Q: is it best to have two at diagonal or two together or does it not matter at the start?

My Answer: Ya know, I don't think the statistical advantages have been researched. I know that white has an ever-so-slight advantage over black when starting with the traditional diagonal position. The difference is about 0.12%. The non-traditional starting position, such as the one we're using in this game, is not allowed in most tournament play. In official reversi (othello) tournaments, the diagonal start position is already set and the first move is made from there. As far as I know, the option to change the starting position is found only on Goldtoken. Back to your question: As far as I can tell, there is no distinct statistical advantage for either player in starting one way over the other. I think this would be a great quesion for the reversi db, don't you think? I'll post it.

Thoughts anyone?