Simply Chess (2015)

The timeless strategy board game, chess, has made its way to the Steam platform with a comprehensive digital adaptation. Simply Chess offers everything a player might need for both casual and competitive play. Whether you are a dedicated chess enthusiast or someone who enjoys occasional matches, this game provides a complete and accessible experience for all skill levels.

Cross-Platform Multiplayer

Simply Chess allows players to compete with friends across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. This ensures a broad reach for multiplayer gaming, allowing players to challenge one another regardless of their platform. The game supports both local and online matches, providing flexibility in how players engage with the game.

AI Opponent with Adjustable Difficulty

For solo players, Simply Chess features the powerful "Stockfish" AI engine. With 100 distinct difficulty levels, the AI can accommodate complete beginners as well as highly experienced players. This extensive range of challenges makes it possible to improve skills gradually and enjoy a consistently engaging experience against the computer.

Multiple Game Modes

The game includes a "hot-seat" or "pass-n-play" mode, allowing two players to compete on a single device. This is ideal for in-person matches where only one computer is available. Additionally, asynchronous play enables players to make moves even when their opponents are offline, ensuring that games can progress at a comfortable pace without requiring both participants to be online simultaneously.

Visual Options and Controller Support

Simply Chess provides both full 3D graphics with camera control and a 2D mode for players who prefer simpler visuals. Switching between these modes is seamless. The game fully supports controllers and Steam’s “Big Picture” mode, allowing players to move effortlessly between using a mouse and keyboard or a gamepad depending on their preference.

Online Features and Rankings

Online matches include Elo ratings, enabling players to track their performance and compare it with others on a Steam leaderboard. The game also offers a range of Steam-specific bonuses, such as trading cards, badges, backgrounds, and emoticons. Players can earn dozens of achievements and track detailed statistics to monitor their progress over time.

Offline Compatibility

The Steam version of Simply Chess does not include additional DRM, which means the game can be played entirely offline. Players have access to the full single-player experience without needing an internet connection or even Steam installed, though online features such as Steam Achievements and leaderboards require connectivity.

Summary of Features

• Play locally or online with friends on Windows, Mac, and Linux
• Challenge the world-class Stockfish AI with 100 difficulty levels
• Hot-seat/pass-n-play multiplayer mode for one device
• Asynchronous play for offline opponents
• Switch between 3D with camera control and 2D graphics
• Full controller and Steam Big Picture support
• Seamless switching between mouse/keyboard and gamepad
• Elo ratings and Steam leaderboard ranking for online games
• Steam trading cards, badges, backgrounds, and emoticons
• Numerous stats and achievements to track gameplay progress
• No added DRM; full offline play available

Verdict: Recommended for Chess Lovers!

If you're looking for a straightforward and accessible chess experience, Simply Chess delivers exactly that. With a world-class AI, local and online multiplayer options, and multiple modes like hot-seat and asynchronous play, it offers great flexibility for both casual players and chess enthusiasts. The option to play with a mouse, keyboard, or gamepad makes it user-friendly, and its compatibility with various platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux) ensures a broad reach.

However, if you’re after an ultra-polished or feature-rich chess simulator, this might not satisfy all your needs. There’s no real storyline or complex variations – it’s simply about chess, which might feel too basic for some players. But if you just want to enjoy a classic game of chess without distractions, Simply Chess is a solid choice.