This tutoring software comes on CD, with a copy of the Chessbase reader. The topic of this CD is opening play, with an emphasis on general principles like mobility, key squares, the initiative, and tactics. The software has good use of hypertext, and key examples are hot-linked with the topics they pertain to. There are also significant text annotations, to help those that are grappling with new concepts. Multimedia content is pretty much restricted to GM Danny King giving a few introductory tips and pointers.
In addition to covering the general principles I mentioned previously, the CD also contains specific guidance pertaining to the following openings: Giucco Piano, Ruy Lopez, Sicilian Defense, Caro-Kann Defense, Queen's Gambit, Philador's Defense, French Defense, and the Modern Defense.
The CD contains three databases: Opening Strategy (62 games), Opening Tactics (81 games) and Training.(32 games/questions, four for each opening). The first two of these contain only examples, without quiz positions, while the training database contains 32 test positions/games. There is heavy use of colored squares and arrows to illustrate geometric features and key squares on the board.
This training CD is most suitable for beginning players, and those below 1300 or so USCF. The program authors shy away from heavy variations, and most of the illustrative games show typical themes in a very straightforward manner.If you would like to read another review, there is one in the T-notes section of the ChessbaseUSA website (incidentally, they also sell this CD).
Strengths
- Requires no HD space for installation, although you can put it on your HD if you so desire.
- Requires no additional software to run - includes a copy of the Chessbase reader.
- Variations can be played out on the board.
- You can use your own Chessbase-compatible analysis engines with the program to explore alternative variations, or you can use the included Crafty engine.
- Exercises are timed, and a running score is kept for the entire training database.
- English and German are supported.
- A lot of explanation for beginning players.
Weaknesses
- There is nothing like the Learning CycleTM that Chess Mentor uses, i.e. the program does not automatically review the positions you had trouble with.
- Multiple users are not supported, i.e. separate results are not kept for each user.
Copy Protection
None
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