Chessmaster

 PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: May 28, 2003
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
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  1. Cheat Code Central
    100
    This is the complete package, whether you're a beginner or veteran genius this title has no equal among the consoles. The tutorials are amazing.
    All this publication's reviews
  2. Game Chronicles
    88
    The fact that it is the only PS2 chess game available, has online support, and is only $20 makes this a no-brainer for anyone with the slightest interest in chess and doesn’t already have another recent chess game lying around.
  3. Game Informer
    88
    This is strictly for hardcore chess players..., but I can't think of a game that can deliver the amount of depth of Chessmaster. [Sept 2003, p.109]
    All this publication's reviews
  5. GameSpot
    73
    Even given the varied gameplay in the single-player component, Chessmaster's online support is perhaps its most appealing feature, at least in theory.
  6. GameSpy
    62
    All the PS2 will get you is some interface problems, a lack of anyone to play with online, and maybe a headache from the abundance of flickering text in the game's many high-resolution screens.
  7. IGN
    85
    Anyone with even a slight interest in chess owes it to themselves to check out Chessmaster. There really is no better teacher, mentor, or opponent (that's not a human, of course) out there.
  8. netjak
    74
    If you like to play, you’ll find great teaching utilities to improve your game, as well as a powerful system to challenge you. If you have no interest in chess whatsoever, steer clear.
    All this publication's reviews
  9. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    70
    A full-featured chess game... But it's flawed in a lot of little ways, and these little flaws add up. [July 2003, p.93]
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  10. PSX Nation
    70
    Ubi Soft should be commended for not only being the first developer/publisher to appeal to a niche audience like console chess players, but to do it with a affordable quality product that can be enjoyed online just as much as offline with friends and family.

Awards & Rankings

59
#59 Best PS2 Game of 2003
73
#73 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2003

User Reviews

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User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 14 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 14
  3. Negative: 3 out of 14
  1. Monkena
    Jun 26, 2020
    10
    The greatest chess game of all time. It has all the features you would want from a chess client, and the presentation is on point. EspeciallyThe greatest chess game of all time. It has all the features you would want from a chess client, and the presentation is on point. Especially loved Josh's commentary. Truly a hidden gem.… Full Review »
  2. JamesA.
    Apr 26, 2005
    10
    Only problem - no zoom ... The A.I is near impossible to defeat ... I mean you have to be a very skilled (Tournament or advanced Club) player Only problem - no zoom ... The A.I is near impossible to defeat ... I mean you have to be a very skilled (Tournament or advanced Club) player in order to defeat any of the players ranked over 2500 ... very challenging - A tactician's dream.… Full Review »
  3. SlaidgeA.
    Apr 26, 2005
    9
    Speaking as a tournament player - I expected to breeze through this game ... not only was I surprised by the challenge - but the overall Speaking as a tournament player - I expected to breeze through this game ... not only was I surprised by the challenge - but the overall worth of the game to an actual player was compelling. I personally love this game, so the 9 of 10 is my rating.… Full Review »
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