Sam has closed his piano and gone to bed ... now we can talk about the real stuff of life ... love, liberty and games such as Janus, Capablanca Random, Embassy Chess & the odd mention of other 10x8 variants is welcome too
For posting: - invitations to games (you can also use the New Game menu or for particular games: Janus; Capablanca Random; or Embassy) - information about upcoming tournaments - disussion of games (please limit this to completed games or discussion on how a game has arrived at a certain position ... speculation on who has an advantage or the benefits of potential moves is not permitted while that particular game is in progress) - links to interesting related sites (non-promotional)
I sold Gothic Chess sets in every state of the USA, every province and territory in Canada, and about 47 other countries at last count. I have post cards from people from all over the world who tell me how much they like the game.
I have a postcard from a U.S. soldier in Iraq saying he saw his supply Seargant playing Gothic Chess, and that he would order one when he returned from active duty.
A scientist at the South Pole Observatory also has a Gothic Chess set.
These are not one-time players, these are zealots who are strong advocates of the game. I have also played suicide chess once or twice, does that mean I am counted in the popularity index? I played it, gave it a try, and don't particularly care for it.
There are many different metrics you can use to gauge something as intangible as "popularity", and I think unsolicited testimonials from many different corners of the globe is a fair measure.
Let's start with a more tangible one. Is there a Suicide Chess Federation?