I watched Vitalik's third game – it left me with mixed feelings... Control in the scrolls on the free guard. They are selling boots for 600 rubles, 40+ GOG. Many shifted guards in the interzones. The game was played almost flawlessly – nothing to criticize.
My conclusion:
You should play for money, but only in mirror matches – otherwise... there are too many secondary factors that affect the result – a native guard, a shifted guard, a free scroll, etc.
I haven't played SoD for probably 3 years... how was it even possible to play without the basic features that have been implemented with great effort over the past time?
It's a pity that they didn't finish developing the Warlords in their time – even now, I personally see more potential in it (if it were developed) compared to what the former SoD game is called now. Oh well...
Regarding this bet... once again... Ivan and Vitalik are undoubtedly players of the highest level, and their skill is approximately equal, but Vitalik will still have a better chance in such bets for some time. I'll explain why:
Vitalik is a top SoD player, and Ivan is a top Heroes player (different versions). I think the number of games they've played in SoD is incomparable (in Vitalik's favor). Hence, the latest implemented features are more beneficial to Vitalik. I think Ivan thought that with the restructuring of the GM, one-sided matches, etc., he would outplay Vitalik and show his undoubtedly high level, but I'm sure he forgot that the stupid structure of SoD hasn't gone anywhere – and when he remembers and feels this after a short time, victories in such bets will come, but it's better not to play against Gomungul)
I hope no one will be offended by my post, and I wish Ivan and Vitalik good luck in their future games, namely: a necromancer in the tavern, more shifted guards, free control – that's enough, otherwise it won't come true...