KNights is a chess application designed for the KDE desktop. It supports games between two local players, matches against computer engines and online chess through the Free Internet Chess Server.
Computer opponents can use the XBoard or UCI protocols, giving players access to a wide range of compatible chess engines. KNights can also display games between two computer engines, making it useful for observing or comparing engine play.
The application includes practical playing aids such as legal-move checking, indicators for possible moves, highlighting of the opponent’s previous move and identification of sources of check. Its online interface provides dedicated views for server play, including a seek graph, console and chat facilities.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Supports local games between two human players.
- Plays against chess engines supporting the XBoard or UCI protocols.
- Can display games played between two computer engines.
- Connects to the Free Internet Chess Server for online play.
- Provides legal-move checking and markers for available moves, previous moves and sources of check.
- Offers complete time-control support with Plasma-styled clocks.
- Provides server views including a seek graph, text console and chat widget.
- Saves and loads games in Portable Game Notation format.
- Supports undo and redo operations.
- Can speak an opponent’s moves and provides a D-Bus interface for external control.
Website: github.com/KDE/knights
Support:
Developer: Miha Čančula and contributors
License: GNU General Public License v2.0

Knights is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
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