Varuzhan Akobian: The Grandmaster from GMAkobianSTL
Born to conquer 64 squares, Varuzhan Akobian is no ordinary chess player — he is a brainy Grandmaster who has danced gracefully with kings and queens across countless digital and real boards. Known in the chess world by his handle GMAkobianSTL, he earned the illustrious Grandmaster title from FIDE, a badge of honor reserved for only the elite minds of the game.
With a blitz rating peak nearly touching the magical 3000 mark (2996 in April 2025), Varuzhan’s lightning-fast tactical acumen and endgame wizardry have left opponents scratching their heads and reaching for rematches. His rapid and bullet performances also sparkle, boasting respectable peaks of 2662 and 2631 respectively.
His style might be described as cerebral and relentless: boasting a comeback rate of 86.59%, he thrives when the odds are against him, turning tough spots into spectacular wins. Don't be fooled if you see him resign early sometimes (just about 0.69% of games); he’s calculating carefully to save his energy for the next beastly endgame battle — which he reaches in nearly 90% of his wins.
Playing Highlights
- Blitz Opening Specialty: Unknown to many, Varuzhan's secret weapon is... well, top secret! Yet openings like the Kings Indian Defense (normal variation) and Queen’s Gambit Declined Exchange Variation showcase win rates soaring above 70% and even 80%.
- Strategic Endgames: He’s patient — an average of 80 moves to victory means he likes to squeeze every bit of advantage from the position. Loses sometimes, but often after a good fight spanning over 90 moves.
- Psychological Strength: Despite a tilt factor of 7 (small hiccups happen to even the best!), he consistently plays his best around 2 PM, when the brain is fully caffeinated and firing on all cylinders.
Recent Battles
In 2025 alone, Varuzhan secured spectacular wins over tough opponents like komikaoxid and vagpatre, often forcing resignations with precise play in complex positions. And while losses are part of the grind (usually on time or in nail-biting endgames), even defeats are learning moments for this relentless gladiator of the board.
Off the Board
When not calculating fork tactics or checking king safety, Varuzhan may be pondering the perfect snack or plotting how to humble his next challenger — all with a wink and a knowing smile. Because chess, after all, is as much about enjoying the fight as it is about victory.
Keep an eye on GMAkobianSTL — the Grandmaster who’s proving that playing seriously doesn't mean you can’t have a little fun.