Chess timer: step 2. Daily increment. 4 polls in one topic!

I think that's the whole point of the chess timer. It lets you choose between a long game or a timed one. And in general, if someone takes a long time to think, that's their problem; everyone is on equal footing, in my opinion.

I completely agree. The timer is just another resource that you need to learn how to manage effectively.

It might seem harsh, but why should the rules be adjusted for newcomers who supposedly feel uncomfortable entering the Gnomish Caverns?

If some mythical newcomer is running out of time in the Gnomish Caverns, they will have even more problems on a larger map in the late game, because they need to do much more and keep track of a larger amount of information.

The chess timer suits the vast majority of mid- and high-level players for a reason.

You can think about a strategy even during your opponent's turn.

Yeah, right? Seriously? Teach me how, because I can't do it. During scouting, a lot of new information is often revealed, and plans have to be changed on the fly. This is exactly why you need the time accumulated from previous turns.

With this timer, a newbie is not on equal footing with experienced players.

But should they be? The same can be said about many games.