Chess, the game of war between two "armies", is an age-old strategy game that remains popular and venerable today. Chessmaster 9000 is a feature-rich chess program that boasts a wide range of chess sets, a wealth of options, narrated tutorials, a Kids' Room, and more. This program is very complete, no matter an individual user's level of skill.
What is particularly outstanding about this product is its range of addressed skill levels. Beginners, children, and advanced chess players can all enjoy the game. A new Blunder Alert feature, endgame quiz, as well as a number of topnotch features like random chess drills and live game tips during gameplay, set this title apart.
The product's performance is smooth. Even though this latest edition features more than sixty new 3D boards to choose from, the graphics are unlikely to dazzle players. On the other hand, the options, such as the ability to move and rotate the boards, are quite likely to impress users.
This massive program, contained on two discs, also includes classic chess games in history. Users can actually replay these matches and learn from the program's analyses of the games! For chess buffs, the "Psychology of Competition" course offered by Josh Waitzkins (an International Master) is compelling and engrossing. The new (and optional) Blunder Alert feature, which lets players know if they are about to make what the program feels is a big mistake, is a welcome learning tool. The program's Natural Language Advice provides spoken advice for an upcoming move in easy-to-understand language.
For this review, we focused on the Kids' Room option of the program. Most children need not venture outside of the this "room", simply because the program's age-appropriate tutorials, drills, and games are all contained in this section. The tutorials in this section focus on chess basics--from the basics of the board to each chess piece to beginning strategy. The lessons are narrated and include demonstrations and quizzes. Tips for remembering chess terminology (for example, the vertical columns, called files, can be likened to vertical filing cabinets) are plentiful.
Kids choose a board and chess set from a number of kid-friendly themed sets, such as Alphabet Tiles, Dogs, or Science Fiction. New players are probably best off starting with a more classic-looking set, and the program provides a few options for these more familiar boards and pieces. Players can select a "view" (2D view or Fixed view), and choose from a wide range of computer opponents. Photos of children, along with descriptions of their abilities, accompany the selections. There's even a monkey opponent! Practice games offer advice, unlimited time to make a move, and the ability to "take back" moves. Players can opt to play against a human opponent (two players will need to take turns at the computer). Playing "rated" games, however, allows children to work on earning Master Class points towards a Master Class certificate sporting the official signature of Josh Waitzkin.
Although Chessmaster 9000 has been updated with 3D boards, a new Blunder Alert feature, and assorted other improvements, owners of Chessmaster 8000 may not feel the need to purchase this latest model. Families interested in dabbling into chess programs may find this title costly. However, those with a serious interest in learning the game of chess, and improving upon their game, Chessmaster 9000 makes an excellent choice. This program will definitely grow with a child!
Of course, when children are playing against computer opponents, the social and psychological aspect of chess is weakened. However, the strategies, tutorials, and drills (chess puzzles) presented are truly helpful for those desirous of improving their "real" game. Additionally, the option to play through Josh Waitzkin's annotated games will appeal to many children. It's unlikely that many children will pass up the opportunity to play with Stanley the monkey either!
