First, let me say I have no financial interest in this product. As most readers are aware, I have been a fan of the Fritz program for years and not too long ago upgraded to Fritz 19 from Fritz 17.
There was not too much difference between the two for my purposes because I do not play against the program for fun and any idea about using it for improvement is out of the question.
According to reviews some users had some bug issues with Fritz 19, but I have not run into a single problem, at least not with the feature I use.
Now Fritz 20 is available (download from the USCF costs $77). The first thing I noticed is that the user interface has been redesigned. The new design is supposed to be “modern” and visually aesthetic. I don't like it, but that’s probably because it’s not what I am used to after all these years. They have also changed the 3D boards, but I never use them so for me it’s a moot point.
The major changes are in the area of playing for fun. They have added three modes for you to play against: Hypermodern, Robot and VIP. In the Hypermodern mode the program uses flank openings. In the Configurable mode you can adjust various characteristics of the opponents. Most intriguing is the VIP mode that allows you to play against opponents like Fischer, Tal, Karpov, Capablanca and Lasker. These opponents play with the style of the player and use their opening repertoires. Watch this Youtube video
Conclusion:
For Bloggers looking to publish games, average players looking to improve or just have fun, Fritz 20 is a fantastic program that is well worth $77.
If, like me, you are no longer looking to improve or you prefer meeting real live opponents online or you just want the basics like publishing games, analyzing, playing over games or using basic database functions then an earlier version, if you can fine one, will suit you just fine. If, on yhr other hand, you are looking for a program that is just plain fun to tinker with then you can;t beat Fritz 20.
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