Chess Lite is a slimmed down version of developer 99 Games’ other chess title, Chess Pro. Unlike other “lite” versions of App Store games, Chess Lite is actually a complete game, it’s just not as full featured as its counterpart. It is intended for the casual chess player who wants to jump right into the action. As a novice chess player, this is right up my alley.
When starting a new game you can choose to be either the black or white pieces. As every chess player knows, the white pieces get to move first so it’s your call. The game features two types of controls. You can use either a tap or drag method. The tap method requires you to tap the piece you want to move and then the square you want to move it to. For the drag method, obviously just drag the piece to whichever square you want. Both methods control great, just choose the one that best suits you.
A hint button is conveniently located at the bottom of the screen which gives you the next best move available by highlighting the square. This is a great feature but it’s so overly tempting to use the hint button for every move. Just try to restrain yourself.
The game also includes an undo feature just in case you have made a boneheaded move along with the ability to save up to five different games. This feature is only necessary if you intend to start a new game while retaining your old one because Chess Lite saves the progress of your current game so there is no need to worry if you need to urgently back out of the game.
A two player option is available but it is only face-to-face, no online components exist. In two player mode the board will spin upon the completion of each move. This way, if you are sitting next to the person you are playing against you won’t have to constantly physically spin the iPhone/iPod Touch for each turn. A great little addition.
Chess Lite uses the regular chess rules. It doesn’t include any variations, but if you were unaware there were any other variations of chess, like me, then this is no loss to you.
The game is set at one difficulty setting. There aren’t any other options available for changing up the gameplay. The A.I. seems to be fairly intelligent but there is no way for me to communicate A.I. intelligence when my skills are just average. I am certain that the game is difficult enough for most casual players.
The graphics are monotone and flat. That doesn’t mean they are bad, they are just simple. It is very easy to distinguish pieces, everything looks crisp and clear. There are also simple sounds to indicate movements as well as the ability to play music in the background.
For the measly sum of $0.99, Chess Lite does its job and does it well. If you are a novice to moderate chess player, Chess Lite should meet your needs. If you really want to take it up a notch, 99 Games offers Chess Pro to spice things up, but that’s for another time.
Overall: 7.5 out of 10
For a dollar, I’d definitely pick this game up. You can never go wrong with chess, but you will never go wrong with a price tag of $0.99.