Timofey Iljin IM

Timofey Iljin (aka Barmen_EV) - International Master Extraordinaire

Meet Timofey Iljin, a formidable International Master recognized by FIDE, whose chess prowess shines brightest on the blitz battlefield. Known in the chess community as Barmen_EV, Timofey has carved a name for themselves with a blend of sharp tactics, deep understanding, and the occasional sprinkle of wizardry that leaves opponents scratching their heads.

Journey Through the Ranks

Timofey’s rating trajectory reads like a thrilling novel. Starting humbly with a blitz rating of 1355 in 2015, Timofey skyrocketed to a peak blitz rating close to 2690 by May 2025 — a rating that screams "top-tier danger on the clock!" With strong performances also in rapid and bullet chess, Timofey flexes an impressive peak bullet rating above 2650, proving fast play is where the magic happens.

Style & Strengths

Timofey’s games are a masterclass in endurance and tactical alertness, boasting an astonishing 77% endgame frequency and a comeback capability that astonishes even the most seasoned adversaries. The average battle length? Nearly 70 moves to victory and over 90 moves in defeat, showing their love for well-fought, complex games. Despite being tempted to resign early just 3.5% of the time, Timofey is a fighter through and through with a 85% comeback rate when the chips are down.

White or Black, Timofey keeps the pressure on — with win rates north of 59% on both sides of the board. And let's be honest, with a win rate often hitting near 60% in blitz, opponents probably want to avoid meeting Barmen_EV on their worst day… or any day really.

Opening Repertoire - Keeping it Top Secret

The Top Secret opening is Timofey's signature in blitz, boasting nearly 2,100 games with an impressive 59% win rate. Add to that the often lethal French Defense Exchange Variation (100% wins in 4 games) and an eclectic mix that ranges from the Closed Sicilian Fianchetto to the Nimzowitsch Larsen Attack, and you get a player who is as versatile as they are deadly.

Fun Facts & Quirks

• Longest winning streak: an eye-popping 28 games. Talk about momentum!
• Despite being a beast in blitz and bullet, Timofey's best time of day to play is 3 AM – sleep is for the weak (or those who are not aiming to checkmate you).
• Known to clock some of the highest win percentages on Sundays and Thursdays, so mark your calendar if you want to see Timofey in action.
• Has a tilt factor of 16 – which roughly translates to: “I might grumble a bit when things go wrong, but don’t underestimate my comeback power!”

Recent Triumphs

In May 2025, Timofey delivered a dazzling win against Gakov06, finishing with a checkmate after a fierce Nimzowitsch Larsen Attack symmetrical variation. Not only is Timofey a strategist but also a finisher who seals games with style and precision.

In Summary

Timofey Iljin, a.k.a. Barmen_EV, is a chess force to be reckoned with — combining a blend of tactical genius, relentless fighting spirit, and a love of sharp, suspenseful games. Whether you meet Timofey online or analyze their games for inspiration, one thing is clear: the International Master title suits them just perfectly, and their quest for chess domination is far from over. Watch out, chess world; this Russian-born chess maestro is playing for keeps!