Author: Jeroen van Dorp
Date: 12:54:33 02/28/02
Go up one level in this thread
>2) Handicap. Now the numerical handicap that one can enter into this function I >do not quite understand. It seems that, the lower the setting (even can be >negative), the stronger the computer will play. It is also supposed to adjust to >your playing strength. Funny thing is, that even if I lost against the computer >by making obvious tactical errors, it still scores me with a negative handicap >(which is supposed to mean that I played well!). And it still makes rather funny >moves from time to time, throwing away a tempo for no apparent reason at all. Seems you mean *Friend* level. From the help files, which seems to be a bit unclear: <quote>Menu: Game – Levels – Friend mode In this mode the program automatically adjusts its level of play to match that of the opponent. When you start, it asks you for your “Handicap”. This is similar to golf and is measured in 100ths of a pawn. If you give a high value (e.g., 200 = two pawns) the program will reduce its strength considerably. Afterwards the program will adjust your handicap to reflect your real playing strength. The smaller your handicap, the stronger you are. Top players will indeed achieve a negative handicap. If after about six games the program sets your handicap to below –400 (= minus four pawns), you are advised to practice elementary chess tactics and to concentrate on avoiding material loss. You should consider using the coach functions “Threatened squares” and “Show threat”. The “Friend mode” can be used by beginners and strong players alike. The chess clock only records the time and has no further relevance, so you can think for as long as you like. </quote> The "below -400" is wrong. That must be "above 400" or so Your handicap is -as in golf- positive. So when playing a lot of losing games your handicap will end at some +700 or 900 or so. Friend mode is a modern form of "odds". Look at http://www.chessbaseusa.com/T-NOTES/010200.htm and at http://www.chessbaseusa.com/T-NOTES/081599.htm >3) Handicap and Fun level. This level, I must admit, is the one that I have not >really experimented with a lot, because there are so many settings that one can >fiddle with. Almost like all the settings in the Chessmaster series of software. >There is also a strenght bar, which one can set in ELO points. I would >especially like forum members to comment on this level, and its usefulness in >finding an opponent of equal strength. > Try playing some rated games. Roughly calculating your own level, add some 150-200 points and start playing rated games. After appr. 20 games you will have a rating by Fritz and can use it to be roughly on par with Fritz at that handicap and fun level. Good luck. J.
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