Will Gotham make it to GM? Will Gotham stay an IM? The real question is how many people has Gotham inspired to play this beautiful game? In the future, how many IMs and GMs will have gotten their start because of Gotham? Whether you make it or not, your passion has left an amazing mark on the history of chess.
@@xbjwiehehkqisiubut he can do, he already did. he’s an international master which is extremely difficult to get 🤣 so your comment is completely brainless
This has always felt a bit odd to me in chess - like the idea that only GM players are somehow good enough to really understand the game or be able to offer e.g. useful commentary. But there's only like 1500 active grand masters. And there's hundreds of millions of casual chess players. And there's around 400 000 tournament players. So out of FIDE-recognized tournament players, GMs make less than half a percent. Out of all professional football players, that would be like 500 people. And there's way, way, way more people who understand football to the point of being able to coach players, or being able to offer commentary, or being able to provide excellent insight into the game.
Levy, nobody who just watches your recaps can really understand what your mindset currently is, and you accepting a draw out of fear from losing i think is totally normal. I believe once you finally get a win, which you will, you'll be able to get back in form and start performing like usual, plus what is a road to GM journey without ups and downs? But seriously it's just a matter of time when you'll be back to that High IM-Near GM level that everyone knows your capable of, we believe in you Levy!
@@Stephcurry-e7v who cares if eventually he doesn't become gm? what if he does? you can't predict the future. instead of discouraging everyone you can try and get better at something you're passionate about yourself
If he can make it then he’ll be one of the most passive GMs to receive the title. No killer instinct or resolve. He’s so in his own head it’s crazy to watch given what I’ve seen him do over the board.
@@mmolina2121 the ammount of psychology and anxiety related to otb chess is absolutely insane, i only played amateur small tournaments and it always felt like a knee surgery, probably none of his viewers can ever comprehend how mentally tiring a serious classical otb chess match can be, especially when millions of people see you mess up several times in a row, in this way he has it much harder than other people trying to become GMs, i think he would be a GM already if he didnt do youtube, he needs to work on his psychology because its his biggest enemy right now, he can play very convincingly on a GM level when his mentality is well set
Levy! I am hearing the tone of some of the commentary during these videos and you have me concerned - about the future of the Road to GM. I understand that there might be some lingering thoughts about tournament play, classical chess and where your future lies in the sport of competitive chess. From a fan, who you brought into the chess world from some random shorts, my completely unqualified opinion is please do not give up. Your chess ability exceeds ours quite considerably, and this is incredibly obvious. But the sport is hard, particularly at the elite level and seeing you compete at high stakes and watching you battle your own challenges and shortcomings publicly is inspiring. You don’t need to win. You don’t ever need to be successful. But watching you strive for your own personal improvement and analyse areas of your own games where better decisions could be made, makes all of your other content more relatable. Perhaps becoming a GM is out of reach. I don’t really know. But as a content creator, I think it would be an absolute shame to lose the competitive side of things. So maybe rather than focusing on GM (if you decide you no longer wish to pursue that) you could focus on the content side of competitive chess and what it brings your fans when you do compete. It might even free you up mentally in those bigger moments. And don’t worry about the trolls. It’s people who have nothing better to do with their time - and it is sad that the best use of their time is attacking someone else. As for Hikaru and others, they are genius level chess players. And quite often, they struggle to understand how other humans think because their brains work differently. Anyway; from one new chess fan to Gotham. Please don’t step away from competitive chess. It’s why I keep coming back to your channel.
I actually don't comment often, but I feel like this comment is actually a great piece of advice to Levy. I'm commenting more to engage and hopefully keep this comment closer to the top so he potentially sees it. I think regardless of if he chooses to keep striving for GM, choosing to play competitively as a way to showcase what the competitive seen looks like from a firsthand point of view is very insightful for people looking to play the game. There are many videos where he analyzes other players gameplay and he'll show a move and say "so this is what I think his thoughts were" or "I actually have no idea why this move was played." By being actively playing on the board, I think he opens up a perspective where he can instead say "so here were my thoughts when I saw this position" and while his insights may not be expert level, they are much more relatable than someone like Carlson or Nakamura giving insight due to their hyper advanced thought process. This isn't to say Levy doesn't or can't ever achieve that ability, but his content has focused on dumbing down chess for so long that I not only think he has grown stronger as a player, but he can explain these higher level tactics in a much more insightful way. I think competitive chess offers newer levels on content that Levy's channel could use and explore much more deeply than analysis of other tournaments that he was absent for. Long winded way to say, I agree with your comment as a lurker on this channel for over 5 years. I don't think Levy should give up competitive chess and should instead employ a new mentality when playing over the board.
It is so entertaining to have a new tournament game review every single day. It is not important if Levy becomes a Grandmother or not. I just hope he enjoys the journey and I am glad we can enjoy it with him.
@@xbjwiehehkqisiu I don’t think you understand that when you guys post comments like this, we’re actually sad for you. Did you know when I click your name I can see you posted the 1.5/7 comment like 4 times? I can only imagine what your life is like if that’s how you choose to spend your time. Yeesh.
Ever since I started watching Levy (3 years now) he's grown so much as a player, a person and a content creator. Can't have a comeback when you never fell off, eh?
Levi, even if you don't hit GM, the journey is what you'll look back on and be proud of; You've made some absolutely brilliant plays, and I wish you luck.
I think this game and the last one really highlight the issue. You need to be patient and not expect to be winning immediately. Expectations like that will really mess up your game. You need more confidence in your positions so you can play those patient / slow looking moves. Rooting for you Levy!
levy got me into chess - i’m a measly 800 elo blitz player but i enjoy watching the content. just wanted to say the uncut format of your videos and the way you speak openly about your mental state in these games is very honest and inspiring. keep at it levy, you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs
Best series in my opinion. There's drama, there's character development (Levi's first return, then quit, then tries again with a new mindset). Let's go Levy! Also, you are in so much better shape after a loss or a 1/2 than before, that is, in my book, a big win for you!
Hey Levy! Recently I got your book from a friend, and it was one of the best gifts I've gotten. I wonder how many people you've inspired to play chess with your videos and teaching materials, and I wonder how many prodigies you have created. You're a great teacher and chess player, and I'm excited to see the next steps in your journey!
Thanks again for sharing your games and your battle trying to achieving your goal. I'm a long time chess player, I love the game but I'm nowhere near your abilities. I appreciate your insights and clear analyses. Your struggle in recent games is so recognizable. I find myself too (in waaaaay lower rated games) in winning positions and then to let it all slip out of my hands. For me, that's the hardest part in chess: converting a good position to a win. One iffy move, or even losing initiative, can turn the tables ever so quickly. Keep faith in your abilities! And keep sharing your videos 💙
Levy, you made me go back into playing chess. Don´t listen to the haters or the trolls. You have the support of your family, friends and the majority of the community. Just like me, you inspire many of us to follow our dreams even if they have nothing to do with chess. You´ll get that GM title sooner or later because with hard work we can do anything. I hope the rest of this tournment goes well and you find the strenght to smash the next ones💪
watching the road to GM is actually watching Levy go on a spiritual journey to find himself and learn his own mind. I didn't expect that at the beginning but it's pretty cool.
That’s a weird way of saying “is actually watching Levy half ass one more additional thing in the myriad of avenues he finds to squeeze his parasocial cult for money while not putting honest effort or integrity into any of them and meeting any criticism with ‘doing it this way makes me more money’”
I have a sinking feeling that with those big picture thoughts about classical chess, that he may put the road to GM on hold again due to being so busy :(
not hating but something like GM title needs a full commitment. Levy is trying to improve while running his yt channel and chessly and whatever other obligations he’s got. but his competition isn’t doing all that. they’re just purely focused on competing.
@@porafriken He is also writing a 2nd book, is going to do a europe tour in a few months and some other appearances. He definetly has way too much on his plate, and with Arturs confirming that Levy has not been getting coached by him for the past 4 months, I am wondering if he even had the time to prepare for this tournament at all.
@@porafriken the fact that he seems to be happy with his performance the last few games tying with FMs shows that just doesn’t quite have the mentality to make GM imo. Not trying to hate, but someone serious about making GM would not be happy with this tie.
@@arthurvalladares5451 I disagree. The only metric for improvement is your past self. Striving to improve from where you have been in the past is more important that comparing your Now to the faraway where you hope to be. When the skill is there, mindset is everything.
I dont know if you have realized but you used to stress so hard about these types of games before and that affected your whole tournament. You seem a whole lot more chill now and you always have great ideas and at times you doubt yourself because they play something you didn't expect or overlooked and it shocks you a bit, but DUDE, your attitude has massively changed and I believe it will allow you to play better and more calmly the more comfortable you are and the more relaxed you are. Learn to trust yourself and if you need to take a draw, then so be it but you have an aggressive style that at times needs a bit of waiting. You have been doing awesome. It's about keeping clam and playing your best. I believe in you, Levy. I want you to believe in you too.
He is at 1.5/7 in an IM norm tournament you call this great? This is an absolutely abysmal performance no matter how much delusion you use to slice it.
Without even a single norm😂 I respect the guy because this is nothing more than a stream of income for the channel not actually him getting the GM title
@@azenith9283 blud was so close to getting a norm last summer man 😭 he's not taking it as seriously as he was then, he needs to reevaluate whether chessly and all this channel management and content creation is stopping him from actually training for the GM title
Mr. Levy, I think that your approach to the conclusion of this game was perfectly reasonable! You can't win every game, and 2 draws in a row should (hopefully) really help you regain your balance and your footing for the games ahead! I think you should be quite proud and happy this this! You played well, good for you!
Levy just doesn't get it, because what Hikaru said THREE years ago was the main reason preventing Levy from becoming a GM, that is STILL the biggest reason holding him back; which is that he's afraid and plays for draw instead of being aggressive and confident. And when that get pointed out to him he just says sarcastically "you guys(viewers) are obviously much better than me". Brother, this is Hikaru freaking Nakamura advice lol.
@@backyard282 listen, you dont understand. Hikaru is superhuman. If levy is not confident in himself, let him be. He will play for a win and confiedently when be feels like jt. You are definetly below 1000.
If you ask me, i wouldn't have taken the draw. I understand being afraid to lose after a few losses, but you of all ppl should know you can win. Basing on your videos, and specially your shorts, you have the calculating potential to beat gms and if your nerves dont get to your head. Much love, goodluck bro
Stupid comment. Thanks for spoiling it for me and at least one other guy. Also the dude has almost 6 million subs, like he's gonna read every comment and when he gets to yours he's gonna say "yeah, he's right, I'm shifting in a new direction" 🤦♂️
I believe this game and the learnings you obtained is how you will ultimately become GM. Not because I am an expert or even good at this game but the way you spoke about the game and unlocked the idea of losing the imitative for the overall win period. Go levy!
as a 1500, ive been there when doing bad "I can play for a win, or a draw, but i really need that draw to feel good about myself, a loss would kill me rn, lets take the draw" super fair call
Better to draw than to lose Levy. You're on a path that many of us will not ever be able to take. You have an immense community behind you, and we all are in your corner brother.
I was so happy when i read the title of the vid, it was a lottle underwhelming to see a draw. Anyhow, now you seem to have recomposed yourself and stabilised the tournament.. great job. Good luck with your next round 🙌🏻
I feel like your on the brinks of making a breakthrough. Maybe deeper dive positional playing for these moments you need to slow down and slowly constrict. Don't give up!
10 дней назад
Hi (and happy 2025) something that would be interesting after one of this classical game: a conversation with your opponent. What did they prepare for you, what were their thoughts during the game, etc.
Since I started watching Levy three years ago, he's grown tremendously as a player, a person, and a content creator. Can't make a comeback if you never fell off, eh?
It's perfectly fine Levy. You got 3 shockers back to back. At least last 2 games helped you stabilise. As you say, sometimes you have to take a step back to take 2 steps forward.
The reason why I love levy and his content is because not only is it just incredible for free but also he obviously really cares, he fully understands there’s people like me and like some reading this that are having a rough go, it’s a part of life but these videos are genuinely the most exciting thing I have rn, also chess is just very beautiful. But I think you have to know atleast a little bit about it to know how beautiful it really is and he is the greatest ambassador for the game, thank you so much for the amazing content and all your hard work, I hope everyone has a fantastic day/night ❤
As a fan, and someone that wants to see you succeed. I feel like someone close to you just needs to tell you to get over it and play. Almost every game you get good positions and then doubt yourself.
knowing when to be patient is rough, that's why i struggle with keeping tension with pawns too, which is an obviously lower level but it's the same kind of problem imo
Levy, I'm not writing often in the comment section, but I want to tell you that Road to GM is one of my favorite series from you. Looking forward to your Ws! :D
Levy play the tournaments and deliver/upload the recaps afterwards. Reduce the workload during tournaments and find enjoyment playing otb without the pressure of a result. Perhaps get match fit leading up to a competitive tournament with one or two warm ups tournaments. Keep going!
Hey man, I love this series and am happy with whatever you decide to do . What I would like to see, though, is doing some sports psychology training. From the bleachers, it looks like, at this stage in your life, you're playing below your potential. To me, this makes sense because when you're younger, you still are able to believe that you are untouchable, but when you get older, that notion gets smacked out of you pretty quick =). So anyway, that's what I would like to see, but of course, you know best and I'm sure there are a million considerations that I don't know about.
Levy, please keep going, i love your content and i keep checking your channel every single day. I hope you read this comment and have confidence in your skills, you are very instructive and inspiring, i couldnt watch any other chess youtube content after witnessing yours, i love seeing u win and i really wany you to start believing in yourself more over the board. Oops i wrote too much heh.
Hey Levy- im an amateur chess player from Denmark rated between 1900-2000 across the different formats. Recently I have had a lot of bad games, where I have been throwing basically everything away- most recently I blundered an equal endgame away to GM Henrik Danielsen pure Ding-style... Do you have any tips/recommendations on how to get back in a winning psychological mindset? Best of luck!
In all honesty, I completely respect the idea to take a draw there, and it kinda goes directly in to a tournament I'm currently having where I haven't been doing too good, and took a draw in a position where really only I was playing. Of course you're supposed to go for the win, but it's draining to always lose these types of positions. I have one more round in my tourney and am currently 2 out of 6, so hopefully I can get a more respectable score by the end of it.
Hey Levi, I Don't usually comment but you said that you don't trust yourself to go all in for the win every game regardless if you win or lose, my guy you published a book, made thousand's learn about chess, you grew a youtube channel close to 6 MILLION subscribers and you are helping people get better at chess everyday while entertaining them. You are the definition of a grinder, if you can't go all in in the match and 100% trust yourself then who can? Have some confidence and if you fail you will learn and come back to win another time, shut your brain off from these thoughts and just grind chess
Not seeing how a position that looks completely equal could lead to an advantage 20+ moves down the road is not a failing unless you're a computer! But glad you're finding some insights into middle game concepts and sharing them with us. And I suppose one of the things that is required on the road to GM is knowing when to take a draw rather than going all in each and every game. As you've sort of said in the past, it's a long road you're on, and the early phase is the learning phase, during which the ups will be proceeded by a period of downs. It is only once the new learning kicks in and gets fine tuned and properly calibrated that the ups will overtake the downs. That doesn't make it any easier at the time, of course, so I feel for you. Glad that you appear to be taking everything in stride though.
You have all the time in the world to become a GM, and it's not like there's a big skill difference between you and your opponents. You could've won at least 2 games so far if not for 1 or 2 wrong choices in each game. I also think this tournament is kinda tough because it has a lot of underrated kids. You should choose tournaments more carefully if your #1 gool is to become GM.
I understand, Levy. I'm always fascinated when one side in a super GM game builds up an incredibly dominant position, where it seems like the loser needs to drop a piece or more, and the end result is a sure win in a king and pawn endgame. High level chess is madness.
Levy keep going. Being afraid to lose is normal. Hell I'm afraid to lose in my 1300 rated games. It's all a part of the process. Love watching your recaps. Keep going don't lose hope. ❤
Question on Chessly and your teaching videos. I bought the year of chessly but am having trouble because you seem to teach with the idea of "memorize this" My memory is horrible but was hoping Chessly would have some courses that may help someone like myself, who can't remember 3 different offshoots of a move, let alone 10 or more. That is what it feels like I am seeing.
Hey man wanted to ask why you never play aggressive lines such as scotch gambit or to take a page from your rival eric the Stafford gambit. They are really effective cause most don't know about the various traps
As a non-chess player but as someone who plays a sport (tennis actually), here’s my 2 cents advice: The only way to truly lose is to not learn something from each game. Regardless of a game’s outcome (win/loss/draw) ask yourself, “What did I learn here, and how can I apply it next?” So long as you are gaining experience and putting those lessons into your future performances, you are winning. As I said I’m not a chess player, but I was drawn to your content because of how you explain the game so well to a general audience of all levels. When you announced your un-retirement to continue your road to becoming a GM, I was thrilled! You’ve been called the “Internet’s Chess Teacher,” and I hope you can pick through the troll comments to see that your fans have your back knowing this will be a LONG and BUMPY road. I believe you’ve got it in you to accomplish this so long as you believe you’ve got it in you to reach the top of this mountain. Mountains aren’t meant to be climbed straight up (unless you like risking it all), but the path curves and twists its way up. Hold your head up high. Your fans are with you the whole way. 👍
Self doubt is so tough to overcome. You have your doubters, and all it takes is one bad game where you know you could've played much better to start making you doubt yourself. Good for you, Levy, wr believe in you. You're twice the player I'll ever be. Er, like 1.5 if you're about 2300.
Hey man you probably will not read this but I want you to know win lose or whatever you have countless people here who will support you whatever you may turn to. I love these videos but whatever you want to do I will support you. Keep it real fellow new yorker
I feel like if you were playing a how to win at chess game vs some 1500 you would have played that rook move in 5s and tell us all about taking it slowly and not rushing.
Will Gotham make it to GM? Will Gotham stay an IM?
The real question is how many people has Gotham inspired to play this beautiful game? In the future, how many IMs and GMs will have gotten their start because of Gotham?
Whether you make it or not, your passion has left an amazing mark on the history of chess.
"Those that can do, those that can't teach". Levy is the internet's chess teacher for a reason.
Well said 👍
@@xbjwiehehkqisiubut he can do, he already did. he’s an international master which is extremely difficult to get 🤣 so your comment is completely brainless
Chatgpt ahh response
This has always felt a bit odd to me in chess - like the idea that only GM players are somehow good enough to really understand the game or be able to offer e.g. useful commentary.
But there's only like 1500 active grand masters. And there's hundreds of millions of casual chess players. And there's around 400 000 tournament players. So out of FIDE-recognized tournament players, GMs make less than half a percent.
Out of all professional football players, that would be like 500 people. And there's way, way, way more people who understand football to the point of being able to coach players, or being able to offer commentary, or being able to provide excellent insight into the game.
Levy, nobody who just watches your recaps can really understand what your mindset currently is, and you accepting a draw out of fear from losing i think is totally normal. I believe once you finally get a win, which you will, you'll be able to get back in form and start performing like usual, plus what is a road to GM journey without ups and downs? But seriously it's just a matter of time when you'll be back to that High IM-Near GM level that everyone knows your capable of, we believe in you Levy!
I don’t !
I agree w/you ... Levy's loving UncleNico. ;)
Stop defending this nonsense. He’s washed little bro
@@Stephcurry-e7vhey now.. he is at 1.5/7 with no wins in an IM norm tournament, he is not washed. This is a strong performance.
@@Stephcurry-e7v who cares if eventually he doesn't become gm? what if he does? you can't predict the future. instead of discouraging everyone you can try and get better at something you're passionate about yourself
20:56
„You guys are of course much better than me.“
You said it, not me.
If he can make it then he’ll be one of the most passive GMs to receive the title. No killer instinct or resolve. He’s so in his own head it’s crazy to watch given what I’ve seen him do over the board.
@@mmolina2121paragraph
@@mmolina2121 the ammount of psychology and anxiety related to otb chess is absolutely insane, i only played amateur small tournaments and it always felt like a knee surgery, probably none of his viewers can ever comprehend how mentally tiring a serious classical otb chess match can be, especially when millions of people see you mess up several times in a row, in this way he has it much harder than other people trying to become GMs, i think he would be a GM already if he didnt do youtube, he needs to work on his psychology because its his biggest enemy right now, he can play very convincingly on a GM level when his mentality is well set
Gets me every time
im curious the actual number of viewers who are higher rated than levi
Levy!
I am hearing the tone of some of the commentary during these videos and you have me concerned - about the future of the Road to GM.
I understand that there might be some lingering thoughts about tournament play, classical chess and where your future lies in the sport of competitive chess.
From a fan, who you brought into the chess world from some random shorts, my completely unqualified opinion is please do not give up.
Your chess ability exceeds ours quite considerably, and this is incredibly obvious. But the sport is hard, particularly at the elite level and seeing you compete at high stakes and watching you battle your own challenges and shortcomings publicly is inspiring.
You don’t need to win. You don’t ever need to be successful. But watching you strive for your own personal improvement and analyse areas of your own games where better decisions could be made, makes all of your other content more relatable.
Perhaps becoming a GM is out of reach. I don’t really know. But as a content creator, I think it would be an absolute shame to lose the competitive side of things. So maybe rather than focusing on GM (if you decide you no longer wish to pursue that) you could focus on the content side of competitive chess and what it brings your fans when you do compete. It might even free you up mentally in those bigger moments.
And don’t worry about the trolls. It’s people who have nothing better to do with their time - and it is sad that the best use of their time is attacking someone else.
As for Hikaru and others, they are genius level chess players. And quite often, they struggle to understand how other humans think because their brains work differently.
Anyway; from one new chess fan to Gotham. Please don’t step away from competitive chess. It’s why I keep coming back to your channel.
You're invested to much in this
@ thank you for pointing out where I invest too much of my own time. I really needed someone to tell me that!
Such wise words of wisdom.
I actually don't comment often, but I feel like this comment is actually a great piece of advice to Levy. I'm commenting more to engage and hopefully keep this comment closer to the top so he potentially sees it. I think regardless of if he chooses to keep striving for GM, choosing to play competitively as a way to showcase what the competitive seen looks like from a firsthand point of view is very insightful for people looking to play the game.
There are many videos where he analyzes other players gameplay and he'll show a move and say "so this is what I think his thoughts were" or "I actually have no idea why this move was played." By being actively playing on the board, I think he opens up a perspective where he can instead say "so here were my thoughts when I saw this position" and while his insights may not be expert level, they are much more relatable than someone like Carlson or Nakamura giving insight due to their hyper advanced thought process.
This isn't to say Levy doesn't or can't ever achieve that ability, but his content has focused on dumbing down chess for so long that I not only think he has grown stronger as a player, but he can explain these higher level tactics in a much more insightful way. I think competitive chess offers newer levels on content that Levy's channel could use and explore much more deeply than analysis of other tournaments that he was absent for.
Long winded way to say, I agree with your comment as a lurker on this channel for over 5 years. I don't think Levy should give up competitive chess and should instead employ a new mentality when playing over the board.
Honestly, he wouldn't even be able to get to IM right now much less GM
Also, his name is Levy, not Levi
It is so entertaining to have a new tournament game review every single day. It is not important if Levy becomes a Grandmother or not. I just hope he enjoys the journey and I am glad we can enjoy it with him.
I think he needs to have kids first before he can consider being a grandmother
lmao
He’s moving faster, trusting his instincts, and not blundering anything. That’s the way, Go Levy!
He is at 1.5/7 with zero wins in this tournament and y'all out here gassing him up.
Now to win
@@xbjwiehehkqisiu Like you could ever be better or even close to Levy
@@xbjwiehehkqisiu I don’t think you understand that when you guys post comments like this, we’re actually sad for you.
Did you know when I click your name I can see you posted the 1.5/7 comment like 4 times? I can only imagine what your life is like if that’s how you choose to spend your time. Yeesh.
@@charliekowittmusicFacts don't care about your feelings
Ever since I started watching Levy (3 years now) he's grown so much as a player, a person and a content creator. Can't have a comeback when you never fell off, eh?
his highest elo was in 2018 if im not mistaken
Canadá?
@@antoniomaiscedo Brasil?
he is really greate content creator if you ask me and his way of explaining and teaching is one of the best
keep up levy♥♥
@@flink2318 Glass half full, am I right? Besides, judging a player objectively through a rating might sound good on paper, but come on.
Levi, even if you don't hit GM, the journey is what you'll look back on and be proud of; You've made some absolutely brilliant plays, and I wish you luck.
He won’t hit GM but he’s above average!
I think this game and the last one really highlight the issue. You need to be patient and not expect to be winning immediately. Expectations like that will really mess up your game. You need more confidence in your positions so you can play those patient / slow looking moves. Rooting for you Levy!
levy got me into chess - i’m a measly 800 elo blitz player but i enjoy watching the content. just wanted to say the uncut format of your videos and the way you speak openly about your mental state in these games is very honest and inspiring. keep at it levy, you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs
Best series in my opinion. There's drama, there's character development (Levi's first return, then quit, then tries again with a new mindset). Let's go Levy! Also, you are in so much better shape after a loss or a 1/2 than before, that is, in my book, a big win for you!
you can do it levy keep going friend! a lot of people want you to make it! your hard work will pay off eventually! Good luck friend!
Proud of you Levy keep it up.
Hey Levy! Recently I got your book from a friend, and it was one of the best gifts I've gotten. I wonder how many people you've inspired to play chess with your videos and teaching materials, and I wonder how many prodigies you have created. You're a great teacher and chess player, and I'm excited to see the next steps in your journey!
Thanks again for sharing your games and your battle trying to achieving your goal. I'm a long time chess player, I love the game but I'm nowhere near your abilities. I appreciate your insights and clear analyses. Your struggle in recent games is so recognizable. I find myself too (in waaaaay lower rated games) in winning positions and then to let it all slip out of my hands. For me, that's the hardest part in chess: converting a good position to a win. One iffy move, or even losing initiative, can turn the tables ever so quickly. Keep faith in your abilities! And keep sharing your videos 💙
Levy, you made me go back into playing chess. Don´t listen to the haters or the trolls. You have the support of your family, friends and the majority of the community. Just like me, you inspire many of us to follow our dreams even if they have nothing to do with chess. You´ll get that GM title sooner or later because with hard work we can do anything. I hope the rest of this tournment goes well and you find the strenght to smash the next ones💪
This is really impressive man. Been watching your conquer your emotions slowly over the past few days. Youre doing great man, i believe in you!
1:14 , the game
watching the road to GM is actually watching Levy go on a spiritual journey to find himself and learn his own mind. I didn't expect that at the beginning but it's pretty cool.
Isn't that where we all end up evenetually
That's what it means to try your best at a game
That’s a weird way of saying “is actually watching Levy half ass one more additional thing in the myriad of avenues he finds to squeeze his parasocial cult for money while not putting honest effort or integrity into any of them and meeting any criticism with ‘doing it this way makes me more money’”
I like these kinds of videos. When we see how levy is thinking during the games and why he plays which moves and so on.
I have a sinking feeling that with those big picture thoughts about classical chess, that he may put the road to GM on hold again due to being so busy :(
not hating but something like GM title needs a full commitment. Levy is trying to improve while running his yt channel and chessly and whatever other obligations he’s got. but his competition isn’t doing all that. they’re just purely focused on competing.
@@porafriken He is also writing a 2nd book, is going to do a europe tour in a few months and some other appearances.
He definetly has way too much on his plate, and with Arturs confirming that Levy has not been getting coached by him for the past 4 months, I am wondering if he even had the time to prepare for this tournament at all.
@@porafriken the fact that he seems to be happy with his performance the last few games tying with FMs shows that just doesn’t quite have the mentality to make GM imo. Not trying to hate, but someone serious about making GM would not be happy with this tie.
@@arthurvalladares5451 I disagree. The only metric for improvement is your past self. Striving to improve from where you have been in the past is more important that comparing your Now to the faraway where you hope to be. When the skill is there, mindset is everything.
@@arthurvalladares5451I would agree but he’s been in a slump and just trying to make the bleeding stop so to speak but yeah.
Levy, you already have the Gangster Mater title in my opinion. Keep on keeping on buddy!
I dont know if you have realized but you used to stress so hard about these types of games before and that affected your whole tournament. You seem a whole lot more chill now and you always have great ideas and at times you doubt yourself because they play something you didn't expect or overlooked and it shocks you a bit, but DUDE, your attitude has massively changed and I believe it will allow you to play better and more calmly the more comfortable you are and the more relaxed you are. Learn to trust yourself and if you need to take a draw, then so be it but you have an aggressive style that at times needs a bit of waiting. You have been doing awesome. It's about keeping clam and playing your best. I believe in you, Levy. I want you to believe in you too.
He is at 1.5/7 in an IM norm tournament you call this great? This is an absolutely abysmal performance no matter how much delusion you use to slice it.
@xbjwiehehkqisiu when I said he was doing great, I wasn't talking about the tournament. I was talking about his mental state.
bros got a stack of road to GM
Bro has a road to GM for each square from a1 to h8
Without even a single norm😂 I respect the guy because this is nothing more than a stream of income for the channel not actually him getting the GM title
@@azenith9283 blud was so close to getting a norm last summer man 😭 he's not taking it as seriously as he was then, he needs to reevaluate whether chessly and all this channel management and content creation is stopping him from actually training for the GM title
Mr. Levy, I think that your approach to the conclusion of this game was perfectly reasonable! You can't win every game, and 2 draws in a row should (hopefully) really help you regain your balance and your footing for the games ahead! I think you should be quite proud and happy this this! You played well, good for you!
Everytime you explain your calculations it shows your skills at the game. Keep up, you'll get there.
Levy just doesn't get it, because what Hikaru said THREE years ago was the main reason preventing Levy from becoming a GM, that is STILL the biggest reason holding him back; which is that he's afraid and plays for draw instead of being aggressive and confident. And when that get pointed out to him he just says sarcastically "you guys(viewers) are obviously much better than me".
Brother, this is Hikaru freaking Nakamura advice lol.
@@backyard282 listen, you dont understand. Hikaru is superhuman. If levy is not confident in himself, let him be. He will play for a win and confiedently when be feels like jt. You are definetly below 1000.
If you ask me, i wouldn't have taken the draw. I understand being afraid to lose after a few losses, but you of all ppl should know you can win. Basing on your videos, and specially your shorts, you have the calculating potential to beat gms and if your nerves dont get to your head. Much love, goodluck bro
I still believe you can do it, but pls stop saying "comeback" and titles like "YESSSSS" if you are just drawing your games
Thanks for spoiler. 😮
Stupid comment. Thanks for spoiling it for me and at least one other guy.
Also the dude has almost 6 million subs, like he's gonna read every comment and when he gets to yours he's gonna say "yeah, he's right, I'm shifting in a new direction" 🤦♂️
@sepita10 which idiot reads comments before watching a video, besides you are 10 days late buddy
I believe this game and the learnings you obtained is how you will ultimately become GM. Not because I am an expert or even good at this game but the way you spoke about the game and unlocked the idea of losing the imitative for the overall win period. Go levy!
I hope you get your dream to get to GM.
You have a lot of people rooting for you even if there are setbacks.
Top comment is gay
Welcome to the team 🎉
Jk
So u r gay
Your comment is the top one 😂
success, but at what cost…
😂😂😂
as a 1500, ive been there when doing bad "I can play for a win, or a draw, but i really need that draw to feel good about myself, a loss would kill me rn, lets take the draw" super fair call
Better to draw than to lose Levy. You're on a path that many of us will not ever be able to take. You have an immense community behind you, and we all are in your corner brother.
I was so happy when i read the title of the vid, it was a lottle underwhelming to see a draw.
Anyhow, now you seem to have recomposed yourself and stabilised the tournament.. great job.
Good luck with your next round 🙌🏻
Dont give up levi. We all support you and we will be poud of you no matter what happens. You are a great player and your time will come. Give it time.
At this point the comment section for this channel has become what you tell 6 year olds in youth sports.
Glad to see you stabilized
levy you are crushing these games, just be patient lol!! Cheering for you!!!
Keep trying levy ur efforts are something to behold
Lets go Levy You will be doing a lot better in the future.
You sound like you’re dealing with burnout. And that always sucks if it’s burnout on something you love.
Levy you got this! We believe in you❤
need to see more tournaments from you this is nice
I feel like your on the brinks of making a breakthrough. Maybe deeper dive positional playing for these moments you need to slow down and slowly constrict. Don't give up!
Hi (and happy 2025) something that would be interesting after one of this classical game: a conversation with your opponent. What did they prepare for you, what were their thoughts during the game, etc.
Since I started watching Levy three years ago, he's grown tremendously as a player, a person, and a content creator. Can't make a comeback if you never fell off, eh?
How much rating did you gain
@@nuthakantirohan4685 from my first viewing of Gotham to now I've gained about 1200 lol. 800 elo to 2000
@@nuthakantirohan4685it's a bot mate,look at the date at which the account was created
Paid actor
In your walls ;3
It's perfectly fine Levy. You got 3 shockers back to back. At least last 2 games helped you stabilise. As you say, sometimes you have to take a step back to take 2 steps forward.
The reason why I love levy and his content is because not only is it just incredible for free but also he obviously really cares, he fully understands there’s people like me and like some reading this that are having a rough go, it’s a part of life but these videos are genuinely the most exciting thing I have rn, also chess is just very beautiful. But I think you have to know atleast a little bit about it to know how beautiful it really is and he is the greatest ambassador for the game, thank you so much for the amazing content and all your hard work, I hope everyone has a fantastic day/night ❤
Im rooting for this guy so much
This is honestly my favorite series of Levi's
As a fan, and someone that wants to see you succeed. I feel like someone close to you just needs to tell you to get over it and play. Almost every game you get good positions and then doubt yourself.
18:00 caught me so off guard, the slow random king walk
Start of the comeback 1:12
End of the comeback 22:08
Can't wait to see what happens at 22:09
the comeback never ends
diddy
o7 my guy
knowing when to be patient is rough, that's why i struggle with keeping tension with pawns too, which is an obviously lower level but it's the same kind of problem imo
Levy, I'm not writing often in the comment section, but I want to tell you that Road to GM is one of my favorite series from you. Looking forward to your Ws! :D
Levy play the tournaments and deliver/upload the recaps afterwards. Reduce the workload during tournaments and find enjoyment playing otb without the pressure of a result. Perhaps get match fit leading up to a competitive tournament with one or two warm ups tournaments. Keep going!
Hey man, I love this series and am happy with whatever you decide to do . What I would like to see, though, is doing some sports psychology training. From the bleachers, it looks like, at this stage in your life, you're playing below your potential. To me, this makes sense because when you're younger, you still are able to believe that you are untouchable, but when you get older, that notion gets smacked out of you pretty quick =). So anyway, that's what I would like to see, but of course, you know best and I'm sure there are a million considerations that I don't know about.
you are doing well, Levy. Sometimes you are too harsh on yourself
Levy, please keep going, i love your content and i keep checking your channel every single day. I hope you read this comment and have confidence in your skills, you are very instructive and inspiring, i couldnt watch any other chess youtube content after witnessing yours, i love seeing u win and i really wany you to start believing in yourself more over the board. Oops i wrote too much heh.
A general sense of needing to polish end-game structural patterns, is what I got from the past few videos.
Hey Levy- im an amateur chess player from Denmark rated between 1900-2000 across the different formats. Recently I have had a lot of bad games, where I have been throwing basically everything away- most recently I blundered an equal endgame away to GM Henrik Danielsen pure Ding-style... Do you have any tips/recommendations on how to get back in a winning psychological mindset?
Best of luck!
Keep fighting! Never give up.
You good levy great job man ❤
Regardless of the outcome, you're fantastic Levy!
In all honesty, I completely respect the idea to take a draw there, and it kinda goes directly in to a tournament I'm currently having where I haven't been doing too good, and took a draw in a position where really only I was playing. Of course you're supposed to go for the win, but it's draining to always lose these types of positions. I have one more round in my tourney and am currently 2 out of 6, so hopefully I can get a more respectable score by the end of it.
"What kind of gm wouldnt play for the win?" Drawnish Giri shuffling quietly in the corner
I think its good that your starting to relay on your quick instinct in classic matches considering you cook in blitz
Hey levi you need to watch Blue Lock series ... Ones you do, you will find your ultimate EGO...you will start to understand it all.
~~Random 1732
Improve - the - position. Dont rush, until the moment comes.
Hey Levi, I Don't usually comment but you said that you don't trust yourself to go all in for the win every game regardless if you win or lose, my guy you published a book, made thousand's learn about chess, you grew a youtube channel close to 6 MILLION subscribers and you are helping people get better at chess everyday while entertaining them. You are the definition of a grinder, if you can't go all in in the match and 100% trust yourself then who can? Have some confidence and if you fail you will learn and come back to win another time, shut your brain off from these thoughts and just grind chess
Not seeing how a position that looks completely equal could lead to an advantage 20+ moves down the road is not a failing unless you're a computer! But glad you're finding some insights into middle game concepts and sharing them with us. And I suppose one of the things that is required on the road to GM is knowing when to take a draw rather than going all in each and every game. As you've sort of said in the past, it's a long road you're on, and the early phase is the learning phase, during which the ups will be proceeded by a period of downs. It is only once the new learning kicks in and gets fine tuned and properly calibrated that the ups will overtake the downs. That doesn't make it any easier at the time, of course, so I feel for you. Glad that you appear to be taking everything in stride though.
levy you were at the last position in the tournament, you couldnt have done any worse, just go all in dude
When I watch your videos it encourages me to play chess just to lost 3 times in a row and go back to RUclips scrolling
Between my last bullet game and now you posted, pog
You have all the time in the world to become a GM, and it's not like there's a big skill difference between you and your opponents. You could've won at least 2 games so far if not for 1 or 2 wrong choices in each game.
I also think this tournament is kinda tough because it has a lot of underrated kids. You should choose tournaments more carefully if your #1 gool is to become GM.
Every time Levy loses y'all regurgitate his narrative that he is losing to "underrated kids". Copium.
Jeez man, don't be so harsh on yourself, give yourself a break
You have grown a lot good luck on trying to get to GM
Bro is not stopping to publish this series
love you levy
I understand, Levy. I'm always fascinated when one side in a super GM game builds up an incredibly dominant position, where it seems like the loser needs to drop a piece or more, and the end result is a sure win in a king and pawn endgame. High level chess is madness.
Levy keep going. Being afraid to lose is normal. Hell I'm afraid to lose in my 1300 rated games. It's all a part of the process. Love watching your recaps. Keep going don't lose hope. ❤
Your a genius Levy
3:00 he clearly played these games before
all jokes aside, I and many others are proud of you man🙏🏻keep going
Road to IM Elo gonna be long
Question on Chessly and your teaching videos. I bought the year of chessly but am having trouble because you seem to teach with the idea of "memorize this" My memory is horrible but was hoping Chessly would have some courses that may help someone like myself, who can't remember 3 different offshoots of a move, let alone 10 or more. That is what it feels like I am seeing.
Hey man wanted to ask why you never play aggressive lines such as scotch gambit or to take a page from your rival eric the Stafford gambit. They are really effective cause most don't know about the various traps
As a non-chess player but as someone who plays a sport (tennis actually), here’s my 2 cents advice:
The only way to truly lose is to not learn something from each game. Regardless of a game’s outcome (win/loss/draw) ask yourself, “What did I learn here, and how can I apply it next?” So long as you are gaining experience and putting those lessons into your future performances, you are winning.
As I said I’m not a chess player, but I was drawn to your content because of how you explain the game so well to a general audience of all levels. When you announced your un-retirement to continue your road to becoming a GM, I was thrilled! You’ve been called the “Internet’s Chess Teacher,” and I hope you can pick through the troll comments to see that your fans have your back knowing this will be a LONG and BUMPY road. I believe you’ve got it in you to accomplish this so long as you believe you’ve got it in you to reach the top of this mountain. Mountains aren’t meant to be climbed straight up (unless you like risking it all), but the path curves and twists its way up.
Hold your head up high. Your fans are with you the whole way. 👍
They ate us coz they anus
You got it Levy
I understand. Train tactics and rest more. Let the creative part of you flow.
Self doubt is so tough to overcome. You have your doubters, and all it takes is one bad game where you know you could've played much better to start making you doubt yourself. Good for you, Levy, wr believe in you. You're twice the player I'll ever be. Er, like 1.5 if you're about 2300.
Levy the kinda guy to climb to gm with draws
Hi Gotham, happy for your arrival to Grandmother
Hey man you probably will not read this but I want you to know win lose or whatever you have countless people here who will support you whatever you may turn to. I love these videos but whatever you want to do I will support you. Keep it real fellow new yorker
If i don't hear ladies and gentlemen in the morning I can't start my day
That "get outta here" ❤❤❤
I feel like if you were playing a how to win at chess game vs some 1500 you would have played that rook move in 5s and tell us all about taking it slowly and not rushing.
my bet is that this year levy will reach a high IM level
levy is the type of guy to have a youtube channel
episode 64 like the amount of squares on a chessboard