Intelligent Chess Games

Want to play chess like a star? Well, so do I, but I haven't anyone to play against. The next best thing is an electronic chess game.  They come in a variety of styles and levels, and they include all kinds of features to help you improve your game. I can't guarantee that you will be the next Kasparov, but at least you don't have to waste valuable practice time waiting to find a worthy opponent.

Playing a computer can be a lot more boring than playing a real person. If you are online, consider playing other humans instead of a computer. Yahoo Chess works well. Also look at some of the chess server sites online. If you are on the road, one of the portable devices listed here could work well for you.

Many types of intelligent chess computers are on the market. It all depends on how you plan to use it that will determine what type you buy. Check out the different options below to make your choice.

Portable and Handheld Models Do you travel often?

  • Portable chess computers  are lightweight, compact, and inexpensive handheld versions that you can take with you while on the go, or you can just use it at home.
  • The ergonomical LCD screen computers are easy to hold in the palm of your hand, much more so than the square versions.
  • There are two makor types of handheld models:
    • LCD touchscreen
      • This is the most common type of handheld version these days.
      • With a stylus pen you push on the touchscreen to select and move pieces.
      • Great if you are anywhere that is bumpy-- little magnetic or peg pieces can fall and get lost very easily.
      • Better for those with larger hands.
    • Magnetic or peg version
      • Better if you have bad eyesight since some LCD screens are hard to see, especially in bright light.
      • If you are used to having physical pieces, it may be better for visualizing.
      • Without the power on, these are fun for two people travelling together to play with as a travel chess set.
  • Keep in mind that this type of chess set is not the most advanced as far as training goes. If you want a really challening, educational type of electronic chess set then you would be better investing in a larger model.

Tabletop Models Do you play a lot at home? Do you usually spend extended periods of time playing?

  • Tabletop chess computers  are full-size models, comparable to a real chess set.
  • They have normal size pieces (usually plastic with magnetic bases) and a full range of features from a wide range of difficulty levels to advanced practice and training modes.
  • Often these are talking versions. They tell you where to move the computer opponent's pieces and sometimes they light up too.
  • They can run on batteries or an AC adapter.
  • Try and find models with weighted magnetic pieces- they are more comfortable to use.

Chess Station

Are you a serious chess fan with major aspirations? Can't get enough chess?

  • Buying a chess station  is like getting two for the price of one.
  • You get both the handheld model, which docks on the full-size model.
  • Then you have the option of taking your game with you or playing at home.
  • These are the least expensive options for the budget-minded player.

Features to Look for When Buying a Chess Computer

  • Basics
    • A place to store the pieces onboard.
    • A strength rating of 1750 is adequate for most beginners and intermediates.
    • Choose a junior model for kids since these have the best teaching mechanisms.
    • Memory feature to hold the game even if you have to stop in the middle of it.
    • Easy to read LCD display (on handhelds and on tabletop models).
  • For beginners
    • Hint option for times when the going gets tough.
    • Teaching mode for easier learning.
    • Selectable opening moves to practice getting used to different strategies.
    • Mate problems to learn how to finish up a game effectively.
    • Undo or take back option to experiment and facilitate learning.
    • Beginning to intermediate strength rating of 1200-1600.
  • For intermediate and advanced players
    • Rated games.
    • Mate training option to work on developing skills.
    • Computer's ability to play at tournament levels of up to 2300 for the most advanced players.
    • Chess clock.
    • The size of the board should be tournament size or close to it.
    • The pieces should be weighted.
  • Warranty
    • Every model will come with some kind of warranty.
    • Typically warranties are for one year, but some of the more expensive models might have a longer warranty.

Major Brands of Chess Computers

Related Products

Chess Sets

Chess Timers 

Chess Book 

Backgammon 

Board Games

External Links