the clock is a piece

In chess, the clock is often considered a crucial piece, even though it is not physically part of the board setup. It regulates the pace of the game, ensuring that players make their moves within a specified time limit. Unlike traditional chess pieces, which are used to attack, defend, and control squares, the clock serves as an external arbiter (仲裁者) of time management. Losing on time is just as decisive as checkmate, making the clock an indirect yet powerful factor in gameplay.

Strategically, the clock influences decision-making just as much as material and position. Players must balance deep calculation with time management, ensuring they do not overthink moves and risk flagging (running out of time). In blitz and bullet chess, where time is extremely limited, flagging the opponent can become a primary strategy, making fast and practical moves more valuable than objectively best ones. This dynamic adds an additional layer of skill beyond pure chess knowledge, favoring those who can handle pressure and think quickly.

Psychologically, the presence of the clock changes the way players approach the game. It introduces stress, particularly in time scrambles, where precision can give way to instinct and speed. Some players excel under this pressure, using the clock as a weapon to force blunders, while others struggle to maintain accuracy when time is low. In this sense, the clock is not merely a passive timekeeper but an active participant in the game, shaping the way it is played and ultimately determining who wins or loses.