The arrangement of the 32 pieces on a standard chess board has remained the same for centuries, but a forthcoming study suggests an overhaul is in order. In the 1990s, the (infamous) former world chess champion Bobby Fischer devised a way to reinvigorate the centuries’ old game called Fischer Random Chess. Barthelemy argued that, if anything, Chess960 illustrates a constant theme throughout both standard chess and other similar strategic games. “Standard chess, despite centuries of cultural evolution, does not occupy an exceptional location in this landscape,” he wrote. Credit: LichessIf confirmed, Barthelemy’s findings aren’t intended to diminish either standard chess or Chess960’s appeal.