Nikolas Pogan - FIDE Master and Blitz Virtuoso
Known in the chess realm by the enigmatic username chessmanp, Nikolas Pogan is a titled FIDE Master whose relentless blitz battles have enchanted fans and terrified opponents alike.
Career Highlights
Starting out with a blitz rating of 1349 in 2011, Nikolas quickly escalated their game to break the 2300 barrier, peaking at an impressive 2388 in 2024. Their blitz play is characterized by rapid-fire precision and a flair for dynamic tactics — quite fitting for a player with over 4,000 wins in blitz alone!
Playing Style & Psychological Makeup
Endgames are their playground, featuring in an astounding 82.75% of games — where the patient and meticulous flourish. With an average of 83 moves per win, patience clearly pays off, proving that rushing to victory isn't Nikolas’s style. Despite a low early resignation rate of just under 2%, the greatest strength lies in their resilience: boasting a 91.58% comeback rate and an astonishing 99.4% win rate even after losing a piece. Yes, Nikolas turns chess setbacks into triumphs like a true gladiator!
Beware of their psychological tilt factor, however — a modest 10 suggests they keep their cool, yet everyone has their off days, even masters.
Opening Secrets & Opponents
Nikolas’s opening is a treasure chest dubbed "Top Secret," with a win rate of over 50% in blitz and almost 59% in bullet — a mysterious arsenal respected by many a rival.
Some opponents stand out in their record, like thejakeex and spidi, each sparring in dozens of matches, showcasing the enduring battles that shape a master’s career. Meanwhile, recent foes like schiltacher have felt 100% defeat, a testament to Nikolas’s sharp tactical edge.
Quirky Tidbits
Playing predominantly during the morning hours (7-9 AM) with win rates soaring above 60%, Nikolas is possibly the early bird catching the chess worm. Also, notice how their moves per win outnumber moves per loss — a careful strategist wins by outplaying opponents in long, grueling games rather than blitzing through.
Despite all seriousness on the board, Nikolas’s journey through over a decade of chess marks a human story: a player who not only conquers the 64 squares but does so with tenacity, strategist's patience, and an almost comical ability to snatch victory from the jaws of inevitable defeat.
In the world of chess, Nikolas Pogan is a master of the unexpected — always ready for the next secret gambit and the battle ahead.