Abu-Dhabi based VADR Media inks alliance to combat cheating in online chess

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute (AAII) and Abu Dhabi-based VADR Media have joined forces on a new research and development initiative aimed at combatting cheating in online chess.

Today, chess boasts a staggering 700 million player base, with 420 million people engaging in monthly online games, making it the largest esport and sport globally. Among these players, an estimated 420 million also fall within the 18-34 age bracket, mirroring the demographic of esports enthusiasts. However, the rise of online chess, aided by AI technology and chess engines, has also led to an increase in cheating incidents, compromising the integrity of competitive online play.

Enabled by the partnership, UTS AAII, a leading body in artificial intelligence research, aims to develop advanced algorithms to target the issue and enable a fair playing field for all involved.

VADR Media’s recent acquisition

This collaboration follows VADR Media’s recent acquisition of Szuperchess, a company known for developing disruptive computer vision anti-cheat technology that’s used by Checkmate.live, a next-gen chess and broadcast and tournament platform. Checkmate, a member of the Esports Integrity Commission, has also secured an exclusive partnership with the Asian Chess Federation and Arab Esports Federation, which have designated Checkmate as their exclusive tournament platform, data and broadcast partner.

“This is an exciting chapter in the journey of chess,” said Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahayan, president of the Asian Chess Federation. “The federation has always supported innovation with a mission to ensure this global cultural phenomenon has the widest possible access. The online world has enabled incredible reach with the advent of internet coverage and developments in mobile technology; billions can play this glorious game.

“Online integrity is a considerable challenge, and our partners, Checkmate, have invested considerable resources in AI to address this matter. This latest partnership will enable the appropriate safeguards for competitive chess at every level.”

Experts in advanced technologies

Under the leadership of associate professor Nabin Sharma, professor Ling Chen and associate professor Guodong Long, the UTS project team has curated a team of researchers who specialise in computer vision, machine learning, deep learning, and multi-model expertise.

Professor Sharma, a prominent figure in the chess community for three decades, said: “The UTS AAII team is thrilled about this collaboration. Chess and artificial intelligence go hand in hand. While chess has historically served as a testbed for AI advancements, it has also played a significant role in driving progress in various areas, from search algorithms to advanced machine learning techniques. What sets this project apart is its specialised multi-model AI approach.”

Access to resources

This strategic collaboration builds upon Checkmate’s existing partnership with Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global gaming and technology company Tencent.

The UTS AAII project team will have access to extensive computing resources provided by Tencent Cloud’s TI Platform and will receive support from Tencent’s AI and anti-cheat experts.

John McRae, managing director of VADR Media, emphasised their commitment to fair play, stating, “We are deeply passionate about fair play and have taken proactive measures, implementing integrity protocols with trusted partners and investing in R&D. Our newly formed alliance with the UTS AAII, along with collaborations with key governing bodies in chess and esports, reflect our dedication to enhancing the community experience and accelerating speed chess as an esport.”

Furthermore, the newly minted partnership coincides with Checkmate’s invitation-only private sale for its limited edition Collectable Alpha Pack before its public sale.