash prizes; others +offer certificates to the section winners. Information about postal chess is +given each month in "Chess Life." + Many people who are too busy to play OTB tournaments regularly, or even at +all, find that postal chess matches their schedules perfectly. They can +analyze moves during lunch, in the evenings, stalled on the highway during +rush hour, or whenever they have a few minutes free. The time controls mean a +move need not be sent off the day after it is received, and the players can +therefore analyze positions at their leisure. + +--> Tell me more about "Chess Life". + + "Chess Life" is USCF's official magazine. It has numerous articles for +players of all abilities, quizzes, ways to test your abilities, annotated +games from recent tournaments across the world, stories on chess personalities +and chess-related news. "Chess Life" prints advance information on many +upcoming chess tournaments in the US as well as postal chess. It also has +catalog supplements several times each year with information on discounts on +chess-related products, including books, pieces, boards, computers and +computer software. Companies selling chess products often advertise in "Chess +Life" as well. + +--> Tell me more about the affiliates. + + An affiliate is simply a local chess club associated with USCF. Almost +every major city in the United States has an affiliate. Many universities and +other organizations sponsor one as well. Currently there are just over 2000 +affiliates scattered across the nation. + Each club is different, but most generally hold informal meetings a few +times per month, where the club members can get together and play games, +discuss openings, study grandmaster games, eat doughnuts, or whatever. Clubs +are a great way to become involved in chess, and you normally do not need a +USCF membership to join one. + Affiliates often sponsor USCF tournaments, some of which are open only to +the club's members. This depends on each individual affiliate, though. + You can write to USCF at the address below and request a list of +affiliates in your area. + +--> Where do I get more information on USCF? + + Well, "Dogma" on FICS would be more than willing to talk to you about USCF +and playing in a tournament. There are other USCFers on FICS, too, and you +can ask them for their opinions. You can also go directy to the source and +call USCF at ... 1-800-388-KING ... and ask them to send you membership +information, etc. + USCF provides free pamphlets on a variety of subjects, available on +request. These include, but are not limited to, pamphlets describing the +rules, how to take notation, what constitutes official equipment, etc. Call +or write USCF for more information. + +--> How do I become a USCF member? + + There are several ways. You can join at virtually any tournament, call +the above phone number and pay with a credit card, or send your membership fee +directly to USCF at: + 186 Route 9W + New Windsor, NY 12553 + It may be possible to obtain a slight discount by buying your USCF +membership through an affiliate, or as part of tournament registration fees; +however, this depends on each individual affiliate and tournament. + +--> What is the membership fee? + + The regular, one year membership fee is $40, of which $21 is the +subscription to "Chess Life". Youth memberships (age 19 and under) cost $15 +for one year. Senior memberships (65 and older) are $30 per year. + Scholastic memberships cost $10 per year (generally for elementary +students, but available for age 19 and under). A scholastic membership is not +necessary to play in scholastic tournaments; a youth membership would work +just as well. However, Scholastic membership receive "School Mates", a bi- +monthly magazine for the beginning player, rather than the monthly "Chess +Life". + All of the above membership types receive full membership benefits, +including "Chess Life". Again, the major difference between "Youth" members +and "Scholastic" members is that youth members receive "Chess Life" while +scholastic members receive "School Mates". + Discounts are available for junior, family, blind, and prison memberships. +Discounts are also given for longer memberships (for example a two-year +membership); life memberships are also available. + +--> Is USCF membership worth it? + + If you are an avid chess player who wants to play in tournaments and have +national ratings for OTB and/or postal chess, wants to keep up on the chess +scene, or just wants to help promote chess in the United States, the answer is +... YES!!! Whether you have time for tournament chess, postal or both, a +membership in USCF helps make you a stronger chess player while also bringing +you into contact with other chess players world-wide. You can play chess all +your life, with family, friends, and fellow tournament players. Chess is a +sport that can give you lifelong satisfaction, and USCF gives you a great +opportunity to learn, play, and make new friends along the way. :) + + +[Last modified October 22, 1995 by Dogma and Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/variables b/data/help/variables new file mode 100644 index 0000000..75514c8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/variables @@ -0,0 +1,85 @@ + +variables + +Usage: variables [user] + + This command will display the variables of the given user. If no user is +given then your variable settings will be displayed. Here are the variables +that will be displayed. + +VARIABLE INFORMATION + + Name Function + ---- -------- + automail If non-zero, the moves of your games will be mailed to you + upon completion; your e-mail address will be used (make sure it + is correct; if not, contact an admin). + bell If non-zero, a ^G or bell will be sent when a board update + is done. In most cases, you will hear a beep. + cshout If non-zero, you will hear cshouts. If zero, you will not. + f1-f9 Special variables for the formula. + flip If is non-zero, rotates the board the opposite way (for + example, instead of White at the bottom, Black will be at the + bottom). + formula The formula used to filter match requests, that is, decline + them automatically. + gin If non-zero, you will be notified when games begin or end. + height Sets the number of lines of text you will receive before a + [next] break occurs; usually the screen height. + highlight If non-zero, player's names who tell you stuff will be + highlighted. + jprivate If non-zero, the user's journal cannot be read by others. If + zero, it is open to be read by other users. + kibitz If non-zero, you will hear kibitz's from observers of your + games. + kiblevel Limits kibitzes and whispers you will receive to users who have + the given rating or higher. Value is reset to 0 when you + logout. + language Selects a help file in this language, if available. The default + is English. Spanish is also available. + mailmess If non-zero, messages to you will be mailed to your e-mail + address automatically. + notifiedby If non-zero, you will be notified by the server when users + having you on their notify lists log on/off. If zero, you will + not receive such notifications. Use of notifiedby can cut down + on the size of notify lists (see "notify" help file for + details). + open If non-zero, you are willing to accept match requests. If + zero, you will not receive match requests. + pin If non-zero, you will be informed when any user connects to or + disconnects from the server. + pgn If non-zero, mails games to you in PGN format. If zero, + regular, column format will be used. + private If non-zero, then all games you play will be private regardless + of your opponent's 'private' variable; no observers will be + permitted. + prompt This string will be your prompt. Use 'set prompt' to restore + the system default. (Caution: some graphics interfaces may need + certain prompts in order to work correctly.) + rated If zero, your game will not be rated. + If non-zero, and all of these conditions hold, then your game + will be rated: + 1: Your opponent's rated variable is non-zero + 2: The time controls for the game qualify as a rated game + 3: There are no time-odds + 4: The game started position is standard. + ropen If zero, you will only be open to match requests from users who + have the same setting for "rated". If non-zero, you will + receive other requests as well. + shout If non-zero, you will hear shouts. If zero, you will not. + simopen If non-zero, you are willing to accept simul requests. This + variable is always set to 0 when you log in. + style The style of board to use. + tell If non-zero, you will hear tell's and say's from unregistered + users. If zero, you will not. + width Sets the width of your display (from 32 to 240). + 1-10 This sets your information that is displayed when someone + fingers you. You can set these 'notes' to an arbitrary string + of length 100. You can display information in ten slots, + numbered 1-10. + +See Also: bell cshout finger flip formula highlight journal kibitz +kiblevel notes private set shout simuls style tell + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/wcmatch b/data/help/wcmatch new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4e783a8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/wcmatch @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ + +**** Anand-Kasparov World Championship Match Information: **** + + 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 +Kasparov = = = = = = = = 0 1 1 = 1 1 = = = = 10.5 +Anand = = = = = = = = 1 0 0 = 0 0 = = = = 7.5 + +Kasparov retains title! That's all folks ... ! + + +To review a game in this match, you need to know (a) the special handles on +the server for these two players, (b) how to read "history" correctly for this +match, and (c) how "examine" mode works. + +A. HANDLES -- The special handles for the contenders are "GMAnand" and +"GMKasparov". To read their 'notes' type "finger <handle>". + +B. HISTORY -- To display the list of games of the match, type "history +<handle>". Please note that the first game of the match is listed as history +#0, the second game of the match as history #1 and so on. + +C. EXAMINE -- Examine mode loads the game for you so you can replay the moves +and even try subvariations. The "examine" help file has complete details of +the the various things you can do during examine mode. + + +EXAMPLE: Suppose you want to review the 9th game in the match, the game Anand +won. You would type: "examine GMAnand 8" -or- "examine GMKasparov 8". + +If you want the moves of this game emailed to you (and are are registered on +the server), you can type "mailstored GMAnand 8" at any time. + +ENJOY!!! diff --git a/data/help/whenshut b/data/help/whenshut new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9d61d42 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/whenshut @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ + +whenshut + +Usage: whenshut + + Using this command will display the time when a shutdown will occur. If +there is no shutdown of the server scheduled, the message displayed will be +"No shutdown currently in progress". + +See Also: + +[Last modified: November 26, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/whisper b/data/help/whisper new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4b0f896 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/whisper @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ + +whisper + +Usage: whisper message +LIMITED TO REGISTERED USERS + + Sends your message to all the observers of a game but NOT to the players. +For this reason, using whisper (rather than kibitz) is a more polite way of +discussing a game with other observers without having your message heard by +the two players. (Only users with a 'kiblevel' variable setting might not +receive your message.) You must be observing or playing a game in order to +use this command. The standard alias for "whisper" is '#'. + +See Also: alias censor kibitz kiblevel variable + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/who b/data/help/who new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dfddcbe --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/who @@ -0,0 +1,125 @@ + +who + +Usage: who [o][r][f][a][R][U][s][b][L][A][l][t][v][n][1-3][B] + + Displays a list of users who are connected to the server according to the +parameters you give. Typing "who" alone, without any arguments, will list all +users according to their blitz ratings. + +USERS TO DISPLAY + o: Only open players. + r: Only players for rated matches. + f: Only free players (not playing a game). + a: Only available players (open & free). + R: Only registered players. + U: Only unregistered players. + #: Only the top (1), middle (2) or lower (3) third of users. + B: Only users with bughouse partners set. + +ORDER OF DISPLAY + s: Standard rating. + b: Blitz rating. + L: Lightning rating. + A: Lists players alphabetically. + l: Same as above but without rating/game info. [lower case "L"] + +FORMAT OF DISPLAY + t: Terse. + v: Verbose. + n: Win-loss record. + + For example, "who aRsA" would display an alphabetical listing (A) of +registered players (R) who are available for matches (a) along with their +ratings from games using standard time controls (s). NOTE: both the capital +letters and the order of the options are important, but you *may* use spaces +between the various letters. + + +THE REGULAR (terse) DISPLAY + + The following table is an example of what the "who" request will display. +(Only a portion of a much larger listing is given here.) + +2255^OldManII(C) 1879 Chopin 1625:Flash 1251:Juan +2163 Heringer 1838^asu 1612 Lesiege ---- Jerard +2099^AmacaballoFat 1799^Kael 1587:Boutros ----:Tomato(TD) +2084^Torr 1783:GARP 1572^chessnut ++++:arc +2074:loon(*) 1774:grimm 1556#jethro ++++^ASESINO +2072 death(FM) 1760:Tsang 1555.billard ++++.beto + + The format is <rating> <status> <handle>. + +Rating: Only one set of ratings are displayed -- the default is blitz unless + another rating is requested. The entry ---- means this user is registered + but does not have a rating for this type of chess. The entry ++++ means + that the user is unregistered and thus has no rating. + +Status codes: + ^ involved in a game + ~ running a simul match + : not open for a match + # examining a game + . inactive for 5 minutes or longer + not busy + +Special handle codes: + * admin + B blindfold account + C computer account + T team account + TD Tournament Director program + FM/IM/GM titles for international chess masters + + +THE VERBOSE DISPLAY + + The following table shows sample entries from a "who v" request -- where the +"v" means "verbose" style of the "who" command. A complete display, of +course, would be rather long ... one line for each user logged on who fits the +parameters of the who request.. + + +---------------------------------------------------------------+ + | User Standard Blitz On for Idle | + +---------------------------------------------------------------+ + | 22 OldManII 2172 2256 4:09 | + | 40 u Torr ---- 2084 14 | + | X loon 2015 2074 11 | + | 35 Chopin ---- 1879 4 | + | Xu Juan 1336 1251 20 19 | + | 4 U ASESINO ++++ ++++ 18 | + | | + | 95 Players Displayed | + +---------------------------------------------------------------+ + +Going from left to right in the display: + + ## -- the number of the game the user is playing + X -- not open for games + u -- open for unrated games only + U -- unregistered player + <name> -- the player's "handle" + Standard rating -- the player's rating from standard games + Blitz rating -- the player's rating from blitz games + On for -- (in hours/minutes) how long the player has been on + Idle -- (in hours/minutes) how the player has been idle + Players Displayed -- the number of current users fitting the who request + + +THE WIN-LOSS RECORD DISPLAY + + The format for the win-loss record display is simple. Here is an example: + +Name Stand win loss draw Blitz win loss draw idle +---------------- ----- ------------- ----- ------------- ---- +<user> ---- 0 0 0 2018 92 56 26 10 + + The order is again by blitz, unless specified otherwise. This information +is also available on an individual basis by using the "finger" command. + + +See Also: blindfold blitz bughouse computers examine finger +intro_information observe ratings team + +[Last modified: December 25, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/wild b/data/help/wild new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1423eca --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/wild @@ -0,0 +1,55 @@ + +wild + + Wild is a little different than the other categories of boards in that +the starting positions are non-standard. Because wild games are fundamentally +different than regular chess, they are rated separately from blitz and +standard chess games. The wild ratings, however, do not take into account the +time controls; all wild games are rated on the same basis. + + Here are the major variations of wild that are rated: + +Style 0: White has the typical set-up at the start. Black's pieces are the +same, except that the King and Queen are reversed, so they are not on the same +files as White's King and Queen. + +Style 1: In this variant both sides have the same set of pieces as in normal +chess. The white king starts on d1 or e1 and the black king starts on d8 or +e8, and the rooks are in their usual positions. Bishops are always on +opposite colors. Subject to these constraints the position of the pieces on +their first ranks is random. Castling is done similarly to normal chess: o-o- +o indicates long castling and o-o short castling. + +Style 2: In this variant the usual set of pieces is arranged randomly on the +first and eighth ranks, with the constraint that Black's arrangement is always +a mirror image of White's. Castling is not allowed. + +Style 3: In this variant the set of pieces is randomly chosen (subject to the +constraint that there is one king of each color). It is quite possible to get +more than the normal number of a given piece, such as three rooks or two +queens. The pieces are placed on the first rank behind the pawns, the +position of Black's pieces mirrors White's placement, and castling is not +allowed. + +Style 4: In this variant a random set of pieces is generated. These pieces +are placed randomly for White and Black behind the rank of pawns, subject to +the constraint that the bishops must be balanced. + +Style 5: In this variant, each player has the usual set of pieces. However, +they are placed in a very unusal position. Pawns start on their 7th rank +rather than their 2nd rank! They are, therefore, one move away from becoming +queens. The pieces are placed on their 8th rank rather than the 1st rank. +When the game starts, it will look like the board is upside down, with White's +pieces starting on Black's side of the board, and vice versa. But don't let +this fool you. + +Style 8: In this variant, the major pieces are in the normal positions but +the pawns are in their forth rank rather than their second rank. + +Bughouse -- Bughouse is a form of partner chess. Please see the special help +files for it. + +See Also: boards bughouse bughouse_strat match + +[Last modified: December 17, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/withdraw b/data/help/withdraw new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3157d77 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/withdraw @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ + +withdraw + +Usage: withdraw [1-n, all, abort, adjourn, draw, match, pause, player, simul, +switch, takeback] + + Withdraws an offer that you have made to another user. If no parameter is +given and there is only one offer, the withdraw command with rescind your +offer. If you have more than one offer pending (for example multiple match +offers) then you must specify which offer you want to withdraw. You can +choose the offer by number, by type, all offers, or by the player's name to +whom you have made the offer. For example, the command "withdraw match" will +decline all pending match offers you have made. The command "withdraw Shane" +will withdraw the offer you made to Shane. + +NOTE: Several types of requests are withdrawn automatically in certain +situations. For example, if you have made a match request to user2 but then +accept a match request from user1, FICS starts your match with user1 and +withdraws your offer to user2; user2 is notified that you have started another +match. + +See Also: abort accept adjourn draw match pause pending simul switch +takeback + +[Last modified: June 20, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/xtell b/data/help/xtell new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6cee73e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/xtell @@ -0,0 +1,21 @@ + +xtell + +Usage: xtell user message + + The "xtell" command sends a message to a user, just like "tell" does. +However, "xtell" will not alter the setting for who-you-told-last. A "tell" +sends a message *and* resets the who-you-told-last variable to a new user. +The "xtell" command will leave this setting intact, meaning that you can still +use the "." alias to "tell" to a person you are having a conversation with. +The "xtell" command allows for a brief comment to someone while you are having +a longer chat with someone else. + +SPECIAL NOTES: + +(a) Xtell works only with tells to players, not to channels. + +See Also: alias tell + +[Last modified: October 8, 1995 -- Friar] + diff --git a/data/help/znotify b/data/help/znotify new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c83b8fa --- /dev/null +++ b/data/help/znotify @@ -0,0 +1,14 @@ + +znotify + +Usage: znotify + + Lists all users currently logged on who: (a) are on your notify list, and +(b) have you on their notify lists. Two separate lists are displayed. See +the notify command and notifiedby variable for information about what being on +these lists means. An alias for "znotify" is "znotl". + +See Also: alias notify variables + +[Last modified: October 17, 1995 -- Friar] + |