I find this a very interesting thread. Sure got me to thinking.
Maybe strategic game playing really does influence the way a person approaches sparring/fighting skills. Certainly fun to think about.
But I think I may be an example in the opposite way. That Martial strategy influences game playing more.
I played games before I ever trained in the Arts - Scrabble, Poker, Gin Rummy, Stratego.
As I gained experience in fighting, it led me to look at game playing in a more defensive way. Especially Scrabble. Knowing what letters are still in play (in the bag or in your opponent's rack) determines (a lot of times) what openings your next play could likely open up. If you have a huge play, that doesn't matter, but if you're playing an average or low scoring word, or game, it can determine a lot to the outcome, especially in the later stages of that game.
I never paid attention to that until I started fighting, the better I got, the better my game got, at least it seems so. Or maybe it was just because I was getting older, more well read, more familiar with words.
Gin Rummy is kind of the same way. I'll knock much earlier than I ever did pre Martial Art training, not just to chip away, but as a matter of defense. And when I play someone who knocks early and often, I'll study the melds they like going for (everyone has traits concerning this, whether they realize it or not) I'll try and keep my dump cards in that category, not just so they won't get them, but to run them off after the knock. But, again, maybe it's because I was catching on about life.
As for poker, I've been playing since I was five. (learned to play gin and poker the same year) I sucked then and I suck now. But I am the most popular player in my circle of friends. When someone is trying to get a night of dealers choice together, they always ask if I'm coming. Because they know I'm going to lose and not care. I don't fall for bluffs (but everyone I play knows this) I don't bluff (but everyone knows this, too) I don't care if I lose, I'm there for the social interaction with the boys. (they know this, too)
Maybe I fight that way, I don't know, have to think about it.
I wish you never posted this thread. It's got me thinking too much!
