Implement Handicap System

Hello,

Sorry if this has been suggested before - I couldn't find any such topics. The thing that I would like to see implemented is a handicap system, where players can start live unrated games with unequal time or material. This would be beneficial for learning; it would also be fun and result in new challenges for existing players. Some Chess sites have already implemented some handicap functions, so I do think that it is technologically feasible.

If anyone would like to express support for this or criticism, please do so below. Thank you!

Some relevant threads:

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/help-support/handicaps

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/ratings-and-handicap-correlation

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/handicapping-systems---levelling-the-playing-field

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/chess-handicap-system

Many more:

http://www.chess.com/forum/search?keyword=handicap

Ahh, thanks for those links. Should have used the Search system first. I only looked through the Suggestions Forum.

The problem with material handicaps in chess, is that fundamentally changes how the game is played. The stronger side now needs only start exchanging pieces to increase that advantage.

Time handicaps would be interesting, however. Am just wondering how that would affect ratings?

Yes please let us challenge people in a way that we can chose our own time and the opponents time

I've passed this feedback along! Thanks :)