Though not the king of the chess world, this program does have a handful of decent features that should entertain the average chess buff. During testing, the design of KChess Elite was a topic of much conversation and some confusion. The program interface is based on a series of very drab, gray windows which clash markedly with other, more flamboyant icons and buttons. The collection of gameboards included is varied, but many of the pieces in each design are very small and hard to distinguish. Audio options are a mixed bag. To start, KChess Elite narrates each move audibly. Although this could have been a interesting feature, especially for beginning players, the audio files hiss, and after a while we had to turn the audio off. Some positive aspects will benefit newbie chess fans. We liked that during a game, a player can opt to highlight or identify pieces that might be in jeopardy. You can play against the computer or an opponent, but not over a LAN connection or online. Also, we would have liked to see a more robust help file, perhaps with a few lesson games or tips and tricks for players to improve skills. Overall, most experienced chess players should enjoy KChess Elite, but design flaws and limited features keep this game from the top of the list.
Full Specifications
What's new in version 4.0
General
ReleaseNovember 9, 2008
Date AddedApril 20, 2000
Version4.0
Operating Systems
Operating SystemsWindows 95, Windows 2000, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows, Windows XP, Windows NT
KChess Elite lets you take complete control of your chess game. Beginners and experts alike will find plenty in this program to increase their skills and add to their enjoyment of chess. Loads of hints and help include a last-move marker, a display of the opening name from the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings, narration about the position of both players, information for beginners, a glossary of chess terms and tactics, and a tip of the day. Change the playing strength, set up the board to any layout, play a specific opening by name, choose different styles of time limits, add comments to specific moves, replicate the board to set up variations with one mouse click, and use the new Analyze mode to do a comprehensive search of a position.
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