Forget Big Blue for a moment. Desktop processor developments mean that the humble PC could give many Grand Masters a run for their money, particularly if the software in question has - as is the case with Chessmaster 6000 - a database of over 300,000 previous games at its disposal. Actually, these games are really there for the benefit of the player, since they allow you to learn all about the moves that have formed the career of previous great players. The game engine itself, however, is certainly no slouch, and will take some beating.

What is nice is that Chessmaster 6000 doesn't assume that you know anything about chess. It will teach you the basics, gradually leading you through the more complex moves as you progress. Hints and answers to questions are provided as required, and the tutorials also help the player to develop his or her game. Chessmaster 6000 will even analyse your game for you (after it's beaten you) and tell you where you went wrong.

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Graphically, the game is very appealing. You don't have to go for the Dali-esque board shown below, either. We rather liked it, but most of the boards are more conventional, albeit beautifully rendered. There are different viewpoints available, and you can swap positions or move the board as required in order to get the best view. A simple top-down view is available for hardcore gamers, as are various different types of game, ranging from Blitz to Championship.

In addition to the database of games, you also get tutorials from an American chess teacher, 95 different computer-controlled opponents, annotated games and a bewildering array of coaching windows, ranging from the clocks to an insight into the moves that Chessmaster 6000 is considering. You can play online, too, and listen to spoken annotation as you play. All that on just two CDs...

Technically, it would be hard to find fault with Chessmaster 6000. It contains a massive database, offers plenty of hints, has loads of different playing styles and looks pretty. For those would-be Kasparov-beaters looking to polish their brain cells it is, therefore, pretty much ideal. But if all you want is a game of chess, then a wooden chess set and a good friend make for a far more enjoyable time.