Shootouts and Endgame Tablebases in Fritz

    I received an e-mail asking about Shootouts that were mentioned in a recent post. Fritz 12 and later versions allows automated engine vs. engine games where the engines play against itself from any given position. This can be used to determine possible results from that position or to compare engines. 

    For those possessing Fritz this is accomplished by going to the Analysis Menu then selecting an engine to use and setting the parameters. You can configure the time to analyze (blitz with increments) or fixed depth (number of plies). The engine will then play a series of games and show the results. The default move limit off 999 move is recommended as is Permanent Brain (thinking on opponent's time). 

When using Fritz it is essential that Engame Tablebases be installed because if they aren’t even Stockfish may nor find the win and the position will be declared drawn. I have seen Stockfish unable to win a K+R vs. K ending. 

    For more information and to download Endgame Tablebases you should visit THIS site. There are also a few other downloads that you might find helpful. For instructions on installing the tablebases check out Steve Lopez’ excellent video on You Tube.