MasterChess Play New Game Window
This window allows you to start a new game against the engine.
Choose whether you want to play White or Black against the engine.
The Quick Game setting is the best for most games. This has the engine play quickly where it might otherwise use the time on the clock to ponder on openings moves (that are usually played quickly).
See also MasterChess Game Play Philosophy
Uncheck Quick Game to set the time controls for both sides.
Setting the playing strength to Unlimited will make the engine play the strongest move with the amount of time available. Even with the Quick Game setting turned on, the engine will be playing at grandmaster strength on most computers.
Stockfish by ECO rating has the engine play inferior moves to allow someone of the selected rating the chance to win. The inferior moves can be annoying to stronger players though. The rating can be set from 1320 to 3000.
Stockfish skill level is better for stronger players. Level 0 will make mistakes sufficient for a weaker player to win. Level 20 allows the engine to play its strongest game. The higher levels tend to play a better game with more realistic move choices than the ECO rating option.
If you are looking at a position that is not the starting position of chess, you can check Start from diagram position to begin the game at that position. This is useful when you are in the middle of reviewing a game and want to test your knowledge of the position.
The Kibitz option allows MasterChess to comment on the game. Currently it will say things like checkmate and stalemate (even when the engine is off). Future versions may tell you when you have left your opening repertoire or have blundered during a game.
Back to MasterChess Help Contents
Join the Challenge
Enter your best email address so I can notify you of the next challenge.
Thanks! Look for an email from me (Mike) in the next few minutes.