Author: Mac Moss
Date: 17:15:45 11/07/97
Just bought what, by my best memory, is my seventh chess computer from ICD- the new Karpov Grandmaster, which gives you a creamy smooth full-sized (2" squares), auto-sensory, master strength computer for only 200 bucks. I'm surprised there hasn't been more agressive marketing of this machine- it's a real bargain, and provides the real-world tournament simulation that I (and I'm sure a lot of you) have been wanting, but haven't been willing to fork over the big bucks for. (No, I'm not an employee, relative, etc. of ICD!). My only initial worry about it was that it was obvious that the lowest level (supposedly a 1-ply lookahead) seemed much stronger than billed. After losing a few quick, casual games at that level, I started to get worried; but then easily won 6 out of the next 7. It does hang pieces (and kings, ocassionaly) at the lowest level, but still plays soundly otherwise and you can't turn off the book. As a chronically 1450-1500 rated player, I need at least a few easy levels to work up from. I'm playing a series of games between the Karpov and Power Chess (software), which rates opponents (puts me at 1472 which is almost right on the button). So far Karpov's lowest level is at 1062; I suspect it's closer to 1200 (though Excalibur claims it's 800-900). I'll report back after finishing a dozen games between them. Still, this one is a real winner. Highly recommended for those who've always wanted a full-sized auto-sensory opponent without breaking the budget.
This page took 0 seconds to execute
Last modified: Thu, 15 Apr 21 08:11:13 -0700
Current Computer Chess Club Forums at Talkchess. This site by Sean Mintz.