Nov 2017
Let's face it, chess isn't exactly the most thrilling game to play. While your friends are out there blasting aliens to smithereens or saving the world in epic RPGs, you're stuck contemplating the life choices of a tiny wooden horse (a.k.a. the knight). Yet, amidst these existential crises, arises *Chess Ultra*, serving not only as a digital chessboard but also as a glorious beacon of strategy, competition, and art! So, grab your thinking cap and prepare your best 'checkmate' face, because we're diving deep into this digital chess experience.
The gameplay of *Chess Ultra* delivers far more than meets the eye. With a variety of locations, including a cozy living room that screams 'I might have a cat' and a dark cave that might just hint at some fantasy RPG crossover (unfortunately, no dragons here), the ambiance is enticing. You can even choose your chess pieces; whether you want classic wooden knights or modern minimalistic designs, the game caters to every aesthetic jabber-jaw. For the rookies in the chess scene, fear not! The game offers a tutorial mode that breaks down the dark art of chess into bite-sized lessons, turning you from a pawn into a king in no time. Meanwhile, if you think you've got the chops, you can tackle 80 unique checkmate challenges to really show off your big brain. But wait, there's more! Multi-player modes allow you to test your skills against friends locally or challenge chess aficionados online, which is as deliciously nerve-wracking as it sounds. Cross-platform play means that you can show off your skills on the Switch against those poor souls trapped on their PS4. If they're not already amused by your choice of a chess game, they'll be left slack-jawed as you deftly execute your strategy. The AI is also impressively demanding-10 difficulty settings make sure that whether you're a newbie or a grandmaster, there is a challenge to be conquered. The game even calculates your Elo rating, so you finally have a reason to brag over coffee about your gaming stats. Who knew chess could become a social flex tool?!
Now, let's take a moment to discuss the visual feast that *Chess Ultra* serves up. Forget the 8-bit graphics of your childhood; we're stepping into a world crafted with Unreal Engine 4. Seriously, this isn't just a chess game-it's a digital gallery with pieces moving like they're auditioning for a Broadway role in 'The Nutcracker.' With distinct environments that vary from the warm glow of your grandparent's fireplace to spooky caves (complete with ominous echoes that make you second guess your next move), every match feels unique. The graphics aren't just for show either; your chess pieces truly feel like they're alive, almost protesting when you sacrifice them at the altar of strategy.
In a digital world filled with loud explosions and incessant grinding, *Chess Ultra* stands out as a clever blend of sophistication, accessibility, and competitive spirit. It remains unapologetically a chess game at its core, yet it manages to transform the age-old struggle of kings and pawns into an engaging spectacle. Perfect for potluck gatherings or as a calming antidote to your intense online shooter binges, it earns its rightful place in your Switch collection. Tallying up the score, I'd place *Chess Ultra* solidly at an 8.5. It's more than just chess; it's a dance of wits and a test of strategy, all while looking good doing it. So, round up your pals and prepare for some knighty business. You might even inspire a chess renaissance among your friends, or at the very least, a few serious side-eyes about why you were playing chess instead of Call of Duty!
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