Yes, everyone was who played at IYT was affected (especially those who were unaware of the correct rules). I am not against the opening restriction, from what i hear it at least shrinks player 1's advantage. What i don't understand is why you are so opposed to the 13x13 game. Yes, i know, you have said it was not invented that way, and was meant to be played on a 19x19 board. Of all the games of Pente ever played, what percent do you think would have been any different if played on a 13x13 board instead (like the edge would have been in the way with the smaller board)? I would guess very few, and of those games, i would guess almost all of them were 2 very experienced players.