Originally posted by passedpawn22
Wondering if playing against chess computers have helpped your game at all? I'm talking about the OTB computers where you actually move pieces, although you can comment on pc software as well. I am looking into getting an OTB chess computer (Novag Citrine to be exact) to play practice games anytime, since I don't like practicing on the computer screen ...[text shortened]... ok up to, so the Citrine looks good. So...your comments, are computers good to play against?
I think playing against computers is probably the very best way to improve your game. as stated in a previous thread i now even prefer it to the playing over of master games. The thing with guessing the next move in a master game is very often there just isn't enough information given by the annotater as to why the move i would have played was wrong or not as strong as the move played by the master. very often when using this technique i would have to run the position through a computer to get the answers i wanted.
even then you have to reset the position to the position at hand, so you never physicaly get punished for a string of bad moves or a bad plan or idea.
That all changes when playing computers, especially the stronger ones. you are interactively involved in a real struggle with at times a GM strength opponent. your games can be discected afterwards for a real learning experience!
I personally have downloaded shredder mobile for my mobile phone. I simply move the pieces on a real board to get the proper effect of playing a truly strong player OTB style.
Obviously there are levels and the programme even allows you to connect to the interent to play the super strong Shredder 11 if you wish.
I also have Hiarcs which i downloaded for my PDA, another strong programme rated about 2500 elo.
My advice would be to invest in one of these programmes if you have a PDA or up to date mobile. The price is a fraction of that citrine set, £21.00 for Shredder Mobile. Add about £12.00 pounds for a club chess set and you're ready to roll. you can play a super GM in real OTB fashion any time you wish!
It's a truly great way to improve. however there are issues regarding the strength of these programmes.you're never likely to be able to practice your attacking play because they are so damn strong.still the one thing is that they never make a move that a human can't.
I supplement this type of training with chess puzzles and problems. Make some additional time for some supplementary study of strategic ideas and endgames and you have the complete programme for improvement.
All the best.
Talisman.