Chapter 0 · What is Othello

How to Read Game Records

Square names (A1 to H8), how to write and read move sequences, and STD vs. XOT.

Squares are named by columns A to H and rows 1 to 8. The top-left square is A1 and the bottom-right square is H8. A move sequence lists the squares played in order. For example, "F5 D6 C3" means Black F5, White D6, Black C3.

A square name is read as the column (letter) followed by the row (number).

Use the ▶ button on the board below to follow the moves one at a time. The number on each disc shows which move it was.

F5 D6 C3 D3 C4 F4 C5 B3

STD and XOT

  • STD (standard): ordinary Othello, played straight from the starting position.
  • XOT (random opening): one sequence is picked at random from an 8-move opening list that computer analysis rates as balanced for Black and White. Those 8 moves are placed in advance, giving a position with 12 discs on the board, and the players take over from Black's 9th move. It is meant to reduce the effect of memorized openings, and the rules for moves, passing and the result after the start are the same as in ordinary Othello.
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