What Is Smurfing in Online Chess? And Why Is It Problematic?

Online chess has grown increasingly popular in recent years, with players from all over the world engaging in the game on various platforms. 

While chess can be challenging and rewarding, it can also attract players who engage in unfair tactics, such as “surfing.” So, what is smurfing in online chess? 

Smurfing is a practice where experienced players create new accounts with lower ratings in order to compete against weaker opponents and achieve easy victories. This not only goes against the spirit of fair competition but can also discourage new players from continuing to play.

Keep reading to learn more about what smurfing in online chess means and why it’s considered bad.

Explaining What Smurfing in Online Chess Means

Smurfing in online chess refers to a practice where a player, often an experienced one, creates a new account with a lower rating or rank in order to play against weaker opponents. It is often done to boost a player’s ego, increase their win rate, or make achieving a higher rank or rating easier. Some players even use smurfing as a way to troll and frustrate opponents.

The term “smurfing” originated from two skilled gamers who played Warcraft II. Other players would avoid engaging them in battle upon seeing their names, prompting them to create new identities using new accounts and naming them “PapaSmurf” and “Smurfette.”

Why Is Smurfing in Online Chess Considered Problematic?

Smurfing is considered problematic for several reasons. 

Firstly, it goes against the spirit of fair competition. Like any other sport, chess requires players to challenge themselves to improve their skills over time. However, when experienced players smurf, they are taking advantage of weaker players, which can discourage them from continuing to play.

Smurfing can also lead to a lack of trust in the online chess community. When players realize that smurfing is prevalent, they may feel that they cannot trust their opponents or the ranking system.

Moreover, It can negatively affect the integrity of the ranking system, making it difficult for legitimate players to achieve a fair ranking. This can also discourage players from trying to improve their skills and compete at higher levels.

That’s why platforms and players must take measures to prevent smurfing and ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all players.

Should You Report A Player for Smurfing?

If you suspect a player of smurfing in online chess, you may wonder whether or not you should report them. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the platform’s policies and your personal beliefs about fair play.

Some online chess platforms explicitly prohibit smurfing and have mechanisms in place to detect and punish players who engage in this practice. In such cases, reporting a suspected smurf may be the right thing to do. By reporting the player, you are helping to maintain the integrity of the game and prevent others from experiencing unfair competition.

However, not all platforms have clear policies or rules against smurfing. In such cases, reporting a player may not be effective, as the platform may not take any action against the player. In these situations, you may feel that reporting the player is not worth your time and effort.

Ultimately, the decision to report a player for smurfing is up to you. If you believe that the player’s behavior is harmful to the online chess community and goes against fair play, reporting them may be the best course of action. 

Can You Smurf in Offline Chess?

As mentioned earlier, Smurfing in the context of online gaming refers to creating new accounts to compete against weaker opponents. Therefore, it’s not possible to smurf in offline chess since it doesn’t involve any online or digital components.

In offline chess, players compete against each other in person, either on a physical board or using a software program that doesn’t involve any online interaction.

Offline chess tournaments and events may have rules or restrictions on player eligibility, such as limiting the number of experienced players who can participate in beginner events. Players who violate these rules by pretending to be less experienced than they are may be penalized or disqualified from the event.

So, even if you manage to enter such a tournament, it is not advantageous since you will likely be disqualified from the final ranking and not eligible for any prizes. Additionally, due to the nature of the ELO system, you will not earn many ELO points if you win matches in a lower category.

When Is Smurfing Allowed on Online Chess Websites?

Smurfing may be allowed on certain online chess websites if you hold a title or have received special authorization from the platform. However, most online chess websites typically do not encourage or promote smurfing, and titled players are usually limited to one alternate account.

One instance where smurfing may be allowed is during speed runs, where players aim to win as quickly as possible. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to seek permission from the website’s support team before engaging in this activity.

In general, most online chess websites, such as chess.com, only allow one account per person unless granted permission by their support team. Additionally, there may be certain restrictions in place to ensure fair competition, such as being barred from participating in tournaments and having all ratings returned to opponents.

Does GM Hikaru Nakamura Smurf on Chess.com?

Hikaru Nakamura, an accomplished chess Grandmaster, is widely regarded as one of the world’s top chess players.

In collaboration with Chess.com, Nakamura and other chess experts have created authorized Smurf accounts for instructional or entertainment purposes, allowing lower-rated players to play against them without losing rating points, as they are compensated afterward.

Due to his primary account’s high rank, the professional chess player and streamer shifted his attention to a secondary account to climb the ranks once again.

During one of his live streams in 2021, Nakamura faced off against a random opponent who he recognized as fellow streamer MoistCr1tikal. Despite Charlie’s low chances of winning, Nakamura extended his unbeaten streak by easily defeating him.

During the same live stream, Charlie’s followers informed him of his opponent’s identity and revealed that his loss had put an end to his five-game winning streak, which had been propelling him up the rankings. 

You should definitely check out Charlie’s reaction here!

If you did find this article helpful, please consider sharing, as it can help this little site grow 🙏