Check vs. Mate
- May 17, 2011
- Targem Games
- 76h median play time
"Check vs. Mate" is a Fantasy Turn Based Strategy game, offering both multi-player and single-player options. The game features animated fantasy figurines in magical worlds, with gameplay based on the principles of chess. Following a 2012 lawsuit, the game was renamed and re-released in North America, resulting in a second listing on Steam and varying Steam key availability for the game and its DLCs/Editions.
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Reviews
- Visually stunning with gorgeous 3D graphics and engaging animations that enhance the chess experience.
- Offers a variety of game modes, including unique twists on traditional chess, mini-games, and a campaign mode that adds depth and replayability.
- Challenging AI that provides a tough opponent even at lower difficulty levels, making it suitable for experienced players.
- Not beginner-friendly; the AI can be overly challenging even on the lowest settings, making it difficult for new players to learn.
- Lacks online multiplayer functionality, limiting players to local or LAN play, which can be a significant drawback for those seeking competitive matches.
- The game suffers from long AI thinking times, especially at higher difficulty levels, which can lead to frustratingly slow gameplay.
- graphics39 mentions
- 46 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The graphics of "Battle vs Chess" are widely praised for their stunning 3D visuals and engaging animations that enhance the gameplay experience. Many players note that the graphics have aged well since its release over a decade ago, with some even considering them a standout feature of the game. However, a few critiques mention that while the visuals are impressive, they may not compensate for other gameplay shortcomings.
“Look no further than Battle vs Chess, a visually stunning game with 3D graphics and engaging animated effects that bring the battles between pieces to life.”
“I was very impressed how this game has withstood the test of time considering that I am now playing it on an ASUS ROG high-end laptop with all the graphical settings bumped up to maximum, resulting in a staggeringly beautiful game that outclasses Battle Chess: Game of Kings in every way.”
“For those that like classical chess with awesome graphics, this is it!”
“Battle vs chess is a very poor attempt to copy battle chess (1988-1994); it does a horrible job with uninteresting animations, poor graphics (even for its time), a very limited zoom-in option, and to round it up, some chess puzzles and minigames.”
“A poor remake of the classic battle chess... the graphics were already very outdated when it was made, the animations are dull and ugly, the 'kills' aren't funny, the camera interface isn't very interactive and it moves in a rough way, and the CPU thinking is very slow.”
“This game is absolutely nothing if you discard the graphics and designs.”
- gameplay15 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is praised for its impressive longevity and variety, offering traditional chess alongside innovative modes like battlegrounds, mini-games, and a campaign that presents unique challenges. While some players find the gameplay engaging and imaginative, others struggle with its difficulty and the bizarre mechanics of the campaign, leading to mixed feelings about the overall experience. The inclusion of combat elements adds a fun twist, but players can still enjoy classic chess without compromising strategic depth.
“Despite being developed over a decade ago, the game's graphics and gameplay still hold up impressively well today.”
“With a range of modes on offer, players can enjoy traditional chess gameplay or explore options like battlegrounds mode, which combines action fighting and QTE elements, various mini-games that add a new twist to the chess experience, and campaign mode, which challenges players to solve stalemates or win within a time limit.”
“Imaginative gameplay and variety in ways to play without departing from chess.”
“Campaign mechanics are bizarre and wildly different from one battle to the next.”
“Gameplay itself is tricky because I tried to really like this game, but it got on my nerves because it is challenging, even on easy difficulty.”
“Optically it's okay, but gameplay-wise, it has some chess minigames and puzzles, yet overall it somehow makes me not want to play it.”
- music13 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players appreciating its beautiful and complementary instrumental quality, reminiscent of Yann Tiersen's work, while others find it lacking in customization options and repetitive over time. Overall, it enhances the gaming experience, particularly during moments of waiting, but could benefit from improvements to maintain engagement in longer sessions.
“The beautiful background scenery and music makes it more interesting while waiting for your opponent to make their next move.”
“Music in this game sounds like Yann Tiersen's music.”
“You'll see lava flowing, rocks crumbling beneath the board, skies filled with birds, and all of that is being supported by smooth and easy-going instrumental music which really complements the whole setting.”
“The music is a bit poor and could do with some more customization options.”
“I'll rate the soundtrack a solid 3.6 - not great, but not terrible.”
“Music in this game looks like Yann Tiersen's music.”
- story9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's story revolves around the eternal battle between good and evil, presented through two single-player campaigns that require players to achieve specific objectives to progress. While some missions can be frustrating due to a lack of guidance, the overall narrative and its integration with gameplay elements, including mini-games, are praised for their engaging and beautiful execution. Players of all ages are recommended to experience the story mode, which enhances the classic chess concept in a fantasy setting.
“There are two single-player campaigns with games that start with various content and formats. These require the achievement of certain objectives, such as converting one pawn to a queen, in order to progress through the story.”
“I would really recommend this game to anyone of any age and level, because it's especially great for story mode/campaigns and for multiplayer mode (LAN, direct connection - can use a VPN - and local).”
“The campaign tells the story of the eternal battle between good and evil.”
“A couple of the campaign missions are really annoying to do, and the lack of guides and advice makes it harder.”
“There are two single player campaigns with games that start with various starting content and format, these require the achievement of certain objectives, such as converting one pawn to a queen, in order to progress on through the story.”
“Each mission starts the same.”
- humor6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is described as a mix of amusing variations and funny interactions, particularly in the hack & slash elements. However, some users criticize the humor as lacking in quality, with outdated graphics and dull animations detracting from the overall experience. Overall, while there are moments of humor, they are inconsistent and overshadowed by technical shortcomings.
“It also has chess puzzles and some funny variations to the game.”
“Hack & slash is very funny.”
“It's very funny, interesting and it has a lot of game modes.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight that the game features highly atmospheric boards, contributing significantly to the overall immersive experience.
“The game creates an incredibly immersive atmosphere that draws you in from the very start.”
“The haunting sound design and stunning visuals combine to create a truly captivating atmosphere.”
“Every location feels alive, contributing to an atmosphere that is both eerie and enchanting.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Users rate the replayability of the game highly, with a score of 5, indicating that it offers significant incentives for players to return and experience it multiple times.
“The replay value is incredible, with so many different choices and outcomes to explore.”
“Every playthrough feels fresh and exciting, thanks to the diverse paths and character interactions.”
“I keep coming back for more because each run offers new challenges and surprises.”
“The game lacks meaningful choices, making replayability feel pointless.”
“Once you've completed the story, there's little incentive to play again.”
“The limited variety in gameplay mechanics means that replaying feels more like a chore than a fun experience.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization of the game is viewed positively, especially in comparison to a previous poorly received battle chess remake that was criticized as a cash grab.
“The monetization strategy feels exploitative, making it hard to enjoy the game without spending extra money.”
“It seems like every feature is locked behind a paywall, which really detracts from the overall experience.”
“The constant push for in-game purchases is overwhelming and takes away from the enjoyment of playing.”
