Showing posts with label electronic chess. Show all posts
Showing posts with label electronic chess. Show all posts

Phantom Force Chess Review

Phantom Force Chess
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I received this chess game as a gift and have played about 15 games on it to date. It is enjoyable to watch the pieces move by themselves.
For playing a casual game, it is very challenging. There are many different levels to choose from (about 100 in total). I am by no means an advanced player (I can't think 7 moves ahead) but I am more advanced than the average beginner (my rating average on various websites is roughly 1800). That being said, I find the lower levels to be rather easy, but on the harder levels I get beaten soundly. Therefore, I would say the game overall is quite challenging. The computer also appears to strategically place its pieces on open ranks and files, rather than just attacking material (which many chess computers often do). For example, I recently offered a rook to the computer because I was about to put the computer into mate in 3 moves and the computer passed on the rook and instead defended against the threat.
The only downside is the game is loud and pieces take a few seconds to move. If you're a "good" player, it's defintely very challenging. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that the higher levels beat "advanced" players with ease.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Phantom Force Chess

Want to play chess, but have no one to play with? Phantom Force is at the ready as your competitor. Play against this "smart" computer and watch in disbelief as the chess pieces actually move on their own! Or you can observe a fierce chess match as you watch the computer play against itself.
Game has incredible voice vocabulary that makes it easy and fun to play, game-saving memory, magnetic chess pieces that fit inside the built-in storage compartment; plus 136 levels (120 for play and 16 for analysis). Requires 6 "C" batteries, not included.

Buy NowGet 5% OFF

Click here for more information about Phantom Force Chess

Read More...

Electronic Mid-Size Chess Game by Excalibur Review

Electronic Mid-Size Chess Game by Excalibur
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Sabre IV by Excalibur Electronics - I was very disappointed in this product. When you move a chess piece, you gently press it down on the square, move it, and press it down again. This is how the computer registers a move. Some of the pieces would not work, even when pressing them down several times. This is one of two computer chess games I have had to return to Amazon (see my review of the Saitek Kasparov Alchemist).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Electronic Mid-Size Chess Game by Excalibur

Loaded with state-of-the-art features, Saber IV chess computer allows you to play by yourself against the computer or against a human opponent-with or without the unique Teaching Mode that makes learning chess easy! 73 strength levels from beginner to advanced player let you adjust the challenge as you improve! Saber IV Chess Computer Features:Magnetic sensory board notes your move! Remembers a game you want to finish later. Piece-storage compartment prevents lost pieces. Accommodates either 1 or 2 players. Estimated rating: 1750 LCD Display showing every move Saves game memory Ages 7 and up Chess Computer's Teach ModeNow exclusively available in Excalibur computer chess sets, the Advanced Teach Mode teaches beginners in a simple, methodical way the fundamentals of chess ranging from individual pieces moves to game strategies. This makes learning and playing chess fast, fun and easy!3 AA Batteries needed (not included

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Electronic Mid-Size Chess Game by Excalibur

Read More...

Excalibur World Chess Hall of Fame Collector's Edition Classic Review

Excalibur World Chess Hall of Fame Collector's Edition Classic
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this chess set for my son for Christmas. It is a very nice set but the board is large. I measured the board and is is 22 inches. It did not give the board dimensions in the description so I thought it would be good to know. At first my son was skeptical of the burgundy pieces but they grew on him and now he thinks they are unique. The pieces are very nice.Excalibur World Chess Hall of Fame Collector's Edition Classic

Click Here to see more reviews about: Excalibur World Chess Hall of Fame Collector's Edition Classic



Buy NowGet 40% OFF

Click here for more information about Excalibur World Chess Hall of Fame Collector's Edition Classic

Read More...

XC5559BK10 Phantom Electronic Chess Review

XC5559BK10 Phantom Electronic Chess
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I just recieved my Phantom Chess game and immediately experienced the first disappointment before I removed it from the box. On the cover of the box it states that the computer uses three languages, English, French and GERMAN! One of the reasons that I bought it was because it was advertised as speaking Spanish. In the instruction manual, they even say it speaks English, French, and Spanish, but for some reason mine speaks German instead of Spanish. I also noticed that the instruction manual mentions an optional AC/DC cord although I have no idea where one can be purchased. I will have to probably write to the manufacturer to find one. The biggest disappointment by far was the "magical" way the device moves it's pieces. The moving mechanism under the board is very noisy and you must watch closely because it doesn't always move the pieces to the places it intends, and often displaces surrounding pieces from their positions. So far, I've only played two games on the device, hoping that the noisy mechanism gets quieter and that it operates better, but I don't have much hope. I feel just a little relieved that I didn't spend a lot of money on it, although I see it priced as high as $160, I only had to spend $85 through Amazon. Maybe I'll return it because it's really not even worth that much.

Click Here to see more reviews about: XC5559BK10 Phantom Electronic Chess

XC5559BK10 Features: -With automated chess pieces that move across the board as if by magic. -Computerized chess with the ultimate chess opponent. -Provides a unique chess game or simply sit back and watch it automatically play itself. -Tournament-strength program that can beat 99pct of all players. -Select from 136 levels 120 for play 16 for analysis. -Rates your chess skill. -Enter your move on the sensory board. -Watch phantom force make its own move just like a real-life opponent. -90 days parts and labor warranty.

Buy NowGet 63% OFF

Click here for more information about XC5559BK10 Phantom Electronic Chess

Read More...

Excalibur 712 Ivan II The Conqueror Review

Excalibur 712 Ivan II The Conqueror
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
As soon as I received this, I thought I didn't receive the chess pieces until I opened the storage compartment underneath the unit which I felt was a nice Feature.
Even at it's most basic level, playing is still a challenge. The voice of Ivan is ever present with you and taunts if a big mistake was made as in a premature capture of a Queen. The touch sensitivity of the board is good and it doesn't take more then just a light press to register with the computer.
Movement of the game pieces is easy due to the graphical interface of the board on the supplied LCD. Also the same voice gives both confirmation of origin to destination. On top of this, there is also a coordinate view of each move. Movement of Ivan's pieces are quick and painless. I have played over 20 gaves in the span of two evenings and haven't tired of it. It is definitly a game that will sharpen your playing. The voice of Ivan can be disabled if you prefer, but I actually like it. The battle sound effects work great with the capture of either players pieces. The manual is well written and explains more complex moves such as castling etc.
Now a few very minor negatives:
First, the game's control panel is a bubble type button system and very cheap. I feel that this will wear out over time, but the controls are in a intuitive order.
Second, a supplied AC adapter would have been nice. The unit takes 4 AA batteries. I recommend purchasing the newer type of Rechargable batteries. I am still on my same batteries over 12 hours of play.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Excalibur 712 Ivan II The Conqueror

You hear armor clang and horses gallop. Ivan the Conqueror is a brand-new reincarnation of Excalibur's popular chess-playing barbarian. Playing better than ever, Ivan uses his 500-word vocabulary to insult and threaten you in deep, commanding tones. But he can also be a powerful and patient mentor. And now Ivan the Conqueror includes a full-size LCD in addition to his magnetic sensory board. Use the LCD to play without pieces or to confirm the position of the pieces on the big board. Are you up for the challenge'
Features:
100 power levels with an 1850 rating
Combat sound effects
Play with or without pieces with unique LCD
500-word barbarian vocabulary
Requires 4 "AA" alkaline batteries (not included).

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Excalibur 712 Ivan II The Conqueror

Read More...

Chess Explorer Review

Chess Explorer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I played casual dorm chess in college. (I'm retired, so that was a long time ago.) I remember when they had giant mainframe computers that couldn't beat grandmasters. Now you have a game that go from giving a newcomer some confidence to providing a challenge to the more advanced player. It is a remarkable amount of technology in a small package. There are 64 levels of play, a teaching mode, a coach option where you get the computer's recommended move and much more. The pieces are small, but are magnetized. You don't have to remember the names of the squares and enter them in and then move. You press down on the piece you are going to move, move it to the new location and press down again. The computer will then calculate it's move. It will tell you to move (for example) from E7 to E5. Again you press the black piece when you start and finish. To make finding the right square even easier, a light along the front row labeled A-H, and along the sides labeled 1-8 light up. Getting the right piece in the crosshairs is easy. There are a lot of cool features. You can take a move back, have the computer change sides, and much more. I think it s lot of technology and a great game for the price. Using some of the learning modes along with a few books from the library your skills will improve.
I've only touched on a few of the features. The board is a modern design. the sides slide open to hold all the pieces. While you cn plug it in, running it on 4AA batteries makes it very portable. Highly reocmenneded for beginners, more skilled players or if you can't find someone to play with.
I haven't had it very long, so I cant speak to its durability over time. I'd certaintly tatke be batteries out if you aren't going to be playinf for awhile

Click Here to see more reviews about: Chess Explorer

Chess Explorer Electronic Chess SetEndorsed by Former World Champion Garry KasparovEstimated Strength: Intermediate - 1600 ELOThe Saitek Mephisto Chess Explorer Chess Computer is definitely themost stylish Chess Computer ever! A clever combination of featurestailored to suit anyone from beginners to the most accomplishedplayers. Along with a vast number of player levels to choose from, thecomputer offers a wide selection of special features and playing modesdesigned to challenge you and enhance your ability. This Chess Computeris guaranteed to give you hours of fun as well as an excellent displaypiece for your room! Chess Explorer Electronic Chess Set Features:64 Playing Levels: Beginner, Normal, Training, Tournament, Blitz andMate Search All major Opening Systems to learn Take Back and replay upto 30 moves Use Info Mode to see inside the computer's mind Let thecomputer evaluate your position at any time Setup option: try out newpositions and moves Sensory Chess Board - easy and error free moveentry Weighted and magnetized pieces Built-in chess clock and 5-Digitbacklit LCD Display Integrated piece storage (pieces fit inside the twosilver "arms") Unfinished games held in the memory - pick up where youleft off Automatic Power Down feature - conserve battery power Requires3 X AA batteries (not included) King Height: 2" Square Size: 1"Dimensions: 8.25" x 8.25" Board with 13" x 12" Computer

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Chess Explorer

Read More...

Excalibur E714 Einstein Chess Wizard Review

Excalibur E714 Einstein Chess Wizard
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
My 11 year old son played this after he opened it for Christmas. He lost against the computer which is a good thing due to the fact that he can beat his teachers in chess without a problem. I believe this game will help advance his skill level. He states that "you have to press down kinda hard on each square for the pieces to register". I would def buy this again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Excalibur E714 Einstein Chess Wizard

With the Einstein Chess Wizard you have the option to choose from 73 power levels up to a strength rating of 1750.The Opening Trainer teaches the most popular openings, such as the Ruy Lopez and Sicilian Defense; the Checkmate-Trainer tutors you to solve checkmate problems and the rating feature tracks your improvement so you can become the best you can.Includes storage compartment for pieces at the bottom of the unit.Product Dimensions 11.2 x 8.5 x 1.1NOTE:Requires 2 AA batteries (not included).

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Excalibur E714 Einstein Chess Wizard

Read More...

712 Ivan II The Conqueror Chess Review

712 Ivan II The Conqueror Chess
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've owned several of the Excalibur chess sets. The Squire, Saber III, and now the Ivan the Conquerer.
They do not all play identically. The Squire has a VERY slow and limited computer, but it still performs quite well when you increase the difficulty setting a few levels. Saber III was quite good, but the electronics broke down after a couple of years. The Squire, which is now over 5 years old, is still going strong.
Ivan regularly beats me even on its easiest mode! The size of the board is perfect for the kids to be able to play on, and I LOVE the little digital screen that shows you where all the pieces are (excellent in case they get knocked off the board or you get confused about the move it wants to make, which can happen when you are SO SURE you know what it's going to do and are wrong...)
The game talks to the player, saying things like "A warrior would not make a move like that!", or "I will CRUSH you!". If you take a while to move, the board gets impatient and emits a tick-tock sound as if to say "hurry up". When you push the button to move the knights, you hear the clop-clop of hooves, the rooks sound like seige machines being rolled out, and when you move your Queen it has a funny "Aaaaah!" sound like "watch out, here comes the QUEEN yo!" If you try to take back a move, it says accusingly "CHEATER!" then "Taking back black's move" or "Taking back white's move". It's funny and the kids like that.
When you beat it, it concedes defeat by saying something like; "Well, I guess you won that one!" as if it resents being beaten!
I've found that the BEST way to get my kids into the game is for the three of us to play as a team against the computer. I ask them to suggest moves, then we talk about each suggestion, the strengths and weaknesses of the move, and then vote on the best move. This way, they don't feel disappointed or discouraged that Dad keeps beating them.
On the down side:
I find the magnetic board does not hold the pieces very well, so it's not as good as Saber III in that regard.
I wish you could plug in headphones for silent playing.
In general, for the price, it is very good, a lot of fun, worth every penny.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 712 Ivan II The Conqueror Chess

XC5549BK93ABL Features: -Ivan the conqueror is Excalibur's popular chess-playing barbarian. -Ivan can use his 500-word vocabulary in commanding tones-or to be your powerful and patient mentor. -100 levels of play. -Play with or without pieces using Ivan's unique LCD display. -Excellent challenge for the most advanced players. -90 days parts and labor warranty.

Buy NowGet 58% OFF

Click here for more information about 712 Ivan II The Conqueror Chess

Read More...

Excalibur KING MSTR III EL CHSS&CHCKRS Review

Excalibur KING MSTR III EL CHSSandCHCKRS
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Besides the annoying noise that this chessboard makes when you play the computer. It is amazingly cool. I enjoyed a great challenging game of checkers and my son is new to chess and loves that it can teach him.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Excalibur KING MSTR III EL CHSS&CHCKRS

In the mood for a game of chess or checkers? Why not double your fun and enjoy both with this 2-in-1 electronic board! Featuring a large, interactive LCD display with over 72 different levels of chess and 16 levels of checkers to choose from, get ready for an entertaining challenge, whether you're a beginner or advanced player! You can also enhance your skills through the exclusive, five-step teaching mode. Plus, with magnetic playing pieces and a built-in storage compartment, keeping track of everything is a breeze. Let the games begin!Features:Chess and checkers game options.Advanced game technology including an estimated 1750 USCF rating for superior artificial intelligence."Save Game" memory function that stores games in progress until you're ready to resume play.Magnetic pieces for both games with built-in storage compartment.Two-year manufacturer's warranty.

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Excalibur KING MSTR III EL CHSS&CHCKRS

Read More...

King Master III Excalibur Review

King Master III Excalibur
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought the tabletop checkers and chess computer King Master III. In my judgement it plays chess at about 1500 Elo, but its checkers program is stronger. It's good training for the average checkers club player, I believe. In checkers, it makes only one theoretical move towards the centre, then it starts to think. One can always take back that move and make another, if one wants greater variety. One must allow it 15 seconds or more, I think. Strategically (in checkers) it has the usual tendency to conquer space on the flanks instead of the centre, so one can often get a positional advantage. But, of course, that doesn't mean that the game is won. But it tries to develop the single corner piece, which is good.
The checker pieces are quite easy to move by pressing them gently against the board. It functions finely. Also the chess pieces are attractive. The board only gives the moves in chess coordinates (there are no lights indicating the positions). When playing chess as black, one must turn the board. This places the move display upside-down, but it is readable anyway. One cannot play games with time control. Its knowledge of chess theory is scarce but big enough to create variety (Ruy Lopez, French, Russian defence, etc.). It doesn't know English opening or the Closed Sicilian, but plays well enough, except in certain open variants. In chess, it's too weak for the average club player. However, these tabletops are excellent for playing blindfold chess and blindfold checkers. One can play without pieces by just pressing the squares. As one can verify position, it's ideal for blindfold play. Then it becomes useful also to strong players. As the unit is cheap I think it's worth its price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: King Master III Excalibur

Double your fun with two games in one. Now you can enjoy an exciting game of chess or checkers in one electronic game. With an even larger interactive LCD display, over 72 levels of chess and 16 levels of checkers, King Arthur is challenging and entertaining for players of all strengths or you can match your skills against the game's computer chip. Excalibur's exclusive, five-step teaching mode helps anyone improve his or her game. Includes LCD window, piece-storage compartment, and magnetic sensory board.
Features:
Estimated rating: 1750
Magnetic chess pieces
Save game in memory
Piece-storage compartment
Requires 4 "AA" alkaline batteries (not included).

Buy NowGet 53% OFF

Click here for more information about King Master III Excalibur

Read More...