After reading my argument a friend of mine emailed me this response, defending Chess. This friend knows more about Chess and Chess theory than I do.

                Nice try but no cigar, there are 3 major components to a game of chess.

                 1.  The Opening
                 2.  Midgame
                 3.  Endgame

                 Each component requires various skill sets to compete well, your 
                 argument re. less pieces on the board therefore less complicated is 
                 incorrect, the less pieces in play the MORE complex the game MUST BE!   
                 As there are less pieces it is more difficult to hide your intentions 
                 from your opponent, which brings into the fore increased levels of 
                 subterfuge and considerably more indirect methods of attack, 
                 the strategies are very difficult to achieve well.

                 While I was playing competitively I observed that the most successful 
                 players were those who were particularly strong at their openings 
                 and/or their endgames, if their midgames were weak and they had a strong 
                 finish they could carry this weakness and still be very strong players 
                 overall.  There is a derivation of chess called 'Transfer' which keeps all 
                 pieces in play (much the same as shogi), this game consists of an 
                 'Opening' and then a perpetual state of 'Midgame' never reaching an 
                 'Endgame', midgames require less skill as with more pieces available there  
                 are many more options available to the player, most times they don't need 
                 to create oportunities as they will avail themselves.

                 CHESS!!!!!

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