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May 31, 2007
Chess in the media — again!
One thing I hate most is the bastardization of Chess in the media. This is very humiliating for me personally, since I consider myself a chess purist. I'm open to the use of Chess in the media, when used properly — especially when used for educational purposes. Instead, advertisers and marketers use the idea or concept of Chess merely as a "selling" tool, and because Chess is commonly associated or stereotyped with words like smart, witty, clever, intelligence, cunning, and the brain. It can only be an easy device to personify the idea of being ingenious, as in "an ingenious drug for the sleep-deprived!"
Rozerem, the popular prescription sleep medicine, which features honest Abe in a top-hat and a talking beaver as their "mascots," uses chess to promote the drug! I'm excusing Nozerem a little for their clever use of chess in their promotion. On their website they feature a cute AI chess-playing program that is very hard to lose. Choose between two levels: beginner or advanced. I would guess that its rating strength is in the range of 1100 or 1200, basically C-level.
Play against the Beaver and see how you fare
(Give it a try, it's easier than beating your dad!)
Note: not to worry, the AI engine doesn't have a book opening database. Even if you're a "wood pusher," you'll manage to beat the beaver by the middle game. Enjoy!
Posted by rene on May 31, 2007 4:57 PM
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