Everybody uses computers to train so much now that the first nine or 10 moves of a match are made without thinking.

The quote "Everybody uses computers to train so much now that the first nine or 10 moves of a match are made without thinking" by Hikaru Nakamura reflects on the impact of modern technology on the game of chess. Nakamura, a top chess grandmaster, is commenting on how the widespread use of computers and chess engines has revolutionized the way players prepare for matches. By using these advanced tools to analyze and study various openings and strategies, players can memorize and reproduce the initial moves of a game almost automatically, without the need for deep thought or personal decision-making.

This quote highlights how computers have significantly influenced the training process in chess. With access to powerful chess engines like Stockfish and AlphaZero, players can simulate thousands of games and evaluate various opening lines in a matter of seconds. As a result, the early stages of a match, which were once a space for personal creativity and original thought, have become largely standardized, with many moves being pre-determined by the insights of computer algorithms. This shift has fundamentally changed the dynamic of the game, as players focus less on opening moves and more on the middle and endgame, where human intuition and skill become more critical.

The origin of this quote comes from Nakamura’s perspective as a professional chess player in an era where technology has become an integral part of the game. In the past, chess training relied heavily on books, mentors, and practice games, but computers have now become a dominant tool for preparation. Nakamura, known for his aggressive and creative style of play, likely recognizes the way computers have altered the traditional approach to chess strategy and how they can give players a competitive edge.

Ultimately, Nakamura's quote reflects the ongoing transformation of chess through the integration of technology. While the use of computers has made the first moves of a game more mechanical and predictable, it has also pushed players to develop new strategies for the later stages of the match. The quote serves as a commentary on how technology has both standardized aspects of the game while simultaneously raising the level of play, making chess a more analytical and data-driven pursuit.