Archive for December, 2009

Handheld Chess Computer – Convenient and Easy Way to Learn Chess Tactics

Aside from the common chess sets being used in the popular game of chess, there are many other options to choose from. In relation to modern civilization, many chess enthusiasts choose electronic chess sets. These types of chess sets allow players to either play with another player or to play against the computer if the other player is not present. Most of the time, electronic chess sets give increasingly difficulty level to all the players. In this case, their skills will be improved as they enjoy the conveniences that these gadgets bring at the same time.

Talking about electronic chess sets, there are two basic designs available – the table top electronic chess sets and the handheld chess computer software sets. These are just the same when it comes to specs. But then, the only difference is that table top chess sets allow players to play with either a computer opponent or a human opponent while handheld sets is more on computer. Some handheld sets allow player to play with a human opponent anywhere yet the features are not that many. Besides, handheld chess sets are not restricted to the table.

For many chess enthusiasts who still want to feel the traditional game of chess but do not have an opponent all the time, the table top chess set is the best choice. This usually allows the player to play in skill levels that were arranged from the easy level down to the difficult level. Likewise, table top chess set also allows the players to learn from their mistakes by continuously tracking the player’s movement. Some table top sets offer feedback and play according to the player’s movement while some features analysis and pre programmed chess opening.

In spite the fact that table top sets are more popular, handheld sets have also their advantages. These types of sets are very convenient wherein chess players can use these anytime as well as can bring it anywhere. In relation to their small size, most of the handheld models don’t have the features which can be found of table top sets. But there were also features that a handheld chess sets have, which can’t be found to table top sets. One of these is that handheld chess sets allow players to play with a human opponent instead of playing with the computer. In addition, handled sets also offer feed backs and pre- programmed attacks to study. Some handheld models also track the progress as you get better on the game. But then, most of the models allow the players to pick a skill level to be analyzed by the computer’s pre-programmed range.

It doesn’t matter which type of electronic chess set you have. Always bear in mind that a serious chess player will be benefit through learning opportunities and playing experiences. Actually, both of these electronic chess sets are great tools for you to perfect your moves. However, you can challenge your self by playing against a human opponent as you wish. Moreover, enough practice and continuous playing the game of chess can also do.

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Types of chess moves and their importance

The Important of Chess Strategies

The game of chess, also called as a War Game or a battle of the minds, is one of the oldest games played since the 6th Century A.D. The challenge it poses to the mind and the excitement and fascination it provides to the chess players are the primary reasons for the game to have sustained its existence for more than 1400 years, and given its popularity among the people and similarities with life, the game will gain much more popularity in the days to come.

The computers and the Internet have taken the game to the masses in a big way through the means of Online Chess. Now, anybody with a computer and the Internet connection, and a little bit of passion for the game, can start learning the game and play by visiting online chess sites and selecting partners separated by distance and time.

Irrespective of your choice of play, either through computers in the form of online chess, or with a partner in a calm place, you need to know the basics of the game, and apply serious thinking.

The game involves two players and a chessboard having 64 squares of alternative color. Each player is provided with 16 pieces arranged in a set pattern, and the objective of the game is to win over the King of the opponent. The turn-based game involves movement of the pieces or moves.

Basically, the moves are classified into three different types.

1. Developing moves
2. Attacking moves, and
3. Moves that serve defensive purposes

Developing moves are those moves that will result in bringing new forces into play. The first few moves that we normally make in the opening stage of the game are called as Developing moves provided they bring new forces into play. For example, the first move of the King pawn from e2 to e4 is a developing move because it paves way for the King bishop and f1 and the Queen in d1 to open up lines.

Attacking moves are those that threaten the opponent’s pieces in the form of checks, or checkmates. In other words, the attacking moves make the pieces do something.

Moves serving defensive purposes means providing some sort of protection to the weaker pieces or squares, and/or obstructing an important line of attack from the opponent. In other words, the purpose of the defensive move is to undo the work of the opponent’s attacking move.

What kind of move is required is determined by the exigencies of the position. As a chess player, you should be paying keen attention to the squares in the board, the relative threats of the opponent’s pieces and weaknesses, if any, in the squares or pieces. Do not try to make any move for the sake of moving, even if you want to adopt a wait-and-watch strategy and look for the mistakes from the opponent. Assess and analyze the pros and cons of each move, be it a pawn move or a King’s move, before taking a decision. One important thing each player should bear in mind is not only to make the correct move but also foil the opponent’s plan.

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