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Subject: Re: Sequential Engine: an already invented idea, too?

Author: James Long

Date: 14:30:37 09/27/98

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On September 27, 1998 at 14:32:27, Fernando Villegas wrote:

>
>Why not a program with a kind of device similar to that to decide where the
>action is and then use the necessary modules for the rest of the job? By
>example, if the position calls for tactics, then he would uses only the
>algorithms oriented to tactics, maybe with full width searching, etc. But then
>if an strategic approach is necessary in the queen side, he drops the tactic
>part of the engine and concentrates all his speed in evaluating strategic
>parameters such as pwan races, etc.
>Of course some mix should be made: maybe after strategic consideration a quick
>look for eventual tactics would be ever necessary to avoid mishaps. But I do not
>want to enter in details about this because i suspect that this has already
>invented or rejected. Could a programmer tell me about this? Did I pick a good
>idea or just I picked an unfeasible one?
>fernando

I think that's what's called "Shannon Type B."  These types of programs
selectively search only a few moves.  I think most programs prune to
a certain degree, but any way you look at it you're taking a huge
risk.

For example, how do you *know* a strategic approach is necessary without
looking for tactical blunders?  I just don't see any way around doing
a tactical search  (as you pointed out).  You can (semi) safely omit
large portions of the positional factors of an evaluation, however.

Isn't CSTal a selective searcher?  I'd like to hear more about this
engine if anybody has some info.

--
James




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