What Is the Current Status of the KataGo Distributed Training Run?
The run is active and healthy as of the latest update on 2026-09-15. It resumed training from the end of KataGo's previous official run ("g170"), which ended in June 2020, and is now built around transformer models. The most important current fact for anyone contributing: support for client versions prior to v1.18.0 has been retired, so you must run v1.18.0 or later to participate.
Where the run stands now
The project describes training as "fast and healthy with the new transformer models." The run has moved through a deliberate transition:
- v1.17.0 was the first official release supporting transformer models, described as stronger and more efficient than all prior models.
- v1.18.x added further performance optimizations for transformers plus some rules fixes for data generation. The first transformers were uploaded to the run, and self-play switched to them shortly after.
- Older versions were retired once enough contributors had upgraded.
One notable open item: recent investigations reported on Discord suggest the transformers may not yet be as strong as they should be due to training issues. The team is experimenting with fixes that are expected to yield further free improvements.
Recent model additions
Alongside the transformer transition, new models have been added to the run:
| Date | Item | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-04-08 | kata1-zhizi-b40c768nbt-fdx6c |
Large, very strong model contributed by hzyhhzy and ZhiziGo; started being used for self-play, with its training data to be mirrored on the KataGo data archive |
| 2026-03-22 | kata1-zhizi-b28c512nbt-muonfd2 |
Added for rating games |
What this means if you want to contribute
- Upgrade first. If you are still on a version older than v1.18.0, your contributions will not be accepted. The project explicitly thanked community members who upgraded and helped optimize and test.
- Expect transformer-based self-play. The main run has switched to transformers, so your client is generating data for that architecture.
- Check the site's own pages for specifics. Contribution mechanics, downloads, and current stats live under the site's "How to Contribute," "Downloading KataGo," and "Stats for kata1" sections rather than in the update log.
What the site does not tell you
The update log does not state current network strength ratings, total games contributed, or any pricing or account requirements. For those, consult the stats and networks pages directly.