The first weekend of the 2021 Oceania Zonal has been completed, and unsurprisingly, the lead is being shared by GM Anton Smirnov and GM Temur Kuybokarov, both on 4/4. This is one of the first official FIDE hybrid events, and while it has run quite smoothly, it still doesn't feel like 'real' chess to me.
The obvious difference is not having two players at the same venue, and this certainly gives the game a different feel. There also seems to be less intensity about the game, although this might depend upon the make up of the field. But in terms of a direct comparison between OTB and Online Chess it is more Online than OTB, with the only difference being an arbiter is present.
Others of course may have a different experience when playing/arbiting but it has not convinced me that this is the way of the future for chess. Possibly the only change that could change my mind would be if it was a completely immersive environment, with the players (and arbiters) using VR goggles to simulate an actual playing hall!
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