The modern chess world is a fiercely competitive one and chess sites are always looking for new and exciting ways to engage the chess player. Everybody knows that the game is ages old and inexpensive to become actively interested in. Any number of sites offer chess databases and online games and the number of sites offering chess equipment positively proliferate.

That's not to say that these sites are not a part of any chess players link base. A serious chess player who wants to find a truly quality site has to be willing to surf for them. The thing is - these tools are vital to the chess world - but no longer are they exciting!

New chess toys - such as the chess computer - has certainly built interest. Chess training - rather than just chess reading - is also catching on. Innovative sites are popping up all trying to put a new face on an old game. But in the end - chess remains chess - because the real joy of learning it is to beat the stuffing out of your smuggest chess opponent.

But what about truly innovative ways to expand the chess world. Like what? Well, let's try combining chess with things that we consider fun every day.

Ever considered chess dating? Win the game, win a date!

And, if strip poker - why not strip chess? Now THAT would certainly give the chess player something to play for - and it would liven up the game so that it would not be the same old grind. Your skill still counts for something - and you are motivated to play your best - or bare your all. Software versions of strip chess might be created where you play chess against simulated opponents who toss in the towel - along with everything else - should you beat them.

What about chess fishing? Make up your own rules - but one thing is for sure. You will have something to do while you are waiting for the fish to bite.

Chess is ages old - and it is not going anywhere - but it does NOT have to be ALL about the mind. Unless you have ambitions to be a master - you might consider livening up your chess play. Heck - even if you do have such lofty ambitions there is no reason not to have some fun at it.

What with all the training and learning and training few games need an infusion of pure fun than chess. We don't HAVE to play like they did one thousand years ago. Maybe somebody out there will take a clue - and go to work on the first edition of strip chess. Chess doesn't get to be any more modern than that.