The Draw Heuristic of Cray-Blitz

Abstract

Cray-Blitz’s draw heuristic is described. It consists essentially in postponing draws for’ as long as possible. This tactic has the surprising side-effect of occasionally tricking the adversary into abandoning a draw for a loss. Cases are shown in which the tactic leads to moves one would call brilliant in human terms. Some attendant disadvantages occur and are exemplified.