The Norway Chess tournament has long been known for introducing innovative ideas to make chess more engaging for both players and audiences.In the current edition, the organisers have implemented a fresh time control system, giving each player two hours without increment initially, and adding a 10-second increment per move after the 40th move.This change aims to speed up classical games while maintaining strategic depth.

Another popular feature is the 'confessional booth', where players can step aside during a game to express their thoughts, and Indian Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh has been seen using it with enthusiasm.

Kjell Madland, the founder and CEO of Norway Chess, emphasises that these changes were driven by the increasing number of draws in classical chess, which he felt made games less entertaining for spectators.

Madland is also behind the upcoming Total Chess World Championship Tour, set to begin next year, which will combine fast classical, rapid, and blitz formats across multiple cities and countries, creating a more dynamic and global chess experience.

These innovations are being appreciated by fans and players alike, signalling a new era of chess that balances tradition with modern entertainment needs.