If you're half-way or totally serious about chess, buy this software for education and entertainment. I'm a weak rated player who needs hints, suggestions, and move evaluations. This software has it all and it's very fast when giving you the results. I tried playing my first Fritz 12 game against the computer by taking all its advice. This means the computer is effectively playing itself. It's nice to know that I won, even with a few variances of my own. One feature that I love is the use of its database. Specifically, open up the database window and click on the filter option. Then, enter positions of black and white pieces and click GO for the database. The search engine finds games in its library that match the position you entered. Then, you can review the matching game, find out what it took to win or lose the historic match plus it will show you all the moves. You can even turn on the analysis function and get an on-screen report of the strength or weakness of each move. In the training mode, the background voice isn't irritating or humiliating like other programs.
One issue that gave me a little trouble was the technical writing of the manual. I'm a technical writer by profession and I know user manuals need to be written better for wider acceptance. I realize that a relatively low-cost program can't deliver expensive manuals but most buyers would accept paying a little more for a better manual.
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