Poker and chess have long been intertwined, with many top poker players starting their journey in chess. Notable chess champions like Magnus Carlsen, Jen Shahade, and Ottomar Ladva have demonstrated their skills at the poker table, showcasing the overlap between these two strategic games.
For instance, Ladva recently triumphed at the EPT Barcelona €25,000 High Roller, taking home €439,400.
Today, let’s focus on chess player Alexandra Prado. She recently attended the 20th anniversary celebration in Barcelona and, in addition to being a chess player, she is also a live blogger. Prado shares her unique perspective on the similarities between chess and poker.
Balancing Content and Entertainment
Prado believes that both live streaming chess and poker present unique challenges, particularly in balancing skill and entertainment.
“When you’re streaming, distractions can lower your ELO score by about 200 points,” she explains. “You’re interacting with the chat or showing something, and the fast-paced nature of the game leaves little time for deep thought.”
She emphasizes the importance of engaging the audience. “You need to keep people entertained while catering to the community’s interests. They enjoy watching your reactions and how you play, and for me, that’s fantastic.”
For Prado, live streaming is not just about playing chess; it’s about creating a shared experience with viewers. “Whether it’s chess or poker, live streaming allows for a deeper connection with the audience. It opens up a completely different world.”
Reading Your Opponent
Prado highlights the intriguing similarities between chess and poker, particularly in reading opponents and adjusting strategies accordingly.
“Whether online or in person, you must be prepared for your opponent. It’s similar in poker—you need to understand your opponent’s style and aggression. Factors like age also matter; I find it challenging to play against younger players,” she shares.
Recently, Prado has focused more on her opponents’ reactions than her own position. As the saying goes, “You play the player, not just the cards.”
“Yesterday, I faced a female IM and tried a new opening. I ended up sacrificing a piece unexpectedly, but I felt confident and aggressive. Her surprise was evident; she spent a lot of time considering her moves while I remained relaxed.”
“In chess, sometimes you make a move just to test your opponent’s comfort level. If they seem uneasy, it confirms your strategy. It’s much like poker—when you bet or raise, gauging your opponent’s reaction is crucial.”
