You can cheat at Chess if all else fails

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This attractively packaged program loads at 1200 baud, but although there is no 300 baud back-up I had no problems loading it, taking just under two minutes.

It runs automatically once loaded (the command *RUN "CHESS" must be used). The usual choice of black and white is given and the required skill level should be selected according to the player's ability.

The program suffers from the usual problem that the waiting time is in versely proportional to the skill level.

The visual display has clarity and is asthetically sound, the pieces being easily distinguishable with the possible exception of the queen and rooks. For no apparent reason the number 44 appears in the top right corner of the screen. It is constantly displayed throughout the game and has been the subject of much speculation as to its purpose.

Movement is achieved by means of a simple grid system and any illegal responses are rejected. The program provides for castling, but curiously not for en passant so far as the player is concerned. I eventually had to admit defeat after prolonged provocation on this point.

The menu can be accessed by pressing RETURN, when the prompt appears. The menu then gives a wide selection of available actions including listing moves made during the current game, saving unfinished game on tape and rearranging the current board (useful for cheating when all else fails!).

Avoid the ESCAPE key when in this mode or the program will crash.

Overall, Bug-Byte Chess is excellent practice for all budding grand masters and will accompany a player up to a high level of skill. I would recommend it as a good candidate for any program collection despite the unusually high cost.

Chris Turnbull