[thefringthing]

Surely that kind of play would indicate a rating considerably above 1200.

[OJFord]

1200 rapid if that makes a difference? Also, I suppose it's.. certainly not orthogonal, but it's not dead parallel either - can have a good/bad memory and play well/not well.

[howling]

I'm 1800 rapid on chess.com and can't play blindfold beyond the opening.

[codyb]

Memory is different than chess ability, maybe his friend just has more effective techniques for memorization or visualization or both.

[lmm]

A real-life 1200 should be able to play blindfold. Online ratings are very inflated.