30 seconds

I find it problematic that we have to do our first move within 30 seconds, when black is confronted with an unusual flank opening, or when playing chess 960, more time may be needed for the first move.

Personally I'm inclined to agree with you. But it will be a case of not being able to please everyone. Many players will be annoyed if they have to wait more than 30 seconds in a game which isn't starting.

In my opinion the clock should start to run down even before one's first move. OTB we usually shake hands, then Black starts the clock.
At least chess960 should definitely consider the first move the same as all others.

We could still have the option to abort a game if no move is made in the first 30 seconds, but I'd be happier if it wasn't automatic

@Sybotes said in #3:
> In my opinion the clock should start to run down even before one's first move. OTB we usually shake hands, then Black starts the clock.
> At least chess960 should definitely consider the first move the same as all others.

Good point. The start position should have a handshake symbol somewhere, at least for rapid and classical time limits. Players both click hand-shake symbol and then the clock starts. 30 seconds to make first move or game aborts on the non-handshake player.

For blitz and bullet players, no handshake needed and 10 seconds to make a first move should be ample. They should be ready. They are playing blitz after all. I don't play blitz so maybe some nuance to this escapes me?