1k as well here. I don't see it as much about knowledge of the game, more about avoiding mistakes and less pressure that lets you look at a game more in-depth.

1k as well here. I don't see it as much about knowledge of the game, more about avoiding mistakes and less pressure that lets you look at a game more in-depth. That, and two people will probably coalesce towards something like honte anyway. Add to this the player opposing is under pressure because he HEARS the discussion. Can he take advantage of knowing plans? Should he? I'd say this is a nice learning tool, and honestly, anything that keeps you interested and makes learning and playing a bit more fun is fantastic. I've played 5-in-a-row go, pair go, 3-player go, 1-colour go, 3D go and tried different board sizes like 38x38 or 19x19 infinite (sides 'joined'). I've never run across this variant! Seems fun! Making guesses about what a 2-player team's strength is is a losing proposition, though.