Who is Witty Alien?
Welcome back to "Who is...?" - where we meet small chess streamers, learn their stories, and go beyond the game. Let's dive in!
Today, we're introducing Witty Alien, a CM with a FIDE rating of 2200, more known as the Twitch streamer who first gained popularity through his short-form content on TikTok. Recently, he made a significant contribution to the chess world by introducing a new gambit, conveniently named the "Alien Gambit," which has been accepted as a new book move.
Q: How did your chess journey begin and how did it progress? Was there anything specifically that made you put a pause on competitive, classical chess?
Witty: It began thanks to my brother and ended because I needed to educate myself and make myself a living.
Q: Can you share a little about your transition from being a software engineer to a full-time Twitch streamer? What inspired this shift?
Witty: This shift was inspired by my intuition. It felt like programming was not for me anymore after failed 2 years of work on websites.
Q: What originally drew you to TikTok, and how did it make a difference in your popularity as a chess streamer?
Witty: I started uploading on YouTube first then 2 months later on Tiktok. Even though I had never watched TikTok, I knew it was important. Yes, Tiktok helped SO MUCH.
Q: How do you manage making streams and videos while still having time for yourself and other things you enjoy?
Witty: I don't have time for myself and it is very, very difficult especially when health issues show.
Q: How do you get ready for your streams and chess videos? Do you have a specific way of preparing or a routine you follow?
Witty: No, I just make highlights of streams and plan 20-30 minutes of a longer video.
Q: What are your long-term goals and ambitions in the chess community and as a content creator?
Witty: My goals are the stars.
Q: How do you approach criticism or negative feedback from viewers, and how do you keep your streaming environment a positive one?
Witty: I don't take myself seriously to be offended by negative feedback, but of course, it hurts. I try to learn from it. A positive environment is maintained through integrity and moderation.
Q: Has getting titled awakened the fire of wanting to go back to the professional world of chess?
Witty: My fire for OTB chess is always there - I just can't afford it right now.
Q: Lastly, who is Witty_Alien?
Witty: I am just an ordinary guy who loves chess and content creation with all my heart, and I try my best to make people laugh and happy.
