
                        ChessMaster 3000 Multimedia
                         For CD-ROM & Windows 3.xx

                             By Shreyas Shah

        If you have been using computers for any time, the name
        ChessMaster will certainly be familiar. It has long been
        renowned for its superb graphics and Grandmaster level
        chessplay. One could hardly imagine any further improvement, but
        Software Toolworks has taken it one step further. Utilizing
        digitized voices, and a CD-ROM that is capable of mass storage,
        the ChessMaster can now provide you with an almost human
        opponent. If you are new to the game of chess, this game is for
        you. An extensive tutorial, as well as advice modes and take
        back options, allow you to learn at your own pace. The
        experienced player will also feel very comfortable since
        ChessMaster uses international standards and allows you to fully
        customize it.

        The tutorial mode will allow you to learn about the game of
        chess. Each piece is fully described and the moves each piece
        can make are also outlined. This is all put together as you
        learn how the pieces interact, and learn lessons on strategy.
        During actual game play, you can have someone 'looking over your
        shoulder' as the ChessMaster provides you with hints. The take
        back option allows you to take back one move or a series of
        them. This allows you to play out different options, and is a
        great learning strategy. You can also set up the board, to
        practice endgames, or other specific situations.

        For the experienced chess player the ChessMaster will prove to
        be a worthy opponent. You can play a variety of different
        openings, use all the standard forms of notation as well as
        customize the game to suit your particular feel. You can choose
        the type of notation, the type of board (3-d or 2-d), the type
        of pieces as well as which windows you would like on the screen.
        I preferred the classic 3-D wooden board, clock window, and
        classic pieces set. Some other windows you may choose from is a
        running list of all moves, captured pieces and an advice window.
        You also have the option of having the ChessMaster speak his
        advice, or just read it off the screen. I enjoyed listening to
        the ChessMaster give me spoken advice on each move. The
        experienced player can also choose to be rated by completing
        several puzzles. You may also import/export board layouts in
        ASCII or forsythe to trade with friends. If you want the feel of
        tournament play you can set one up, as well as get involved in
        championship games, where you will actually be awarded a
        certificate if you win! (A printer is required)

        A variety of other options make the ChessMaster a complete chess
        experience. Included is: a solve for mate option, a VCR option
        to view previous moves, the ability to watch the ChessMaster
        think (moves looked at and resulting strategy), as well as over
        150 classic games that can be replayed at the touch of a button
        for viewing and learning. One noticeable disappointment however
        is the lack of modem support. This is something that most
        top-quality games should begin to make standard. Let's face it
        there is nothing like playing a friendly game of chess against a
        real opponent! With the availability of cheap hi-speed modems,
        Software Toolworks really has no excuse for leaving out such an
        important feature.

        Overall the ChessMaster 3000 Multimedia is a top-rate product.
        It has maintained it's high quality graphics and chess play as
        well as adding many new features. The documentation is simple
        and straightforward. Installation is a breeze and the
        accompanying owner's manual has a wonderful history of chess,
        classic games and brain teasers. This is one CD-ROM I highly
        recommend! For the serious chess player it might be worth
        getting a CD-ROM drive if you don't already have one!


                          Product Information
                       ChessMaster 3000 Multimedia

                          Required Equipment:
                             Windows 3.xx
                            386 or better
                              4 mb RAM
                      MPC Compliant CD-ROM Drive

                    Suggested Retail Price: $79.95
                     Average Street Price: $35-$45
                    (Often Available in CD-Bundles)

                        The Software Toolworks
                           60 Leveroni Court
                           Novato, CA 94949
                            (415) 883-3000
