Matthew Larson IM

Matthew Larson (Username: Viaje)

International Master of Chess

Matthew Larson, known online by the enigmatic handle Viaje, is a force to be reckoned with in the digital chess arena. Awarded the prestigious title of International Master by FIDE, Matthew has proven time and again that a combination of sharp tactics, relentless endgame precision, and a pinch of chess wizardry can consistently break through defenses worldwide.

Starting their blitz journey in 2013 with a modest rating around 1300, Matthew's climb has been nothing short of meteoric. By April 2025, they reached an impressive peak blitz rating of 2526, showcasing an explosive passion for quick, sharp play — as if the chessboard were a fast-paced video game and every second counted.

Chess Style & Stats

• Win Rate in Blitz: A robust 64.6% over more than 1,500 games, proving time pressure is their playground.
• Bullet Mastery: Peak bullet rating of 2609, with a win rate above 71% — lightning-fast reflections perfected over thousands of games.
• Rapid and Daily: Not just speed, but composure too: rapid rating maxed near 2507, and even a flawless daily game record (well, at least one game undefeated).
• Longest Winning Streak: An astounding 113 consecutive wins - a streak that probably made opponents double-check their keyboards for bugs.
• Psychological Edge: Known for resilience, with a comeback rate over 74%. Losing a piece isn’t a defeat for Matthew but a tactical dare.

Signature Openings and Memorable Games

Whether storming the board with bold d4 pushes or calmly orchestrating the Slav Defense’s complexities, Matthew’s opening repertoire is a carefully guarded treasure. Their most played and successful opening remains a “Top Secret” weapon - likely a code name for mystifying opponents before the first move.

In one recent blitz game from April 2, 2025, Matthew (playing white) crushed the opposition using the Slav Defense Modern Line, sealing victory on time after a strategic dance of calculated exchanges and pressure. The game was a masterclass in patience and precision, ending with a well-timed queen invasion forcing resignation — a perfect reflection of their style: strategic, sharp, and always a few moves ahead.

Personality Snapshot

With a tilt factor comfortably low at 9, Matthew balances fierce competition with calm. Their best creative bursts seem to appear at sunrise (6 AM, to be exact) — proof that chess genius needs its coffee as much as its analysis. Averaging just over 64 moves in victories implies games that are as thrilling as Netflix thriller series, while their losses tend to linger longer, showing their dogged endurance against even the toughest foes.

Matthew's chess story is one of steady climbs, electrifying win streaks, and a personality that embraces both the chaos and artistry of chess. Whether blitzing online or slowly unraveling endgames, Viaje remains an unforgettable competitor whose games are part science, part performance art, and all heart.