Simply Chess
- September 11, 2015
- BlueLine Games
Get on SteamSimply Chess is a digital adaptation of the classic board game, now available on Steam. It offers local and online play, with the option to face off against the computer using the world-class Stockfish AI. The game also includes asynchronous play, customizable graphics, and full controller support. Additionally, it features Elo ratings for online games, Steam Trading Cards, and various achievements.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- Simple and easy to play, making it accessible for beginners.
- Great graphics and music enhance the overall experience.
- Offers a variety of skill levels and runs smoothly on most devices.
- Multiplayer features are glitchy and require frequent reconnections.
- Some users experience visibility issues with black pieces on the board.
- Lacks additional content and options for timed games.
- story14 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 43 % neutral mentions
- 57 % negative mentions
The reviews consistently highlight that the game lacks a narrative, with many users noting that chess does not have a storyline and is limited to a single battlefield map. Overall, the absence of a story is a significant drawback for players seeking a more immersive experience.
“Right away you'll notice chess has no storyline.”
“Note the 'a battlefield,' because chess only has one story map.”
“Bad story.”
- music10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise, with many users rating it a perfect 10/10 and noting that it significantly enhances the overall experience. While some minor issues, such as the music restarting with certain key presses, were mentioned, the general consensus is that the soundtrack is a standout feature that complements the gameplay well.
“The music, ohhh baby 10/10, but really this is a good chess game.”
“Good game that keeps it simple for you to just play chess, and great choice of music too.”
“Could use some better UI; also, the music restarts when you press Shift + Tab.”
“This game's music is sick and really adds to the game.”
- stability6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Overall, users report that the game runs smoothly on their systems, particularly on laptops, with no significant glitches during multiplayer sessions. However, some players note that it is somewhat buggy and could benefit from minor upgrades and additional content.
“Game works great, played with a friend and there were no glitches. I especially like the price, free.”
“Really simple, runs great on my laptop.”
“It is buggy; it needs a small upgrade and added bonus content.”
- gameplay6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay has been criticized for its unbalanced classes and lackluster experience, leading to repetitive matches that often exceed an hour in length.
- graphics4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics and sound quality of the game are praised as being superior, providing an enjoyable experience for players. Users appreciate the visual and audio elements, highlighting it as a convenient option for free chess on Steam.
“The graphics and sound are impressive, making it a convenient option for free chess on Steam.”
“The graphics are better here, along with the music and other features.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers consistently highlight the game's pleasant atmosphere, noting that it contributes positively to the overall experience. The ambiance is described as enjoyable, enhancing the gameplay.
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game is free to play with ads, but many users find the $5 price for an ad-free basic chess experience to be reasonable, especially in light of the lack of similar offerings from Microsoft.
“It's free with ads, but $5 for a basic chess game is an easily digestible price, especially since Microsoft no longer supplies basic games like this on Windows since they are greedy.”
“The monetization model is frustrating; it feels like the game is designed to push you towards spending money rather than enjoying the experience.”
“I understand the need for monetization, but the constant prompts to buy in-game currency ruin the immersion.”
