PyChess is a GTK chess client designed for players ranging from complete beginners to experienced chess enthusiasts. It can be used for games against computer opponents, online play and analysis while following GNOME interface conventions.
The application supports chess engines using the Universal Chess Interface and Chess Engine Communication Protocol. Engines can be used as opponents at different difficulty levels and can provide move suggestions through the application’s hint facilities. PyChess also includes its own Python-based chess engine.
Online players can connect to the Free Internet Chess Server, with Timeseal support helping compensate for network latency during timed games. PyChess handles common chess formats including PGN, EPD and FEN and offers several variants for players who want alternatives to standard chess.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Supports UCI and CECP chess engines with multiple selectable difficulty levels.
- Includes its own Python-based chess engine.
- Connects to the Free Internet Chess Server with Timeseal support.
- Reads and writes PGN, EPD and FEN chess formats.
- Supports chess variants including Atomic, Crazyhouse and Fischer Random Chess.
- Includes a built-in opening book.
- Offers engine-powered Hint Mode showing suggested moves.
- Supports pre-moves for responding quickly during online games.
- Provides undo, pause and resume facilities for supported games.
Website: github.com/pychess/pychess
Support:
Developer: Thomas Dybdahl Ahle and contributors
License: GNU General Public License v3.0
PyChess is written in Python. Learn Python with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
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