Chess Mates is a chess game developed by
Presage Software Development Company and published by
Brainstorm, a division of
Interplay.
The object of the game is to teach young players about chess and how to
play it, fostering critical and logical thinking, self-confidence and
self-esteem.
Players are guided through the learning process by a wizard named
Wigby. Wigby shows players the theory behind chess strategy in an
amusing short animation, then shows how the strategy is played out in
several different situations on the board. Finally, the player gets to
put the strategy into action.
After the player has learned the strategy in question, they can print
out a certificate and try another chess strategy or play a real game of
chess. The manual covers the movement of the chess pieces as well as
familiarizing players with what the pieces represent.
Chess Mates was nominated for a Codie award and won a silver medal from
the National Educational Media Network. The game contains more than 60
puzzles along with tutorials that ease the student into the game of
chess. The presentation is handled via Looney Tune-style animation and
is designed to help increase problem solving skills. The game's
designers also created
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?. ~ Lisa Karen Savignano, All Game Guide
