Chess Programs

Many computer chess enthusiasts spend their time in facilitating computer chess tournament. Although some people think that it would just be a waste of time and resources, still this kind of tournament is popular. Some reasons why tournament is held because they want to know which the best program is and they enjoy watching the battle of computer chess.

Choosing the software and hardware is important in running a tournament. This is the foremost thing that you should decide because the program you would like to test will depend on the software or hardware. Nowadays, there are lots of options where you can test a program. Make sure that it can communicate with other program by using the same interface through drivers.

It is also important in running a tournament to have identical computers. Fair tournament is ensured by allowing the program to run in slower computer and increase the time allotment. In this way both programs ponder in such a way that the program also benefits the extra time given to the other program. This would also technically demanding and more complex because the two computers have one connection. Looking for the same computer configuration is the best way to match computers.

Another thing to consider in computer chess tournament is the format. Matching program of the same strength is difficult to generate results. The strength of the program plays a big role in determining the result of the tournament. Swiss system is commonly used in interpreting the results of the game performed by various programs of different standards. In order to gauge the strength, the programs especially the new ones are tested. On the other hand, not all programs could support specific time controls. Many programs do not work well in short time control as well as in handling time troubles. However, one program allows of playing more games in just a short time thus obtaining certainty of results.

Selecting the participants is also important in facilitating tournament. This is the most vital step because the outcome of the tournament depends on the ability of the programs. As much as possible, select a program that ahs well established strength. Avoid using engines with multiple versions unless you could identify a big difference. Moreover, you should as well test the difference in strengths of the version against other chess engines. Crashing of engines in the duration of the tournament is unavoidable. In this sense, the decision would depend in the cause of the problem. If the cause of the problem is due to failure of recognizing the move rule, a draw would be awarded. Therefore, the award relies on the cause of the failure.

Computer programmer operates the computer chess program Shredder during official tournaments. Tournaments are held worldwide among other computer chess programs such as the ICCA and the World Micro-Computer Chess Tournament. Different chess tournaments are held where in different chess programs compete. Aside from the official tournament, there are also homegrown computer chess tournaments that cater for some chess programs.

Chess is a gentleman’s game and it requires lot of skill and smartness to play. It is a very interesting indoor game that can be played with two players. Players can improve their skills in chess gradually with their involvement. They are having many ways to improve themselves. Are you a beginner? If you are a beginner you can make use of this session to find the ways to enrich your game playing skill. You already know the moves of the chess pieces and also about the rules of the game. If not, jus learn that first from the guide that helps you to start chess playing.

Once you are familiar with the rules and moves, you are capable of learning the strategy. You should not think only in a way to defense your opponent’s move. But in addition, you should make a move in such a way to defeat your opponent’s pieces. Hope you got an idea about how to make your moves. Now you should think how you can apply your thoughts in the live chess game.

Do you think that it is easy to implement this thinking in your live game? Never! It needs a very good practice and a regular thinking about the game. You should take care of the following steps so that you can implement this in your live game very easily.

•    Take your own time before making your move.
•    Do ‘castling’ everywhere possible.
•    You should try to plan (at least 3) moves in advance.
•    You should make sure that you should not sacrifice any piece for one of lower values.
•    You should avoid premature attacks.
•    You should maintain a uniform defense front as soon as possible.

These are only a few chess strategies that can help you to improve your playing skill. There are many other points available in internet to make you much better.

The Free ChessGame For Windows 7

Publisher: DreamQuest

Not many programs have been made for windows 7 yet but this one is the first of many to come. It has all you would need for windows 7. Simple program, gives you a tournament mode which has 24 different characters yo play against. All whom have their own distinctive style. There is also an optional tutor who can help checker players a bit with chess.

ChessTeacher

Price: feel free to try the trial, 25.00$

Operating Systems: Windows 95, Windows 98

This is a great software for it’s time. It teaches you lots of basic logical moves and when to employ them. It can be handy for both novices and a bit experienced players. The trial is nearly as same the full except in the full you get some lessons from a few grandmaster games. I suggest you get this if you have windows 98,95 other then that it isn’t anything special.

ChessPeer

Price: Free

Operating system: Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows 3.x, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: ChessPeer

I will describe this program very fast and very clearly.

Online Chess matches vs players around the world by the net.

Chess matches versus the built-in AI.

A good chess database,  a database of every chess player ever.

A very user friendly programmer, that will be nice for the newer players.

If the settings aren’t  to your likening easily tweet them.

Not much else could be said about this program, easy to install and uninstall. Every beginner should start with something light like this.

Chess 7

Price: 19.99$ to buy, trial also.

Operating Systems: Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows Server 2008, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows 98

Publisher: Style-7

If you ever wanted an authentic chess experience that gives lots of choices. Well this program offers all the tools for you to achieve that. Skin creator, lets you modify every area of the interface to create something unique. The gameplay options are the usual, player vs player, computer vs player. But you may also have a partner who helps you out in matches. The program may also read out the coordinates for each move.

Not much in the gameplay option section but offers lots of unique things for the creative chess player.

Net Blitz

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows Vista, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Emparch

A program built for windows (like most other chess programs), which has classical chess mode and a unique bughouse mode. The interface feels fast and smooth . Most games are 5minuters, so the time is always displayed near each players name. It includes a moves grid and next to it all the abilities like taking a move back, offering a draw, the usual pause-leave-load-save game options. There is also the simple ability to switch color, help on  the program and chess. The last option is just the ability to change the default settings.

If you like lots of quick chess then this might be a nice program for you. It also includes a bughouse chess variant which is said to be very fun with 4 players.

Nothing wrong with this program but with sea of chess programs this is one of many. What it does right is something lots of other chess programs do right but those programs always add something to much , annoying. This one keeps everything nice and cool.. That’s why I recommend this freeware.

J2Chess

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Every Windows except Vista and 7.

Publisher: J2Chess

A chess program written in Java, includes a huge book of openings which contains around 15,000 different games. You can play the games in three different fast paced modes.  Casual which is like classical, Blitz Chess which is real fast paced chess and the special Blitz Fischer. The cool thing about this is, it’s a web application but you can upload pgn files from your computer. So this could be called a PGN browser.

ChessPartner

Price: 24.99$, 30 day trial

Operating Systems: Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Lokasoft

This program might be just the thing for someone who has a chess site or a following.  You may play regular vs program’s built-in engine or vs human’s using the online capabilities. The program leaves lots of room for customization like chess pieces sets, 2D/3D and many others. You can write , read PGN, EPD files, play a match and print the moves diagram.  Create books and insert your game clipboards into them for instructions. There is also blitz chess , with a clock for fast paced matches both online and offline. You may also view a game histogram which show’s your most recurring moves. With this you may realize the errors you may have done in your past games. Also contains a book with a list of opening moves like many modern chess programs. Last but not least it has a huge database so you may store millions of games without worrying.

HotBabe Chess

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows 98

Publisher: Stauffer Computer Consulting

This program isn’t great at anything but never makes it self look good. So you shouldn’t get it expecting GNUChess  level chess program. If you want to try it out for the novelty, I can understand but other then that…The program takes to much space, doesn’t have the high quality to back it up. It does one good thing, lots of difficulty levels but most of them are for newbs-good.

There is also a chat at the bottom that allows you to converse with the bot. Who is suppose to be a hot babe. No evidence to prove that is shown. She seems like your enemy but she can give you hints, let you have a move back.

This is the only thing that makes the game unique. It isn’t much but talking to the bot can result in some funny situations.

Since it’s free it can’t hurt to try!

50 Chess Tips

Price: Free

Operating Systems:Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: InformationFound

50 Chess Tips, isn’t a playable software, but an ebook on chess. You might have read some beginner books with lots of pages. But this program offers a simple layout for each Tip. After your gone through you won’t regret using your time for this. You will surely become a better player. This book will be the most useful for intermediate programmers and starters. You pay nothing and become a way effective chess player. The book is written by US National Chess Master Eric Dana. So you know the tips are from years of pro experience.

Flash Chess

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows 98

Publisher: Flash Chess Answer

Flash Chess has been built from scrap to fit a fast paced chess game. The program has a built in Engine that is capable of making most of it’s moves in less then 5 seconds. So there is no stop in action. Because of this sometimes it can’t analyze everything thats why this software is better for new players. If you like playing 5minute matches online this program will be the perfecting training for you.

Amazon Chess

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 98

Publisher: PromIntel Software

This won’t be what the grandmasters will use to improve them self. But it will be the one you get if you ask for fun. The game is all about isometric amazon warriors very well designed. Who fight each other in violent battles. Each Warrior is like a chess piece and has the same functions. But when they battle it’s not like ordinary chess. The game is lots of fun, just seeing all the fights of each piece. This will give you fun when you are tired and don’t want to be challenged to much by the ai. The ai can be tuned up but this game is not about improving yourself so you shouldn’t worry about that. Just watch the gritty amazons kill each other. Believe me you will be pleased.

Program is free too so I suggest you try it. When all the fun is over just uninstall it.

Qik Ches

Price: 5 free games, 15.00$ to buy

Operating Systems:Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Qik Chess

Qik Chess is all about quick fast paced online chess. It isn’t really a program but more of service that you buy. You get access to a nicely sized online community. Great Features like customizing friends list, ability to request match. Have your user profiles modified, rankings being updated weekly, all of your stats available to you. You may also chat in lobbies, chat with your opponent in game. Request rematch after the game, request your opponent to let you undo a move. Play a few games, find a few buds and this might become your favorite chess community.

ExaChess

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Mac

Publisher: SolutionWright Software

This program will be real helpful for people who have a blog or youtube account and like to put videos of them playing games with notes.

Or for anyone who wants access to 200,000 matches. With a bunch of grids as the opening tree, moves grid. You will be able to keep track of eveything that is happening. You can also record yourself playing and add annotation for each move. The program supports play vs other engines. There is list of the ones compatible. You can make it play other engines in tournaments or just matches to see who’s better. The stronger your mac the better they play.

Infinia Chess

Price: Free

Operating Systems:Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Infinia Chess

Infinia uses the chess site infiniachess.com as the server to connect you to any game. You have the options to play chess or observe your friends or grandmasters play.  When playing against someone you can play rated to climb up the ladders or just play unrated games without it affecting your scores. It also has lots of variations of chess which are fun to play with some friends in a private lobby. Play against champions , participate in tournaments. Observe Tournaments of grandmasters. Come to daily lectures and improve your skills. The options a endless when your online in this program.

Name: Championship Chess All-Stars

Price: 19.99$

Operating Systems:Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows Me, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 98

Publishers: DreamQuest

The game is fun and challenging at the same time. It may not have the power a real strong chess engine but can still challenge the good chess player. The game has a clean design with a little bit of cartoonish touch to it. You can play against different characters each with it’s own styles, openings. This will give you experience similar to playing a human. The program keeps tracks of all your stats like what openings you used the most and it shows all the moves you have done in each game. So you can look back and see the moves you use often. Improve from watching your errors.

Sigma Chess HIARCS Lite 6.1.4 Lite

Price: Free

Operating Systems: MAC OS X, Classic Mac OS

Publisher: Sigma Gameware

This program holds one of the strongest engines on the mac os x. It can challenge some of the best PC chess engines. There is a huge game analysis going on while you play which predicts both your moves and the ai’s. The only chess program on the mac to be this strong. The program holds novice levels but really isn’t for the beginner player because of all of it’s advanced features. For a pro player who uses the mac this program is a must have. It is compatible with other chess program files and has a huge chess ending library.

Name: Chess Opening Trainer

Price: Free to try, 39.95$ to buy

Operating Systems: Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Chess Technologies

This program will enhance your opening chess repertoire. It will give a list of exercise and the ones that you have trouble are the ones that you will have to exercise the most. You train vs the computer and it forces you to do the opening you choose. You may also load old games or some grandmaster’s matches. If you have a site and like to help people with putting your matches up. This might be perfect for you because you can add notations to each moves and then save the game . Let someone open it on a program that lets you play recorded chess matches and bam. But even with everything it does good , I believe the price tag is to much.

Chess Genius Classic 7.138R

Price: Free to try( saving and some features disabled), 25.00$

Operating Systems: Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Lang Software

An Engine made for playing vs other championship winning chess engines. How do you gain anything from this program other then setting up matches against other AI’s. The AI made headlines around the Chess Universe when it defeated Gary Kasparov ( at the time the undefeated world chess champion). You can activate a bunch of useful features such as the chess clock, move grid, opening book and thinking information. It also includes a huge library of information written about chess openings , endings etc.. You also have the ability to take back moves. This will be useful when playing at blitz difficulty. The Game also has an easier setting for the new players.

In the new version the game has better graphics and it runs better and faster.

U.S Chess Live

Price: Free

Operating Systems: All except Mac, Vista, Linux

Publisher: U.S Chess Federation

This is the damn place if you want to get into the big leagues. If you live the US, you need to have this program. When you think your ready for really big tournaments with grand prizes( cash). You can spectate GrandMasters playing chess live from the comfort of your home for free. You can also find instructors, make new chess buds. A very friendly place to play chess and the servers are always working 100% fine. And when I said free chess instructors it isn’t just some average player it is the best instructors in US.

Name: Rebel Decade 3.0

Price: Free

Publisher: Schroder BV

Rebel Decade isn’t the program for playing chess yourself. Rather uploading engines on your strong computer and having tournaments. See who wins, how they win. Learn something from the kings. But the real gold in this is all the information you get An encyclopedia of chess,  The full rebel openings by Jeroen Noomen. The Encyclopedia has a database of 200,000 positions. All which can open and see for yourself and analyze.

Name: ChessDog

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows NT, ME, 95, 98. 2000, XP

Publisher:KalGames

I once used this program to play online games but the community is now long gone. But this can still serve for good chess battles between friends. It can be used as private chess match place. You can have tournaments or just ordinary exhibitions. It has a simple layout and interface. Plain visuals, only one set of chess pieces. Not the program you want if you are hoping for fast quick games vs new people each time. This will serve for the complete opposite. It is for people who want to play with friends, set up matches with someone over the internet. Etc..

Name: Brian Game Chess

Price: free to try , 19.99$ to buy

Operating systems: Windows Vista, ME, XP,2000

Publisher: Onhand Software

BGC is often gone unnoticed by Chess fans. It shouldn’t and here is why. The game has this unique way of scoring your abilities. It takes in count how fast you make your move, how many hints you ask, how often you undo a move and many more like if you use the castle, your openings. The game was designed so it is challenging weather your a newbie or advanced player.

It also has 15 game boards and sets for those who like visual variety. You can also switch between 2D and  3D. And you get a huge library full of grand master matches. You can learn from the greatest of great.

All in all, this program is a must for a chess fan who likes a bit of everything.

Name: Kasparov ChessMate

Price: Free

Operating Systems: Windows XP and 2000

Publisher:JAMDAT Mobile

Can’t play with your good friends cause they always think one step ahead of you or you always come near to checkmate them but they somehow get you instead. Well this program might not fix all of those problems but it might make you slightly better. This full of fun for anyone, even a novice or a grandmaster (maybe not). There are 50 actual difficulty so ya you can really set it up evenly with yourself. It has a built in help system, with cool tips in different situations. This program is more of a partner then opposition.

If your new you’ll get good, if your good you’ll have fun.

Product Name: AlphaChess

Price: Free

Operating system: Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Heresy Softwares

This program offers no single player, no tutorial , nothing. It is meant for someone who knows how to play and is good enough to play against other chess players. It only has an online mode, the visuals are simple and neat. The pieces are 2D but you have upto 20 different sets you can choose from. If you are a picky one you might want to drag the boxes and grid around so the interface is to your liking. The only way to play AI is to load one of the engines you got. Not practical for newbies.

Product Name: Chess Vision Trainer 3.0

Price: Feel free to try( 7 days trial), to buy 29.95$

Operating Systems: Windows XP, ME, NT, 2000, 98

Publisher: Chess Technologies

Chess Vision Trainer is what the name says a vision trainer. Something that will prepare you to anticipate the moves of your opponent. You will do so many of these trainings that any similar pattern that will appear in a real game you will know what to await. This program will take you from amateur to master if you use it as it is meant to be. Spend a whole lot of time on training with the coach. Atleast each day a few hours and in a few months you won’t be a master but you won’t be a pushover either.

Product Name: Absolut Chess

Price: Free to try ( 10 use only), 12.00$ to buy

Operating Systems: Windows XP, 2000, ME, NT, 98, 95

Publisher: Overlans Systems

Absolut Chess, there are many other chess software like it but this one has to things better then the others : The visuals ( stunning 3D) and amazing sound quality. Many whom played this sim deemed the lighting to dark but that can be fixed via adjusting the options. You can play in fullscreen mode but that takes out some of the useful grids, like the one that displays the moves and what the AI is planning. Though the program makes no attempt to teach a new player the rules or help him out. Some people would like to have the ability to change the background. But if your a true chessplayer you won’t care and will happy about the three different opponents the program offers. Three might sound not much but they all do different moves. If your tired of the comp, you can test yourself against other players online.

Product Name: ChessMaster Challenge 1

Price: Free to try(60min trial, music disabled), 19.99$ to buy

Operating Systems: Windows Me, XP, 2000, 98

Publisher: Playfirst

Chessmaster is without a doubt one of the most recognizable chess sims out there. The program’s visuals are impressive even to this date(it came out in 05). I really like how the difficulty works in this game. You have a list of characters you can play against and each of them have their ELO. With the ChessMaster character having the highest ELO thus being the best player.

It has various brain teasers  and other gameplay modes that will improve your tactics. There are lots of customizable options like change the audio, change the sets etc… You can also pick images to represent yourself and your opponents to have them. It adds a little amusement to the game.

The only bad thing is that the trial is too short, 60minutes for a 20$ program..If you never got a chessmaster software, for sure try this one.

Product Name: Falco Chess 3.5

Price:Free to try, 14.50$ to buy

Operating system: Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Publisher: Falco Software

This program utilizes 3D graphics. So all the pieces are in standard 3D. They look great and make the game feel better. You have so many options for different backgrounds. It also helps the novice player by indicating the moves that are legal. You get ads on the program those are annoying and slow the game down. But a few things like being able to take your move back in online and singleplayer will help new players.

The online is great, the new version has a new server so the games have better speed and are more stable. You can challenge someone by using their IP address and port. Kind of a dated method but still works.

Three levels of difficulty are nice, if you get better or already to good for the normal level take on the harder.

All in all, good program, the 3D is it’s main feature. Game feels fluid and nice without ads. If I were you I would give it a shot.

Product Name: Pawn

Price: Free

Operating system: Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows Server 2008, Windows 2000, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows 98

Publisher: Thomas Starke

Pawn, simple, clean and easy. Those would the three words that I would use to describe this program. The program itself and it’s options are easy to navigate. It is what it is, a program simply for new players ( who know the rules) to hone their skills. With alot of features to make the program to your delight. It still won’t be a program for the good players. It isn’t that the program’s ai aren’t tough but that a true chess player will want to load engines and have the program use it’s computer’s power to the max. Have tournaments between engines, learn from them etc..

Still a good program for those who are new but with the knowledge of the rules. And plus it’s free.

Product Name: ChessGames 1.3

Price: Free

Operating System: Windows XP, Windows 2000

Publisher: Tornamodo

This isn’t a chess program, but a small plugin that will help you discover the world of great Chess Matches. From the biggest Grandmaster’s of chess. To a newly promoted one. When you want to active  the plugin you click on the new knight icon that will appear on your browser then from there on you can search the grandmaster’s matches that you have been looking for the most.

You will have the ability to stop the game , skip the parts you have seen, slow it down and many other commands. There is also the feature to chat with other chess fanatics whom are too using this plugin. This way you can find some games and people who share your interest.

Product Name: Cheesy Chess

Price: Free to try , buy now for 4.95$

Operating system: Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Developer: Mousebed

A little different from my other articles this one is a chess program for kids. Don’t think it’s a chess engine for tournaments or anything. Even a very bad player won’t improve from this. This is strictly for kids. If you have kids you should really consider this. It will teach them how the board is used, how each piece moves, how to do simple checks. They have  two pieces on the board and they have to get the cheese. The pieces they have change so they will learn every piece’s moving pattern. It has neat songs and cartoony art style to keep the kids interested.

Product Name : Shredder Classic 3

Price : (30 days free trial) 35.99$ to buy

Operating system: Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000

Developer’s : Stefan Meyer-Kahlen

The Shredder engine is a multiply times chess computer champion winning at the least one chess engine tournament since 1999 till 2007. This dominating chess engine and it’s long list of trophies might scare the new chess player’s. But that should not be the case, like the greeks said To get better you have to face opposition stronger then yourself. This might be the case here or not. But with it’s variety of different tool’s such as analyzing your positioning , mistake’s it will only make your chess game more mint. And of course the longtime chess players, they will seek to challenge this beast of a engine. And also see how it does against other Chess Engines. Even though it isn’t the king of chess engines anymore it still will be match for any top 5 chess engine. You can also do the average chess program modifications , change interface, skins, different sounds, layout etc… You can even play online.. With this program you will have everything in your house for a good chess player , a built in coach, great ai, online competition.

As the online chess mania begins to grow further and further, there is always a need for online chess trainer. The trainer is the one who is an expert or master in the game. Trainer has vast idea about gaming skills and tactics. There are several trainers available online to guide an individual. It’s our responsibility to choose the best trainer among them.

Online trainer is available all the day. You can learn the game through their video that gives you pictorial or visual learning. This is much easier to understand than you learn through reading books and articles. They are well trained experts who give you a complete idea about what the game is and how should one start primitively as a beginner. They teach you from the very basics like details of number of square boxes in chess boards, how you should move each soldiers, rook, etc.

In online training you are trained to play with several players with several skill levels. This provides a tremendous help in improving the game skill. Usually chess isn’t just a game. It inculcates several qualities within you. It builds up concentration, perception, self-discipline and entrepreneurship. They educate people about various game strategies and the members keep you updated with the latest happenings in the chess world and in the tournaments. They help us learn from their experience, moves and strategies to be a player that is proficient in all aspects of the game.

The comprehensive chess tutorials that ensure rapid game development skill are being taught by them. The trainers available online are cheaper than those trainers available nearby. The tutor is an expert and gives you lot of hints and tips for solving different strategies. There are also interactive sessions involved in this.

Title : KChess Elite

Price : 30.00$

Operating system: Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows 98

Developer : Ark Angles

Not the best program in the chess market but really one of the best. This program offers so much..The program doesn’t have the best design layout with the gray window’s but with a little nitpicking around I’m sure you can create something suitable for yourself. Kchess has sound files that will announce each move made by the player and COM. With a few helpful abilities that will help the new player, like highlighting pieces that are in danger. The program also features an Encyclopaedia of openings, last move maker, a list full of chess terms and tactics, add comments to specific moves. And the program also features a special Analyze mode that should be helpful for true chess player’s.

Title : Chess Nx

Operating system: Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Price: 17 .00$

Developer : Syncsoft

Date added: December 02, 2004

The internet is full of chess sims. Some have better features then this , better graphics , better everything…Than why pick this you ask ? Simply because it’s a decent looking game with a freakin tough AI. The pro chess player won’t have breeze with the hardest difficulty on. The medium player will really gain from this experience. Because the medium ai is the most fun. You can do all the typical stuff of changing the Skins, board color etc..This game will definitely be a steal ( 17.00) for journeymen but not for the top of the heap players. If you still want to consider this product checkout the trial version at CNET.com..On a last note, the sound effects are neat but not ground breaking or anything..Nothing Special but if it sounds like the chess prog of your dreams check it out at CNET.com

Title : Chess Magician 3.0

Operating system: Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Developer : Huntersoft

Date added: March 20, 2002

Chess Magician is the kind of program you would install on your laptop and play when you would be on a plane.

This program is pure amusement, but with benefits. You get to challenge this Gigantic Computer, who is thought to be unbeatable ( we’ll see)..There is also a helpful character, The al magician..

He can help you through out the game if your having difficulties. At the early stages you might find this feature a waste but I suggest that later it might be more handy.

As you go from level 1 till level 9 the game becomes harder. From my experience, the first 3 levels are simple for a good chess player and a beginner will probably need help from the magician feature.

From there and on is where the game takes a huge leap in difficulty..Even the experience players will be boggled a few times.. But due to some repetitive patterns by the ai it can become predictable.

That is the only con I have with this.. It can be found at CNET.com for a free version. Not the best product for an expert player but for a beginner , he will only get better..And oh ya the graphics nothing to be ashamed of , far from the worst but not the best either.. Board is pretty simple and neat also.

With so many places online to play chess, it can be a bit hard to pick the best site. By now, you already know the major search engines that can provide you with all the info you need. If you’re in need of a certain piece of information, all you have to do is use the various search engines and you will surely get the best results.

Why don’t you play chess online? Google is an excellent place to play the game. With a quick search online using Google, you can already determine the best places to play the game.

Playing chess is very entertaining and exciting. You can’t tell who’s going to win the game. Online chess is just like the conventional chess game but the only difference is that the former is played via computer. You can play with other chess enthusiasts from different countries and you’re free to choose the kind of game that you want to play. The chess games vary and you need to choose the game that will suit your playing skills. If you’re a beginner, then you need to pick the games that are suitable for beginners but don’t hesitate to take up challenges from the more experienced players so that you can also learn and grow. There are so many new tactics and strategies to learn. Use the chat features of the chess site so that you can also talk with other chess players. You can even make friends.

So what are you waiting for? Use Google now and find a suitable chess website where you can play online chess. It’s not hard to play online chess. As long as you know the basics of the game, you can already play with ease. Make friends, play, and enjoy… with the aid of Google.

With the many chess websites online that offer many great features on chess game, it is really not that difficult to learn and improve your chess skills today. There are many internet chess download for chess programs and software that can help you to get better in playing the chess games. Most chess websites are offering these downloads for just a little sum of money.

Everyday, more and more of the chess websites in the internet are developing chess programs, software, and engines for chess player’s need. They are developing more advanced and high technology chess downloads for the benefit of many chess enthusiasts around the world.

These chess download programs and software can be their tools in developing their chess skills. These programs offer chess players a great way to learn new and strategies as well as enhance their knowledge on chess games. Even though these chess downloads, cost some money, chess players are willing to spend for these programs because they aspire to be the best and be a chess master in the future.

Most of these chess downloads offer tutorials and give tips and suggestions on what possible move is effective in a particular situation. Over a thousand chess strategies and tactics are combined in here so that chess players can practice on the different situations that might be presented to them in an actual chess battle.

Playing these chess programs can help chess players to be prepared in tournaments and leagues even online or actual. Many of the chess masters have challenged some of these programs and ended up losing so it is really a great way to practice with computer download chess programs. Just, look for the best suitable chess program for your style, to download and play your favorite chess game in a modernized and remarkable way.

Today, with the economy crisis at hand, and almost all that we do and need requires payment, it is very uplifting to know that we can still enjoy our favorite and one of the most popular game for free. Yes, there are still many free internet chess games offered online and we can join the excitement and fun of playing chess games without paying a single cent.

These chess websites that offers free online chess games for the many chess lovers in the world are such amazing sites to play your favorite game without worrying about the premium monthly fees. They can give you remarkable features like that of the paid chess websites also, such as chess tutorials and lessons, chess strategies and tactics, chess puzzles, and live chess game plays. They have serious chess games for serious minds.

They offer a large collection of over a thousand chess games and puzzles that are taken from the actual chess games of chess masters and international masters. Whether you are a chess beginner player or advanced chess player, you can definitely enjoy their chess games online because you can choose the level appropriate for you. Even children who do not have money to pay for the membership of the chess website can really enjoy their free website features.

These free websites also allows you to play against any human chess player available for playing as well as computer program or software they provide. You can play anytime, whenever you wish to play because these websites continuously function 27/7 in the different countries around the world. So whether it is too late at night when you are free and still like to play the chess game, you can find an opponent from different time zone to play against you. In this way, you can practice more and improve your chess skills also.

Title : Chess Rally

Operating system: Windows 95, Windows Me, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 98

Price : 20.00$

Date Released : July 30, 2004

This Chess program offers anything a Chess player would want..With a few modes where you can improve your movement and indicate what the risk’s are..

Many other useful features that will make your game , overall better.  Like all other chess program’s in the modern era, you have a tons of custom options available to you.

Such as Board Design, piece style, board color, sound modifications. With all this options you can optimize the program for the best experience possible for you, without a hassle.

Some people believe it has real hard ai even on easy. For newcomers it might prove challenging but for the seasoned veterans who like to play someone at their level they can up it.

But better then that the Chess Rally has great online functionalities, this is where you will have great battles among other chess players. You can join the official boards and fix games or even straight from the program by sending a email request.

You can find a trial version for 21 days in freeware site.

My only gripe was that I wanted more then 21 days to check out the feautres …But I guess I am going have to buy it.

The 20.00$ price tag might seem high but once dwell into the great online community and improve your Chess Skills..You won’t mind the price.

Internet online chess games differ very much to the classic or traditional chess board game of the past. Yes, it differs but not on basic fundamental rule but on the physical aspects. Playing online chess is through the use of a computer and internet. The chess board is displayed on the monitor screen. Instead of moving the actual chess pieces, you will move and click the computer mouse over a chess pieces in order for it to move on your desired position. You can not see your opponent also, and just know his or her pseudonym.

Playing chess games online is very convenient to many chess players all over the world. They can meet and play against another human player without the need to travel or go the one’s place. They can save transportation and travel fees as well as accommodation and hotel fees. Yet they can play against another chess player located anywhere in the world with computer and internet connection.

Online chess games allow you to play against computer program offered by the chess website you have chosen. Most chess beginners, prefer playing with a computer that against a person because useful tips and suggestions on chess pieces’ moves are provided by computer opponent. Also, computers will not be annoyed if you are blundering your chess pieces during the game. Instead, they will give you some useful tips and many great tricks on how and why you will perform that particular move.

Furthermore, there are chess websites online that are free to use. These websites allow chess players to sign up and be a member for free. All their featured chess games can be played even though these websites are for free. So, many chess players are drawn to be a part of these chess websites all throughout their career life.

More and more people all over the world are in the hype for internet chess. Internet chess games are modernized classical chess games. Just like the past few decades when there are no computer and internet, chess games are really popular back to those days. Today, chess games have become more popular because of these two high technology development. This is why many chess websites are created for the needs of chess lovers in the world.

Many chess enthusiasts around the globe are attracted to play the internet chess games because it is very convenient as well as very easy to access even that you have no neighbor to play against with. They just need a computer with a proper internet connection and they can play their favorite mind sports for sure. Playing chess online is very useful too in learning more about chess games. What can be more efficient in leveling up your chess skills that actual playing the game itself?

Most chess players are playing the chess games online because of its great learning experience through published texts and through actual chess game plays. They can actually play chess live with another human opponent registered in the same website as they are. Chess players can play against one after another without the emotional risks and depressions even though they can be losing for ten times in their fifteen chess games.

The internet chess games are very rewarding for serious chess players who want to be one of the greatest chess masters in the world. They can join the chess tournaments and chess leagues online for their training in the actual chess tournaments. Many of the great grandmasters also have their own websites designed specifically for their fans. In their websites, they are imparting their knowledge on chess games as well as their secrets for aspiring future chess grandmasters.

The chess on the internet today has been the peak of the chess games. With the creation and development of live chess internet games that allows chess players around the world to compete with each other in the game of chess, without the need to travel to one’s places is the most “in” in today’s high technology world. Imagine, you can definitely meet another person located in the different parts of the world that share the same hobby as you are. You can play with them and be their friend if you want to, without spending money on travel plane tickets and accommodation hotel fees.

Playing chess over the internet has made people who love the game to enjoy and be entertained with it in the comfort of their own home. They can even join chess leagues and tournaments online and win great prizes as well as fame of being the most skilled chess player online. Aside from the human opponent they can play against over the internet, they can also enjoy some chess variants and puzzles for the improvement of their chess games. Chess players can also challenge computer programs and software if no human players are available to play with or if they want tutorials while they are playing.

Playing chess games against either the computer or human opponent can bring great advantages to any chess players that are seriously learning a more advance chess strategies and tactics. You can definitely lose a game or two of course, and sometimes as many as you can imagine, but nobody will know except your opponent. However, in this way you can definitely learn more about chess and will eventually win in the future. The more you loose in your starting game plays, the more you will learn, and the better chess player you will become.

If you are going to use the internet chess on improving your chess strategies, you probably want to maximize your internet use so you can successfully find the best chess strategies online information you need to improve and increase your chess game ratings. Below are tips to heighten your chess strategies’ search online. Keep those in mind and you can maximize your search on chess strategies to be able to improve your games.

The first one to remember is to research quickly about the author of the published text that you are reading. Know if they have posted their own chess rating. If they are said to be a chess coach already, know how long they have been coaching chess players. Also, know if their chess students have now demonstrated success in playing chess games online. However, do not believe everything that you have read on the internet.

The next thing you must search at the chess game exchange forums is the writer’s name and even the source they are recommending. The exchange forums for chess games offers many experienced and skilled chess players that are posting and imparting their discovered chess strategies, tactics, as well as great tips in these forums.

However, as mentioned earlier, you must not believe on everything that you read online. This means that not just, because some individuals have said it and posted it on a forum, does not mean that it is 100 percent true and accurate. Nevertheless, if more people in the forum are saying a positive comment about it, then you can trust the majority.

The exchange forums for chess games are also great place where you can raise your chess issues and ask for other members to help you solve it. Most of the members in this forum are very much willing to help you.

The chess games have been challenging most of the kids and adults all over the world who loves the said game for many centuries now. Despite the foreboding image of the game which is the pastime for the brains, it is not that hard to learn the basics and fundamentals of chess games. Most five and six years old children can already pick up and learn the basic rules faster that you imagine, and a small number of four years old children can really learn the game itself and play conveniently.

With the classical chess game that is merged finally with the 21st century of computer and the internet technology, it is really not surprising to see little children play the chess game today. Chess game resources are immensely created online today and can be easily access by more and people. They just need a computer and an internet connection and they can choose from the many chess websites offering tutorials and chess trainings in the internet.

The internet chess game has began with the development of emails. With this modernization, chess players could just email their performed moves to each other. Upon receiving the email replied by the opponent, they could convert the emailed chess move onto the physical board and study their assumed move for as long as it takes, then reply when they already come up with the best possible move for that certain position. However, this emailed chess has become outdated when the online chess games came out.

Playing chess games over the internet allows you to play in real time, whether you have chosen to play against a computer opponent or another human opponent. When you click the the submit button, automatically, your opponent will receive your move and they can reply instantly too. It’s just like playing on a traditional chess game but with a computer in front instead of a wooden chess board and the chess pieces are not the one you will move but the computer mouse, to be able to move the chess piece on your monitor screen.

In the past few years of computer and internet technology power, more and more people are taking advantage of this amazing and modernized advanced technology. From their personal and basic needs, business and money making jobs online and of course to their leisure and hobby – like the chess games online. They are obviously attracted to the comfort, the internet gives us today.

Chess games are the one of the oldest mind game ever created by our ancestors. However, today, you cannot tell that chess games are classics and fading away due to its age. They are revived and modernized through the use of the internet. Chess enthusiasts around the world can now easily access and play internet chess games online with the many variations it consists. They can play through free chess websites or pay premiums to other chess websites which offer amazing chess game play features online.

Playing chess games online help chess players to improve and level up their chess game plays. Most chess websites online allow chess players to compete and play against another human opponent available anywhere in the world. Furthermore, if chess players want to play against computer opponent, they can challenge the chess website program or software. Most of these chess programs and software can be adjusted to a certain level to be able to play effectively against your level.

Mostly, beginners of chess games practice in these chess programs because these programs has feature that allows you to play back and review your previous game play for you to learn more. Moreover, these programs can give you tips and suggestions on movements too as well as not annoyed when you have blunder your chess moves during the game. So, if you are looking for chess game practice, look online so that you will not bother and force your brother, sister, friends, or neighbor to play with you.

There are many chess websites on the internet today. Although some of these websites allow chess players to play the internet chess games for free. However, there are also many of these chess websites that requires membership fees for the use of their chess programs. In real chess tournaments, money matters, to be able for chess players to enter; meaning, each of the chess game valued something to a chess player. Furthermore, the internet ratings for chess games are not really as important as the real chess ratings of a chess player, which actually gauges on how strong you really are and not necessarily on how you are performing on a certain day.

In the real chess game tournaments, there are cash prizes on numerous occasions that are awarded to the ultimate winner of the tournament. However, in the internet chess game tournaments, prize money is rarely given. The prizes for internet chess game tournaments are mostly points and fame of being the internet chess master all over the world in that particular website. Unless the chess tournament is being held at your own home, you may encounter travel costs, and hotel fees (when the chess tournament are held for longer days).

In addition to the above mentioned, there are also some psychological risks that are involved in the real chess game tournament. These psychological risks are not really at stake when playing chess tournaments over the internet. For example, if a chess player was to play the 20 minute game offered on a chess website by a chess server, and eventually lose the match, that chess player can just click to play the next game of chess and hope that he or she will win it, and so on. He can even review his previous game for learning but nobody will remember that he lost that match, while in the real chess game tournaments, most people will remember your game through lifetime.

The FICS or Free Internet Chess Server has registered users of over 300,000. It is one of the aged and largest of all the internet servers offering chess games in the world. It is for the serious chess players as well as for the hobbyists of chess games. Whether you are looking for a human opponent to challenge or eager to play against strong computer program, whether you are into blitz chess games or desire one of those many chess variants, in FICS, you can play and enjoy your favorite game of chess online for free.

The FICS or Free Internet Chess Server is a type of volunteer run chess website online. It was created and designed as a free substitute to the ICC or Internet Chess Club after this site has began charging chess players for registrations and membership fees.

Playing chess games on FICS demands chess players to connect to a server on either through the so called web-based applet on the website of FICS or use a program client which could be just as simple as the telnet however, it is usually an interface that are designed and created specifically for Internet chess playing. The users can register just like anonymous guests. They can also use this chess website to sign up for an account that is free. A user is entitled to use one account only. This website maintains the game statistics as well as ratings for registered users on Glicko system for ratings.

More and more chess players around the world are registering in this chess website for its free and amazing features. They can enjoy improving their chess skills through this website, without the need to pay for anything. It is economical and convenient to be a member of this website. So, if you are still looking for a place online where you can study and learn more about chess games, try the FICS first.