Summary
Colossus Chess X (1989): A Review
Colossus Chess X is a chess game developed by David Horne and published by The Software Factory in 1989 for the Commodore 64. It is an updated version of Horne’s earlier game, Colossus Chess, and features improved graphics, sound, and gameplay.
Colossus Chess X is a 3D chess game, meaning that the board is displayed in three dimensions, and the pieces can be moved around the board in all three dimensions. This gives the game a more realistic feel than traditional 2D chess games, and it also allows for some unique and interesting strategies.
The game features a variety of different game modes, including a single-player mode against the computer, a two-player mode, and a tournament mode. The computer opponent is very strong, and it can be a challenge even for experienced chess players.
The graphics in Colossus Chess X are very impressive for a Commodore 64 game. The board and pieces are all rendered in 3D, and the animations are smooth and fluid. The game also features a variety of sound effects and music, which add to the overall atmosphere.
The gameplay in Colossus Chess X is very solid. The game is challenging but fair, and it is always possible to win if you play well. The game also features a number of different difficulty levels, so that players of all skill levels can enjoy it.
Overall, Colossus Chess X is an excellent chess game for the Commodore 64. It features impressive graphics, sound, and gameplay, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Gameplay
Colossus Chess X is played on a standard 8×8 chessboard, with each player controlling 16 pieces. The pieces are:
- 1 king
- 1 queen
- 2 rooks
- 2 knights
- 2 bishops
- 8 pawns
The goal of the game is to checkmate the opponent’s king. Checkmate occurs when the king is under attack (in check) and there is no legal move to remove the threat.
The pieces move as follows:
- King: One square in any direction.
- Queen: Any number of squares along a rank, file, or diagonal.
- Rook: Any number of squares along a rank or file.
- Bishop: Any number of squares diagonally, staying on the same color.
- Knight: In an “L” pattern – two squares in one direction and then one square perpendicularly.
- Pawn: One square forward, except for the initial move where it can move two squares forward. Pawns capture diagonally forward one square.
Colossus Chess X features a number of different game modes, including:
- Single-player mode: Play against the computer opponent.
- Two-player mode: Play against another human player.
- Tournament mode: Compete in a tournament against multiple computer opponents.
The computer opponent in Colossus Chess X is very strong, and it can be a challenge even for experienced chess players. The computer uses a variety of different strategies, and it is always adapting its play to the player’s style.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Colossus Chess X are very impressive for a Commodore 64 game. The board and pieces are all rendered in 3D, and the animations are smooth and fluid. The game also features a variety of sound effects and music, which add to the overall atmosphere.
The 3D graphics in Colossus Chess X are particularly noteworthy. The board and pieces are all rendered in great detail, and the animations are very smooth. This gives the game a more realistic feel than traditional 2D chess games, and it also allows for some unique and interesting camera angles.
The sound effects and music in Colossus Chess X are also very well done. The sound effects are realistic and immersive, and the music is catchy and upbeat. The sound and graphics work together to create a very polished and professional-looking game.
Conclusion
Colossus Chess X is an excellent chess game for the Commodore 64. It features impressive graphics, sound, and gameplay, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you are a seasoned chess veteran or a complete novice, Colossus Chess X is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
