Viktor Neustroev (aka Gertsog)
FIDE Master Extraordinaire
Viktor Neustroev, proudly wielding the FIDE Master title, is a chess force to be reckoned with. Known in the chess circles as "Gertsog," Viktor’s journey through the 64 squares has been nothing short of a strategic saga. Starting with a modest blitz rating in the mid-1300s back in 2012, Viktor's relentless pursuit of excellence propelled him beyond the 2400 mark in blitz by 2025—a feat that demands both cunning and stamina.
Specializing in rapid and blitz formats, Viktor exhibits a razor-sharp tactical vision with a stunning 70.85% comeback rate, proving the motto: “Never give up until the king is toast.” This resilient champion doesn’t just play games; he stages chess comebacks worthy of Hollywood scripts. When faced with setbacks, his tilt factor remains impressively low at 8, meaning he keeps his cool better than most can keep their pawns.
Viktor has a penchant for the Sicilian Defense: French Variation and other Sicilian flavors, maneuvering through the complexities with practical precision. His best rapid performances boast near-perfect scores in openings like the Italian Game and English Opening with a immaculate 100% win rate. Notably, his blitz game demonstrates a formidable mastery of the “Undefined” opening category, where he dazzles with a remarkable 73.81% win rate.
When asked about his playing style, Viktor’s approach is all about perseverance. He thrives in endgames, engaging in battles that last an average of 55 moves in wins—a true marathoner among sprinters. Viktor also favors playing with white, enjoying a winning smile painted on the board with a 63.54% success rate.
Ever the night owl, Viktor’s optimal playing window is around midnight, where his win rate soars as high as 86.67% at the witching hour. So if you ever want to challenge Gertsog, it’s best not to disturb his midnight musings over a chessboard.
Not just a player but a friendly rival, Gertsog has a rich history of fierce battles with regular opponents like parralax2000 and kr1stinas, boasting impressive win rates of over 67% and 75% respectively. Fans admire Viktor’s ability to stay cool, craft victories, and even smile jokingly when losing—proof that chess, for him, is both a battlefield and a playground.
Latest Victory Highlights
Recently, Viktor clinched a blistering win against La_Gale with the Sicilian Defense French Variation, demonstrating his deep preparation and nerves of steel by forcing resignation in the late middle game. [View Game]
In Conclusion
Viktor Neustroev, the FIDE Master known online as Gertsog, combines tenacity, tactical brilliance, and occasional cheeky humor to make each game a thrilling tale. Whether blitzing, rapid-firing, or playing daily, Viktor’s story continues to unfold with every move—proving once and for all that in chess, as in life, it's not just the destination but the checkmates along the way!