Kevin Pacey wrote on Thu, Dec 31, 2020 08:02 PM UTC:
@ H.G.:
I'd initially (and carelessly/quickly) thought that if the (lone) K can make it to (or starts on) the first rank of the side with the Gold, then the side with the Gold cannot force mate with the help of its K, as the Gold can only make one (orthogonal) step in its rear direction. However, I now realize the Gold can simply move to its first rank, and then move sideways to check the lone K sideways. So, you are right. The Gold is a major piece, at least on normal boards.
@ H.G.:
I'd initially (and carelessly/quickly) thought that if the (lone) K can make it to (or starts on) the first rank of the side with the Gold, then the side with the Gold cannot force mate with the help of its K, as the Gold can only make one (orthogonal) step in its rear direction. However, I now realize the Gold can simply move to its first rank, and then move sideways to check the lone K sideways. So, you are right. The Gold is a major piece, at least on normal boards.