Overview
Simon Mkrtchyan (Simon_1986) is a FIDE Master and a seasoned online tactician known for blazing-fast reflexes and a taste for chaotic positions. A self-described Blitz specialist, Simon has built a reputation as both a comeback artist and a grinder who squeezes endgames until an extra pawn decides the day. His preferred time control is Blitz and he plays an enormous volume of Bullet and Blitz games.
- Title: FIDE Master
- Preferred time control: Blitz - Blitz
- Peak blitz performance noted as: 2644 (2020-03-07)
Playing Style
Simon mixes tactical venom with tenacious endgame technique. He plays long decisive games and rarely gives up early. Opponents often find themselves frustrated by late turnarounds.
- Comeback rate: very high - a real "never-say-die" player
- Endgame frequency: about 80% of games reach endgame phases
- Average decisive game length: roughly 75-80 moves
- Psychology note: best time to challenge him - early morning around 06:00
Favorite Openings and Repertoire
Simon is eclectic. He is comfortable both as White and Black, and he enjoys systems that lead to asymmetric, fightable positions. Below are some recurring weapons from his Blitz and Bullet repertoire. Click the terms to learn them.
- As Black: Caro-Kann Defense - solid, counterpunching style
- As Black: Alekhine Defense - sharp and dynamic
- As White and Black: Amazon Attack (Siberian Attack) - an offbeat choice he uses to unbalance opponents
- Also in rotation: Sicilian Defense and several Alapin and Closed lines
Career Highlights and Records
Simon has logged thousands of online games across Bullet and Blitz. He has posted impressive streaks, and his statistical footprint shows both volume and consistency.
- Longest winning streak: 39 games - yes, really
- Longest losing streak: 24 games - proof he is human
- Remarkable tactical resilience - high win rate after losing material
- Most played opponent: Davit_Tiraturyan - a long rivalry with many dramatic clashes
- Representative game: Epic Clash
Quirks, Training and Fun Facts
Simon mixes serious study with playful experimentation. He is the sort of player who will try an offbeat gambit in Bullet and then switch to deep endgame technique in longer blitz sessions.
- Avg moves per win: around 79 moves - the marathon man
- Early resignation rate is low - he likes to fight until the last piece
- High tilt factor compared to average - he laughs, breathes, and gets back to the board
- Sample tactical warmup in his practice set:
Where to Watch and Follow
Simon_1986 is best encountered on fast time controls where his instincts shine. For fans and rivals alike, studying his games is a treat: expect creative opening choices, stubborn defense, and the occasional spectacular tactical finish.
- Try his Blitz timeline:
- Look up frequent rival: Davit_Tiraturyan
- Term to explore: Caro-Kann Defense