Great training tool for beginning player

Pros: Lots of good training features, like an "undo" button, hints (best move, capture moves, safe moves, etc) that can be turned on and off as desired. It even lets you keep playing after time has expired if you so desire. It offers various skill levels of computer oponant. Also offers "ranked" play, where you can play without the hints and undo button. Plus, there are chess puzzles. Also, it has "coaching" tools if you're REALLY just getting started. Decent graphics, with several different chess sets to choose from.

Cons: The trial period is only 60 minutes. Also, even after you buy the game, it doesn't remember your preferences from one game to the next, which is minor, but slightly annoying.

Also, my husband, a former state chess champion, says that, even at the highest level, the computer is too predictable, uses a lot of "book" positions, so it probably isn't a great game for an experience player looking for a good challenge.

Posted: 15-Aug-2005 02:47:27 PM