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Quite a few issues ago (number three to be exact), we
ran a feature called The
Great ZZAP! Chess Playoff where both Colossus
Chess 2.0 and Mychess II battled together.
Colossus hammered MyChess on the advanced
level games, whilst on the low levels the opposite happened.
The
latest version of this mighty chess program 'thinks'
a lot faster than 2.0 and also has the added
attraction of allowing play in very realistic and effective
3D, rather than the standard flat 'Sunday Times Chess
puzzle' format.
Colossus
comes with a large and informative manual which explains
the general workings of the program along with all the
options.
When
you start a normal game, the first action is to set
the level and decide whether you or the computer is
going to take white. Moving a piece is done by using
the cursor keys, joystick control, or through keyboard
entry. When cursor keys or joystick are used, simply
move the board cursor onto the piece that you want to
move, press fire, then move the piece to its intended
position and press fire again. With the keyboard, you
can use the traditional algebraic notation (eg b4-b6).
All moves are recorded for the taking of notes.
Colossus
IV recognises all the usual rules of chess and also
has a built in clock allowing you to play a tournament-style
game. You can set the clock so each player has a time
limit for every move. There is a useful option which
forces the computer to match the time taken for your
moves.
The
program also has a wealth of options allowing you to
practise or set up games. You can 'back-step' during
a game if you make a mistake and wish to make that move
again. The program has a self-play mode, so you can
have a game against yourself without computer interference.
I
find it very difficult to get enthusiastic over a chess
program, but this is a real exception. What with the
incredibly effective 3D board and its wealth of options,
Colossus IV is THE best chess implementation
yet to hit the 64, and indeed possibly any home micro.
The 'easy' levels offer a pretty good challenge, while
harder levels require a grand master touch to get anywhere.
If you want a chess program then look no further than
this one.
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