True, but I should note that 9x9 games balance with Komi better in my experience, rather than stones. Some combination of stones (~4 stones on the 9x9 board),

True, but I should note that 9x9 games balance with Komi better in my experience, rather than stones. Some combination of stones (~4 stones on the 9x9 board), followed up with severe Komi (30+ stones of Komi) is probably better for both players rather than giving the beginner like... 15 stones... on the tiny board. ----------- The 19x19 board is reasonably balanced up to 9 stone handicap, but I think at that point it makes sense to balance with Komi rather than stones to push the handicap further. Not that I've tried this myself, but severe amounts of stones make the game play very differently and are possibly bad for the beginner player's development.