Total Chess wants to collapse classical, rapid, and blitz ratings into one unified number. Researcher Mehmet Mars Seven designed the formula with input from Norway Chess, using existing FIDE ratings across all three formats to generate an overall strength metric.
Carlsen leads the inaugural ranking, predictably. Nakamura slots second, with Abdusattorov third. The ordering reflects what most strong players already know: dominance in one format doesn't guarantee dominance in another, but elite players tend to stay elite regardless of time control.
The proposal has merit for casual fans who want a simple answer to "who's the best player right now?" Traditional FIDE ratings only capture classical chess, leaving rapid and blitz incomplete. A unified system captures the modern reality: top players compete across all formats constantly.
The obvious risk is oversimplification. Classical chess requires different skills than blitz. Carlsen's classical rating reflects decades of preparation and calculation. His rapid rating reflects sharper tactical instincts and clock management. Squashing these into one number loses information.
Total Chess plans testing and public consultation before finalizing any changes. Chess players and federations will likely have strong opinions about weighting. Should classical count more because it's "pure"? Should it count equally since top players now play blitz professionally? These questions matter if this system actually influences how we rank strength.